Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) announced that a total of 13,655 families have qualified for the Rice Distribution Project in Baguio City. Under the program, which aims to ease the burden of rising food and living expenses on poor residents and vulnerable sectors, qualified families will receive rice subsidies from the government. The project is funded through a P56-million allocation from the national government under the 2026 Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA), pursuant to DBM-DILG Joint Circular No. 1, series of 2026. It is part of the Assistance to Indigent Individuals or Families–Food Assistance/Rice Distribution program. CSWD Officer Liza Bulayungan said the identified families can receive up to one cavan or 50 kilos of rice, although the amount may vary depending on the number of family members. The distribution is scheduled to be conducted weekly in May, July, September, and October, and some batches are expected to be released earlier. The rice will be distributed district-wise, either through clusters or through designated time slots at the Loakan National Food Authority (NFA) Warehouse, to ensure a smooth process. Bulayungan said the distribution will be conducted in close coordination with barangays and public utility jeepney (PUJ) associations to maintain an organized system and avoid congestion. According to Bulayungan, the registration and assessment of beneficiaries began on April 13, 2026, in various barangays and designated areas throughout the city, following the guidelines set by the CSWDO. Beneficiaries include poor families, senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and qualified minimum wage earners who are bona fide residents of the city. In this regard, Mayor Benjamin Magalong once again thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for including Baguio City in the program. He also thanked the CSWDO for ensuring fair selection and accountability of beneficiaries, in fulfillment of his promise to the President that the distribution would be free from political influence, favoritism, and other irregularities. (By Rose Frejane A. Cruz)

FROM LU TO THE UNIVERSE: Gov Ortega assured support to MUPH Bea Millan Windorski

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION Philippines – The people of La Union led by Gov. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega are in euphoria following last night’s win of the province’s bet, Bea Millan Windorski, in the Miss Universe Philippines beauty pageant. In a short chat with the local media today, May 3, 2026, Gov. Mario relayed his congratulations to Windorski and expressed deep pride for her victory. “With her winning alone, she has done a lot for La Union already,” Gov. Mario said, underscoring the honor and prestige she brought for representing the province and winning the most coveted beauty title in the Philippines. The Governor also assured his full support to Windorski as she is now set to represent the country in the Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November. “Bea deserves our full support as she brings the name of La Union into the global stage, which will not only bring honor for us but will also surely elevate LU’s image in the international tourism map,” Gov. Mario said. All throughout her MUPH journey, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) has extended assistance to Windorski and her team, such as on the production of her advocacy video and other logistical aid. On the coronation night, the PGLU sent a busload of avid fans and supporters to cheer for the LU bet — symbolic of the ‘agkaysa’ spirit. Ealrlier in February, Windorski met the Governor for a courtesy visit, where the latter manifested his backing to the causes of the beauty queen. “From that visit alone, I knew she was sincere to represent La Union. That she chose to look back to her lineage, come home, and made effort to reconnect to her ancestry speak a lot about her character,” Gov. Ortega said. Windorski traces her maternal roots to San Juan, La Union, where she has since been volunteering in various socio-civic activities. Gov. Mario likewise congratulated Rachel-Hanna Gozum, who represented Santo Tomas, La Union and the Filipino Society of Seattle, Washington, in the same beuaty tilt. Gozum made it to the competition’s top 30. Meanwhile, Gov. Mario also expressed excitement for the anticipated homecoming of Windorski. “We will get in touch with the MUPH organization to ensure alignment of schedules. But for now, we will let Bea enjoy the first days of her reign as the new Miss Universe Philippines,” the Governor said.

