Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Rachel Magday BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Highlighting the essence of true public service, Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito called on newly appointed and promoted provincial government employees to prioritize serving the citizens of Nueva Vizcaya during an Oathtaking Ceremony held last Friday, November 8. Speaking from his office, Gov. Gambito emphasized that the real power lies with the people, urging employees to work with integrity and commitment for those who are the rightful owners of the government. “I am not your boss, so you don’t need to please me,” Gov. Gambito stated. “Work diligently for the people because they are the true owners of the government we work for.” The governor stressed the need for government employees to be cordial and treat clients with respect, as they are entrusted with the responsibility of managing the government on behalf of the public. He specifically appealed to the newly hired doctors and nurses at the provincially managed hospitals to provide compassionate care to their patients. “As governor, it reflects poorly on us if hospital staff do not treat patients well,” he noted. “I understand the challenges and stress of your work, but please also consider the difficult circumstances of patients who are in survival mode every day.” Gov. Gambito also advised employees to focus on their duties and not engage with toxic colleagues, encouraging them to maintain professionalism and dedication. He expressed gratitude for the exemplary conduct of the Capitol employees, which earned the provincial government a Silver Award for a very satisfactory rating of 90.1 in the ARTA report card survey, recognizing their outstanding efforts in public service. Among those who took their oaths of office were: Kathyleen D. Marcelo, appointed as the new Provincial General Services Officer (PGSO Department Head) Marichelle O. Costales, Assistant Department Head of the Provincial Tourism and Culture Office Delano Ross B. Pahimna, Admin Officer IV (Governor’s Office) John Paul R. Ngabbu and Joanna M. Galanta, Executive Assistant I (Governor’s Office) Erickson C. Miranda, Licensing Officer II (PENARO) Shemah Angela G. Claveria, Admin Assistant III (Provincial Legal Office) Jonem Mae B. Billedo, Nursing Attendant I Evangeline M. Hernaez, Midwife II (Provincial Health Integrated Office – PIHO) Dr. Irina G. Cortez, Medical Officer III (NVPH) Dr. Arthur Jake C. Aguedan, Medical Officer III (Diadi Emergency Hospital) Dr. Chelsea Mara G. Fragara, Medical Officer III (Bagabag District Hospital) Erenia W. Quines, Pharmacist II (LTMH) Cenon Reymund T. Tanwangco, Nurse III (BDH) The swearing-in of new employees underscores the provincial government’s dedication to enhancing public service, ensuring that the needs of Nueva Vizcaya’s citizens are met with greater efficiency and care.

Atleta ng Pangasinan, inspirado sa suporta ni Gov. Guico

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

Malaking inspirasyon sa mga atleta ng Pangasinan ang suportang ipinamalas ni Gov. Ramon Mon-Mon Guico III, na sumabak sa 8th National Para Games 2024. Mahigit tatlumpung Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ang ipinadala ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan upang makilahok sa 8th National Para Games. Patuloy sa pagpapakita ng galing ang mga atleta ng Pangasinan na sumasabak sa Philippine National Para Games 2024 sa Rizal Memorial Sports Complex sa Maynila at PhilSports Arena sa Pasig. Ito ang listahan ng mga nagwagi sa ibat-ibang sports ngayong araw: Gold Medalists: Jefryl Carilla – Shot Put Jacquiline N. Castro – 100m Freestyle Swim Leizel Parizal – 100m Run Jefryl Carilla – Javelin Leo Macalanda – Table Tennis Silver Medalists: Manolito Parica – Shot Put Geraldine De Vera – Shot Put Jolly Poquiz – 100m Run Rolly Regondola – Shot Put Bronze Medalists: Manolito Parica – Javelin James Esguerra – 100m Run Ayon kay Governor Ramon V. Guico III, ang paglahok sa ganitong kompetisyon ay isang pagkakataon upang ipakita ang galing at determinasyon ng mga lokal na atleta at magsilbing inspirasyon sa iba pang mga PWD na patuloy na magsikap at mangarap sa kabila ng mga hamon. Kaya buo ang suporta ng administrasyong Guico sa mga atleta ng Pangasinan upang matulungan silang makamit ang tagumpay. Hangad kasi ni Governor Guico na magbigay ng pantay-pantay na pagkakataon para sa lahat. (Rich Majin| PIMRO)

