Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ recognizes Converge for unparalleled speed and consistency By Rizza C. Ampong Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (PSE: CNVRG), the Philippines’ leading fiber broadband provider, has once again secured its position as the undisputed leader in broadband industry, clinching the prestigious Ookla® Speedtest Award™ for the *Fastest Internet Provider in the Philippines for the first two quarters of 2024. This marks the second consecutive year that Converge has outpaced competitors, solidifying its commitment to delivering unparalleled digital experiences to Filipino households and businesses. Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge CEO and Co-Founder, said: “In 2023, we took up the mantle of being the Fastest Internet Service Provider in the Philippines. This responsibility continues to be placed in our hands as we, again, were declared by Ookla as giving the best speed experience to Filipinos this first half. We will not rest on our laurels, of course, and we will continue to stay ahead as we leap into the future,” The Ookla® Speedtest Award™ by Ookla®, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence, testing applications, and related technologies, utilizes extensive in-depth analysis of consumer-initiated tests taken with Speedtest, to determine the fastest and most consistent fixed network providers. The ICT company’s victory is backed by impressive statistics: Unmatched Speed: Converge achieved a speed score of 147.77, with superior top download speeds of 603.46 Mbps and top upload speeds of 552.21 Mbps, exceeding its previous year performance. Exceptional Consistency: The company maintained themost consistent high-speed performance in most areas across its network for the second year in a row. Best-in-Class Latency: Converge achieved the best latency time at 11.35 millisecond for fixed networks, ensuring a seamless online experience for users Converge Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Benjamin Azada, highlighted the company’s holistic approach: “This achievement is a direct result of our continuous network enhancements and product innovations. We’re not just chasing numbers and recognition; our goal is to offer fast, reliable, and tailor-fit products for different market segments, ensuring that every Filipino has access to world-class internet.” Speed upgrades like Boost Mode exemplify the company’s commitment to tailoring services to customer needs. This initiative allowed users to have boosted speed while keeping the same monthly recurring fee, perfect for bandwidth-intensive activities or crucial online events. Converge has also expanded its service to budget-conscious markets, launching Surf2Sawa, the Philippines’ first prepaid fiber internet service where subscribers have the freedom of unlimited yet affordable internet. The company also introduced BIDA Fiber, the most budget-friendly postpaid plan available for consumers who require fast internet without compromising affordability. Recently, Converge unveiled its new contract-free FiberX plans, designed to cater primarily to consumers residing in condominiums. The No-Contract Term plan will enable new customers to swiftly benefit from the provider’s signature high-speed, unlimited, and economical pure fiber internet connectivity with minimal effort. Looking ahead, the company is poised for even greater achievements. “We’re investing heavily in expanding our network reach with international cable system investments and introducing and employing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and large-scale capacity optical networking technology for hyperscale applications,” revealed Converge Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Jesus C. Romero. “&We’re working hard in the backend and frontend so we can create amazing digital experiences for every Converge customer.” This latest accolade reinforces the position of Converge as a trailblazer in the Philippine telecommunications industry. As the company continues to push boundaries and set new standards, it remains committed to its vision of a fully connected Philippines, where high-speed internet is not a luxury, but a fundamental right, and where amazing customer experience is the benchmark of service and commitment. *Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q1-Q2 2024. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission. LIFE ON THE FAST LANE: Users take the speed test and see the difference. DOMINATING THE GAME: Converge offers tailor-fit plans for the best gaming experience. NEXT EPISODE PLEASE: Streaming to the extreme with Converge, your reliable viewing buddy.

