Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Training Institute (PNPTI) strongly condemns the alleged rape incident of a female police trainee inside the Cordillera Administrative Region Training Center (CARTC), Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City. The PNPTI confirmed that a case has been formally filed with the concerned Prosecutor’s Office and administrative processes are underway. “We reiterate that there is no place in the Philippine National Police (PNP) for abuse of authority or misconduct. The PNPTI assures the public that justice will be served with speed, transparency, and accountability. Those found guilty will face the full force of the law – no exceptions.” While following due process, the PNPTI reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and respectful training environment for all police trainees and personnel. The PNPTI calls on all its members to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and professionalism, and remain steadfast in their duty to serve and protect the Filipino people. It may be recalled that a 23-year-old female police trainee filed a complaint of rape against her 41-year-old instructor after she was allegedly sexually assaulted twice, the incidents of which occurred on January 20, 2026 at around 2:00 a.m. and again on February 8 at around 1:00 p.m. inside the CARTC barracks. It was learned that the suspect has been placed under restrictive custody, disarmed, and transferred to the PNP training headquarters in Canlubang, Laguna, pending the filing of criminal and administrative charges under Republic Act No. 8353. CARTC Academic Chief Lieutenant Colonel Maila Alog said the training center maintains a “zero tolerance” policy for any form of abuse involving trainees.

New Clark City to serve as AI hub under US-led Pax Silica Initiative

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — A 4,000-acre property within New Clark City, Tarlac is set to transform into an industrial hub centered on artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and investments, advancing the Philippine government’s goal of positioning the country as a key global player in emerging technologies. This development comes as the Philippines formally joins the Pax Silica Declaration, a United States-led initiative that seeks to build a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven silicon supply chain covering critical minerals, semiconductors, AI, and advanced manufacturing. The country’s participation in this initiative signals its intent to play a more active role in the rapidly evolving AI and semiconductor landscape. This is in sync with the Marcos administration’s target of establishing the Philippines as a regional AI powerhouse under the National AI Strategy Roadmap. “By joining Pax Silica, the Philippines is ensuring that our mineral resources and strategic location are not simply supporting global industries from the margins, but are actively harnessed to build the industries of the future,” Finance Secretary Frederick Go said in a statement. As part of the country’s commitment, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has allocated a 4,000-acre lot in New Clark City to serve as a Pax Silica Coordination Office where technology firms, research institutions, and government agencies can converge to build a robust AI ecosystem, accelerate innovation, attract high-value investments. Strategically located within the Luzon Economic Corridor, the Coordination Office is the first of its kind to be established under Pax Silica. It is being designated as a “Golden Node,” a new model for AI-native investment acceleration hubs. “The Golden Node is not about recreating the factories of the last century. It is about building the manufacturing ecosystems of the next century—AI-native from day one, anchored in the rule of law, and integrated into a network of trusted nations that will define global supply chain resilience for decades to come,” US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said in a separate statement. *New Clark City as next AI hub* BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said this development places New Clark City at the center of a pivotal transformation, one that will shape a more innovative, inclusive, and future-ready Philippines. “By establishing this Golden Node, we stand to position New Clark City as a vital link in the global supply chain for advanced technologies and next-generation manufacturing. On the ground, this will translate into more quality job opportunities for Filipinos and greater participation of local enterprises in the growing innovation-driven economy across the globe,” he said. The BCDA will extend a two-year grace period on lease payments, which will be treated as an unconditional in-kind contribution to support the development of economic cooperation initiatives between the two countries. The annual lease rate from the third year onwards will be determined separately under a subsequent agreement. New Clark City is being developed as the country’s first smart, disaster-resilient, and green metropolis. To achieve this vision, the BCDA is actively working to attract technology-driven industries by fostering innovation, building a robust digital infrastructure, and advancing the city as a competitive hub for AI and advanced manufacturing.