U.S. Embassy honors Filipino and American Veterans

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA — U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson led a Veterans Day ceremony in Manila to pay tribute to American and Filipino military service members, both living and deceased, and remember their contributions to freedom and democracy, during the ceremony, on November 11. “On Veterans Day, we honor American and Filipino service men and women still in uniform, those who have moved on to new opportunities outside of the military, and those who have passed. We owe you our freedom,” Ambassador Carlson said in her remarks during the ceremony held at the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City. “Next year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II – 80 years since Philippine and U.S. forces, shoulder to shoulder, succeeded in their fight to defend freedom and liberate the Philippines. Even before our 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, we fought together side by side. That bond of shared sacrifice by our veterans resonates through the decades and still animates our alliance in the form of ever-deepening security cooperation,” Ambassador Carlson added. Philippine Department of National Defense Senior Undersecretary Irineo Espino, U.S. Embassy Defense Attaché Col. Edward Evans, and American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) Chairman and retired U.S. Army General Michael Garrett attended the ceremony alongside Filipino and American veterans, veteran service organizations, and members of the diplomatic corps. “Veterans Day reminds us of the courage and dedication of all who have fought for peace and freedom, including the Filipino veterans who stood alongside American forces,” Undersecretary Espino said. “The Department of National Defense, through the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, remains steadfast in our commitment to promote the welfare and wellbeing of our veterans. We remember their legacy so their courage could continue to inspire future generations.” “The Manila American Cemetery is not only a sacred American space, but also Filipino soil honoring our shared history and shared sacrifice,” ABMC Chairman Garrett said. “To our Filipino hosts, including our friends and neighbors right here in Manila, and all who are among America’s oldest partners here in Asia, I want to thank you for allowing us to honor our fallen here on your land.” Nearly 50 million men and women have worn the uniform of the United States, with about 20 million still in active service. Of those, more than 69,000 have Filipino heritage, representing the second-largest foreign-born U.S. veteran population after Mexico.

Medical experts ng Pangasinan, nagpalawig ng kaalaman sa pangkalusugan sa Stanford Hospital

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LALAWIGAN NG PANGASINAN– Nakipag-ugnayan ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan, kasama ang mga executive ng ospital at mga ekspertong medikal sa iba’t ibang bayan sa buong lalawigan para sa benchmarking sa Stanford Hospital, California, United States of America, upang palawakin pa ang kanilang kaalaman sa larangan ng pangkalusugan. Sa dalawang-araw na isinagawang benchmarking ng mga delegado ng bihasang medical representative ng Pangasinan at naging makabuluhan ang mga talakayang pang-edukasyon sa Urban Planning Council ng Daly City, California, na nagsimula noong Nobyembre 7. Ayon kay Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III, prgrama ng kanyang administration na humanap ng mga paraan para mas lalo pang mapabutI ang mga programang pangkalusugan sa buong lalawigan. Aniya, ang benchmarking ay inorganisa ng United Pangasinanes sa America, Inc, na kung saan ay isang opisyal na pagpupulong ang isinagawa sa pagitan ng mga pinuno ng Stanford Hospital at ng Urban planning Council ng Daly City, na pinanngunahan ni Pangasinan Provincial Administrator Melecio F. Patague III. Ayon kay Patague, ang pagbisita ay bahagi ng programa ng Pangasinan na magtatag ng internasyonal na pakikipagtulungan sa mga kaibigan sa ibayong dagat. Pangarap aniya nilang makatrabaho balang araw kasama ang mga internasyonal na katuwang sa pagpapabuti ng mga programa at serbisyong pangkalusugan na makabuluhang makikinabang sa mga taga-Pangasinan. Matapos makipagpulong sa mga opisyal ng Stanford, ang grupo ay binigyan ng paglilibot sa ospital bago magpatuloy upang makipagkita sa mga opisyal ng Daly City. By Zaldy Comanda

