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The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit

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!

NV celebrates Top Architecture Passer

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday In a proud moment for the province of Nueva Vizcaya, Architect Ckristel Jansenn Larosa Daguio, a native of Aritao, was warmly received by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito during a courtesy call at the governor’s office,on February 3. Daguio recently achieved the remarkable feat of topping the Architecture Licensure Exam held on January 21 and 23, 2025. Joining Governor Gambito during the courtesy call were Board Members Patricio F. Dumlao, Elma Pinao-an Lejao, and Eunice Galima Gambol, who all expressed their admiration for Daguio’s outstanding accomplishment. A cum laude graduate from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Daguio was accompanied by her parents, Architect Roderick and Engineer Maryjane Daguio, during the visit. In recognition of her outstanding achievement, Governor Gambito extended a job offer to Daguio to join the provincial government, highlighting the administration’s commitment to nurturing local talent. “Ckristel’s achievement is a reflection of the dedication and potential of our youth. We are proud to support her journey and look forward to seeing her contribute to our community,” said Governor Gambito. As per the Topnotchers Incentive Ordinance of Nueva Vizcaya, Daguio is set to receive a P 200,000 incentive from the provincial government. This ordinance aims to reward and encourage academic excellence among Novo Vizcayanos. Daguio is the third recipient of this incentive, following Kharam Molbog of Solano, who topped the Medical Technology Board Examination, and Hannah Mae Guimbongan, who excelled in the Geodetic Licensure Board Examination. Daguio is also the second topnotcher from Aritao, following in the footsteps of Dr. Ian Cary Prado, who topped the Veterinary Licensure Examination in 2019. Dr. Prado’s achievement inspired Board Member Elma Pinao-an Lejao to propose the Topnotchers Incentive Ordinance, although he was not covered by it at the time it was passed.

Gladys Vergara, isang Visionary Leader para sa progreso

Inside Politics, Lifestyle

Inside Politics, Lifestyle / Street Journal

Si Gladys Vergara ay malawak na kinikilala bilang isang dynamic na entrepreneur at batikang negosyante, na kilala sa kanyang pagkamalikhain at forward-thinking approach. Ang kanyang makabagong pag-iisip ay nagniningning sa paraan ng kanyang pamamahala sa kanyang mga pakikipagsapalaran, na patuloy na inuuna ang mga sustainable, pangmatagalang programang pangkabuhayan kaysa sa pansamantalang, “band-aid” na mga solusyon na nabigong tugunan ang mga ugat ng mga hamon sa ekonomiya. Ang kanyang malawak na karanasan sa pagpapatakbo at pamamahala ng iba’t ibang mga negosyo ay nilagyan ni Gladys ng isang natatanging timpla ng mga makabagong kasanayan, madiskarteng pananaw, at isang saloobin na hinihimok ng mga resulta. Ang mga katangiang ito ay hindi lamang nagdulot ng kanyang tagumpay sa pribadong sektor kundi naghanda rin sa kanya na gumawa ng tuluy-tuloy na paglipat sa larangan ng pulitika. Nagsimula ang paglalakbay ni Glady sa pamumuno sa grassroots level, kung saan nagsilbi siya bilang Baguio KB City Federation President matapos unang mahalal bilang KB President ng Upper QM Barangay sa Baguio. Ang kanyang dedikasyon sa serbisyo publiko ay higit na ipinakita nang siya ay hinirang bilang Konsehal ng Lungsod noong 1986, na kumakatawan sa sektor ng kabataan. Sa kanyang panunungkulan mula 1988 hanggang 1992, nahalal siya bilang pangalawang ranggo na konsehal ng lungsod, na nakakuha ng malawakang paggalang sa kanyang pangako sa pamamahala at pagpapaunlad ng komunidad. Ang pinagkaiba ni Gladys sa kanyang mga kakumpitensya sa congressional race ay ang kanyang multifaceted expertise. Hindi tulad ng marami pang iba, nagdadala siya ng isang pambihirang kumbinasyon ng enerhiya ng kabataan, malawak na karanasan, at isang walang humpay na pagsisikap na maglingkod. Ang kanyang track record bilang isang lider ng negosyo, kasama ang kanyang napatunayang pamumuno sa serbisyo publiko, ay ginagawa siyang isang standout na kandidato at ang perpektong pagpipilian para sa pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan at adhikain ng kanyang mga nasasakupan. Si Gladys ay hindi lamang isang batikang propesyonal; siya ay isang visionary leader na nauunawaan na ang tunay na pagbabago ay nangangailangan ng parehong madiskarteng pag-iisip at isang puso para sa pampublikong serbisyo. Ang kanyang kakayahang tulay ang agwat sa pagitan ng pag-unlad ng ekonomiya at inklusibong pamamahala ay naglalagay sa kanya bilang pinakamahusay na alternatibo sa mga umaasa sa kongreso—isang lider na handang magbigay ng inspirasyon sa pag-unlad at maghatid ng mga makabuluhang resulta. Bukod dito, si Gladys ay nagsilbi rin bilang Bise Alkalde ng Lungsod sa pamamagitan ng proseso ng paghalili, na higit na pinatibay ang kanyang pangako sa serbisyo publiko. Ang pamumuno at pamamahala ay malalim na nakaugat sa kanyang DNA, isang legacy na ipinagmamalaki niyang itinataguyod mula sa kanyang ama, ang kagalang-galang na dating Alkalde at Congressman Bernie M. Vergara, na binansagang “The Action Man”. Ang huwarang paglilingkod ng kanyang ama sa mga tao ay nagsisilbing parehong inspirasyon at benchmark para sa sariling paglalakbay ni Gladys Vergara sa serbisyo publiko. Sa mayamang pamanang ito ng pamumuno, hindi lamang niya tinanggap ang kanyang tungkulin bilang isang pampublikong lingkod ngunit patuloy na nagsusumikap na itaas ito sa pamamagitan ng pagsasama-sama ng kanyang visionary mindset at praktikal na karanasan.