PRO3 arrests 431 wanted persons in three-weeks manhunt operations

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – The Police Regional Office 3 has successfully apprehended 431 wanted individuals, including 64 of the most wanted criminals in Central Luzon from August 3-23. The large-scale manhunt operations resulted in the capture of suspects involved in serious offenses, ranging from murder and rape to drug-related crimes. Of the total number of arrests, 64 are listed as most wanted, facing charges for heinous crimes such as murder, sexual assault, and violations of drug laws. In addition to these high-profile arrests, 367 other wanted persons with outstanding warrants were taken into custody as part of PRO3’s commitment to combating criminality. Brig.Gen. Jose Hidalgo Jr., regional director, praised the tireless efforts of the police units involved, stating, “This series of arrests is a testament to the dedication and determination of our personnel. We are resolved to ensure that no criminal can hide from the law and that justice will be served for all victims of crime.” The manhunt operations were conducted across the seven provinces and two cities of Central Luzon and utilized intelligence-driven strategies and close coordination with local communities. These operations are part of the ongoing efforts of PRO3 to enhance public safety by removing dangerous criminals from the streets. “Rest assured, our operations will continue, and we will not let up until every wanted person is held accountable for their actions,” Hidalgo emphasized. The success of this three-week manhunt is a significant stride in ensuring peace and order in the region, as PRO3 remains focused on its mission to uphold the rule of law and protect communities from criminal elements.

P13-M illegal drugs seized,7 drug pushers arrested

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

PRO-CAR’s continued commitment to stop the illegal drug trade and ensure the safety of the community led to the confiscation of over P13 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of seven drug personalities in a series of anti-illegal drug operations conducted in the Cordillera region from August 19 to 25, 2024. According to the reports submitted to the PRO-CAR Regional Director, Brig.Gen.David Peredo,Jr., a total of 15 operations were conducted in Abra, Baguio City, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province during the week. These operations resulted in the confiscation of 50,625 pieces of fully grown marijuana plants, 5,700 pieces of marijuana seedlings, 27,000 grams of dried marijuana leaves and fruiting tops, and 18.26 grams of suspected shabu, all of which have an overall total value of Php13,717,168.00. The most significant operation took place in Mountain Province, where the Inayan cops conducted a marijuana eradication operation that resulted in the seizure of marijuana plants valued at Php6,400,000.00. Moreover, in Benguet, the Cabalyero cops of the Benguet Police Provincial Office successfully conducted six marijuana eradication operations and a police response, resulting in the seizure of illegal drugs valued at P3,693,000.00 and the arrest of one Street Level Individual (SLI). Meanwhile, in Kalinga, the Lumin-awa cops confiscated illegal drugs worth Php 3,523,800.00 during a series of operations, including the execution of a search warrant, a buy-bust operation, and two marijuana eradication operations, which also led to the apprehension of one SLI. Additionally, in Baguio City, the Napino cops arrested three SLI’s following the implementation of a search warrant in Baguio City; in Abra, the Abante cops apprehended one SLI after conducting a buy-bust operation; and in Ifugao, the Haggiyo cops successfully nabbed a High Value Individual during the service of a warrant of arrest. These accomplishments highlight PRO-CAR’s strong commitment to ensuring community safety and maintaining a drug-free environment, demonstrating their dedication to protecting the public and ensuring a safer community for all.

