Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By AJEspiritu, Albay PIO LEGAZPI CITY,Albay — Namahagi ng food packs ang Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office para sa mga pamilya ng kababaihang Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) sa lalawigan. Laman ng bawat food pack ang limang kilong commercial rice, dalawang lata ng 175g na corned beef, dalawang lata rin ng 170g na meat loaf, at isang 300g pack ng gatas. Ang mga ito’y tinanggap ng siyam na PDLs ng Albay Provincial Jail para sa kanilang pamilyo, noong Disyembre 23. Ito’y bahagi ng nagpapatuloy na aksyon ng Pamahalaang Lokal ng Albay sa pangunguna ng PSWDO para bigyang suporta ang mga kababaihang PDLs. Matatandaang namahagi rin ang naturang opisina ng mga hygiene kit, storage box, at foam sa 16 na women PDLs noong Marso 2024 bilang parte ng selebrasyon ng Women’s Month.

Vergara champions mindfulness, serenity at the Sports Day Extravaganza Tai Chi session

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

The AEBC Sports and Wellness Day continued with a calming and rejuvenating Tai Chi session at the Rose Garden, Burnham Park. This peaceful event offered participants the chance to slow down and experience the gentle flow of Tai Chi movements, guided by skilled instructors who brought peace and focus to the morning. The serene atmosphere of the Rose Garden provided the perfect backdrop for a session that emphasized mindfulness, balance, and inner tranquility. Whether seasoned practitioners or first-time participants, everyone embraced the soothing rhythm of Tai Chi, making the experience truly special. Baguio Tourism Council Chairman Gladys Vergara, a strong supporter of promoting wellness and mindfulness within the community, expressed her appreciation for the event’s success. She said, “In our fast-paced world, it is vital to take moments to pause, reflect, and reconnect with ourselves: Tai Chi offers a gentle yet powerful way to find balance and serenity, and I’m grateful o see so many join us today in embracing this practice. Events like this encourage us to incorporate mindfulness into our daily lives,helping us build a healthier,more peaceful Baguio.” The Tai Chi session, part of the city’s Sports Day Extravaganza, highlighted the importance of mental and physical well-being. The event also aligned with the Baguio Tourism Council’s continued efforts to support and promote sports and wellness tourism, which is becoming an essential part of the city’s tourism offerings. The Baguio Tourism Council thanks all participants for their presence and openness in sharing the peaceful energy of the moment.

PLDT’s inaction on dangling wire campaign to be blamed for customer’s loss of connection

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Aileen Refuerzo Philippine Long Distance Telephone company’s inaction on the city government’s dangling wire correction campaign should be blamed for the loss of connection of more than 1,000 customers recently in Baguio City. Mayor Benjamin Magalong castigated the company over its half-hearted response to the ongoing program that was meant to fix low-lying, sagging and tangled wires posing danger to the public. The mayor said the company should be faulted for the loss of connection of hundreds of its customers after a dangling wire operation along Cariño and Legarda Sts. recently. He said the company had been adequately notified that its presence was needed for the operation as the teams from the Public Order Safety Division and other actively involved telecommunication companies were working on a schedule to finish the work. However, no team from the company showed up prompting the other teams to continue the operation without them. Without guidance from the company, the team accidentally cut a fiber optic cable of PLDT mistaking it for a regular copper one causing the loss of connection. “It was accidental. Had PLDT cooperated, it could have been averted. We were informed that I and the POSD were being blamed by the customers for the disturbance because PLDT men were telling them that I issued the order. That is misplaced. Please know the true story. Don’t fault people who are just doing their job to ensure the safety of the public,” the mayor said. The mayor said PLDT has the most tangled and problematic lines but ironically it is the least in effort when it comes to the campaign which was supposedly a joint effort among the city, the Benguet Electric Cooperative and the telcos composed of the PLDT, Globe Telecomm, Eastern, Mountainview companies. He said Globe, Eastern, Mountainview have been consistently working with the city in fixing the problem, showing up on time and working with the same dedication as the POSD enforcers. This is in contrast to the PLDT team which has been “remarkably absent and underperforming.” “This problem happened because of your own inaction and lack of physical disconnection policy. We launched these operations to help you. We had several meetings and all got were empty promises,” the mayor said. Irked by the minimal progress of the campaign, the mayor in September issued an ultimatum to public utility companies to overhaul their cabling systems noting the increase in reported incidents involving sagging cables. When the operations remained slow moving, he tasked the POSD and the barangays to help in the operations of checking and correcting wire systems that do not comply with the established height standards of 16 feet above ground for sidewalks and 18 feet above ground for public roads. Based on the POSD’s report, it is the PLDT that has the most unsightly, disorderly and problematic cabling system that violate the standards yet it had been the least cooperative. And now it has the gall to pass the blame on us. Please take heart,” the mayor lamented. He however said this will not affect the aggressive implementation of the program which needs urgency. “No letup. We will do our best to complete this whether or not you cooperate. We are talking of public safety and nothing is more important than the lives at stake if we do not act to correct the problem now,” the mayor said.

