Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

LEGAZPI CITY — The Provincial Government of Albay (PGA) is set to receive the Gawad Kalasag (GK) Seal for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Humanitarian Assistance for Calendar Year 2024, from the Office of the Civil Defense Regional Office 5 (OCD 5) in recognition of its exemplary disaster risk reduction and management efforts. The award will be conferred to Albay along with seven other local government units (LGUs) during a ceremony on December 12, 2024. Albay has been recognized under the “Fully Compliant LGUs” category, along with Tabaco City and the municipalities of Polangui, Daraga, and Sto. Domingo. Meanwhile, Camalig and the cities of Legazpi and Ligao are included in the “Beyond Compliant LGUs” category. The Gawad Kalasag is one of the most prestigious awards given to LGUs nationwide, acknowledging their outstanding achievements in disaster risk reduction and management, effective calamity response, and the successful implementation of disaster mitigation efforts within their jurisdictions. Albay holds a historic distinction as the first province in the country to receive this prestigious honor since the establishment of the Gawad Kalasag in 1998. In 2012, it was declared a Hall of Famer after winning three consecutive awards.

PROCAR and SM Foundation strengthen partnership with Camp Dangwa Hospital renovation

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

CAMP DANGWA, Benguet — An exclusive and well-functioning hospital dedicated to serving police officers and their dependents was officially opened with the blessing of the newly renovated Camp Bado Dangwa Hospital held at Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet, on December 6. The program was graced by Miss Connie Angeles, Executive Director of Health and Medical Programs of SM Foundation Incorporated, and was attended by Brig.Gen. David Peredo,Jr., regional director; Col. Julio Lizardo, chief Regional Staff; Col. Alma Paredes,chief of the Regional Medical Dental Unit Cordillera Administrative Region, the Regional Staff, and other PRO-CAR personnel. The event’s highlight was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Angeles and Peredo and the unveiling of commemorative markers and the building’s blessing officiated by the Regional Pastoral Officer Maj.(Rev. Fr.) Alexander Pardo. This newly renovated facility will offer free medical and dental services to PNP personnel, their dependents, and authorized civilians. It is the fifth PNP facility renovated by the SM Foundation, greatly enhancing the healthcare support system for both the police officers and the local community. Angeles expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the unwavering dedication of the PRO-CAR personnel, recognizing them as the pillars of peace and order in the Cordillera region. The successful renovation of the hospital stands as a testament to the continued partnership between PRO-CAR and its stakeholders, particularly the SM Foundation, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the Philippine National Police’s programs and the well-being of its officers and their families.

Recycled materials Christmas Tree lights in Tiaong,Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio TIAONG, Quezon- Thousands of residents witnessed the lighting of the façade of municipal hall and its surroundings by the local government unit led by Mayor Vincent Arjay Mea during the switch-on lighting ceremony on Friday evening, Dec. 6. The façade of the building is decorated with indigenous materials from coconuts, such as dried coconut leaves. At the same time, the giant Christmas tree is also covered with recycled materials and decorated with thousands of various lights. Along with the fireworks display that lasted about 15 minutes while playing the local and self-made Christmas carols. This year’s theme is “Meananaig, Ang Pag-ibig ngayong Pasko sa Tiaong. Mea was accompanied by members of the Sangguniang Bayan, municipal employees, senior citizens, Girl Scouts, barangay chiefs and their representative’s council members, and residents from different barangays. Mea also gave early Christmas gifts to thousands of children under the age of ten who were assisted by their parents, much to their delight. The lighting did not cost a lot, because other materials were already used during the previous holidays, the lighting was simple but very meaningful to reflect the true spirit of the holiday, Mea said. Mea wants to make his constituents and travelers who pass through their town feel the spirit of Christmas. The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Tiaong, he added.

