Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Why DPWH is destroying good roads?

Why DPWH is destroying good roads? Roads and highways are thoroughfares constructed for the purpose of providing faster and more convenient passage of vehicles and people. Animal trails were turned into dirt roads, until they were improved into wider and permanent paved roads. According to history references, the world’s oldest known paved road was constructed in Egypt between 2600 and 2200 BC provide vehicles, soldiers and people faster mobilization or travel. In the Philippines, the Department of Public Works and Highways or DPWH is responsible for the planning, design, construction and maintenance of the national roads and highways. For 2025, the DPWH is requesting a P900 billion budget, although the amount is lower than the P997.90 Billion budget allocated in the 2024 General Appropriations Act, it is the second biggest share (the first is DEPED) of the proposed P6.35 Trillion national budget. Roads were increasingly built for tourism and farm-to-market roads and other economic development. The more roads the community have, the more develop it likely is. Build a road to traverse a mountain or farm, and you will witness how fast residential and industrial development comes to life in the area. Hear’s To Watch. Despite the impressive performance of the DPWH in building roads, many residents, particularly the motorists, are still amaze, puzzled and wondering how the department is implementing some of its programs; raising the question: Why? One of the many “concrete” cases to mention is the part of the Olongapo-Bugallon Road in Barangay Barretto, Olongapo City. The concrete road was no more than three years old, and in good condition, well maintained, and no potholes or irreparable cracks. But to the surprise of everyone, early this year, part of the road was jack-hammered, demolished and later repaved. Since there is only one road linking Olongapo City, Subic Bay Freeport and Zambales, the road construction had made going to and from work, school and resorts horrible and stressful for months. People were asking why? “Wala namang sira, sinisira! Ang daming lugar na walang kalsada, bakit hindi doon gumawa ng kalsada,” or words like this, a public sentiment expressing disapproval on the alledged wasting of the tax payers’ money. And they asked, “Why?” The DPWH may have good reasons for these actions, but building new roads should be prioritized especially in the rural areas. Build first roads to connect communities to the cities to enable the farmers to transport their produce to the market place; or make roads that will connect the highways to the tourist parks, rather than destroying existing roads only to pave again. It is a total waste and the public could not see the logic of these.

BCDA, Korean gov’t agency partner for New Clark City dev’t opportunities

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Korean government agency National Agency for Administrative City Construction (NAACC) to promote knowledge sharing and explore collaboration opportunities in the fields of urban planning, smart cities development, green energy, and smart administrative systems for the development of the 9,450-hectare New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. The MOU was signed by NAACC Administrator Dr. Hyeong Ryeol Kim and BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang in September in Seoul, Korea. “With Korea as a global frontrunner in terms of smart administrative capitals, we at BCDA are very fortunate to have NAACC as our partner to facilitate knowledge exchange and link us with experts who can help us transform New Clark City as the Philippines’ alternative national government hub. Through this MOU, we wish to replicate the successes and apply the lessons learned by Korea in relocating administrative agencies and national research and development (R&D) institutes in its administrative capital, Sejong City,” said BCDA PCEO Bingcang. South Korea and the Philippines – through NAACC and BCDA, respectively – have both set up satellite government administrative centers outside the capital to help ease traffic congestion and overpopulation in their respective metropolitan areas. “We hope that Korea’s experience in building the Administrative City will be helpful in transforming your former military base into a dynamic and vibrant new city,” said Dr. Hyeong Ryeol Kim. The MOU signing happened on the sidelines of the Global Infrastructure Cooperation Conference (GICC) 2024, one of Korea’s largest international conferences for the promotion of cooperation in infrastructure, where BCDA PCEO Bingcang also pitched investment opportunities in the fields of renewable energy, clean transportation, and smart cities development, among others. NAACC has been building the Administrative City in Sejong since 2007, as part of their government’s plan to alleviate the concentration of functions in the Seoul metropolitan area and promote balanced regional development. To date, Sejong serves as home to 40 central administrative agencies and 15 national research and development institutes, making it the administrative capital of Korea. Meanwhile, the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC) in New Clark City aims to host facilities for the Philippine government, such as offices of various government agencies, government housing units, and sports facilities. The first phase of NGAC includes an integrated government operations center, a government housing facility (The Residences), the Athletics Stadium, the Aquatics Center, the Athletes’ Village, and the River Park. BCDA has engaged with multiple government agencies to set up offices and key infrastructure in NGAC and parts of New Clark City, including the Philippine Space Agency for its headquarters, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for its coin production and minting facility, the National Academy of Sports, and the Department of Science and Technology for its Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines.

