Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

As coffee demand continues to surge across the Philippines, the highland municipality of Bakun, Benguet is brewing its way to becoming one of the country’s sources of high-grade Arabica coffee. Recognized for its distinct quality and flavor, Benguet Arabica Coffee has cemented its reputation as a top-tier type, with Bakun poised to meet the market’s growing appetite for this high-value crop. To support this vision, Hedcor, the renewable asset manager of AboitizPower, has provided 5,000 Arabica coffee wildlings and 500 cacao seedlings to boost the municipality’s thriving coffee and cacao industry. This initiative empowers farmers to scale production, take advantage of the rising demand, and position Bakun as a key player in the coffee industry. Unlocking Bakun’s Potential The unique terrain of Bakun, situated between 1,200 and 2,500 meters above sea level, offers ideal conditions for cultivating Arabica coffee. This advantage, coupled with the support of partners like Hedcor, creates an opportunity for the community to thrive in the high-value coffee market. “With the fast-rising popularity of the coffee brand in the market, driven by its distinct quality and flavor, the supply remains limited; that is why we are encouraging our farmers, with the strong support of our partners, to scale up production,” said Bakun Municipal Agriculturist Enrique Atelba. Atelba added, “Hedcor’s provision of Arabica coffee wildlings and cacao seedlings builds on the municipality’s agricultural strengths, allowing our community to reach its full potential as a producer of high-value crops, including coffee, cacao, and fruit-bearing crops.” Sustaining Growth and Promoting Community Impact Hedcor actively supports Bakun’s agricultural development, recognizing the unique highland terrain as ideal for cultivating high-value crops by empowering the community to leverage its agricultural strengths. This initiative not only enhances food security and promotes economic growth but also contributes to environmental sustainability. Beyond supplying Arabica coffee wildlings and cacao seedlings, Hedcor is helping Bakun secure long-term agricultural success. The company also provided 500 each of atis, lemon, rambutan, and lanzones seedlings, along with 250 sacks of chicken dung to enrich the soil and support sustainable farming practices. These efforts complement Hedcor’s broader support for Bakun, including a P1.3 million financial assistance package to fund critical watershed protection and community development initiatives. These projects focus on reforestation and sustainable land management practices to preserve Bakun’s vital watersheds, which serve as lifelines for agricultural productivity, drinking water, and renewable energy generation. Commitment to Sustainability and Local Empowerment Hedcor President and COO Rolando G. Pacquiao emphasized the importance of sustaining Bakun’s watershed for both agriculture and clean energy production. “Conserving these watersheds is crucial for sustaining the municipality’s agricultural productivity, supporting power generation, and maintaining overall ecological balance,” Pacquiao said. He noted that these watersheds directly power Hedcor’s renewable energy facilities, ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply for the community and neighboring regions. “By supporting watershed protection and agricultural development, we’re helping Bakun not only achieve economic growth but also build resilience for future generations.” As Bakun farmers scale up production to meet the growing demand for high-grade Arabica coffee, the municipality is well-positioned to strengthen its reputation as a premier source of premium coffee in the Philippines. This transformation underscores the power of collaboration between communities, private partners, and local governments to create sustainable growth opportunities.

Globe supports call for Senate probe on spoofing devices

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Globe fully supports the call for a Senate investigation into the illegal trade of devices used for spoofing or SMS hijacking, a fraud scheme behind the proliferation of scam texts that evade telco networks. Sen. Mark Villar recently filed a resolution seeking a senate inquiry on the trade of International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers, which allow fraudsters to send out malicious SMS in the guise of legitimate sender IDs. These portable devices serve as fake cell towers that enable SMS sending outside telco networks, thus evading spam filters. Globe has been working with government agencies to curb spoofing by cutting off the supply of IMSI catchers in the country. These devices are imported into the country either in full or in parts for assembly, then used for illegal activities. “Spoofing or SMS hijacking using IMSI catchers has been a major headache for both the industry and law enforcement. Spoofed messages are difficult to track because of the technology. We have high hopes that through this Senate probe, we’d be able to address the root of the problem: the illegal trade of IMSI catchers in the country,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe’s General Counsel. “This is a major step in our shared goal of protecting the public from fraud. Through this legislative inquiry, we hope to find a clear path forward in the fight against IMSI catchers,” said Castelo. Globe stands ready to provide technical expertise and support to the Senate panel as needed. Fraudsters have used IMSI catchers to impersonate Globe’s official sender ID, duping customers with fake Globe Rewards claims and other unauthorized messages. Such spoofed messages have seen a rise as Globe enforced stricter spam and scam blocking, filtering out all person-to-person SMS with links and enforcing stringent regulations on app-to-person SMS with URLs. Globe’s pioneering move to remove links in SMS messages shows the company will go the extra mile to make it a scam-free network and protect customers. Unfortunately the new method of scammers such as using IMSI catchers goes directly to the device and does not pass through the network anymore. Currently, Globe is looking at more advanced technologies that might help address this issue. Globe reminds the public to stay vigilant against suspicious text messages, including those that seem to come from legitimate sources. Be cautious of links and offers that seem too good to be true. As a security measure and to protect customers, Globe does not include clickable links in its official text advisories.