City working its way to resiliency goal vs. climate change

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Aileen P. Refuerzo – Baguio PIO As promised, the city government continues to work its way to achieve resiliency status by 2026 and be prepared to handle the effects of the climate crisis. Mayor Benjamin Magalong last year rallied city executives to make resiliency the focus within the next three years to make the city not only resilient but also “safe, inclusive and sustainable” in face of the looming environmental, economic and social impacts of global warming. City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Charles Bryan Carame said initiatives are now being done to implement programs, activities and projects that will help the city achieve its target. He said the city has already prepared its systems for the goal of achieving resilience, has identified, understood and utilized the risk scenarios and made significant accomplishments in pursuing resilient urban development and design, safeguarding natural resources, strengthening institutional and societal capacities for resilience and ensuring effective disaster response. It is presently working on strengthening its financial capacity for resilience by strictly monitoring fund utilization; pursuing urban development and increasing infrastructure resilience by promoting and implementing the Green Building Code as well as various nature-based solutions which include the sustainable management of the city’s open spaces such as parks, the Blue Walks program which develops urban canals and restores natural streams and the Green Walks program which upgrades roads into green streets. The city’s resiliency journey is guided by the international “Making Cities Resilient (MCR) 2030” program, a big flagship project of the United Nations which provides support to make cities worldwide “safer, preventing risks, promoting innovation and investments and building resilience” through the delivery of a “three-stage roadmap to urban resilience, providing tools, access to knowledge and monitoring and reporting tools.” A total of 1,748 cities in 86 countries worldwide have joined the program. In the Philippines, only Makati City has so far achieved resiliency status. The city through the CDRRMO applied for MCR2026 compliance in 2021 by making a commitment to strive “to become inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable by 2026 and commit to reducing disaster and climate risk and continue to improve sustainability by taking actions to enhance resilience.” The city has passed two of the three-stage roadmap namely awareness and planning and is now making progress in the third or the implementation stage.

Cayetano’s Bayanihan Caravan returns to South Cotabato

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

A total of 3,800 individuals in South Cotabato benefited from the latest visit of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano’s Bayanihan Caravan to the province. Coordinated with former Lunas Party-list Representative Carol Lopez, the sibling senators’ offices traveled to Koronadal City, Banga, and Surallah 2024 to provide aid to solo parents, senior citizens, youth, women, farmers, fisherfolk, and persons with disabilities. The assistance, distributed through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, is designed to address various emergency needs, including food, medicine, and school supplies. “Maraming maraming salamat po sa lahat ng mga biyayang pinabigay ninyo dito sa amin. Sana po ay hindi kayo magsawang magbigay dito sa amin ng mga suporta,” Surallah Mayor Pedro “Cano” Matinong Jr. said, addressing the Cayetanos.

Ibalik sa Pilipinas ang mga nakakulong na Pinoy- Imee Marcos

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Senator Imee R. Marcos urged her fellow senators to concur in the ratification of a treaty between the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of Canada which will enable Filipino prisoners in that country to serve their sentence here at home. “Sa gitna ng lahat ng pagkakasala at pagsubok, huwag natin kalimutan na may pagkakataon pa ang bawat nilalang na magbalik-loob at magkaroon ng bagong buhay. Maraming kababayan natin ang nakakulong sa ibang bansa, malayo sa kanilang pamilya at mga mahal sa buhay,” the senator said Tuesday, August 20, in her sponsorship speech of Senate Resolution No. 1146. She added, “Hindi lamang ito pisikal na pagdurusa, pasakit din ito sa kanilang mga isip at damdamin.” The ‘Treaty Between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of Canada on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons and on Cooperation in the Enforcement of Penal Sentence’ was signed on May 22, 2003, and ratified by the President on January 24, 2023. It provides for the conditions and procedure by which a person sentenced in the territory of one State may be transferred to the territory of the other State of which he or she is a citizen in order to serve the sentence. A sentenced person may be transferred when his or her case would constitute a criminal offense according to the law of the receiving State or would constitute a criminal offence if committed on its territory. Marcos said an aspect of the penal system too often overlooked is the reintegration of former convicts into society. She pointed out, reintegration back to Philippine society will prove difficult to a Filipino who is deported to his home country after having served his sentence abroad with no support system. “While we cannot prescribe how or for how long other countries should punish Filipinos who break their laws, we can at least forge agreements that will give our countrymen imprisoned abroad a better chance of rehabilitation and reintegration back to society, back home here in the Philippines,” Marcos said. She added, “Ang Philippines-Canada Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (TSPA) ay… isang sinag ng pag-asa para sa mga Pilipinong nakulong sa nabanggit na ibayong bansa. Binibigyan sila ng pagkakataon na magsilbi ng kanilang sentensya sa sariling bayan, malapit sa mga taong nagmamahal at sumusuporta sa kanila.” “Sa kanilang pagbabalik, hindi na sila mga ‘estranghero’, kundi mga anak ng bayan na nangangailangan ng pag-unawa at gabay upang muling maging bahagi ng lipunan.” The TSPA states, exclusive jurisdiction over the sentence and judgment; and procedure for the revision, modification, or cancellation of sentence and judgment will be retained by the transferring State.