Gov. Gambito launches “Dalan ti Umili” program to enhance barangay Infrastructure

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has officially launched the “Dalan ti Umili” program, a transformative initiative aimed at improving infrastructure in barangays throughout the province, on December 20. The awarding ceremony, marked the beginning of a project designed to facilitate the construction of farm-to-market roads, thereby boosting local economies and enhancing community connectivity. The brainchild of Governor Gambito, “Dalan ti Umili” provides crucial cement and fuel assistance to barangays, enabling them to undertake vital road construction projects. The provincial government supplies the necessary materials, while the communities contribute labor and gravel, fostering a collaborative approach to development. Provincial Agriculture Officer Absalom Baysa shared that 21 barangays have been identified as the initial beneficiaries of the program, receiving a total of 20,000 bags of cement. This first wave of support is set to promote infrastructure improvements that will benefit farmers and residents alike. With a budget allocation of P30 million for cement and an additional P5 million for fuel, the provincial government demonstrates its strong commitment to rural development. Gambito emphasized the importance of the program, saying, “This initiative is about more than just building roads; it’s about building futures. By improving access to markets, we are empowering our farmers and creating opportunities for growth and prosperity. Together, we are paving the way for a more prosperous tomorrow for our communities.” In addition to “Dalan ti Umili,” Governor Gambito continues to champion the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” program, further showcasing his dedication to enhancing infrastructure across the province. This program focuses on improving roads in mountainous areas, ensuring that even the most remote communities are connected and have access to essential services.

SBMA honors Subic Cooperative, 29 other companies Mabuhay Business Awards 2024

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

By Ruben Veloria Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SBMPC) is among the 30 companies inside this Freeport that were honored during the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Mabuhay Business Awards this year held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on December 13, 2024. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said the 30 awardees were recognized, out of the 1,909 locators, for there exceptional contribution to the business growth of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone this year. Aliño added that the SBMA Mabuhay Awards embodies the agency’s commitment to recognizing the outstanding contributions of these companies who have significantly enriched the domestic economy; hence, “Mabuhay” symbolizes life, enthusiasm and positivity. Recipient of the Loyalty Business Award, SBMPC is the oldest cooperative in the area, with more than 2,000 members from various companies in the Freeport, the nearby Olongapo City, Zambales, and Mariveles, Bataan. Other recipients in the same category were Idess Interactive Technologies Inc., MOF Company Subic Inc., Royal Duty Free Shops Inc., and Mikuni Terminals Mechatronics Philippines Corporation. For the Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) of the Year Award, the awardees were the MJY 88 Medical Clinic, La Banca Travel and Tours Corp., and the Grand Food Venue Corp. that owns Xtremely Xpresso, Subic Ben’s Kitchen and Iron Grill Asian Fusion. For the New Business of the Year, the recipients were Skarya Builders Inc., Maritime Expert General Services Corporation, Bistro Italiano Corp., Good Manufacturing Leathers Inc., Intelligent Outsourcing Inc., MSK Group Work Incorporated, Strategic Channel for Career Development Corporation, Swire Agrotech Agricultural Products Inc., Pure Petroleum Corporation, Sands of Triboa Resorts and Spa Inc., Subic Bay Yacht Club., Norden Subic Entrepreneurs Inc., and Grainpro Philippines Inc. For the Top Importer of the Year, the award was given to Raizen Asia PTE. LTD., while the Top Exporter of the Year went to the Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. For the Eco-Innovation Award, the SBMA hailed the Subic Smart Community Corporation. Subic Bay Town Center, Inc. bagged the Health and Wellness Business of the Year award. For the Corporate Social Responsibility Award, the SBMA hailed the Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation. For Business Developer of the Year, the awardees were Aolly Home Inc., and Sachi Subic Inc. For the Excellence in Occupational Health and Safety Practices, the top performer was Tong Lung Philippines Metal Industry Co. Inc. Meanwhile, a Special Award was given to the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce Inc. Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato W. Lee III said that these 1,909 companies not only contributed to the business growth of the Subic Bay Freeport, but also provided employment to 162,891 workers. “Aggregate investments amounting to P577.99-billion as of third quarter of 2024 accrued to the SBMA and the Total Operating Revenue generated from 1992-2023 has amounted to P64.36-billion. In the first half of 2024, the SBMA released a total of P204.7-million Net Revenue Shares, higher than last year’s same period,” he said.