P1-M illegal drugs seized, 35 drug pusher arrested in January

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

Camp BGen Efigenio C. Navarro, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – The Police Regional Office MIMAROPA (PRO MIMAROPA), led by Brig.Gen. Roger Quesada, continues its intensified anti-illegal drug campaign, arresting 35 drug suspects and confiscating 146.98 grams of shabu worth nearly P1 million in the first 29 days of 2025. According to data from the PNP Drug-Related Data Integration and Generation System (DRDIGS) of the Regional Operations Division, PRO MIMAROPA conducted 31 successful anti-drug operations from January 1 to 29, 2025. The latest arrests are part of ntensified anti-drug strategy, launched upon assuming office in December 2023, which led to a significant increase in enforcement effort. In 2024, PRO MIMAROPA conducted 402 operations, resulting in 475 arrests and the confiscation of 15,391.57 grams of illegal drugs worth PhP101.6 million, compared to 339 operations, 388 arrests, and 3,041.86 grams of illegal drugs worth PhP8.57 million in 2023. “These accomplishments reflect the tireless dedication of our operatives and our strong partnerships with various PNP units in keeping our communities safe,” said Quesada. One of the most recent operations resulted in the apprehension of alias “Volter,” a 56-year-old suspected street-level drug dealer, in Purok Pagkakaisa 2, Brgy. Panacan 1, Narra, Palawan, on January 29, 2025. In a joint operation conducted by the Narra Municipal Police Station and the Palawan PPO Drug Enforcement Unit, authorities seized 7.73 grams of suspected shabu worth PhP35,000, along with buy-bust money and drug paraphernalia. Undercover officers posed as buyers during the operation, purchasing a sachet of shabu worth PhP1,000 from the suspect before making the arrest. “Volter” is now in police custody and faces charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Quesada commended the dedication of law enforcement personnel and reaffirmed PRO MIMAROPA’s commitment to its intensified anti-drug campaign. “Our success in these operations is a testament to the dedication and bravery of our personnel. We recognize their relentless efforts and assure them of PRO MIMAROPA’s full support in the fight against illegal drugs.” The MIMAROPA top cop assured the public that PRO MIMAROPA remains committed to enhancing operational strategies, expanding intelligence-driven operations, and strengthening collaborations with various agencies. “We are continuously refining our enforcement strategies, increasing community engagement, and utilizing advanced technology to strengthen our anti-drug operations. We will not stop. Our campaign against illegal drugs will continue, and we will remain relentless in our pursuit of a safer MIMAROPA,” Quesada added.