Vergara joins “Baguio City’s Circular Economy” reinforcing commitment to sustainability

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) Chairperson Gladys Vergara joined Mayor Benjamin Magalong at the launch of Pansa-Nopen: Let’s Gather, Save, and Renew – Baguio City’s Circular Economy on January 31, 2025, at the University of the Cordilleras. The event highlights Baguio’s commitment to sustainability and the transition toward a circular economy that benefits both the community and future generations. In his speech, Mayor Magalong emphasized the significance of adopting a circular economy model that transforms waste into valuable resources. He noted that by implementing waste-to-resource solutions, Baguio can significantly reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions, while fostering innovation, collaboration, and the creation of green jobs in the city. The event featured interactive exhibits showcasing eco-friendly solutions and resource efficiency strategies. Funded by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Circular Economy Program aims to promote sustainable practices, reduce environmental impact, and stimulate economic growth. Local government units (LGUs) and various stakeholders engaged in discussions on accelerating behavioral change and community adoption of circular economy practices. As an environmental advocate through her Glad to be Green initiative, Gladys Vergara has long championed renewable energy solutions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Her commitment extends to the BTC Greensoil Venture, a partnership with the Department of Agriculture, which provides training on biodegradable waste management at the household and barangay levels. These sessions teach residents composting techniques using a special reagent that speeds up decomposition, producing high-grade compost fertilizer that can be sold for additional household income. Participants receive free starter kits, including composting bins, reagents, and tools, ensuring they can immediately apply their learnings. “The shift toward a circular economy is essential for Baguio’s sustainable future. Through innovative programs like Greensoil Venture and the city’s commitment to waste reduction, we can turn challenges into opportunities—minimizing waste while creating economic value for our communities,” Vergara stated. With the Circular Economy Program advancing waste reduction, resource efficiency, and economic resilience, and Gladys Vergara’s strong advocacy for a greener Baguio, the city continues to move forward in balancing tourism, development, and sustainability.

The challenges of building Metro BLISTT communities

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

“Metro BLISTT is not just a concept—it is a commitment.” Mayor Benjamin Magalong set the tone for Metro BLISTT forum at the Baguio Country Club with a powerful call for inclusive, sustainable, and corruption-free development. Addressing business leaders, government officials, and stakeholders, Mayor Magalong emphasized the need for smart urban planning, inter-LGU collaboration, and ethical governance to ensure progress is shared equitably across Baguio, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, and Tublay. Key discussions highlighted challenges such as urban congestion, infrastructure gaps, and environmental sustainability—turning these into innovation and responsible growth opportunities, with insights from Dr. Bernardo Villegas, Dr. Felina Espique, Ms. Maria Costales, and other esteemed speakers. Organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Baguio-Benguet Chapter and the People Management Association of the Philippines, the event highlighted collaboration for a progressive and sustainable Metro BLISTT. Photos by Eunice Tomacder & Mikaela Bello