United States highlights Top Quality Agricultural Products and Partnerships in the Philippines

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Manila, Philippines — As part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties and the Freedom 250 commemoration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the United States is organizing a series of Galing USA promotions in April and May to showcase the exceptional quality, versatility, and local application of U.S. food products and expand market access for American agribusiness in the Philippines. USDA Under Secretary Bekkering and Chargé d’Affaires Ewing present certificates to eight Filipino organizations as Key Partners in U.S. Agricultural Excellence and Prosperity. In partnership with the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), ten of the Philippines’ finest restaurants celebrate American Restaurant Month by offering special dishes that demonstrate how America’s finest beef, poultry, and specialty ingredients inspire culinary excellence across cooking styles and traditions. From April 13 to May 13, the following restaurants and their branches across 32 locations will offer special menu items ranging from USDA ribeye steaks and U.S. duck confit to selections of American cheeses: 25 Seeds Bizu Patisserie and Café Café Fleur Cyma Dickey’s Barbeque Pit Farmer’s Table Mamou One World Deli Souv The Split USDA Under Secretary Bekkering joins Robinsons Supermarket Corporation Senior Merchandising Director Rosemarie Vierneza and officials from the U.S. Embassy and Robinsons Supermarket to launch the “Authentic American Flavors” promotion at The Marketplace at Parqal Mall, Parañaque City, on April 13. Leading a U.S. Agribusiness Trade Mission to the Philippines, Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering said, “This initiative highlights the strong partnership between our nations and showcases the exceptional quality of U.S. products featured on these menus. U.S. products are celebrated for their unparalleled quality and standards, which is why so many exceptional restaurants choose to incorporate U.S. ingredients into their culinary creations.” USDA is also partnering with The Marketplace and Metro Supermarket to promote a wide range of American food and beverage products, including U.S. meat and poultry, cheese, and blueberries. Shoppers can taste “Authentic American Flavors” at The Marketplace Parqal Mall location in Parañaque City and experience the “Great American Food Fest” at Metro Supermarket’s Market! Market! location in Taguig City from April 13 to 26. “American farmers and ranchers are proud to supply high-quality and delicious products to consumers here in the Philippines,” said Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering. “We greatly value our strong partnership with Filipino retailers like The Marketplace and Market! Market!, who help bring the best of American agriculture and flavors to Filipino households.” On April 14, Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering led the awarding of Key Partners in U.S. Agricultural Excellence and Prosperity to eight Filipino organizations for their valuable contributions to strengthening bilateral trade and food security by making high-quality U.S. food and agricultural products available to Filipino consumers. “The awardees constitute nearly 200 years of combined U.S.-Philippines partnership. We are truly honored by your continued trust in U.S. agriculture, and grateful for the role each of you plays in strengthening our bilateral relationship,” she noted. The awardees are: Century Pacific Food, Inc. Dane International Commodities, Inc. Jetti Petroleum, Inc. Meat Importers and Traders Association Philippine Association of Feed Millers, Inc. Philippine Association of Flour Millers, Inc. Philippine Association of Meat Processors, Inc. Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing added, “This recognition reflects the broader strength of the U.S.-Philippine trade relationship as partners in prosperity. It is an auspicious occasion to recognize this inaugural class of honorees as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties this year.” The Philippines is the tenth largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. Galing USA is an initiative by USDA through the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines’ Foreign Agricultural Service, aimed at promoting high-quality U.S. food and beverage products in the Philippine market. For more updates on American Restaurant Month and U.S. food promotions, follow Galing USA on Facebook.

