Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Innovation brings connectivity to remote areas Globe recently held a successful end-to-end satellite SMS customer trial in a remote area with no reception in Zambales, a milestone in the company’s initiative to deliver connectivity in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs). In the breakthrough test, Globe transmitted text messages using standard phones via Globe and TM SIMs through partner Lynk Global Inc.’s low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, marking a major breakthrough in providing reliable and inclusive connectivity. The historic trial marks the first time regular mobile phones on prepaid and postpaid accounts have connected directly to a satellite to send SMS. This is particularly relevant in the Philippines, where many areas remain isolated due to the archipelago’s diverse geographical makeup. The live demonstration, conducted in a mobile blackspot in Lake Mapanuepe, Zambales, utilized Lynk’s state-of-the-art “cell tower in space” LEO satellites that provide direct-to-standard-phone global connectivity in partnership with Globe. The test, which used a range of mobile devices, showed that direct-to-phone satellite communication is possible without any modifications to existing devices, allowing for widespread access and affordability. The innovative achievement highlights Globe’s dedication to expanding coverage, particularly in rural and underserved areas where building traditional cell towers remains a challenge. “This is a significant step in our mission to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every Filipino, regardless of location, stays connected to the world,” said Gerhard Tan, Senior Director and Head of Technology Strategy and Innovations at Globe. “By leveraging Lynk Global’s low-earth orbit satellite technology, we are breaking barriers and bringing the next wave of solutions to the remotest areas, allowing families, travelers and businesses to stay closer than ever.” Globe will hold another trial in different scenarios in Mindanao this month, which will solidify its adoption of this innovative technology. The company plans to fully integrate this technology in its network in order to serve more GIDAs. Globe currently has presence in over 500 GIDAs across the country. Globe has consistently led the way in introducing cutting-edge technologies to the country. This customer trial is only the beginning of the company’s vision to incorporate satellite-based communication into its services, further cementing its role as a leader in technological innovation in the Philippines.

SSS sets high 2.4-M new members in H1 2024

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet today said that SSS is on track for a record-setting year in terms of registering new members after it hit 2.4 million new registrants in July 2024. In a press briefing, Macasaet reported that the number of new SSS members from January to July 2024 surged by 165 percent to 2.4 million from 923,000 new members recorded in the same period last year. Macasaet said that in previous years, SSS usually averaged around one million new members annually. But for this year, he challenged SSS officials and employees to target two million new SSS registrants for 2024. “SSS took the challenge and even went the extra mile. In the first six months, we hit our year’s target of two million new members, a positive result of our massive membership and coverage drives throughout the country,” Macasaet said. Macasaet underscored that this milestone reflects SSS’ commitment to expand its membership and reach all working Filipinos. “The implications of this record membership are profound because it means more Filipinos will have access to a comprehensive set of social security benefits from SSS. The social security protection offered by SSS can help safeguard the financial well-being of Filipino families, particularly during times of uncertainty,” Macasaet added. SSS Executive Vice President for Branch Operations Sector Voltaire P. Agas reported that the highest number of new members came from prior registrants, totaling 1.2 million. Prior registrants are individuals who already have SS numbers but have not yet been reported as covered employees or self-employed members. “We observed a significant increase in new self-employed members, which surged by 273 percent—from 112,000 in 2023 to 419,000 in 2024. Additionally, the number of new OFW members more than doubled, rising to 10,300 in 2024 from just over 5,000 last year,” Agas explained. Data showed that Luzon recorded the highest number of new members, with more than 882,000. The National Capital Region (NCR) came in second with over 693,000 new enrollees. Mindanao and Visayas followed with 436,000 and 417,000, respectively. Meanwhile, over 10,000 new members came from international operations. Nationwide Registration Day enrollees reached 26K Agas said one of SSS’ initiatives to expand membership is the Nationwide Registration Day on July 15. “In a single day, SSS successfully registered more than 26,000 new members in the SSS e-services booth set up in the activity centers of partner malls and establishments. Agas explained that during the activity, SSS urged all working Filipinos to become SSS members so they could access social security benefits in times of need. Aside from new registrants, Agas said the SSS e-services booth served 54,000 members in their SSS transactions, such as creating their My.SSS account, resetting their My.SSS login credentials, updating member records, disbursement account enrolment, generating Payment Reference Number (PRN), and filing their salary and benefit claims applications. Road to 5M new members by year-end Macasaet expressed optimism that SSS could reach four to five million new members by the end of 2024, adding, “SSS will sustain this growth trajectory in the coming months as we aim for a historic peak in new member registrations.” “Halfway through the year, we already hit our year’s target. But SSS won’t stop there. We remain steadfast in our mission to further broaden our membership base and cover all Filipinos in the workforce,” Macasaet said. Macasaet concluded that SSS will explore innovative strategies to promote social security awareness and instill among fellow Filipinos the value of acquiring SSS membership.