Tabuk City strengthens Customary Law

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

By Jesse Maguiya Tabuk City, Kalinga — Mayor Darwin Estrañero recently convened a meeting with members of the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council (MBCC) and esteemed elders, or pangats residing in the city. The meeting aimed to review the present condition of customary law as detailed in the Itabuk Pagta and debate any required adjustments to ensure its continued relevance and efficacy in the modern era. One of the key issues discussed was the absence of a clear and systematic process for initiating mediation, especially for accused individuals. It was noted that in disputes between sub-tribes, relatives often bypass formal mediation channels and directly seek intervention from government officials, such as barangay chairpersons or police officers. These officials, in turn, facilitate informal resolutions outside the Itabuk Pagta framework, effectively sidelining the MBCC’s role as the designated mediator. This lack of coordination undermines the integrity of customary law and highlights the need for a more structured approach to dispute resolution. Another major concern raised was the role of the MBCC in cases involving heinous crimes. Both the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recommended that the MBCC refrain from intervening in drug-related offenses, murder, and rape cases, especially when minors are involved. Such cases should be referred directly to the courts to ensure due process. In cases involving minors, the DSWD or the Child and Women’s Desk of the Philippine National Police should be the first point of referral. It was also observed that in some instances, the victim’s family negotiate indemnity with the accused. Once compensation is received, they often believe the case is resolved, leading to the misconception that the suspect should be released. This practice overlooks the distinction between civil and criminal liability, underscoring the need for adherence to legal procedures in serious offenses. Mayor Estrañero emphasized the importance of determining fault in vehicular accidents, especially when the injured party is the violator of traffic rules. He cited cases where vehicle owners unfairly bear the medical expenses of individuals responsible for accidents, such as those driving under the influence of alcohol. The mayor stressed that a driver whose vehicle was hit by an intoxicated motorist should not be obligated to cover the hospital bills or expenses of the responsible party. According to Engr. Andres Ngao-I, MBCC Chairman, the Itabuk Pagta already specifies fault determination as a primary consideration before any financial settlements are made in vehicular accidents. However, it was noted that, in practice, individuals not at fault often voluntarily contribute to the expenses incurred by the guilty party, sometimes out of concern for their safety, fearing potential retaliation or conflict. The discussions underscored the importance of refining the Itabuk Pagta to align with legal frameworks, while also preserving the cultural significance of customary law and respecting community’s cultural diversity which includes non-binodngan. By implementing clearer mediation processes, reinforcing legal accountability for serious crimes, and ensuring fairness in accident cases, the MBCC and city officials aim to enhance justice and order in the community, while honoring the diverse cultural practices and values that define local society. After the meeting, Mayor Estrañero called on the Bodong Task Force to convene and develop an outline for revisions to the Itabuk Pagta. The proposed changes, including possible amendments, repeals, revisions, or new legislative reforms, will be based on the feedback from the meeting. In response, the MBCC is set to draft a letter inviting all Bodong Holders to a scheduled Bodong Congress, which will coincide with the Matagoan Festival. During this Congress, proposed amendments and revisions to the Itabuk Pagta will be presented. Once the revised Itabuk Pagta is finalized, the Bodong Task Force will implement an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign across all barangays in Tabuk City to ensure community-wide understanding and support for the new provisions.

Warehouse for US Marine Corps humanitarian efforts opens in Subic Freeport

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport – This premier Freeport is set to be the staging area for the United States Marine Corps humanitarian aid and disaster relief as it opens a warehouse facility at the Naval Supply Depot here on Tuesday. US Marine Corps Col. Luke Watson and officials from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the warehouse that will be used by the US Marine Corps for storage. Watson, commanding officer of Blount Island Command, said that the site will enable them to preposition equipment for humanitarian aid and disaster relief that will be utilized for its Indo-Pacific region operations. “This is one of our ashore sites for humanitarian aid and disaster relief. As part of the Marine Corps’ global prepositioning network, there will be no ammunition, just motor transportation, communication, and engineering,” Watson explained. Blount Island Command plans to stage humanitarian aid and disaster relief equipment for the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed his full support for the ingress of the equipment to Subic Bay Freeport. “This is a great stride for the Subic Bay Freeport in assisting foreign allies in their thrust to provide humanitarian aid and relief assistance in the Indo-Pacific Region.” He added that Subic Bay Freeport is one of the most strategic areas to deploy aid to other areas around the Indo-Pacific Region, as the area has become the logistics hub for maritime and aviation industry in the country. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Blount Island Command is the hub for US Marine Corps prepositioning programs, including afloat squadrons and ashore sites.