Baguio City commended for winning the Grand Award for Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City was officially honored during the flag-raising ceremony at Baguio City Hall on Monday, November 11, for its outstanding achievement in being named the Grand Winner of the Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit (LGU) at the ATOP National Tourism Pearl Awards which was held in Koronadal, South Cotabato last October. This prestigious recognition underscores Baguio’s exemplary commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and visitor engagement through innovative programs and collaborations. This achievement is a testament to the unified efforts of the City Tourism Office, led by Supervising Tourism Officer Engr. Alec Mapalo; the Baguio Tourism Council (BTC), chaired by Gladys Vergara; and the Department of Tourism CAR (DOT-CAR), headed by Regional Director Jovi Ganongan. Together, these partners have worked tirelessly to create memorable experiences and uphold the city’s reputation as a premier tourism destination. Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed deep pride in the city’s accomplishments, attributing the success to the collaborative work of various public and private sectors. “This recognition as the Best Tourism-Oriented LGU highlights our shared vision to elevate Baguio as a destination that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Our collective efforts are a reflection of what can be achieved when we work together for the city’s prosperity,” he said. In addition to the highly coveted Best Tourism-Oriented LGU Award, Baguio City was honored with several other accolades, demonstrating its diverse and robust tourism initiatives: Grand Winner,Best Tourism Promotion-Video for the “#BreatheBaguio Video,” directed by Ferdinand Balanag, which beautifully captured the essence of Baguio’s heritage, culture, and natural splendor. First Runner-Up, Best Event Hosting (Local) for “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2023,” a holiday celebration that enchanted residents and visitors alike. First Runner-Up,Best Tourism Week/Month Celebration for “HRAB’s 16th Annual HRT Week in Baguio,” a showcase of hospitality and tourism excellence. First Runner-Up, Best Sports Tourism Event for the “Sang-atan BLISTT Bike Festival 2023,” celebrating adventure tourism in the region. First Runner-Up,Best Cultural Festival for the “Gong Festival 2023,” highlighting indigenous traditions and cultural pride. Special Citation for Best Practices on Sustainable Tourism for “Baguio Country Club’s Sustainable Tourism Practices,” the only finalist in the Highly Urbanized City category. Second Runner-Up, Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism for the “Baguio Pony Boys,” honoring their unique contribution to Baguio’s tourism identity. Second Runner-up,Best Tourism Promotion-Brochure for the “#BreatheBaguio Tourism Brochure.” First Runner-Up, Best Institutionalized Program for Culture and the Arts for the “Montañosa Film Festival 2023,” celebrating artistic creativity and community heritage. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara remarked, “The recognition we received acknowledges the dedication and passion of Baguio’s people — from cultural bearers to creative artisans, city staff, and our steadfast partners in the public and private sectors. Together, we work to make Baguio a world-class destination while staying rooted in our heritage.” Looking ahead, Baguio City will have the honor of hosting the next Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Convention in October 2025. This major event will showcase Baguio’s leadership in tourism innovation, hospitality, and cultural richness, further cementing its status as a beacon of excellence in Philippine tourism.

Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Singson announces his senatorial bid in Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Businessman and former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson on Saturday, November 9, formally announced his senatorial bid for the 2025 national and local elections, highlighting his commitment to financial inclusion and transport modernization and the creation of Bangko ng Masa. Speaking at a press conference in SM City Lucena, Singson outlined his plans to empower Filipinos and drive economic growth. Singson’s flagship project, “Banko ng Masa,” aims to address the staggering statistic that 77% of Filipinos lack bank accounts and 95% do not have debit or credit cards. His plan seeks to provide every Filipino aged 18 and above with access to a bank account and a credit card, including Visa cards tailored to specific localities. Singson is also committed to making these e-jeepneys accessible to drivers through a unique financing scheme with zero down payments, zero collateral, and no interest. This initiative aims to empower jeepney drivers while addressing air pollution and traffic congestion. “My plan will not only help drivers earn more but also create a more sustainable and efficient transportation system for everyone,” he asserted. Singson pledged to support the financing scheme, particularly for Lucban Drivers and Tricycle Operators and the drivers and operator’s president is the only person to whom he makes transactions.

Baguio-based kickboxers commended anew

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — City officials recently congratulated and commended Baguio-based kickboxers who won medals during the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Confederation (AKC) championships. In a resolution authored by Councilor Vladimir Cayabas, local legislators stated that the city government proudly recognizes and commends their outstanding achievement, together with their coach Bryan S. Olod, that brought pride and honor not only to the city but to the entire Asian nation and worldwide. Earlier, the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Confederation championships was held on October 6-13, 2024 at Phnom Penh, Cambodia promoted and organized by the prestigious kickboxing organization. Further, some 400 kickboxers from 20 countries participated in the prestigious international combat competition. Among those who represented the Philippines are home-grown and Baguio-based athletes who emerged victorious in their respective categories, namely, Gina Iniong-Araos – gold medalist in the 56-kilogram low kick category; Olympian Hergie T. Bacyadan – gold medalist in the 70-kilogram K1 category that paved the way for him to qualify for the 2024 World Games in Chengdu, China; and Carlo Von Bumina-ang – gold medalist in the 57-kilogram full contact category. Further, Honorio Banario was a silver medalist in the 75-kilogram K1 category while the Baguio-based athletes that brought home separate bronze medals are Claudine Veloso in the 52-kilogram K1 category, Daryl Chulipas in the 51-kilogram full contact category, Felex Dave Cantores in the 67-kilogram full contact category and Whinny Bayawon in the 57-kilogram kick light category. Copies of the approved resolution will be transmitted to the medalists for information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action.