Exploring Baguio’s Biodiversity: A family guide to being Makakalikasan

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Glonie Nais-od (PIO Intern) The Summer Capital is a natural and great place where a family can experience the great outdoors and observe the beauty of nature. With its lush forests, cool climate, and a variety of wildlife, Baguio city is an ideal setting for families to foster a deep appreciation for nature and develop a sense of environmental responsibility. Here are some things to do with your family to embrace your “Makakalikasan” self: Explore Local Parks and Trails: Take a walk and enjoy places like Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and the Botanical Garden to discover the city’s natural treasures; Start a Home Garden: Growing plants and vegetables at home can teach children about the food cycle and the importance of sustainable agriculture; Participate in Environmental Activities: Join barangay clean-up drives, tree-planting activities, and nature walks; Learn About Wildlife: Observe and learn more of the city’s birds, insects, and other animals to understand their behavior and habitat; and Read Books and Watch Nature Documentaries: As early as now, introduce children to the wonders of the natural world through literature and media. Being Makakalikasan in Baguio City is being surrounded by abundant biodiversity, living a healthy lifestyle, environmental education, and community engagement which are beneficial for families where the city’s ecosystem serves as a living laboratory for exploring diverse species. Outdoor activities promote fitness and mental well-being while connecting people and their loved ones with nature which includes hands-on experience that fosters understanding of environmental issues and conservation practices. Participation of every family member in eco-friendly initiatives strengthens community bonds and preserves Baguio’s natural beauty for future generations. As a family living in Baguio City, a makakalikasan lifestyle will bring them closer together and strengthen familial bonds of each member.

PTCAO, magsasagawa ng capacity building seminar para sa Albay tourism stakeholders

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

By EDumlao, Albay PIO LEGASPI CITY, Albay — Nakatakdang ganapin ang capacity building seminar para sa lahat ng Albay tourism stakeholders sa darating na Setyembre 27, 2024 sa Albay Farmer’s Bounty Village, Camalig, Albay. Ito ay pangungunahan ng Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office (PTCAO) at Albay Provincial Agricultural Office (APAO). Layunin nito na mas palawakin ang kasanayan ng mga miyembro ng Albay Tourism Advisory Council (ALTAC) at Local Government Units (LGUs) patungkol sa sustainable tourism practices. Ito ay bahagi ng selebrasyon ng World Tourism Day 2024 na may temang “Tourism and Peace”, na naglalayong isulong ang turismo sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa.