PROCAR ladies club holds outreach program in Abra

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

With a heartfelt commitment to serving the community, the PRO CAR Officers Ladies Club Foundation, Inc. (OLCFI) successfully conducted a Medical and Dental Outreach Program in Sitio Bonbon-Ay, Barangay San Ramon West, Manabo, Abra on February 1, 2025. Spearheaded by Mrs. Grace A. Peredo, Adviser of the PRO CAR OLCFI, the initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the OLCFI members of Abra PPO, police officers from Abra PPO and the Regional Medical and Dental Unit of PRO CAR, True Vine Christian Fellowship International, Inc., and Leon-Agila International Humanitarian Club, Inc. As the highlight of the event, a total of 646 residents and 100 PNP dependents benefitted from free medical consultations, dental check-ups (including fluoride application and tooth extraction), eyeglass distribution, physical therapy, blood sugar screenings, free haircuts, and counseling sessions. Adding joy to the event, the children were given new slippers, jogging pants, and free snacks while engaging in fun-filled parlor games organized by police officers and OLCFI members. The activity not only provided essential healthcare services but also fostered a sense of hope and unity within the community. It is a testament to the OLCFI’s unwavering dedication to social responsibility, compassion, and meaningful community engagement.

Nueva Vizcaya hosts 1st Provincial Traffic Management Summit

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya recently took a major step in its efforts to tackle traffic congestion by successfully hosting its first-ever Traffic Management Summit at the Ammungan Hall, Provincial Capitol, Bayombong,Nueva Vizcaya. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from both the private and public sectors, all committed to finding effective solutions to the region’s traffic challenges. Organized by Provincial Warden Carmelo B. Andrada upon the instruction of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, the summit focused on addressing the pressing traffic issues along Daang Maharlika, particularly in the areas of Diadi and Sta. Fe. The discussions yielded a range of both long-term and short-term recommendations aimed at alleviating congestion. A key long-term solution proposed is the prioritization of a road widening project along Daang Maharlika, to be undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) before any road reblocking activities. Engr. Edwin Galano from the DPWH Region 2’s Planning and Design Division confirmed that funds have been allocated for the road widening in Diadi, scheduled for 2025. This initiative is expected to receive formal backing from the Sanggunian Panlalawigan through a forthcoming resolution to be sponsored by BM Florante S Gerdan. To combat the issue of vehicle overloading, the summit recommended the establishment of an additional weighbridge in Cordon, Isabela. Furthermore, it was suggested that a follow-up meeting be organized with regional directors from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), DPWH, and the Philippine National Police (PNP). This meeting will aim to clearly delineate the responsibilities of each agency in enforcing overloading laws. On the short-term front, participants agreed on the need to identify potential lay-by areas along Maharlika Highway. These areas would serve as temporary holding spots for overloaded trucks, thereby preventing them from contributing to traffic congestion. Additionally, the formation of a permanent emergency response team in Sta. Fe and Diadi was proposed. Comprising members from the PNP, LTO, DPWH, and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), this team would be tasked with swiftly addressing traffic issues as they arise. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito highlighted the significance of collaboration, saying, “While the provincial government has been working to ease traffic for some time, this summit represents a meeting of minds. There is a need to meet halfway and find win-win solutions for all stakeholders to ensure safer and more efficient roads for everyone in Nueva Vizcaya.” The summit concluded on a positive note, with participants signing a pledge of commitment to work collaboratively towards resolving the traffic challenges facing the province. This collective commitment underscores a shared vision for a more efficient and safer transportation network in Nueva Vizcaya.