International Cultural Diversity Organization art exhibit in Vienna

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

The evening lights at the Yunus Emre Institute in Vienna created a cozy atmosphere for the diverse crowd that came together to celebrate culture, heritage, and resilience. On September 25, 2024, this event highlighted a fantastic partnership between the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) and Filipino artists, featuring an exhibit called Cultural Diversity & Inclusion, curated by Norlie Meimban, ICDO’s Ambassador for the Arts. This exhibition was a key part of ICDO’s #SafeguardingDiversity initiative, now in its seventh year, dedicated to promoting cultural diversity around the globe. Inside the gallery, the energy was palpable as attendees from various backgrounds admired the artwork, which drew inspiration from Filipino mythology, pop culture, and abstract expressionism. Each piece offered a unique take on identity, connecting different generations and cultures. One area showcased the vibrant creations of Harold Khan, who brought Filipino mythology to life with stunning portraits of Amansinaya, the sea goddess. Her intense gaze and soothing oceanic hues seemed to create a bridge between the Philippines’ ancient stories and its dynamic, multicultural present. Nearby, striking depictions of second-generation Filipino-European teens illustrated their complex identities, with Khan’s brushwork capturing their feelings of belonging in a world of contrasts. In another part of the gallery, Norlie Meimban’s distinctive black-and-white portraits accented with gold captivated the audience. His subjects, though anonymous, exuded deep emotion, showcasing resilience and dignity. Each polished yet raw image invited viewers to reflect on the strength found within diversity. Adding a splash of color, Ejem Alarcon’s realist pop art drew people into a lively world where traditional Filipino symbols blended with modern themes. His whimsical yet bold creations particularly resonated with younger attendees. Adding vibrant contrast, Ejem Alarcon’s realist pop art pulled people into a colorful universe where traditional Filipino symbols merged with contemporary motifs. His work, whimsical yet bold, resonated with younger viewers who saw themselves reflected in the lively mix of old and new. In another corner, Jessielaine Punongbayan’s fluid abstract paintings unfolded like waves on a canvas. Her pieces spoke of fluidity, mirroring the adaptability required to navigate a multicultural identity. Swirling shapes and colors hinted at emotions unconfined by language or borders, giving viewers a sense of unity beyond words. Ela Andal’s street pop art added an urban edge to the gallery. Infused with European influences, her pieces were bold, unapologetic statements that spoke to the realities of city life and the blending of cultures. Her work was a celebration of grit and glamour, symbolizing the resilience required to thrive as a multicultural artist in a world that often struggles to embrace diversity. Prominent figures in cultural advocacy mingled with the crowd, including Josipa Palac, President of ICDO, and Marizel Rojas of ENFiD Austria, a staunch supporter of Filipino communities abroad. Neivi Martinez, the renowned Mexican soprano, graced the event, her melodious voice adding a touch of elegance and solidarity to the atmosphere. Nigerian artist Solomon Okpurukhre shared his perspective on the universality of art, engaging in heartfelt conversations about the importance of cultural representation. As the evening unfolded, the exhibition echoed with conversations about heritage, identity, and the power of art to amplify voices that are too often silenced. Each piece in the gallery conveyed the message that diversity is not just something to be tolerated but celebrated, and that inclusion is the foundation upon which vibrant societies are built. In the end, Cultural Diversity & Inclusion became more than an exhibit; it was a testament to the beauty of intersectional identities and the stories that emerge when cultures come together. The Filipino artists had left their mark not just on the gallery walls but on the hearts of all who attended, reminding everyone of the vital role art plays in safeguarding and celebrating the mosaic of human experiences worldwide.