44 supporters binawi ang kanilang suporta sa CTG sa Ifugao

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

By Zaldy Comanda TINOC,Ifugao – Pormal na binawi ng 44 na tagasuporta ng Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) mula sa Tukocan, Ifugao, ang kanilang suporta sa CTG sa isang seremonya sa Sitio Mugao,Barangay Impugong,Tinoc, Ifugao, noong Setyembre 24. Ang Ifugao, ang tahanan ng Rice Terraces, ay naging kuta ng insurhensya, ngunit ang malawakang pag-alis ng mga tagasuporta ng CTG ay nagpakita ng positibong pag-unlad para sa isang Ifugao na walang insurhensiya. Sinabi ni Ifugao Governor Jerry U. Dalipog na ang gawain ay isang malaking hakbang sa paghahangad ng lalawigan para sa tunay na kapayapaan tungo sa pag-unlad at pag-unlad habang hinihimok niya ang mga CTG, tagasuporta, at mga opisyal na sama-samang magtrabaho para sa kapayapaan. “Hindi namin hahayaan na ipagpatuloy ng CTG ang pagwawalang-bahala sa kapayapaan na aming hinahangad, kaya dapat namin silang kondenahin. Kaya’t hinihimok ko ang lahat ng mga tagasuporta ng CTG na samahan ako at ang aming mga opisyal na maging nakatuon sa pagsulong sa aming paghahanap para sa kapayapaan.” Sa seremonya ng mass withdrawal na sinaksihan ng iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno, kinondena ng mga dating tagasuporta ng CTG ang CTG sa pamamagitan ng pagsunog ng mga banner ng CTG at pumirma ng panunumpa ng suporta sa gobyerno, isang pagpapakita na nasa panig na sila ng gobyerno. at susuportahan ang mga programang pangkapayapaan at pag-unlad nito. Ipinahayag ni Mang Cardo, isa sa mga dating tagasuporta, ang kanyang pasasalamat sa mga programa ng gobyerno para sa kanila. Nag-iwan din siya ng mensahe para sa mga natitirang miyembro ng CTG sa Ifugao na bumalik sa mainstream society at yakapin ang kapayapaan. “Nanawagan ako sa mga NPA na bumaba dahil wala ng pag-asa ang CTG. Ginagawa tayong mga tanga para sirain ang gobyerno. Sa mga pinuno ng NPA, huwag magsinungaling at sirain ang buhay.” Sa panig ng AFP, tiniyak ng 502nd Brigade, 5th Infantry Division Philippine Army na masusustento ang kapayapaan sa lalawigan. “Sa inyong pagkakaisa at pagtitiwala sa gobyerno, masisigurong wala nang masisira pang pamilya dahil sa karahasan, wala nang mga anak na mahihiwalay sa kanilang mga magulang, at wala nang mga kabataang madadamay sa sigalot at maling ideolohiya.” Pahayag ni Lieutenant Colonel Epizo Angalao PA, Commander ng 86th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army. Samantala, sinabi ni Police Regional Director Cordillera, PBGen David K. Peredo Jr., na patuloy silang tutulong at tumugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga naliligaw ng landas dahil sa ideolohiyang komunista at mas kinilala niya ang tapang ng mga tagasuportang ito sa pagkondena sa CTG. . Ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na dumalo at nagbigay ng pangako ng suporta sa mga dating tagasuporta ng CTG ay ang OPAPRU, NICA, PRO CAR, 502nd Brigade, Philippine Army, DOLE, DSWD, DILG, Office of the Congressman, Lone District of Ifugao, PLGU, at MLGU . Ang makabuluhang milestone na ito ng RTF-ELCAC ay naging posible sa ilalim ng Project Panag-aywan Iti Kailyan ng Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15.

Nueva Vizcaya allocates ₱31.185-M for Poverty Reduction Programs

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday In a bold initiative to uplift the lives of its residents, the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya, led by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, is allocating ₱31.185 million for a series of new social service programs aimed at empowering local communities and significantly reducing poverty in the province. One of the key components of the initiative is the Jobs in Need of Gifts (JING) program, which has been allocated a substantial budget of ₱18 million. This program aims to provide livelihood assistance to tricycle drivers in Nueva Vizcaya who did not receive support from the DSWD’s Ayuda para sa Kapo sa Kita (AKAP) program. JING is expected to benefit approximately 3,000 tricycle drivers and operators, offering them essential resources to help them recover from economic setbacks and regain their financial stability. Another critical initiative is the Trabaho para iti Umili (TrPaTu) program, which has received ₱10 million. This localized adaptation of the national government’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program is specifically designed for disadvantaged and displaced workers. Beneficiaries will engage in ten days of work, earning a total of ₱5,000. The program aims to assist approximately 2,000 displaced workers from various municipalities across the province. Additionally, the Driver’s License Mo, Sagut ni Gayyem ti Umili program, with a budget of ₱3.185 million, aims to assist informal sector workers in obtaining non-professional driver’s licenses. This initiative specifically targets individuals who have already secured a student permit or a first-time license but need additional support to complete the process. The program will cover all costs associated with the mandatory practical driving course, as well as the non-professional or professional license fees and the necessary medical certificate. Governor Gambito emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the people of Nueva Vizcaya feel the government’s presence in their daily lives. He stated, “I want the people of Nueva Vizcaya to truly feel the support of their government as we work together to rise from poverty. These programs are not just about financial assistance; they represent hope and opportunity for our community.” The implementation of these programs will be overseen by the Public Employment and Services Division of the Governor’s Office, headed by PESO Manager Dolly Rose Minas.