Central Luzon biz groups back BCDA charter amendments

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

Several business groups based in Central Luzon welcomed the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s (BCDA) proposed amendments to Republic Act 7227, citing the measure’s role in creating more inclusive communities and in spurring economic growth in the region and the country. These organizations, namely the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PAMCHAM), Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry- Tarlac (PCCI-Tarlac), Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MACCI), and the Pampanga Business Development Coordinating Council (PBDCC), have delivered their messages of support for the proposed amendments, as encapsulated in House Bill 8505 and Senate Bill 2647. “Supporting the proposed amendments means endorsing a future where increased investments flow into our country fostering inclusivity for all Filipinos. These amendments will not only enhance the economic landscape of Pampanga and Region 3, but will also contribute to a more prosperous and inclusive Philippines,” PAMCHAM President Teresa David-Carlos said. Aileen Uy-Chan, president of PCCI-Tarlac, said the proposed amendments would encourage more private businesses to invest in the country, and drive opportunities for growth throughout all sectors of the economy. “This will surely open a lot of partnerships in investments and shared development, with a domino effect of economic opportunities for many sectors of surrounding territories. We would like to see this happen, especially for Central Luzon, and we look forward to seeing these opportunities open to all—from corporations to MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises), employees to professionals, foreigners, and locals alike,” she said. “These amendments will help BCDA towards economic growth, which includes the extension of BCDA’s term for another 50 years. Highlight of these amendments is the housing and economic opportunity, which is consistent with the priority projects and plans of the government,” said PBDCC President Ronald Malicdem. Fostering inclusive development In particular, the business groups supported the proposal to convert a portion of BCDA’s economic zones from leasehold to freehold in order to provide inclusive socioeconomic development in the region. David-Carlos said this measure is expected to stimulate growth in the housing sector, providing opportunities for property ownership that will benefit not only people inside Clark, but also other cities and municipalities in Pampanga and Central Luzon. Dr. Francisco Villanueva Jr., President of CILA, also said this proposal would enhance Clark’s attractiveness as an investment destination, and spur sustainable and inclusive development in the ecozone. “Inclusivity is really needed. If you take a look, the Philippines has been growing at six percent on the average for the past several years and yet a lot of people are saying that what we have is a case of non-inclusive growth. This would partially address that issue. Now people who are working here don’t have to commute and travel far. They can afford to get housing here in the future,” Dr. Villanueva said. MACCI President Elizabeth Carlos-Timbol also supported the allocation of areas for residential and mixed-use developments, saying this would pave the way for long-term partnerships between the public and private sector for the provision of affordable housing to Filipinos. This would, she said, eventually help decongest Metro Manila and bring sustainable growth in other economic zones. Improving investor confidence Meanwhile, the business groups also supported the proposal to extend the corporate life of the BCDA by another 50 years. David-Carlos said this would create a stable environment for long-term investments, ensuring economic resiliency and continuity. “This stability is crucial in attracting and retaining significant investments, particularly in New Clark City which is set to become a beacon of development and innovation. Increased investments in New Clark City will catalyze economic activities, create jobs, and drive regional goals,” David-Carlos said. Carlos-Timbol, for her part, said the proposal would ensure continued interest from investors and sustain efforts for the economic and social transformation in the country, alleviating more Filipinos from poverty.