P7.1-B 2025 budget ng Pangasinan aprubado na

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Inaprubahan na ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan ang P7.1 bilyong budget ng lalawigan para sa taong 2025. Nagpahayag ng matinding pasasalamat si Gobernador Ramon V. Guico III sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa pamumuno ni Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino gayundin ang mga department head sa kanilang todo-todong suporta. Ang inaprubahang 2025 Annual Budget na nagkakahalaga ng PhP 7,100,312,215.00 ay nagpakita ng malaking pagtaas kumpara sa P5,729,765,891.00 na badyet ng 2024 na may kapansin-pansing pagkakaiba na P1,370,546,324.00. Ang Provincial Board, sa regular na sesyon nito noong Oktubre 28, ay inaprubahan ang 2025 Annual Budget sa ilalim ng Appropriation Ordinance No. 5-2024, isang ordinansang nagpapatibay sa pangkalahatang pondo taunang badyet para sa operasyon ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Pangasinan mula Enero 1, 2025, upang Disyembre 31, 2025. Batay sa comparative data report, ang National Tax Allocation(NTA) na P4,969,145,891.00 noong 2024, ay tumaas sa P5,899,987,215.00 para sa 2025. Sa iba pang source, makikita sa record na mula P760,620,000.00 noong 2024, tumaas ito sa P1,200,325,000.00 para sa 2025. Samantala, ang buod ng mga paglalaan ay kinabibilangan ng Personal Services (features Implementation of the Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL of 2024), Anniversary Bonus at Medical Allowance); Pagpapanatili at Iba Pang Mga Gastusin sa Operating; Capital Outlay at Special Purpose Appropriation (ang buong probisyon ng mga kinakailangan sa badyet alinsunod sa Seksyon 324 ng Kodigo ng Lokal na Pamahalaan), hanggang sa: 5% LDRRMF na nagkakahalaga ng 350,015,611.00; 20% Development Fund na nagkakahalaga ng P1,179,997,443.00; at Other SPA sa halagang P1,283,306,831.00. Ang kabuuan nito ay kumakatawan sa 39.62% ng kabuuang iminungkahing badyet, na direktang mapupunta sa priority development o mga programa, proyekto, o aktibidad na nakatuon sa resulta na nakapaloob sa Annual Investment Program para sa CY 2025. Kasama rin sa taunang badyet ang mga tinantyang gastusin ayon sa sektor tulad ng sumusunod: mga pangkalahatang serbisyo: P2,680,755,275.00 (37.75%); serbisyong panlipunan: P3,032,256,191.00 (42.71%); Mga Serbisyong Pang-ekonomiya: P1,387,300,749.00 (19.54%) para sa kabuuang P 7,100,312,215.00. Naging thrust ni Gov. Guico at ng kanyang administrasyon na pataasin ang kita ng lalawigan. Alinsunod sa nasabing tulak, sinabi ni Gov.Guico III sa Budget Hearing noong Oktubre 24 na ang mga taga-Pangasinan ay nararapat na hindi bababa sa pinakamahusay na ang gayong epekto ay inilaan para sa CY 2025 at binanggit pa na ito ay ang unang pagkakataon sa kasaysayan ng Pangasinan na iminungkahi ang naturang budget para sa taunang operasyon ng lalawigan. “Noong kami ay nanunungkulan, ang thrust ni Gov. Guico at ng administrasyong ito ay dagdagan ang kita hindi lamang para umasa sa National Tax Allocation (NTA) kundi higit pa, nagtatrabaho ang aming makakaya upang mapabuti ang mga koleksyon, nagmungkahi ng napakaraming negosyong pang-ekonomiya, kahusayan sa pamamahala, at, kasabay nito, ang pagbibigay kapangyarihan sa mga empleyado dahil naniniwala kami na para makamit natin ang lahat ng ito, kailangan natin ang partisipasyon ng bawat Pangasinense, bawat empleyado ng Kapitolyo ng probinsiya, at ng sistema ng ating ospital. . Maging ang mga mababang empleyado ay may malaki at mahalagang bahagi sa pagkamit ng lahat ng ito,” dagdag ng gobernador. Nauna rito, ibinunyag din ng Punong Ehekutibo ng lalawigan na bahagi ng nasabing inaprubahang budget ay para sa pagtatayo ng gnome center, ang makasaysayang ‘first’ para sa Pangasinan, pagtatayo ng karagdagang school building para sa Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC), construction at acquisition. ng mga bagong ospital at higit pang mga sentro ng dialysis, at iba pang pasilidad sa imprastraktura. Gayundin, ang pagtaas ng badyet para sa corporate farming project gayundin para sa salt production project ay binibigyang priyoridad bilang karagdagan sa mas mataas na badyet para sa PPC scholarship at ang pagpapalawak ng healthcare system, lalo na ang GUICOnsulta o ang Government Unified Incentives for Medical Consultation,bukod sa iba pa. Ipinahayag din ni Gob. Guico na malaki ang pamumuhunan ng kanyang administrasyon sa healthcare system sa kanyang matatag na paniniwala na mahalaga ang kalusugan at dapat bigyan ng focus. Sa kasalukuyan, target ng paglulunsad ng preventive healthcare system ang humigit-kumulang dalawang milyon ng populasyon na mag-enrol sa PhilHealth’s Konsulta program sa pamamagitan ng GUICOnsulta ng lalawigan upang matugunan ang mga isyu sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan na bumabagabag sa Pangasinan at sa buong bansa. “Ito ay isang katibayan na tayo ay nasa tamang landas. Whatever commitment or promises that we have proposed tour provincemates, hindi po ito pangakong napapako. Ito po ay pangako na tangible, concrete, and very achievable,” the governor said.

Author name: Street Journal

Gov. Gambito urges new employees to serve the people with dedication