More Aussie firms eye Subic Freeport as prime investment location

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport – More business missions from the “land down under” are now looking into possible investment opportunities inside this premier Freeport zone.This was confirmed when the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Australia Philippines (CCIAP) Inc. visited here last September 20, 2024, as part of the Australia Inbound Mission for possible trade and investment opportunities . The CCIAP, led by Leader Founder and President Connie De Cunha, was warmly received by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño. Aliño discussed the diverse capabilities of this ecozone in terms of shipping, tourism, renewable energy and manufacturing. He added that he hopes the CCIAP would encourage more Australian companies to locate here. SBMA Business and Investment Department for Manufacturing & Maritime Manager Karen Magno delivered a presentation to CCIAP delegates showing the density of Australian companies based inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and the perks they enjoy from settling here. Australian companies such as DBA Global also shared their experience working inside the freeport zone. DBA Global President Darlow Parazo said that Subic Bay Freeport is one of the fast-growing business hubs in the Philippines. “With its strategic location and skilled workforce, Subic Bay presents an exceptional environment for businesses eager to expand their operations in Southeast Asia. As one of the leading businesses in the area, DBA Global is committed to driving innovation and fostering growth within this community,” he said. Subic Bay Taiwan Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFTCC) President Best Chang also shared his experience working inside the SBFZ, citing the numerous perks and benefits of locating here. He added that the companies conduct work efficiently with the assurance of the continued support from the SBMA. CCIAP President Cunha expressed her gratitude to the SBMA, SBTFCC, and the Australian companies here for showing the delegation how it is to invest inside Subic Bay Freeport. The group also visited other government owned and controlled corporations as part of their mission. The SBFZ houses numerous Australian-based companies, including brand names such as DBA Global and Dunbrae Subic Inc., which has provided hundreds of job opportunities for Filipino workers here. Magno said that the top five biggest Australian locators include the steel fabrication company STG Global Corp. that has invested US$3.5-million; air transport company Platinum Skies Aviation Inc. with US$1.4-milllion investment; food processing equipment manufacturer Dunbrae Subic Inc. with US$860,000 investment; furniture manufacturer Beurteaux Subic Inc. with US$630,000 investment; and logistics hub Orica Philippines Inc. with US$610,000 investment. She added that there are 24 Australian-based companies here with US$11.7-million worth of total investments and 643 employees, and the agency hopes to increase the number of investors from Australia very soon. Back in August 2022, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) of Australia/New Zealand, in partnership with the Subic-Clark Alliance Development Council (SCADC) and the Board of Investments (BOI) accompanied Australian businesspersons to visit key viable investment sites in the Central Luzon area including this premier Freeport zone.