Tarlac police jails 667 offenders, seizes P1-M worth of drugs in Q4 of 2024

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CAMP GEN. MACABULOS, Tarlac City – Police has arrested a total of 667 law offenders, and confiscated illegal drug worth P1-M during anti-criminality campaign for the last quarter of 2024. According to Tarlac Police Provincial Director P/Col. Miguel Guzman, the arrests were accomplished from October 1 to December 20, 2024 after conducting manhunt operations against target drug personalities and wanted persons. Based on the records provided, 294 wanted persons, including one Regional Most Wanted Person, and 13 Municipal Level Most Wanted Persons, were arrested for the crimes of murder, homicide, attempted murder, attempted homicide, rape, qualified rape, among others. During the implementation of search warrant, 12 individuals were arrested, while 128 individuals through anti-illegal drug operations. The drug operation yielded 100.925 grams of suspected shabu and 1,190.84 grams of suspected marijuana, with a total street value of more or less P1,000,000.00. Meanwhile, police also rounded 161 individuals, and confiscated P49,972.00 bet money used in illegal gambling, while 37 malefactors were netted during police response. In the conduct of search warrant and police response, 31 firearms were confiscated, and accounted 200 surrendered loose firearms for safekeeping while their owners are in the process of renewing their license. Guzman assures the residents of Tarlac that the police organization, especially the Tarlac PPO is holding its untiring commitment to reduce, if not eradicate, all forms of criminality in the province. He further averred that Tarlac police will continuously maximize its efforts to maintain peace and security to attain a peaceful community to live, work, and do business.

Which party are you attending: Christmas or Year-End?

Opinions

Opinions / Street Journal

Which party are you attending: Christmas or Year-End? Listening to TV for news and events, and even co-workers or students are busy talking about the special occasions that they are soon to attend or have attended, the party which everyone knows about. During the early days, it was simply called Christmas Party, because it held before the school break for Christmas holidays. However, as time passed by, the party’s name was gradually changed. It is now referred to as Year-End Party, and sometimes with “and Thanksgiving Party.” But why the change, and what are the differences between the two names which refer to the same party, in essence? According to one explanation the HTW found in the internet, “A Christmas party; specifically refers to a celebration focused around the Christmas holiday, while a “year-end party” is a broader term encompassing the end of the year, which could include Christmas but is not limited to it, making it a more inclusive option if not everyone celebrates Christmas.” There, clearly, “if not everyone celebrates Christmas”, meaning if not all attendees are believing in Christmas- the Birth of Jesus Christ, or they are not Catholics. Connecteam.com, meanwhile, said “Christmas party is a workplace celebration at the end of the year, held around or near Christmas days, to commemorate the season.” It also added, “It can also be combined with a year-end company review, bonuses, gifts, and other forms of company reflection or employee recognition.” Evidence of these are the wrapped gifts at the stage of the party venue, the big and surprise prizes waiting to be claimed by raffle and games winners. And of course, the exchange gifts, wherein to remember the three kings that offered gifts for the newly born Child Jesus. A year-end party is a social gathering to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of the next one. They are often held by businesses, organizations, schools, or social groups. eduTinker said, the purpose of a year-end party is to bring people together to celebrate the end of the year and to reflect on the events and experiences of the past 12 months. It can be formal or informal, and they may be held in a variety of locations, including homes, restaurants, hotels, or other venues. The size and scale of a year-end party will depend on the group organizing the event, the budget, and the number of people attending. Christmas Party or Year-End Party both have the same purpose, to be happy for the coming Christmas season. And no matter how one celebrate: as year-end party or as the traditional Christmas Party, is basically not an issue anymore. As long as the people attending the party carry in their heart the essence of camaraderie, love and support for the company, organization or school they belong, the true meaning of all shall always be for the Lord, God we praise and adore. Hear’s To Watch is greeting every one Merry Christmas. May our Year-End be worth our hardship and perseverance to accomplished our goal for the year.