BCDA remits P5.7B to National Treasury; dividends hit record P2.6B

Business

Business / Street Journal

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on April 28, 2026, Tuesday formally turned over Php5.7 billion to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), marking its latest contribution to funding infrastructure, social services, and military modernization. This brings BCDA’s total remittances for 2026 to 5 percent higher than the Php5.45 billion recorded in 2025, driven by solid performance across its economic zones and strategic partnerships. “BCDA is the GOCC (government-owned and -controlled corporation) that goes beyond generating dividends. It is a true developer of progress, creating the platforms and jobs that uplift millions of Filipinos across the country…The entire DOF family stands ready to support you. We will match your momentum. We will back your strategy. We will help you unlock even more value from your assets,” said Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go. The amount is equivalent to around 330 kilometers of roads, 2,300 classrooms, or 1,700 hospital beds nationwide. It can also support about 3,800 housing units under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program. Once channeled, a portion will be allocated to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program. “Every peso we remit translates to real improvements in people’s daily lives. This is how we make sure our work creates an impact that people can see and feel,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. Of the total, Php2.6 billion came from dividends, the highest in BCDA’s history and 18.18 percent higher than the Php2.2 billion recorded in 2025. This represents 61 percent of BCDA’s net earnings, exceeding the 50 percent minimum required under Republic Act No. 7656 or the Dividend Law. Of the total dividends, Php300 million has been allocated to help the national government cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on vulnerable sectors. This ensures that part of BCDA’s earnings directly supports Filipinos facing immediate economic pressure. The remaining Php3.09 billion came from asset disposition proceeds, which will be distributed to beneficiary agencies, including a significant share for the AFP modernization program. BCDA also remitted Php25 million in guarantee fees to the BTr, linked to the government’s loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). “We ensure that every peso due to the government is remitted accurately and on time. Accountability is how we make sure public resources are protected and used for the benefit of every Filipino,” Engr. Bingcang added.

Young archers triumph as a team at Batang Pinoy 2025

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Teamwork took center stage as Grant Atonen, Raynon James De Guzman, and Dirk Jacinth Pascaden captured gold in the Recurve Division Team Elimination (14 Under) at Batang Pinoy 2025. What started as a group of individuals grew into a disciplined and tightly connected team through consistent training and shared experiences. From initially feeling unfamiliar with one another, the trio developed strong chemistry by pushing each other daily, correcting mistakes, and building trust both on and off the field. The road to gold was not without challenges. The team had to overcome nerves, self-doubt, and even a difficult roster adjustment that tested their unity. Still, they relied on constant communication and encouragement, reminding each other to stay calm, focused, and confident in the skills they had worked hard to develop. Under pressure, their teamwork became their greatest advantage. They supported one another not just technically, but also emotionally, helping steady nerves and maintain composure during crucial moments. Their victory is more than just a medal; it is a testament to discipline, resilience, and the strength of a shared goal. For these young archers, Batang Pinoy 2025 marks the beginning of a promising journey, driven by unity and the belief that together, they can aim even higher. – Diana Elizabeth B. Florague/DMMMSU PIO Intern/mag

TESDA-CSITE graduate lands Top 4 in Registered Master Electricians Licensure Examination

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A technical-vocational graduate of the TESDA-Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE) placed Top 4 nationwide in the Registered Master Electricians Licensure Examination, based on results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on April 28, 2026. Mr. John Henry Solera Cubarol earned a national ranking of Top 4 with an average rating of 86 percent, placing him among the highest-performing examinees in the country. According to the PRC, 493 out of 882 examinees successfully passed the Registered Master Electricians Licensure Examination, which was conducted in various testing centers nationwide. Results were released within three working days after the final day of examinations. Cubarol is a graduate of the CSITE Baguio Main Campus under Batch 4 of the Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology program. His achievement adds to the growing list of technical-vocational graduates who have successfully advanced into the ranks of licensed professionals. CSITE recorded a 100 percent passing rate among its examinees, with all four candidates successfully passing the licensure examination. The passers include Mr. Felix Kerdaten Cawayan, Mr. Brendan Marc Francisco Cocoy, and Mr. Melvin Guadna Padtoc, all graduates of Batch 3 of the same program. The result underscores the alignment of CSITE’s competency-based curriculum with prevailing Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) standards and industry competency requirements, affirming the institution’s sustained commitment to producing licensure-ready and industry-ready graduates.