BTC Honors Media Veterans at General Assembly

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — Three distinguished journalists a veteran in print media, a radio pioneer, and a former broadcaster-turned-publisher—will be the top awardees at the Baguio Tourism Council’s (BTC) Media Awards and Appreciation Day during its general assembly on Monday, September 23, 2024. The event will be held at the Baguio Convention Center, where the BTC will also propose amendments to the Baguio City tourism code. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara announced the honorees as Jimmy Lozano, also known as “Lolo Doro,” Felix Eliral Refuerzo, and Rolando Fernandez. In addition, 53 other journalists will be recognized for their years of service in the media industry. Honoring Legends in Media Jimmy Lozano (Lolo Doro): Lozano began his career in 1967 as a paid reporter after joining the Northern Broadcasting Company (NBC) DZWX in 1964. He became acting station manager of DZWX when the station was temporarily shuttered in 1972 following the declaration of Martial Law by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. Lozano remained with the station after it was acquired by Dr. Rogelio Florete and rebranded as Bombo Radyo in 1982, eventually retiring in 2011. He later worked with former Bombo Radyo Baguio Station Manager Edong Carta to form Tambalang Tatang and Lolong at Z Radio, serving as Station Manager and Area Manager for Luzon before retiring. At 77, Lozano shows no signs of slowing down, continuing his passion for media work and community service. Felix Eliral Refuerzo: Refuerzo joined NBC-DZWX at the age of 15 in 1966 as a radio production assistant and drama talent, and a year later became a broadcaster. In 1968, he was recognized as the youngest radio announcer and commentator in the Philippines. Refuerzo later joined the National Media Production Center (NMPC), where he rose to Assistant Director until its closure in 1986. He also contributed to national dailies such as Manila Times and Journal. In local media, he worked for Gold Ore and the Baguio Midland Courier before founding The Baguio Reporter in 1990, which operated until 2012. Rolando Fernandez: Fernandez, described by Frank Cimatu, a former Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent, as having an “illustrious and meritorious career,” worked as a reporter and editor for Daily Express, Manila Chronicle, and Manila Times from the Martial Law years until the early 1990s. In 1992, he transferred to Baguio to establish the Northern Luzon Bureau of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Following his retirement, Fernandez and his wife, Babeth Lolarga, continue to edit and write books. Recognizing Service Milestones The BTC will also honor media professionals for their long-standing dedication to the industry: 40 Years in Service Awardees: March Fianza, Victor Loakan, Jaime Bernabe Sr., Joel Arthur Tibaldo, Christopher Bartolo, Malou Laxamana, Aurora Alambra, Richard Valdez, Joseph Esteras, and Primo Agatep. 30 Years in Service Awardees: Atty. Antonio Pekas, Alfred Dizon, Romeo Gonzales, Joseph Cabanas, Andre Amadeo, Samuel Bautista, Aileen Refuerzo, Gabriel Baban Keith, Thomas Antonio Picaña, Fernando Zapata Jr., Vincent Cabreza, Eladio Landingin, David Leprozo Jr., Edgardo Espiritu, Helen Tibaldo, Joel Arthur Tibaldo, and Joseph Zambrano. 25 Years in Service Awardees: Jonathan Munar, Jonathan Llanes, Eufeldion Lobien, Ernesto Calinao Jr., Franklin Cimatu, Jimmy Ceralde, Miguelito Velarde Jr., Andrew Pinero, Liza Galao, Dexter See, Joseph Manzano, Mauricio Malanes, Artemio Dumlao Jr., Mauricio Victa, Rizaldy Comanda, Eddie Carta, Dhobie de Guzman, and Harley Palangchao. 20 Years in Service Awardees: Maria Elena Catajan, Roderick Osis, Jordan Tablac, Jane Cadalig, Rimaliza Opñia, and Alah Sungduan. 15 Years in Service Awardees: Rose Malekchan and Hanna Laxamana. The BTC’s Media Awards is an opportunity to recognize the vital role journalists play in promoting tourism and preserving the heritage of Baguio and the Cordillera region.

