Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Julie G. Fianza BAGUIO CITY — The 7th and Christmas version of the Environmental Waste Management and Sustainability Fair last Sunday, Dec 15, along Session road and Malcolm Square yielded positive results from the participant-exhibitors, and the community as a whole. This was contained in the assessment report submitted to City Environmental and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) head Atty. Rhenan Diwas and Assistant head Marivic Empizo which focused among others, on slient points; IEC, electronic waste collection, reforestation efforts and vehicle testing. The fair featured an information, education and communication (IEC) campaign conducted on air, water, and climate change including distribution of flyers to 50 participants on handling, segregating and disposing of electronic and hazardous waste. The role of the community in protecting the environment and human health is emphasized in the activity, Empizo noted. For the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) booth manned by Wastewater and Hazardous Waste Management Division (WHWMD) head Engr. Wilbur Suanding and his team, 46.55 kilograms of e-waste was collected. Among these is a washing machine, radio, radio with cassette player, electric fan, headlights, electric stove, induction cooler, antenna; several cable cords, cellphones, flashlights and an electric hair brush with cord. The special wastes shall be turned-over to the e-waste collection center at Bakakeng Central for segregation and proper disposal in an approved facility. For the tree distribution program; 400 pine, 50 cherry guava and 50 cypress seedlings were distributed through the efforts of Urban Forestry Management-in-charge Floro Bastian and his personnel. As to records, the seedlings shall be planted in backyards and privately-owned lots. The promotion of local reforestation, biodiversity promotion and carbon sequestration are expected to be achieved through the free tree seedling activity, Empizo also said. For the Roadside Inspection, Testing and Monitoring (RITM), Engr. Sofronio Pascua of the Environmental Management Division – City Environment and Parks Management Office (EMD-CEPMO) reported that from the 40 vehicles inspected, 26 passed, 13 failed and one was not tested due to damaged motor. The smoke-belching test last Sunday was conducted for free and Voluntary Emission Certificates (VEC) good for a month were issued to compliant vehicle owners. Tingi Station, which sells portions of healthy food, pet care products and household materials fared well, according to proprietor Elke Kyle Cadangen. A seed and book exchange, household donation/exchange and repair booths as well as composting, start-up projects, and upcycled/recycling products were also featured in the fair. The sustainability fair highlights the need to protect and restore the environment with collective community efforts with continued environmental stewardship, Empizo further said. Meanwhile, Mayor Benjamin Magalong supports the circular economy’s thrust towards production and consumption utilizing the model for refuse, rethink, reduce, reuse, repair, refurbish, remanufacture, repurpose, recycle and recover, instead of the usual linear economy which features the manufacture, use and waste pathway.

50 cops finished Criminal Investigation Course

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

The Criminal Investigation Course (CIC) Class 02-021-RCAR-2024-071 officially concluded during the closing ceremony held at the PRO-CAR Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet on December 27, 2024. The ceremony was graced by Col. Julio Lizardo, Chief Regional Staff, as the keynote speaker, along with Col. Marvin Diplat, chief of the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division; Col. Manolita Galvan, Training Manager of the Regional Special Training Unit-CAR; Lt.Col. Jerry Haduca, Assistant Division Chief of the Regional Learning and Doctrine Development Division; and other PRO-CAR personnel. As the highlight of the event, the members of CIC Class 02-021-RCAR-2024-071, composed of 50 police officers from various units of PRO-CAR, received their Certificates of Completion and CIC pins signifying their official graduation from the said course. Moreover, the top performers during the training were awarded and recognized. Medalya ng Kasanayan was awarded to PCpl Rowena L Icalla, with an average of 87.58%, for being the Top 1, while Medalya ng Papuri were given to PCpl Jen Jen D Callis, with an average of 87.43% , for being the Top 2, and PCpl Chicky Faith C Tenay, with an average 87.36%, for being the Top 3. Further, Leadership Awards were also presented to PCMS Junar B Paras for serving as the Class Marcher and PMSg Prince G Doligas for serving as the Class President. Lizardo, commended the graduates and emphasized the importance of continuous professional development and adaptability in their careers. He encouraged them to pursue further training to build upon the knowledge and skills they acquired during the CIC, ensuring a well-rounded skillset for their roles as investigators.