Singapore’s SoiLabs Introduces Soya Waste-Derived Biostimulant in partnership with PH Stakeholders

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

SoiLabs, a Singapore-based company specializing in sustainable agricultural solutions, has launched its innovative biostimulant Soi-X, made from soya waste (okara). The technology transforms what would otherwise be a byproduct of tofu and taho production into a nutrient-rich solution for plant nutrition. SoiLabs, a partner of Japan’s Sanyo Chemical, collaborates in the Philippines with Mr. Renato Reyes, President of Miracle Soybean Food—the country’s largest tofu and taho producer. The partnership repurposes substantial amounts of soya waste generated during production into Soi-X through SoiLabs’ advanced technology. To explore potential synergies, SoiLabs Business Development Director Jason Lim and Mr. Renato Reyes met with Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) Chairman Gladys Vergara to discuss integrating Soi-X into the BTC’s Greensoil Venture Project which aims to provide barangays with alternative biodegradable waste management solutions through innovative home composting technologies. As an initial step toward collaboration, SoiLabs has committed to demonstrating its biostimulant at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park. This activity, set to take place following the An Enchanting Baguio Christmas Market, will be part of the BTC’s post-event park rehabilitation initiative. The meeting also included Councilor aspirant Glenn Gaerlan, Mother’s Garden owner Therese Jocson, soil scientist and SRT La Trinidad Cooperative President Freddie Langpaoen, and SRT business partner Eusebio Fernandez. Discussions highlighted the potential of Soi-X to rejuvenate city parks and support the cut flower and vegetable farming industries in Baguio and Benguet. In addition to plant nutrition, SoiLabs’ Soi-X also holds promise as an intermediate product for animal feed, contributing to sustainable agribusiness solutions. With its commitment to repurposing waste and promoting environmental sustainability, SoiLabs is poised to play a key role in enhancing agricultural practices and urban green spaces in the Philippines.

Cebu Pacific Transitions Key Facilities to 100% Renewable Energy

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has strengthened its commitment to decarbonizing its operations by powering two of its major facilities with 100 percent renewable energy (RE). In partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), one of Asia Pacific’s fastest-growing energy platforms, CEB has transitioned its APlus and AirJuan buildings to be powered entirely by RE. “This shift to clean energy is an important component of further reducing our emissions, in this case, those generated from the use of electricity in our buildings and facilities. Partnering with ACEN also allows us to take advantage of the benefits of the Green Energy Option Program of the Department of Energy including cost savings for Cebu Pacific and supporting the country’s goal to boost renewable energy supply,” said Felix Lopez, CEB Chief Human Resources Officer. The APlus and AirJuan buildings are essential to CEB’s daily operations, housing its maintenance, ground handling, and catering operations. Shifting these facilities to RE complements the airline’s broader decarbonization strategy which includes transitioning to a modern and fuel-efficient all-NEO fleet, implementing fuel-efficient practices, optimizing flight routes, and electrifying its ground support equipment. ACEN RES expressed its enthusiasm for the partnership, with Sheila Mina, Vice President and Head of Account Management, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Cebu Pacific to support their commitment to sustainable aviation. By providing renewable energy solutions, we are enabling Cebu Pacific to reduce its carbon emissions and operate more efficiently. This partnership aligns with our mission of making renewable energy accessible for businesses across the Philippines.” As 2024 comes to a close, CEB continues its sustainability leadership in the domestic aviation sector, setting a benchmark for the industry and advocating sustainable air travel.

International Artist Myse Salonga to be crowned as Noble Queen of Culture and Arts 2024