78 sunog naitala sa Baguio sa loob ng 9 buwan

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Zaldy Comanda BAGUIO CITY – Nagpahayag ng pagkaalarma si Mayor Benjamin Magalong sa pagtaas ng insidente ng sunog sa lungsod at ipinag-utos na paigtingin ang pagpapakalat ng impormasyon upang mapahusay ang kamalayan sa pag-iwas sa sunog ng mga residente. Sa ulat ng Baguio City Fire Department, naitala ang 78 insidente ng sunog mula Enero 1 hanggang Setyembre 19, 2024, kumpara sa bilang na naitala noong nakaraang taon na 67 kaso. May tatlong nasawi ngayong taon habang walang naiulat noong nakaraang taon. Sa 78 insidente ngayong taon, lima ang nangyari noong Enero; 16 noong Pebrero,;14 noong Marso; 10 noong Abril; 11 noong Mayo; tatlo noong Hunyo; walo noong Hulyo at Agosto at tatlo noong Setyembre. Sa nasabing kabuuang bilang ay 41 fire incedent ay istruktura sa kalikasan. 17 sa grass fire, 12 forest fire, anim na sasakyan, isang garbage fire at isang electrical/post fire. “We have to ramp up our information-education-communication (IEC) campaign to prevent further incidents,” pahayag ni Magalong. Pinaalalahanan din niya ang publiko na maging mapagmatyag sa mga panganib ng mapanirang sunog. Ang pinaka-latest na sunog na naganp sa San Carlos Heights, Baguio City noong Setyembre 18.

Say-am Naya Apayao to honor Indigenous People’s month 2024

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

As the vibrant colors of October approach, excitement is building across the province for one of the most anticipated events of the year—the Say-am Naya Apayao, a grand celebration in honor of Indigenous Peoples (IP) month 2024. This festival is not just a gathering; it’s a heartfelt homage to the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that defines our community. From festival to traditional dances echoing the rhythms of our ancestors to the tantalizing aromas of native cuisine, the Say-am naya Apayao promises to be a feast for the senses and a vibrant celebration of identity. Mark your calendars this October 4 and prepare to be part of something truly special! The Say-am naya Apayao is not merely an event; it is a celebration of resilience, community, and pride. J oin us as we come together to honor our roots and share the beauty of our culture with the world. Let us celebrate our shared history and look towards a future that respects and cherishes our diverse traditions. Don’t miss your chance to witness the heart and soul of Apayao during this remarkable celebration!

BCDA taps Danish firm for decarbonization program in New Clark City

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

By Dante Salvana The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has formalized its partnership with Danfoss Philippines Inc. for the formulation of a decarbonization framework in New Clark City, pushing forward the adoption of energy-efficient and carbon-neutral solutions in the development of the rising metropolis. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and Danfoss Philippines General Manager Allan Alfredo Almendrala on Monday, September 16, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the conduct of a study on the implementation of a decarbonization program for New Clark City. Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin of the Royal Danish Embassy in Manila was present to witness the signing. This will give way for the rollout of innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance urban development and improve the quality of life, while preserving the natural ecosystem in New Clark City. “The signing of this MOU is a significant milestone in our endeavors to transform New Clark City into a smart, sustainable, and resilient metropolis. With this decarbonization program, we aim to position New Clark City as a model and benchmark for other cities in the Philippines—and even around the globe—that are striving to achieve a net-zero transition,” PCEO Bingcang said. Danfoss is a Danish multinational company that helps its customers decarbonize through energy-efficient solutions. It offers the best-in-class technology and solutions to drive the green transition through energy efficiency, machine productivity, lower emissions, and electrification. “By offering a roadmap for green urban transition, it shows how cities can act as ambitious, inspirational, front-runners that showcase green technology and create attractive places to live and work… We, in Danfoss, together with the Danish embassy are happy to share our new technology in relation to energy efficiency to fulfill the New Clark City vision,” General Manager Almendrala said. Under the MOU, Danfoss will share its technical expertise and knowledge on cost-effective decarbonization programs, as well as the latest carbon-neutral technologies. Danfoss will also lead the technical assessments, feasibility studies, and business case preparation for the program. More specifically, the study will focus on the potential of adopting smart store systems, embedding district cooling systems, and establishing a Sustainability Technology Center in New Clark City. Ambassador Melbin said the decarbonization efforts in New Clark City will not only usher sustainable development in the city, but also improve the quality of life of its residents and locators. “This partnership between New Clark City and Danfoss will accelerate sustainable solutions and [foster] a better life for Filipinos,” he said. Earlier, the Royal Danish Embassy in Manila brought a delegation to New Clark City, prompting BCDA and Danfoss to start talks on energy efficiency and decarbonization strategies. During the event, Ambassador Mellbin said the Danish government will help BCDA “optimize New Clark City for energy efficiency” by sharing their expertise in green solutions and innovations.