BCPO arrested illegal fireworks online seller

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – Operatives of the Baguio City Police Office successfully entrapped an online seller of illegal firecrackers on Christmas day. BCPO Director Col. Ruel Tagel said they accosted the suspect after delivering four kinds of banned pyrotechnic devices to policemen at 4:55 p.m. last Dec. 25, 2024 at Upper Abanao Street, AZCKO barangay. The sale was negotiated through the suspect’s Facebook account. Confiscated were 260 pieces kwitis worth P5,200; three boxes Five Star worth P1,050; one pieces sawa with 500 rounds worth P1,500; and 100 pcs bawang worth P2,000 with a total cost of P9,750. Earlier at 11:50 p.m. on December 24, the BCPO acted on a report of firecracker explosion at Sarok, Camp 7 resulting in the confiscation of two pieces of “boga” and 10 pieces of skyrockets (kwitis) from two male minors. The concerned minors were warned and were turned over to their parents, who were also briefed on the ban on firecrackers. Baguio logs four fireworks injuries as December 26 A total of four fireworks-related injuries have been recorded in the city as of 12 midnight of Dec. 26, 2024. The City Health Services Office (CHSO) said the four victims were all minors and three of them were victimized by “boga” or an improvised noisemaker made out of polyvinyl pipe, which is among the devices banned under the law. Two were injured while actually exploding the devices while two others were passive victims or not the actual users of the devices. The victims were a 14-year-old male from Gabriela Silang who sustained an eye injury due to “boga); a nine-year-old male from Asin Road with a right thumb blast injury due to Five Star; a 10-year-old male from Alfonso Tabora with blast injuries in the abdomen, thigh and firearm due to boga; and a seven -year old male from Bakakeng Central who sustained eye injury again due to boga. Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed hopes that no more additional incidents will happen as he requested the Baguio City Police Office, Public Order and Safety Division and the barangays to work hand in hand in the implementation of the firecracker ban in the city.

NV pushes for co-management of Aritao Weigh Bridge to combat overloading

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday In a decisive move to address the persistent issue of overloaded vehicles, the Provincial Development Council (PDC) of Nueva Vizcaya, chaired by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, has passed a resolution seeking co-management of the weigh bridge in Barangay Calitlitan, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya. The resolution, addressed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and endorsed to the Cagayan Valley Regional Development Council was approved during the PDC meeting on December 19. The initiative aims to ensure the continuous operation of the weigh bridge and to strengthen the enforcement of Republic Act 8794, which imposes a Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) on all vehicle owners. Governor Gambito noted that the current penalties for violations are relatively low, making it easy for truckers to disregard the law. He emphasized the importance of local government involvement in resolving these issues, stating, “It’s not feasible to rely solely on the national government to resolve local issues because they are often too preoccupied with numerous other responsibilities. We need to take initiative at the local level to address these problems effectively.” Data provided by the DPWH reveals that an alarming 98.77% of trucks weighed at the facility between July and December 2022 were overloaded. Out of 13,963 trucks assessed, 13,791 exceeded the legal weight limits. This statistic highlights the ineffectiveness of current penalties as a deterrent against overloading. Currently, penalized vehicles are allowed to continue to their destinations without unloading excess cargo, which accelerates the deterioration of national roads and bridges and requires additional maintenance funds. Moreover, overloaded trucks are frequently involved in road accidents, contributing to traffic congestion and posing significant safety risks to other road users. Governor Gambito criticized the current enforcement practices, particularly the reluctance to unload excess cargo due to a lack of storage facilities. He stated, “The excuse that there are no warehouses to secure unloaded cargos is unacceptable. Finding storage solutions is the responsibility of truck owners, not the authorities.” He further emphasized that allowing overloaded trucks to continue their travels makes them principal violators of the law, undermining efforts to enforce regulations effectively. Part of the co-management strategy includes allocating funds for the maintenance of the weigh bridge. This financial commitment is essential to ensure the facility remains operational and effective in monitoring and regulating vehicle weights. The governor called for stronger enforcement of the law to ensure that everyone follows it and to prevent future violations. By working together with national regulations, Gov Gambito hopes to create a good example of effective local governance and road maintenance, leading to safer roads for all motorists.

BPPO’s 4-day focused police operation nets 295 significant accomplishments

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

CAMP DADIZON, NAVAL, BILIRAN – The Biliran Police Provincial Office, under the leadership of Provincial Director Col. Erwin Portillo, successfully conducted a four-day province-wide focused police operation achieving a remarkable total of 295 accomplishments from December 19–23, 2024. “This successful operation serves as a strong testament to the unwavering commitment and relentless efforts of the BPPO in combating criminality and ensuring public safety across the province,” Portillo stated. Among the highlights of the operation was the arrest of a high-value drug personality listed in the Regional Priority Target List during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Rosario, Naval, Biliran, on December 22. Additionally, another initiative facilitated through the “Tokhang” program was the voluntary surrender of one Person Who Uses Drugs (PWUDs). In the campaign against illegal logging, one suspect was arrested and apprehended 57 violators in the anti-illegal fishing drive. Through the “Kontra Boga” initiative, BPPO recovered a seven De Holen firearms and one improvised shotgun while the “Bilang Boga” campaign also resulted in the confiscation of one caliber .45 pistol. Furthermore, enforcement efforts had resulted to the apprehension of 217 violators of local ordinances for various infractions. Eight motorists were cited for violations of RA 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code), while one individual was apprehended for violating RA 8750 (Seatbelt Use Act of 1999). Portillo commended the dedication and efficiency of BPPO personnel, emphasizing their collaborative efforts as evidence of the office’s steadfast commitment in maintaining peace and order. He assured the public that police operations will persist relentlessly until all lawbreakers are held accountable, reaffirming BPPO’s mission to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all residents of Biliran.