Cebu Pacific ranks among World’s Most Sustainable Airlines

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has been recognized as one of the world’s top-performing airlines for sustainability in the latest S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). The airline ranked within the top 25% globally and emerged as the most sustainable Philippine carrier, with a score of 47—well above the industry average of 37 and higher than most low-cost peers. The CSA measures how companies manage their impact on the environment, care for their employees and communities, and uphold responsible business practices. “We continue to take a disciplined and proactive approach to sustainability as we expand our operations,” said Aileen Isidro, CEB Vice President for Corporate Strategy and Risk Officer. “The improvement in our S&P Global CSA score reflects how we’ve embedded sustainability into how we grow, operate, and govern.” CEB’s latest Integrated Report reported progress across its ESG initiatives, contributing to its improved CSA performance. In 2025, the airline served nearly 27 million passengers and operated over 170,000 flights, showing that sustainability gains can be achieved even as operations expand. During the same period, CEB avoided approximately 35,000 tonnes of carbon emissions and saved around 11,000 tonnes of jet fuel through fleet modernization and operational efficiencies. It also reduced carbon emissions to 75.7 grams of CO₂ per revenue passenger kilometer (RPK), with lower emissions per passenger even as travel demand increased. CEB continues to build on this progress through its long-term goal of operating an all-NEO (New Engine Option) fleet by 2030, alongside expanding the deployment of electric ground support equipment (GSE) across key airports. Beyond environmental efforts, CEB continues to invest in its people. Women now make up 51% of management roles, exceeding the Philippine average of 44%, while ongoing programs in training, employee engagement, and mental health support aim to strengthen workforce resilience and service quality. The carrier also maintains strong governance practices, supported by enhanced anti-corruption measures, strict compliance systems, and clear accountability across its operations and partnerships. These initiatives resulted in CEB’s improving customer experience. The airline recorded a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of +35, up seven points from previous year, alongside gains in service areas such as boarding, baggage handling, and inflight service, signaling stronger passenger satisfaction. Following a strong performance in 2025, CEB is building momentum as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, with a continued focus on expanding affordable air travel while advancing its sustainability commitments.

CIAC Opens Clark Picnic Grounds, Advancing Urban Renewal at Clark Aviation Capital Complex

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines —Visitors to the Freeport now have a new destination to enjoy, as the Clark International Airport Corp.(CIAC) officially opened the Clark Picnic Grounds, on Saturday, April 18. CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar said Phase 1 of the project covers an initial five hectares of the total nine-hectare property. “The project is part of our Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program, which is an integral component of CIAC’s seven flagship initiatives,” he said. Located along Gil Puyat Avenue, the newly refurbished and reimagined Clark Picnic Grounds is a vibrant and inclusive public space. Designed as a modern park, it features jogging and walking paths, recreational and wellness facilities, an amphitheater, a playground, and a picnic grove. Opening day activities include a flea market envisioned as a lively weekend bazaar with a mix of food and non-food merchants, as well as food trucks, offering visitors a diverse selection of products. The expansive grounds are lined with century-old acacia trees that form a natural canopy, making the area ideal for outdoor gatherings, leisure, and recreation. “Through this project, we have integrated modern urban planning principles to promote sustainability, optimize land use, and enhance the overall quality of life in the community,” Alcazar added. Alcazar noted that the Clark Picnic Grounds complements other outdoor destinations in Clark, such as the Clark Parade Grounds, Bicentennial Park, and Air Force City Park. As the premier aviation and land development arm of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), CIAC remains committed to transforming the Clark Civil Aviation Complex into Clark Aviation Capital, a dynamic business center envisioned as the country’s leading global aviation and logistics hub.