Singing Cops 2024: A Night of Talent and Compassion for a noble cause

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

CAMP KANGLEON, PALO, LEYTE – Celebrating talent while championing a worthy cause, the Philippine National Police (PNP), in collaboration with the PNP Officers’ Ladies Club Foundation Inc. (OLCFI), will hold the grand finals of “Singing Cops 2024” on September 27, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Music Museum in San Juan City. The event will feature the musical talents of law enforcers from across the country, with proceeds benefiting PNP personnel and their dependents battling cancer and other terminal illnesses, providing them with essential care and support. The income for the event will be solely generated through ticket sales, with prices set at ₱2,000, ₱1,500, and ₱1,000, depending on seating. Those interested in supporting the cause and attending the event can purchase their tickets from the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division (RCADD). Among the participants is Corporal Michael S Maquilan from the 1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company, representing the Police Regional Office 8. He has emerged as one of the Top 10 finalists and will tak e the stage, demonstrating his vocal prowess in a night filled with music and goodwill. The event will also feature special performances by Charity Diva Token Lizares, Asia’s Timeless Diva Dulce, OPM icon Rannie Raymundo, and acclaimed songwriter Vehnee Saturno, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Philippines. General Rommel Francisco D Marbil, Chief, PNP, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “By recognizing and harnessing our strengths, we can extend meaningful help to those who need it most.” More than just a competition, Singing Cops 2024 aims to build solidarity, dedication, and hope, showcasing the PNP’s compassion. Through this event, the PNP demonstrates that behind the badges and uniforms are individuals who not only serve the public but also support each other in times of need.

Digitalization program, inilunsad sa Quezon

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

Inilunsad na ang “Paleng-QR PH Plus at PalengQue Digitalization Program”, isang paraan ng cashless and online payment, na isinusulong ngayon sa lalawiigan ng Quezon sa pakikipagbalikatan ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Bangko Sentral ng Pilpinas, at Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), na ginanap sa Quezon Convention Center, Lucena City, noong Setyembre 20. Ang Paleng-QR PH Plus ay isang paraan ng cashless and online payment na magagamit ng mga konsyumer sa pamamagitan at pakikipagbalikatan ng iba’t-ibang Telecommunications and Financial Service Providers gaya ng Maya Philippines, SMART, TNT, PLDT, GCash, Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Quezon Capital Rural Bank (QCRB), at Cooperative Bank of Quezon Province (CBQP). Samantala, sa tulong ng DICT, ang PalengQue Digitalization Program ang magsisilbing daan upang maging posible ang Paleng-QR PH Plus para sa libreng internet wifi access sa publiko. Layon ng proyektong ito na mas mapabilis, at mapadali ang pagbabayad ng mga konsyumer sa mga public markets, community shops, at local transportation gaya ng jeepneys at tricycles na isasakatuparan muna sa sampung bayan sa lalawigan at kalaunan ay sa buong Quezon. Malugod namang inihayag ni Governor Doktora Helen Tan na isang milestone ang paglulunsad ng nasabing proyekto, sapagkat ang lalawigan ng Quezon ang pinakaunang implementer nito sa Southern Luzon. Nakasama sa ginanap na paglulunsad sina DILG Provincial Director Abigail Andres, OIC-Provincial Officer of DICT Quezon Edd Fernan Gozales, South Luzon Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Regional Director Atty. Tomas J. Cariño Jr., BSP Lucena Branch Area Director Atty. Dennis A. Gamaya, at PLGU Quezon Provincial Development Officer III Lawrence Joseph Velasco. Nagpaabot din ng Video Message bilang suporta si BSP Chairman, Monetary Board, and Governor Dr. Eli M. Remolona Jr.

Author name: Street Journal