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

By Rose Frejane Cruz-Comanda The renowned self-taught international artist Myse Salonga will be crowned Noble Queen of Culture and Arts 2024 at the 6th Edition Crowning and Awarding Ceremony of the Noble Queen of the Universe Advocacy International Pageant, to be held at the Cities Events Place, Sgt Esquerra St., Quezon City, Manila on December 8. This is one of the historic awards that Salonga will receive, after she began painting as a hobby and participating in charitable art exhibits, not only in the Philippines but also in various parts of the world. The event is sponsored by Noble Queen Universe Ltd , Inc ( NQULI) headed by Ms. Eren Noche, whose goal is to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society and to hold charitable events to raise funds for charitable institutions. This charity event is in partnership with the Doc Rob Foundation led by Rob Walchern (Doc Rob) and Ms. Patricia Javier, chairman of the Board of NQULI. On December 4, Salonga was featured in the Aura Charity Gala Fashion Show, where she was joined by Noble Queen International Patricia Javier; Gladys Reyes-Sommereux; Cieolo Ortega-Reboredo, Okada vice president for sales and marketing and Krishan Pauline Allere, Miss Pearl of the Orient. Salonga was listed as a model in the Aura Charity Fashion Show sponsored by the brilliant creative designers of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) and Aura Group of Companies led by CEO Aura Marketing Bennilyn Amigo-Molina, held at the Okada Hotel. Salonga did not end up participating in the fashion show for the first time, but she was awarded as the 2024 Darling of the Crowd. Salonga was also honored with the 2024 Global Iconic Aces Award as World Renowned Artistic Trailblazer, after the Aura Gala Show at the Okada Hotel, on December 4. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, Salonga was honored with the ASEAN Excellence Achievers Award as an International Artist. “It is a great honor for me to know that this is a reward for my advocacy work in charity art exhibitions. I am deeply grateful to the people behind this honor and to the upcoming award from those who recognize me as an artist,” Salonga said. According to Salonga, a painting of hers that was exhibited at the Carousel Du Louvre, Paris in October 2024 will be auctioned, with the proceeds donated to NQULI to help the charitable institution. Myse Salonga, is known as the exclusive creator behind Myseterpiece Art. His artistic journey, which began in 2010, has evolved from a simple hobby to a vibrant and impactful career, showcasing his talent locally and internationally. Over the past decade, Myse has created over 200 unique paintings, captivating audiences with his diverse and evocative works, such as modern abstract, figurative art, landscape, seascape, and surrealism. Myse’s artwork has garnered attention in prestigious venues around the world. Notably, his pieces have been featured in iconic locations such as 1560 Broadway in Times Square, New York, and eight billboards in London Waterloo Station. She has participated in numerous exhibitions, including his solo showcase titled “A Masterpiece of MYSEterpiece Art” at Camp John Hay, Baguio City, with the Autism Society of Baguio as its beneficiary. In 2024, Myse’s artistic contributions reached new heights with a significant exhibition in France. In June 2024, Salonga donated a historical painting that recognizes the life of an Overseas Filipino Worker in France to the Philippine Embassy of France, which was received by Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West. The painting titled “Marriane” is currently on display at the embassy as part of the historical collection On this occasion, Salonga joined 50 artists from 20 different countries who came together in the exhibition to raise funds for children from the Philippines, Uganda and Tanzania. The beautiful paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital arts were exhibited from May 30 to June 2 in Mayenne, Laval France, in celebration of the 21st edition of “RENDEZVOUS aux JARDINS,” a project of the French Minister of Culture. She has exhibited her work at the “Rendezvous Aux Jardins” at Le Château d’Hauterives à Argentré, participated in the “Salon International d’Art Contemporain” at the renowned Carrousel Du Louvre in Paris, and was featured in the “Business Art Fair 16th Edition” at Espace Nesle, Paris. She was also included in an art exhibit at the Grand Westside Hotel and recently participated in the exhibit titled “Likha: A Journey Beyond Wine, Culinary & Arts” at the Belmont Hotel in Mactan, Cebu. Further demonstrating her community involvement, she participated as one of the judges in the on-the-spot contest “Alwas Lahi”, celebrating the 75th anniversary of her hometown, Padre Garcia, Batangas. In the future, Myse Salonga is scheduled to exhibit at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris in February 2025, followed by another exhibition in Vienna, Austria in April 2025.