Vergara isinusulong ang Univeral Health Care sa komunidad

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Zaldy Comanda BAGUIO CITY – Isinusulong ngayon ni Baguio Tourism Council Chairperson Gladys Vergara ang Universal Health Care (UHC) na siguradong abot-kaya at accessible na serbisyong medikal para sa lahat, partikular sa mga matatanda. Kamakailan ay nakipag-pulong si Vergara sa mga senior citizen ng Barangay San Roque na pinangunahan ni San Roque Senior Citizens Association President Jerry Uy, para ihatid ang kanyang pangako sa pangkalahatang pangangalagang pangkalusugan, mga patakarang itinutulak ng komunidad, at mga repormang pambatasan na naglalayong mapabuti ang buhay ng mga residente ng Baguio. “Ang ating mga senior citizen ay karapat-dapat sa sistema ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan na ngayon ay nangangalaga sa kanila. Ako ay nangangako na isulong ang mga patakarang ito sa Kongreso sa pagpapalakas ng ating programang pangkalusugan, pagtiyak na ang mga residente ng baguio, lalo na ang ating mga matatanda, ay may access sa mga de-kalidad na serbisyong medikal nang walang pinansiyal na pasanin,” pahayag ni Vergara, na kandidato sa pagka-Congressman ng lungsod. Sinalamin ni Vergara ang kanyang malawak na karanasan sa serbisyo publiko, na nagsilbi bilang Chief of Staff sa kanyang ama, dating Alkalde at Congressman Bernardo M. Vergara, sa loob ng 24 na taon. Kasama rin sa kanyang paglalakbay sa pamumuno ang mga tungkulin bilang City Councilor noong 1987, Vice Mayor ng Baguio City, at Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President. Ipinahayag niya ang labis na pagmamalaki sa mga kontribusyon ng kanyang ama sa Baguio, na binigyang-diin na ang kanyang pamumuno ay nagbigay-inspirasyon sa kanya upang patuloy na magtrabaho para sa pag-unlad ng lungsod. Binalangkas din ni Vergara ang kanyang layunin na suriin at palakasin ang Expanded Citizens Act, na tinitiyak na ang mga residente ng Baguio, partikular na ang mga senior citizen, ay makikinabang sa mga patakarang nagtataguyod ng kapakanang panlipunan, pangangalaga sa kalusugan, at aktibong pakikipag-ugnayan sa sibiko. “Nais kong tiyakin na ang ating mga senior citizen ay makakatanggap ng mga sumusuportang benepisyo na nararapat sa kanila mula sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan hanggang sa panlipunang pag-unlad na nagbibigay-kapangyarihan sa kanila na manatiling aktibong miyembro ng ating komunidad.” Tinapos ni Vergara ang pulong sa pamamagitan ng muling pagpapatibay sa kanyang pangako na dalhin ang mga alalahanin ng Baguio sa pambansang antas at pagtiyak na ang mga patakaran ay direktang makikinabang sa mga residente ng lungsod. Aniya, “Sa tiwala at suporta ng mga taga-Baguio, determinado akong magdala ng mga tunay na solusyon sa mga solusyon sa Kongreso na nagpapasigla sa ating mga senior citizen, nagpapalakas sa ating sistema ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan, at nagtataguyod ng mas magandang kinabukasan para sa lahat.”

29th Panagbenga Festival opens with 19 contingents

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – With the theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries”, nineteen contingents showcased their talent in streetdancing and drum and lyre to kick off the month-long celebration of the 29th edition of the Panagbenga Festival or Baguio Flower Festival in Baguio City,on February 1. The celebration began with interfaith opening prayers by various religious groups and Cordilleran prayer (Uggayam) by Baguio FlowerFestival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) chairman for life and former Mayor Mauricio Domogan, held at the Panagbenga Park. Five participants for elementary streetdancing and drum-and-lyre will compete in their skills, including Apolinario Mabini Elementary School, Manuel Roxas Elementary School, Lucban Elementary School, Tuba Elementary School and the outside contingent Rosario Integrated Elementary School, Rosario, La Union. Pugo Central Elementary School, from Pugo town, La Union serves as the guest performer in the celebration. In addition, 13 cultural dance groups from the Cordillera will also participate in the grand opening parade to showcase their cultural streetdancing performance, which is much-anticipated by tourists. According to Evangeline Payno, Chief of Staff of the Panagbenga Executive Committee, 30 percent of the participating contingent’s scores will be taken from their performances in the grand opening parade and drum-and-lyre competition while the remaining 70 percent will come from their performances in the grand street dancing parade on February 22, while the grand float parade will be held the following day. The cultural dance groups will hone their performance in preparation for the competition on February 15, which will be held at the Melvin Jones Football ground. By Zaldy Comanda

Leadership Enhancement Program isusulong sa Pangasinan

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN,Pangasinan — Magtutulungan ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan at Maxwell Leadership Foundation (MLF) para sa leadership enhancement at values formation ng mga empleyado. Ang Maxwell Leadership Foundation ay isang nonprofit organization na humuhubog ng mga magagaling na lider. Naka-focus ng isasagawang programa ay kaugnay sa personal growth, leadership excellence at faith-driven transformation. Kaugnay nito, personal na nakipagpulong ang Vice President ng Global Programs ng Maxwell Leadership Foundation na si John Griffin kasama sina Pastor Emmanuel Manansala ng LIV Ministries at Dr. Raymond Patrick V. Guico ng World Citi Colleges (WCC) and WCC Aeronautical & Technological College (WCC ATC) kay Gov. Ramon V. Guico III. Ang isasagawang leadership enchancement program ay patunay ng malalim na pagpapahalaga ni Gov. Guico sa pagpapabuti ng kakayahan ng lahat ng mga empleado para sa mas maasyos na serbisyo ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan. (Edel Eira Gorospe, Krizia Mamaril| PIMRO)

Author name: Street Journal