Albay Top 9 sa 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitivenesss Index

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

Pagpasok ng mga investors sa lalawigan,inaasahan By MLQuising, Albay PIO LEGASPI CITY,Albay – Kumpiyansa ang lalawigan ng Albay na mas maraming mga investors ang papasok at mamuhunan sa lalawigan. Kasunod ito ng muling pag-angat ng Albay sa ranking at makapasok sa Top 10 ng 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index sa katatapos pa lamang na Philippine Creative Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Congress na ginanap noong Agosto 23, 2024, sa Manila Hotel. Ngayong taon, nasa ranked 9th ang Albay, at ang tanging lalawigan sa Bicol na nakapasok sa Top 10. Taong 2022 ay nasa ika-14 na pwesto ang lalawigan habang nasa ika-11 naman noong 2023. Ayon kay Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO) na pinamumunuan ni LEDIP Officer Jaymee Florence E. Ribaya, maliban sa malaking karangalan na natanggap dahil sa prestihiyusong pagkilala, malaki aniya ang dadalhin nitong mga investors sa lalawigan. Binigyang-diin ng opisyal na dahil sa parangal na ito na mapabilang sa Top 10 bilang globally competitive province, makikita ang kahandaan ng Albay partikular na pagdating sa usapin ng economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, resiliency, at innovation na siyang basehan ng nasabing ranking sa buong bansa. Matatandaan na nitong mga nakalipas na mga buwan ay tinutukan ng Pamahalaang Lokal ng Albay sa pangunguna ng LEDIPO ang mangungulit sa bawat LGU sa lalawigan partikular na ang pagtuturo ng tamang entry ng mga data sa kanilang system sa tulong ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Ang CMCI ay ang taunan na ranking na dinidevelop ng National Competitiveness Council katuwang ang Regional Competitiveness Committees (RCCs) at suporta mula sa United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Sinusuri nito ang mga local government units (LGUs) sa buong Pilipinas sa limang ‘key pillars of competitiveness’ kabilang na ang economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, resiliency, at innovation. Una nang kinilala at pinasalamatan ni Governor Edcel Greco A.B. Lagman ang kanyang executive department partikular ang LEDIPO dahil sa natanggap na parangal. Isa rin ito sa mahigpit na binabantayan at pinatataas ng Albay na may malaking papel para sa inaasam na Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). Ang Philippine Creative Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Congress (PCCMCC) ay inorganisa or Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) sa pangunguna ng kanilang Competitiveness Bureau (CB).