STT GDC Philippines accelerates AI-Ready Infrastructure with 40.5MW Renewable Energy Deal

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC) Philippines, a joint venture between Globe Telecom, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, and Ayala Corporation, has signed a 10-year renewable energy power supply agreement with MPower. The agreement secures 40.5 megawatts (MW) of clean energy to power the company’s STT Fairview and STT Cavite data center campuses. The agreement strengthens the ability of the country’s digital infrastructure to support growing demand for cloud services, artificial intelligence, and online platforms that Filipinos rely on every day. Data centers power many of the services people use today, from online banking and e-commerce to video streaming, digital payments, and business platforms. As demand for these services continues to grow, so does the need for computing power and electricity. Securing renewable energy helps ensure that the expansion of digital infrastructure remains responsible and sustainable. “AI and digital services are evolving at an unprecedented pace, and the infrastructure supporting them must scale responsibly,” said Carlo Malana, President and CEO of STT GDC Philippines. “By securing long-term renewable energy, we are ensuring that the mission-critical platforms our customers depend on every day are powered by sustainable sources, keeping carbon neutrality at the core of our operations.” The renewable energy supply will support the operations of STT Fairview 1 and the STT Cavite data center campus, which provide critical infrastructure for enterprises and technology providers operating in the Philippines. The move also supports STT GDC Philippines’ broader sustainability commitments, including its goal to achieve carbon neutral operations by 2030. STT GDC Philippines continues to expand its footprint to support the country’s growing digital needs. Its STT Fairview 1 facility has commenced operations, with several megawatts of IT load already deployed and operating for customers, while STT Cavite 2 has been energized and is currently undergoing testing and commissioning. As demand for cloud services, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms continues to rise, initiatives that combine resilient infrastructure with renewable energy will play an increasingly important role in ensuring that the Philippines’ digital growth remains both reliable and sustainable.

Laguna pantry program to support local farmers, supply free vegetables to communities

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Charmaine Odong-Pangan STA. CRUZ, Laguna, Philippines (PIA) — In support of local farmers affected by the rising cost of fuel amid the crisis, the provincial government of Laguna launched the “Laguna Pantry Program” last April 13 to help ease their burden and provide free vegetables to the public. According to Governor Sol Aragones, this initiative is part of their action to help local farmers by sourcing out their fresh vegetable produce and distribute them to communities and beneficiaries across the four districts of the province. “These vegetables will be purchased from farmers and vegetable growers in Laguna. This is why we spoke with them earlier, so that they can at least have some additional income,” Aragones stated in her official Facebook video. The provincial government earlier visited farmers in the Nagcarlan town and personally spoke with them to assess their situation. The Laguna Pantry will procure produce directly from farmers, repackage it, and distribute it to residents. She added, “This way we could help our fellow citizens, even in small ways. We will package the vegetables into chopseuy package and ginisa package.” As the implementation expands, the provincial government assured farmers that it will source products from each district in Laguna to ensure wider participation and stronger support for local agriculture, while maintaining a steady supply for beneficiaries. Despite budget constraints, the governor said the initiative comes at a crucial time for local farmers who were badly hit by high oil prices, at the same time, to strengthen food security through farm-to-community distribution. Meanwhile, the program will be rolled out in phases, with scheduled distribution to ensure orderly and equitable access for beneficiaries, while the public is advised to await official announcements on the governor’s social media accounts to know the distribution schedule. (COP/PIA-CALABARZON)