HPV vaccine simultaneously kick-off in Sampaloc,Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio SAMPALOC, Quezon – About 400 female elementary students from 14 public and private schools were vaccinated for human papilloma virus (HPV) during the resumption of school-based immunization (SBI) program simultaneously launched in Sampaloc Elementary School, on September 24. It is a joint effort of the Department of Health (DOH) Region 4A Director Ariel Valencia represented by Dr. Mark Santos, Department of Education (DepEd), local government unit of Sampaloc headed by Mayor Gelo Devanadera and in partnership with Mersk Sharp and Dohme (MSD). Ceremonial vaccination to students ages from 9 to 14 from 14 different public and private schools in this town. The vaccination marks the return of the province-wide initiative to protect schoolchildren from vaccine-preventable diseases, like cervical cancer caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). It also supports the upcoming national launch of the school-based immunization (SBI) program. The SBI was halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting to a community-based approach due to mobility restrictions. With in-person classes now fully resumed, health officials have prioritized bringing the program back to schools to protect children against diseases such as measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, and HPV. The restart and continue its mission to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases, especially HPV, which is directly linked to cervical cancer, said Dr. Santos. Accordingly, cervical cancer, largely caused by high-risk HPV infection, is the second most common cancer among Filipino women and the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the country, Santos added. Based on the International Agency for Research on Cancer, nearly 40 million Filipinos remain at risk, with 12 deaths occurring daily due to the disease. Cervical cancer is one of only two cancers that can be prevented, making early detection and prevention crucial. Nearly all cases can be avoided through HPV vaccination, regular cervical screenings, and timely follow-up care when necessary. If caught early, cervical cancer is also highly curable. The World Health Organization (WHO) has outlined a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer until 2030, aiming for 90% of girls to be fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15, 70% of women to undergo screenings by age 35 and again by age 45, and 90% of those with cervical disease to receive treatment. The SBI program aligns with this global effort, emphasizing the need for early HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. “We believe that ensuring the health of our learners is essential to their overall success in education,” Devanadera said. “Through the resumption of the school-based immunization program, we are not only protecting students from preventable diseases but also helping create an environment where they can thrive academically without the threat of illness.”Santos said. The return of the SBI program is critical in the wake of recent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and pertussis. Health officials emphasized that all immunizations, including HPV, measles-rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria, will resume under the guidance of the DOH and DepEd, following proper dosages and schedules. “Collaboration between the DOH, DepEd, local governments, and community partners is key to ensuring that public health is achieved at the grassroots level, DOH said. “By working together, we can make sure that programs like school-based immunization reach every child, protecting them from disease and benefiting the health of all Filipinos.” For parents, caregivers, and health workers, the program’s restart represents a step toward ensuring that the next generation is protected from serious diseases, including those that can lead to cancer later in life. In Quezon , Sampaloc town being a small town took the challenge as the kick-off site, Devanadera said. Human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination for female students ages 9 to 14 vaccination kick-off on September 24 at Sampaloc Elementary School as the site for simultaneously school-based immunization provincewide in Sampaloc, Quezon. (Danny Estacio)

SM City Baguio celebrates Food Festival with Bestival Chef: A culinary delight for all

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

As part of the vibrant Food Festival celebration, SM City Baguio hosted the much-anticipated Bestival Chef event. This culinary showcase featured the assembly and decoration of 500 Giant Strawberry Danish pastries, led by Sandex Cambi, Richard Garcia, and Ryan Reyes—three expert pastry chefs from The French Baker—along with talented culinary students from the Philippine Institution of Culinary Arts, Le-Fleur Hospitality Training Center, and Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education. The event highlighted the artistry behind pastry making, attracting food enthusiasts eager to witness the process and savor the finished creations. Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness the meticulous process of folding, proofing, and decorating these delectable pastries and enjoyed the festive atmosphere. This event was a memorable highlight of the food festival, offering a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. In addition to the Bestival Chef, the month-long Food Festival also includes the ongoing FavorEATS Market, which showcases a variety of products from local MSMEs. This bazaar runs until the end of September, offering visitors a chance to explore and support local businesses. Mall-goers also have the opportunity to visit SM City Baguio’s cafes and restaurants to experience regional tastes and celebrate the festival with a regional palate experience. Overall, the food festival at SM Baguio is a memorable celebration of food, community, and culture, bringing people together to enjoy and appreciate the diverse flavors and talents on display.

Author name: Street Journal

A first in PH: Lynk hold successful satellite SMS trial in PH