119 cops completed Basic Internal Security Operations Course

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

LUNA,Apayao — Now equipped with knowledge and skills on basic internal security operations, a total of 119 police officers from the Apayao Police Provincial Office (PPO) and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15 officially graduated from the Basic Internal Security Operations Course (BISOC) during the closing ceremony held at Camp Gov. Elias K. Bulut Sr. and Training Center, Barangay Sta. Lina, Luna, Apayao, on August 22, 2024. The graduates proudly received their certificates of completion from PRO-CAR’s Deputy Regional Director for Administration (DRDA), Brig.Gen.Rogelio Raymundo,Jr., who served as the guest of honor and speaker of the program. Also present during the event were the Chief of the Regional Learning and Doctrine Development Division, Col. Charles Domallig; the Provincial Director of Apayao PPO, Col.Jefferson Cariaga; the Acting Training Manager of the Regional Special Training Unit-CAR, Lt.Col. Arvin Fabro and the Board Member of the province of Apayao, Hon. Kyle Mariah Chelsea Bulut-Cunan. As the highlight of the ceremony, three members of BISOC Cl 02-013-RCOR-2024-032 and Cl 02-013-RCOR-2024-033 “ALIGTAK” were given PNP Medals and Certificates of Commendation for their outstanding performance during the course namely For Cl 02-013-RCOR-2024-032 – Pat Christian T. Sadyoc (89.53%), Pat Samantha H. Bumolyad (89.28%) and Pat Joy K. Segundo (89.19%). For Cl 02-013-RCOR-2024-033- Pat Janeth T. Dallig (91.86%), Pat Shalimar M. Bakidan (89.93 %) and Pat Solic G Pallisit (89.95%). Further, leadership awards were also given to Pat Arnel Jay A. Limbawan and PCpl Leonard B Icalla for serving as the Class Presidents, and PSSg Vincent Paul N. Pagdilao and PCpl Rogie A. Dela Cruz for serving as the Class Marchers. Raymundo led the ceremonial handover of the BISOC badge and the donning of the beret to the graduates. In his message, the DRDA extended his congratulations to the graduates on their success in completing their BISOC training and acknowledged their hard work, encouraging them to apply their skills with resilience and adaptability. “To our graduates, congratulations on your achievement. As you move forward in your careers, carry with you the lessons, camaraderie, and spirit of service that have defined your time in BISOC. May you continue to serve with courage, integrity, and a strong commitment patungo sa isang Mahusay, Matatag, at Maaasahan na Kapulisan,” he said.

Gladys Vergara urges Lions Club: “ Be the difference for others”

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — TheBaguio Maharlika Dynamic Lions Club celebrated its 5th Induction Ceremony and 4th Anniversary at Oring-ao Hall, Teachers Camp, with an event that highlighted both the installation of new officers and a powerful message of service from Gladys Vergara, Chair of the Baguio Tourism Council (BTC), on August 23. After an extensive tourof Baguio’s remote communities, Vergara continued to champion the cause of tourism and civic service during her address to the Lions Clubs. As a key advocate for Baguio’s tourism sector, she emphasized the importance of serving with joy and purpose. “Let us continue making a meaningful impact by serving our community with gladness in our hearts,” Vergara urged. “I take great pridein our shared mission to serve, knowing that our efforts touch the lives of so many in profound ways.” She highlighted the opportunities for collaboration, stating, “Together, we can achieve greater things and gladly share our successes with those who have less.” Vergara also underscored the broader role of the BTC, noting that the council’s work extends beyond promoting tourism. “We stand in support of the various sectors working tirelessly to sustain and invigorate Baguio’s tourism industry,” she said. “Much like the Lions Clubs and other civic-minded organizations, our focus is on people.” The event also featured the installation of the club’s new officers by District Governor Sarah Pacquing, with Andrew Cortes taking on the role of President, succeeding Immediate Past President Rechilda Wymer. Vergara commended theLions for their longstanding dedication to service, stating, “The Lions Clubs have consistently been a beacon of hope, making a significant difference in the lives of many. What sets you apart is not just your numbers, but the enduring passion with which you serve others.” Adding to the significance of the occasion was the presence of Past District Governor Bernardo M. Vergara, a founder of the Lions Clubs in Baguio, who was invited as a guest speaker. His presence and words of wisdom underscored the deep-rooted legacy of service that continues to guide and inspire the club’s mission. Vergara also expressed pride in her personal connection to the Lions Club legacy, acknowledging her parents, Engr. Bernardo Vergara and Arch. Gloria Vergara, who served as past District 301-C Governors and were instrumental in founding the Lions Clubs in Baguio. “Their commitment to service has deeply influenced me and fuels my dedication to our shared mission,” she said. “ Let us remember to lead by example care for others, and inspire positive change that uplifts our community,” Vergara concluded, leaving the audience inspired and ready to continue their service to the community.

Author name: Street Journal

Converge Crowned Fastest Internet Provider in Philippines for Second Consecutive Year