SM: “Understanding Recyclables A Key Step in Strengthening the Circular Economy”

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

When you visit your favorite SM Supermall, take a closer look at the trash bins that invite you to join the movement toward a Waste-Free Future. Under the SM Green Movement, the Recyclable-Disposable-Compostable (RDC) Bins are designed to recover reusable resources while keeping waste out of landfills and oceans through mindful waste management. ð——ð—²ð—ºð˜†ð˜€ð˜ð—¶ð—³ð˜†ð—¶ð—»ð—´ ð˜ð—µð—² ð—¥ð—²ð—°ð˜†ð—°ð—¹ð—®ð—¯ð—¹ð—²ð˜€ At its core, recyclables are simply three categories: Bottles, Cans, and Cartons. Each can go beyond single use and be returned to manufacturers for a second life: ð—•ð—¼ð˜ð˜ð—¹ð—²ð˜€ – These can be glass or plastic (PET). Glass bottles can be recycled indefinitely and are returned to bottlers such as San Miguel Yamamura and Asia Brewery Incorporated to be washed and reused for beverages. PET bottles, a highly sustainable plastic, are collected by partners like Coca-Cola’s PETvalue and Nature Spring’s NS Sustainability Solutions. They can either be recycled into new beverage bottles or processed into polyester for clothing production. ð—–ð—®ð—»ð˜€ – Made of tin or aluminum, cans are valuable recyclables that can be reused multiple times. Recycling cans reduce manufacturers’ energy costs compared to producing new ones from scratch. Cartons – Among the most sustainable products in the country, cartons are easy to source locally and remain competitively priced. Even when recycled, they retain high value, as producing paper products from recycled cartons requires only 10% new material. ð—™ð—¿ð—¼ð—º ð˜ð—µð—² ð—½ð—¿ð—¼ð—ºð—¶ð˜€ð—² ð—¼ð—³ “ð—¿ð—²ð—°ð˜†ð—°ð—¹ð—®ð—¯ð—¹ð—²” ð˜ð—¼ ð—¶ð˜ð˜€ ð—³ð˜‚ð—¹ð—³ð—¶ð—¹ð—¹ð—ºð—²ð—»ð˜ ð—®ð˜€ ð—°ð—¼ð—ºð—½ð—¹ð—²ð˜ð—²ð—¹ð˜† “ð—¿ð—²ð—°ð˜†ð—°ð—¹ð—²ð—± High-value recyclables are easily wasted if not disposed of properly. By using SM’s Recyclable bins, you can help return these materials to the market, thanks to partners who recover and reuse them. A true circular economy is within reach when we all mindfully sort and dispose of bottles, cans, and cartons. Through simple, collective action, everyone can contribute to protecting the environment and creating a greener future.

CIAC joins Ease of Doing Business Month celebration

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines ⸺The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has lined up a series of activities in celebration of the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month this May 2026, in support of continuing efforts to improve government service delivery. The CIAC celebration, led by the Management Systems Improvement Department (MSID), will implement activities in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) under Memorandum Circular No. 2026-0002. This year’s theme is “Achieving Results through Transparency and Accountability (ARTA): Towards a More Productive Bagong Pilipinas.” “CIAC adopts innovative and citizen-friendly measures to streamline processes and reduce bureaucratic red tape in our collective aim to ease business transactions,” CIAC President Jojit Alcazar said. These initiatives include incorporating the official EODB logo in all materials for the annual celebration; displaying the official EODB Month banner in offices, customer service areas, and the main building façade; updating social media cover photos and website banners to reflect official EODB Month branding; and sharing and disseminating official posts, articles, and videos related to the observance. In addition, CIAC will dedicate a segment of its May 2026 flag ceremony to EODB Month and conduct a forum and stakeholders’ activity These will feature discussions, consultations, and learning sessions on regulatory improvements, process streamlining, and enhancing client experience through the Citizen’s Charter. The activities aim to identify “quick wins,” or process steps that can be immediately removed, simplified, or recalibrated to reduce the burden on the transacting public. Information and advocacy initiatives encouraging the sharing of stories, testimonials, and updates on reforms and innovations will also be implemented. Government agencies are likewise encouraged to establish an EODB Lane within their respective offices, where a high-impact external service is designated to facilitate faster, more efficient, and citizen-centric transactions. Alcazar noted that the annual celebration of Ease of Doing Business Month aims to promote a culture of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in government service delivery. In October 2025, CIAC received a Gold Award for Exemplary Performance from ARTA during the 2024 Report Card Survey (RCS) 2.0 First Cycle Implementation, after earning an “Excellent” rating and ranking fourth overall among all government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) nationwide. Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, amended the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 to streamline government procedures through prescribed processing times and strengthened the mandate of ARTA to enforce compliance and reduce corruption. Presidential Proclamation No. 818, series of 2025, declared the month of May of every year as Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month, with ARTA leading its nationwide observance to promote a more efficient and business-friendly government environment.