Pangasinan kinilala sa pagkamit ng pinakamataas na taxable assessed value

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan- Sa pamumuno ni Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, ang Lalawigan ng Pangasinan ay patuloy na kinikilala sa pagtanggap nito ng iba’t ibang parangal at citation sa larangan pagpupunyagi. Kamakailan lamang, ang Pangasinan ay kinilala bilang top performing province sa Rehiyon 1 para sa pagkamit ng pinakamataas na average sa pagtaas ng taxable assessed value sa loob ng tatlong magkakasunod na taon. Sa pamamagitan nito, isang Certificate of Achievement ang iginawad sa lalawigan ng Bureau of Local Government Finance bilang pagkilala sa pagsisikap ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan sa pamamagitan ng Provincial Assessor’s Office (PAO), na malaki ang naiambag sa pagtatamo ng lahat ng mga programang pangkaunlaran ng local na pamahalaan. Sinabi ni Atty. Geronimo M. Abad, Provincial Assessment Office (PAssO) Chief, ang parangal ay sama-samang pagsisikap ng Provincial Assessor’s Office, Municipal Assessor’s Office, at ng buong Assessment Service ng lalawigan. ‘So, collective ang award na ito, effort ng buong assessment service sa probinsiya, Provincial Assessor’s Office at Municipal Assessor’s Offices ng lahat ng munisipyo ng probinsiya. Inspired po ulit tayong magtrabaho para ma-maintain natin yung ganitong drive dahil ang turnout nito is increase ng taxes, revenue collection.’ Ginanap ang awarding sa Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Quezon City, noong Nobyembre 27, 2024.

PRO-CAR welcomed holiday seasons with Christmas Lighting ceremony

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

The men and women of Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO-CAR) officially welcomed the holiday season with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree and lanterns at the PRO-CAR Regional Headquarters in Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet on December 2, 2024. The event was led by Regional Director Brig.Gen.David Peredo,Jr. and attended by members of the Command Group, the Regional Staff, the Special Staff, the Chiefs of the Regional Support Units, and other PRO-CAR personnel. The highlight of the evening was the simultaneous lighting of the Christmas tree, lanterns, and other decorations around the camp—a cherished annual tradition symbolizing the start of the Christmas season. The brightly lit tree and colorful lanterns symbolized the spirit of peace and goodwill, values that resonate deeply with PRO-CAR’s commitment to serving and protecting the community. Peredo emphasized the importance of unity and dedication during the holiday season, highlighting how this occasion fosters camaraderie and strengthens the shared mission of ensuring peace and safety. He reminded PRO-CAR personnel that, despite the challenges they face in their work or personal lives, they should always hold on to their guiding light—serving as a source of inspiration and strength to overcome any struggles. “The Christmas lights we’ve just turned on are more than just decorations. They represent our hope for the future, our unwavering dedication to our mission, and the spirit of PRO-CAR. Let us carry forward the essence of this season—kindness, solidarity, and hope—into our work and our daily lives,” Peredo added.

CHO urges citizens to exercise rights’, avail free HIV-AIDS testing and treatment

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — Partners and advocates were recognized at the City Health Services Office (CHSO) for their efforts and dedication in upholding and co-implementing the office’s mandates to eradicate the HIV-AIDS epidemic by 2030. Partners were recognized for their compliance with the screening, counseling, and treatment services of HIV-AIDS in the city. There are 211 confirmed cases in the city according to the CHSO-Reproductive Health and Wellness Center as of November 2024. Ghay Hope Alangsab, HIV-AIDS Program Co-Manager of the CHSO, reported that the majority of cases ranges from 20 to 29 years of age. Alangsab stressed the concern that those contracting the illness are getting younger, thus the need to strengthen the campaign among the youth further. In 2023, the CHSO team conducted its first school-based HIV testing, with the aim of de-stigmatizing the illness as this will further identify and treat patients at an early stage. Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, City Health Officer, urged the public to exercise their rights. “Rights-based po ang ating health care sa kanila (HIV-AIDS patients). We do not discriminate against anyone and that is why we actively advocate for everyone to be tested”. Dr. Brillantes furthered that everyone has the right to health care and may avail of free HIV-AIDS testing and treatment at HSO. The Baguio City AIDS Watch Council, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Anxiety and Depression Support Group, and Baguio Association of Night Spots (BANS) were recognized for their dedication. The BANS, represented by Acting President Mary Jane Itliong, recognized the CHSO-Reproductive Health and Wellness Center and the Department of Health–Cordillera, for leading, advocating, and serving as champions for eradicating HIV-AIDS in the city.

Author name: Street Journal

Albay government to receive Gawad Kalasag Award