Former CENRO, ARTA exec wants a return as Tuba councilor

CAR, Inside Politics

CAR, Inside Politics / Street Journal

A former executive of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Anti-Red Tape Authority who served as Councilor as a young man 30 years ago has topped a recent survey in his attempt for a return as a Tuba municipal councilor. An online survey done by the Sigma Statistical Research Consultancy Baguio-Benguet Statistician for Hire saw current officials Rep. Eric Yap and Gov. Melchor Diclas and also found a come backing Rabindranath “Abet” Quilala leading all candidates for the municipal council. The surveys that were done last December 11 and 18 saw the former Community ENR for Buguias leading with 51.7 percentage point. That is some 14 percent higher than second placed Rebecca Apil, who like Quilala is an independent. The more recent survey still placed Quilala ahead with 49.6 percent. Observers say that Quilala, who is trying to be a comeback leader wanting to inspire change in the municipality, is having a “resurgence in the political scene has been met with enthusiasm, as residents recognize his extensive experience and proven commitment to meaningful change.” Quilala worked as ARTA Director IV from 2021 util earlier this year. The first presidential appointee from Tuba played pivotal roles in various capacities, including OIC Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration (undersecretary level) and Chairman of the Committee on Anti-Red Tape (CART). His work at ARTA focused on improving government efficiency and addressing bureaucratic challenges, earning him national recognition. Quilala under the DENR served as OIC Administrative Service Director and served on major boards that include the National Power Corporation, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the National Renewable Energy Board (NREB). Quilala played a key role also in landmark environmental initiatives such as the Project Director for the Boracay Rehabilitation and Manila Bay Clean-up, regarded as among former President Rodrigo Duterte’s most significant legacies. Quilala was elected councilor for Tuba in 1992 at a very young age of 23, the youngest in the town. Among the key accomplishments of Quilala in his short three year term was improved communication through the provision of VHF radios for police and barangay officials; electrification of barangays like Taloy Sur and Camp 3, providing much-needed access to electricity; establishment of the Benguet Iodization Plant, benefiting health and nutrition in the region; and, the revenue-sharing agreements from the Asin Hydro Power Plant, ensuring Tuba received its fair share of benefits, among others. As part of Team Kitma, referring to councilor Roger Kitma who is running for mayor, his mission is ABET or Agriculture, Business, Environment, and Tourism and his Advocacy for Barangay Empowerment and Transformation. He said: I believe that collaboration and community empowerment are key to achieving sustainable growth for Tuba. Quilala said that Tuba is more than a hometown— “it’s a community that gave him the opportunity to grow as a leader. His return to local governance is a testament to his enduring commitment to serve. With decades of national and local government experience, Quilala is poised to lead Tuba into a new era of development and opportunity.” He ran as Congressman in Baguio in 2008 after serving as assistant to the late former mayor Braulio Yaranon.

Hedcor turns over ₱5.1M royalty shares to Bukidnon Indigenous Communities

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

Hedcor, the renewable energy asset manager of AboitizPower, has turned over P5,140,167.01 in royalty shares to Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in Bukidnon for 2022-2023. These funds directly benefit the host communities of Hedcor’s Manolo Fortich 1 and 2 hydroelectric power plants, advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development. The royalty shares were distributed to five IP organizations including Santiago Tribal Community (SANTRICO), Inc. who received P1,401,529.47; Impakibel, Apo Man Asilan Tribal Association with P1,401,529.47; Lumikapaw Ka Guihean Tribal Council of Elders with P935,578.60; the Guilang-Guilang Apo Datu Nanikunan Association, Inc.with P935,578.60; and the Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc. who received P465,950.87. These funds will support initiatives identified by the IP communities themselves, including livelihood assistance, skills training to strengthen economic resilience, scholarships for Indigenous youth, and elder care programs. The projects will also help empower women entrepreneurs, preserve traditional practices, and advance environmental efforts such as reforestation. Bae Priscilla Cariaga, President of Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc., expressed gratitude for the turnover, “Ang pagtinabangay uban sa Hedcor nagpalambo sa among komunidad. Ang mga pondo makatabang sa pagpreserba sa among kultura, pagtubag sa mga kinahanglanon, ug paghimo og mga oportunidad para sa umaabot nga henerasyon (Working together with Hedcor has developed our community. The funds help preserve our culture, address our needs, and create opportunities for future generations).” Implemented in close coordination with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 10, the program ensures that projects align with cultural preservation and ancestral domain protection. “Through joint efforts, we achieve meaningful progress for Indigenous Peoples, safeguarding their heritage while promoting development,” said Atty. Dexter B. Precioso, NCIP Regional Legal Officer IV. Hedcor Vice President for Corporate Services Noreen Vicencio noted, “This turnover is more than just meeting our obligations—it reflects our commitment to a meaningful partnership. We are privileged to support the initiatives the IP organizations have chosen to advance their livelihood, education, and cultural heritage. By working side by side, we help ensure a lasting, positive impact that strengthens their communities and enriches their future.” By returning these royalty shares to the communities, Hedcor continues to advance renewable energy while strengthening communities, protecting cultural identities, and fostering long-term growth and opportunity.

Author name: Street Journal

Food packs ibinahagi sa pamilya ng kababaihang PDL’s sa Albay