DOT-Cordillera ready for 7th Mangan Taku Cordillera Food Fair 2026

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Department of Tourism-Cordillera will once again launch the 7th Mangan Taku Cordillera Food Festival, which will feature the delicious culinary tapestry of the Cordilleras with the theme ‘Preserving Traditions, Preserving Flavors’ to be held at the Rose Garden, Burnham Park, Baguio City on April 23-27. Executive Order No. 40-2026 signed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong stated that the DOT-Cordillera is designated as the main implementer and executor of the aforementioned activity and is authorized to utilize the support of the public and private for the successful implementation of the project. Magalong also directed all concerned government agencies and departments and local government offices to provide support for the successful implementation of the said project. DOT Regional Director Jovi Ganongan said the provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalingam Mountain Province and Baguio City will showcase their innovative cuisines and heirloom dishes to boost the culinary tourism industry in the region. She said that besides this, a vibrant celebration of culinary passion, local heritage, and innovative flavors that pay homage to the rich tradition of Filipino cuisine will be held at the Cook Fest on April 24. “Given the current oil crisis, this year’s theme goes beyond showcasing culinary excellence, it highlights resilience, creativity, and sustainability in the kitchen. From age-old heirloom recipes to creative and caring cooking methods, the event celebrates how tradition continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in culture and community,” Ganongan said. She said that there are two features in the cook competition, the Industry-Based category – Chefs by profession and culinary schools and Community-Based Category- Homegrown cooks and non-professionals. “No matter your background, if you have the passion, creativity, and skill—this is your moment to shine. Discover the cuisine at “Mangan Taku” – a celebration of local flavors, farmers, and traditions.” April is known as Filipino Food Month pursuant to Proclamation NO. 469 to help promote, preserve, and promote the traditions and culinary treasures of the Philippines, ensure the transfer of knowledge to future generations, and to support various industries, farmers, and agricultural communities that benefit from the said industry.

Vice Admiral Genito Basilio: A Novo Vizcayano at the Helm of Maritime

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday From Solano, Nueva Vizcaya to one of the highest posts in the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Vice Admiral Genito Bagorio Basilio has built a career marked by discipline, reinvention, and a deep sense of service. Today, he stands at the pinnacle of his profession as Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard Maritime Safety Services Command, one of the most vital leadership posts in the organization. In this role, he oversees a command that handles nearly 70 percent of the work of the PCG as the Coast Guard’s primary force provider. His rise is not only a personal milestone but also a point of pride for Nueva Vizcaya. So far, Basilio is the only Novo Vizcayano to have reached such a high position in the Philippine Coast Guard. ð™ð™§ð™¤ð™¢ ð™‹ð™ˆð˜¼ ð™©ð™¤ ð™©ð™ð™š ð˜¾ð™¤ð™–ð™¨ð™© ð™‚ð™ªð™–ð™§ð™™ After graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1996, Basilio initially chose the Philippine Navy. At that time, the Philippine Coast Guard was still under the Navy, and he was eventually assigned there. His original dream, however, was to join the Philippine Army. But life, as it often does, intervened. At the time, his wife Evangeline, also a Novo Vizcayano from Bayombong, was pregnant. She had one practical and deeply human concern: if he joined the Army, he might be sent to war and die in combat. With both humor and honesty, Basilio recalled his wife’s warning—that if that happened, it would be easy for her to remarry and for another man to be recognized as the father of their child. So he chose the Navy instead. ð˜¼ ð˜¾ð™–ð™§ð™šð™šð™§ ð™‰ð™šð™–ð™§ð™¡ð™® ð™‡ð™šð™›ð™© ð˜½ð™šð™ð™žð™£ð™™ In 2003, Basilio came close to leaving the Philippine Coast Guard. At the time, he was wrestling with doubts about the value of his service and his future in uniform. Like many professionals seeking better opportunities, he began to look toward greener pastures abroad. He enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Nursing, completed the course, and passed the board examination—fully prepared, if necessary, to work overseas as a registered nurse. That was already his third degree. Before entering the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), he had earned a Bachelor of Commerce major in Accountancy from then St. Mary’s College, now St. Mary’s University, in Bayombong. Yet instead of leaving, he stayed—persuaded by a senior officer to continue his career in the Coast Guard, a decision that would shape the rest of his life. Looking back, he does not regret that decision. Though he never practiced nursing in the medical field, Basilio said the course changed him in a profound way. “The nursing course taught me humility. It divested me of my arrogance. That is the help my nursing background gave me,” Basilio said. More than technical knowledge, nursing gave him a deeper understanding of people. It enriched his interpersonal relationships and allowed him to better understand the struggles, needs, and perspectives of the men and women he works with. ð˜¼ ð™‡ð™šð™œð™–ð™˜ð™® ð™¤ð™› ð™ð™ªð™¡ð™šð™¨ ð™–ð™£ð™™ ð™‚ð™ªð™žð™™ð™–ð™£ð™˜ð™š Now nearing retirement, Basilio has also made significant institutional contributions to the PCG. Among them is his authorship of the Rules on the Use of Force for Maritime Law Enforcement, a framework now being used in the West Philippine Sea. He also wrote the PCG Incident Monitoring and Surveillance Handbook, another important guide for Coast Guard operations. ð˜¼ ð™ˆð™–ð™«ð™šð™§ð™žð™˜ð™ ð™’ð™ð™¤ ð˜¾ð™ð™¤ð™¨ð™š ð™©ð™¤ ð™ˆð™–ð™ ð™š ð™– ð˜¿ð™žð™›ð™›ð™šð™§ð™šð™£ð™˜ð™š Basilio describes himself in one word: Maverick. He knows he is different, and he embraces it. “I try to make a difference, a catalyst of change,” he said. “I am always the peacock in the story The Land of the Penguins. I do not wear the garments of a penguin.” The metaphor is telling. In a world that often rewards conformity, Basilio chose not merely to fit in, but to stand apart with purpose. His brand of leadership is marked by independent thinking, quiet innovation, and the courage to challenge established ways when change is necessary. He also said he refuses to become “the ogre that never dies”—a striking expression of his desire not to be hardened by power, nor trapped by outdated habits and rigid hierarchies. ð™ð™¤ð™¤ð™©ð™šð™™ ð™žð™£ ð™ƒð™¤ð™¢ð™š Though he now resides in Cavite, Basilio has never severed his ties with home. He continues to maintain their house in Bayombong and comes home to Nueva Vizcaya every month. More than that, he says Nueva Vizcaya remains the place where he hopes to retire. His commitment to service has also found its way into the next generation. One of his children followed in his footsteps, graduating from the U.S. Coast Guard in 2021 and now serving with the Philippine Coast Guard. From a young man from Solano to one of the country’s top Coast Guard officials, Vice Admiral Genito B. Basilio’s journey reflects not only professional achievement, but also humility, perseverance, and lasting loyalty to his roots. #RMI