Kid’s First Discovery Space celebrates 20 years with ‘Play It Forward’

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — Learning center Kid’s First Discovery Space (KFDS) recently celebrated its 20th anniversary with a meaningful gathering at the Museo Pambata, bringing together families and alumni for a day of joyful learning, reconnection, and giving back. More than a milestone event, the celebration reflected the heart of KFDS’s 20-year journey—creating spaces where children learn through play, families grow in community, and every small win is recognized. In the spirit of “Play it Forward,” proceeds from the event benefited Kythe Foundation, extending the occasion’s impact to children with chronic illnesses and their families. “At Kid’s First Discovery Space, we celebrate every win of every child in class. There’s no such thing as a small victory, and we make sure each one is recognized. As we mark our 20th year, we’re turning our gratitude outward by sharing this milestone with children who need hope, care, and opportunity the most,” said Kid’s First Founder and Educational Administrator Vanessa Morales-Balquiedra. Two decades of child-centered learning in the Philippines Founded in 2005, KFDS was created to give young children a safe and welcoming place to learn through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences. Rooted in progressive early childhood education, it has always believed in nurturing each child’s curiosity, individuality, and growth. Over the past two decades, KFDS has evolved from a preschool into a broader support system for children and families. Today, it offers the following: *Early childhood intervention program for neurodivergent learners and children with additional developmental needs *Occupational and speech therapy services *Integrated playgroups *Music classes for toddlers and parents *Other offerings that encourage connection, joyful learning, and development from an early age A new chapter began for KFDS when it found a home at The Palms Country Club in Muntinlupa City, where children and families could once again learn, play, and grow together in a safe and nurturing environment after the challenges of the pandemic. Although 20 years may not be considered a traditional milestone like a 25th or 50th anniversary, Kid’s First Discovery Space saw it as the right moment to pause and celebrate. With everything happening in the world today, the occasion became an opportunity to choose joy, honor its journey, and share hope with the wider community. A celebration with purpose KFDS families, alumni, and friends explore interactive exhibits such as Karagatan, Pamayanan, and Kalikasan, along with other hands-on activities at Museo Pambata. The anniversary event gave current families, alumni, and friends of KFDS the chance to reconnect through guided museum activities, interactive play experiences, and shared moments that honored the school’s long-standing values of curiosity, inclusion, and compassion. More importantly, it transformed the celebration into a meaningful way to give back, supporting a cause that brings comfort and care to children in need. “There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child, and over the past two decades, we have felt that we are part of that village. We are grateful to the parents and families who have trusted us with their children through the years and look forward to serving more,” said Balquiedra. As KFDS looks beyond its 20th anniversary, the organization is committed to pushing forward a more progressive approach to early childhood education—one that is inclusive, thoughtful, and responsive to the diverse needs of children and families. Among its future plans are the return of training programs for daycare workers and the expansion of early childhood intervention support across more learning communities. Families interested in enrolling in Kid’s First Discovery Space programs or learning more about its early childhood education and intervention offerings may contact 0917-833-8983 or 0917-847-1977, or email kidsfirsteci@gmail.com. For updates, announcements, and inquiries, visit KFDS on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Author name: Street Journal

13,655 families in Baguio to receive free rice