Illegal firearms, drugs seized in Bulacan raid

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – In a decisive blow against illegal firearms and contraband, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) successfully carried out a high-impact operation leading to the arrest of a notorious suspect and the seizure of deadly weapons, ammunition, and illegal drugs in Barangay Sumandig, San Ildefonso, Bulacan, on February 3. Joint operatives from the Bulacan Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), San Ildefonso Municipal Police Station, 1st and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Companies, and the Bulacan Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit executed a search warrant that resulted in the capture of a suspect identified only as alias “Ed,” a 47-year-old resident of the area. Authorities discovered an arsenal of illegal weapons inside the suspect’s residence, including a pistol equipped with a laser sight, two suspected converted rifles with scopes, magazines, and a stockpile of ammunition. The operatives also found a fragmentation grenade, further highlighting the potential threat posed by the suspect. In addition to the illegal firearms, police confiscated a quantity of dried marijuana leaves, a weighing scale, and drug paraphernalia, reinforcing suspicions of the suspect’s involvement in illicit drug activities. PRO3 Regional Director Brig.Gen. Jean Fajardo commended the operatives for their dedication, stating, “This operation sends a clear and strong message—there is no place for lawlessness in Central Luzon. We will continue to hunt down those who possess illegal firearms and peddle dangerous substances. Our duty is to protect our communities, and we will not waver in this mission.” The suspect is now in police custody and faces multiple charges related to illegal possession of firearms, explosives, and illegal drugs. PRO3 remains steadfast in its mission to rid the region of criminal elements and calls on the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities.

UNICEF,SWP naghatid ng programa sa Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

Bumisita sa Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ang mga kinatawan mula sa UNICEF Council for the Welfare of Children, at Social Watch Philippines upang makipagpulong kay Governor Doktora Helen Tan, noong Pebrero 3. Layunin ng pagpupulong na ipakilala sa lalawigan ng Quezon ang Enhanced Child Budget Tagging Tool (CBTT), na ayon sa UNICEF ay magagamit sa pagpapalakas ng public financial management for children at makatutulong sa monitoring at tamang alokasyon ng pondo at programa para sa kapakinabangan ng mga kabataan gaya ng programa sa edukasyon, kalusugan, nutrisyon, social welfare and protection, at child participation. Pinaunlakan ni Governor Tan ang nasabing pagbisita at tiniyak na natututukan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ang mga proyekto na mapapakinabangan ng mga kabataan, tulad ng mga programa sa edukasyon at social assistance na kinakailangan ng bawat Quezonian. Dagdag pa rito, siniguro ng Gobernadora na bukas ang tanggapan sa kolaborasyon mula sa iba’t ibang organisasyon na nagnanais na makipagtulungan para sa kabutihan ng mga kabataan. Samantala, dumalo rin sa pagpupulong sina DILG Provincial Director Abigail Andres, Provincial Administrator Manny Butardo, Executive Assistant John Francis Luzano, at ilan pang mga pinuno ng tanggapan mula sa pamahalaang panlalawigan.

The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

A Celebration of Cordilleran Culture Through Mosaic Art Baguio City – The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit brings to life the rich cultural landscapes of the Cordilleras showcasing the vibrant traditions of the region through intricate mosaic artistry. This extraordinary exhibit features the works of three talented artists—Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens. Inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, their approach to art is spontaneous, playful, and deeply rooted in local heritage. One of the exhibit’s standout pieces is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain. Titled “Kidlat Ngayon!!!! Isang taon na paglalakbay as soul,” the installation transforms the lightning bolt into a shrine where visitors can light candles in memory of the artist. The jester figure embodies the spirit of the Mighty Bhutens—playful, tongue-in-cheek, and whimsical—a quality that shines through in all their creations. Facing the jester is a cloud and lightning sculpture, symbolizing Tatay Kidlat and his “inner dwende” philosophy, which forms a central pillar of the Mighty Bhutens’ creative ideology. Another compelling work is a mixed-media mosaic portrait that blends textured paint on wood with fragments of patterned fabric and colored ceramic tiles. The use of layered textures adds depth and complexity, highlighting their symbolism and the artists’ creative approach. The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit is more than just a visual feast—it is an invitation to explore art beyond conventional boundaries. The artists encourage viewers to interpret their works in their own way, making the exhibit an interactive and personal experience. As the artists themselves put it, “Mosaic is about self-interpretation—the art exhibit is the experience itself.” The exhibit runs until February 15, 2025 at SM City Baguio Atrium. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of Cordilleran culture and creativity!

Author name: Street Journal

Hedcor supports Bakun to meet surging demand for premium Arabica coffee