Baguio to host final stage of Tour of Luzon 2026

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Summer Capital will again serve as the final stage venue of the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2026, a major multi-stage cycling race slated from April 29 to May 13, 2026. With the theme, “A Heritage in Motion,” this year’s race edition will cover more than 1,800 kilometers and pass through 13 provinces across five regions with a total of 20 teams, including five international squads expected to compete in the 14-stage event. The race will begin at CaSoBe in Calatagan and will traverse key locations such as Tagaytay, New Clark City, Palayan City, Bayombong, Tuguegarao, Pagudpud and parts of the Ilocos region and Pangasinan. The final and most anticipated stage will culminate at Scout Hill in Camp John Hay which is known for its challenging uphill terrain that is expected to test the endurance and skill of the riders. Throughout the race, cyclists will face 25 King of the Mountain climbs and 16 sprint segments, making it one of the most demanding editions of the tour. Organizers said the event aims to strengthen the country’s cycling scene while boosting tourism in host areas, with Baguio City playing a key role as the concluding venue of the prestigious race. Mayor Benjamin Magalong welcomed the event which was also successfully hosted by the city last year and the previous ones. The mayor said the nationally recognized cycling event is expected to draw, apart from the participating teams, race officials, support personnel, media representatives and spectators from different parts of the country. To ensure the success of the event, the mayor mobilized concerned offices to provide support to the organizers. (Aileen P. Refuerzo)

Author name: Street Journal

PNPTI condemns alleged rape of female police trainee