CIDG arrested notorious serial killer in Sorsogon

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Cavite Provincial Field Unit, in coordination with the Cavite Maritime Police Station and Donsol MPS, conducted a police operation that led to the apprehension of “Michael” in Barangay Bororan, Donsol, Sorsogon, on December 21. According to CIDG Acting Director Brig.Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III, Michael is tagged as the No. 6 Most Wanted Person (Regional Level) of PRO 4A and was arrested by virtue of two Warrants of Arrest for Homicide issued by RTC Imus City, Cavite. One warrant was issued by Hon. Eduardo Cruz Solangon Jr., Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 125, dated November 13, 2024, with a recommended bail of P120,000.00, while the other was issued by Hon. Amabel Borbe Robles-Buenaluz, Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 20, dated August 24, 2024, with a recommended bail of P40,000.00. Michael is known as a notorious serial killer, implicated in several heinous crimes, including the stabbing death of Domingo, a resident of Phase 1 B8 L4 Mary Cris Subd., Barangay Bucandala III, Imus City, Cavite, on November 2, 2015, following a heated argument during a drinking spree. He was also the prime suspect in the murder of Elisio in San Ramon, Donsol, Sorsogon, on September 11, 2012. Along with an accomplice, Micheal entered the victim’s bedroom, stabbing him multiple times and slashing his neck, which resulted in the victim’s death. Furthermore, Michael was involved in the stabbing and slashing of the necks of two victims, Ryan and Orlando , on October 15, 2023, at Barangay Alapan 1A, Imus, Cavite. The victims were sitting outside their house when Michael appeared and, without provocation, attacked them, leading to their deaths. After committing the crime, Michael went into hiding in his hometown of Donsol, Sorsogon. Chief PNP PGen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, commended the CIDG’s efforts “This operation demonstrates the PNP’s unwavering commitment to apprehending fugitives and ensuring public safety. The arrest of Michael sends a clear message that no criminal can evade justice. We remain steadfast in our fight for the peace and security of our nation.”

Cebu Pacific accepts 16th aircraft delivery for 2024

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, welcomed its 16th aircraft delivery this year, an A330neo, further boosting its seat capacity to accommodate rising travel demand and support its expanding network. The brand-new 459-seater aircraft arrived in Manila on December 19, bringing the current number of A330neos in CEB’s fleet to 10. “The A330neo’s versatility and efficiency are key to our goal of providing affordable and reliable travel options for every Juan. This aircraft enables us to serve high-traffic routes and long-haul destinations more effectively while optimizing seat capacity to accommodate increasing demand,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer. Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. On October 2, CEB announced that it has signed a landmark purchase agreement with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, for up to 152 A321neo aircraft, equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines. The acquisition is the largest in Philippine aviation history, valued at approximately USD $24 billion (PHP 1.4 trillion) based on list prices. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified commercial fleet mix of 10 Airbus 330s, 40 Airbus 320s, 25 Airbus 321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.

Gen.Evangelista inspects firecrackers seller, bus terminal to ensure safety for Yuletide Season

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

Police Regional Office-1 Director Brig.Gen.Lou Evangelista personally visited firecracker sellers in Bauang, La Union, to ensure their compliance with safety regulations in preparation for the Yuletide season, on December 24. Said inspection aimed to promote public safety and guarantee that only authorized and safe products are sold during the holidays. Evangelista also conducted an inspection at the Partas Bus Terminal in City of San Fernando, La Union, to ensure the safety and security of passengers during the Yuletide season. He emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance and increased police visibility to prevent untoward incidents amidst the holiday rush. The visit showcased the police force’s dedication to maintaining peace and order, particularly in public transport hubs during this festive period.

58 pamilya binigyan ng financial assistance sa Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

LOPEZ,Quezon — Naisakatuparan ang pamamahagi ng Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) na programa ng STAN Kalinga sa Mamamayan, Tulong Pinansyal mula sa Kapitolyo kabalikat ang Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) sa Barangay Matinik Lopez, Quezon, noong Disyembre 23. Sa inisyatibo ni Governor Doktora Helen Tan katuwang ang Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) at Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) ay nabigyan ng tulong pinansyal ang 58 na pamilya na apektado sa pagguho ng lupa nitong araw ng Sabado, Disyembre 14 sa nasabing Barangay. Samantala, patuloy ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan sa Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) upang agarang maisaayos ang mga nasirang kalsada dahil sa pagguho ng lupa. Sinisiguro rin ni Governor Tan na hindi siya hihinto sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa nasyunal na pamahalaan upang makapaghatid ng nararapat na tulong at serbisyo sa bawat Quezonian.

Author name: Street Journal

Environmental Waste Management and Sustainability Fair yield results