Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

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.

More women in NCR receive aid from Cayetanos

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

As part of their ongoing efforts to empower women across the country, another batch of beneficiaries from the National Capital Region (NCR) received aid from the offices of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano during visits to Batasan Hills, Quezon City on August 19, 2024 and Navotas City on August 20, 2024. In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program and with the help from former Congresswoman Carol Lopez of LUNAS Partylist, the sibling senators brought assistance to 850 women from marginalized communities. Among them was Emelita Sereno, who expressed her gratitude to the senators. “Maraming salamat po sa ibinigay niyo para sa aming mga kababaihan. May maiuuwi po kami para sa aming mga pamilya,” she said. These activities were part of the Cayetano siblings’ continuous efforts to bring aid closer to every Filipino in need.

Cebu Pacific, Scholars of Sustenance Partner to Combat Food Waste

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has struck a partnership with Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Philippines to reduce food wastage and support underprivileged communities nationwide. Under the signed memorandum of agreement (MOA), CEB will donate surplus food from its operations to SOS. This initiative is designed to provide essential food supplies to social service organizations and vulnerable communities, underscoring the airline’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. “This collaboration shows our dedication to community care,” said Lei Apostol, CEB vice president for Customer Service Operations. “By partnering with SOS Philippines, we are not only addressing food waste but also making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.” Before its partnership with SOS, CEB had a longstanding history of donating food to underserved communities. Since 2017, it has been providing pastries to the Pangarap Foundation, an organization focused on improving youth welfare. The airline’s collaboration with SOS, a leading non-profit in food rescue efforts, will broaden CEB’s impact and assist even more individuals in need. “We’re excited to partner with Cebu Pacific,” said Mac Edsel Florendo, Food Rescue Supervisor of SOS Philippines. “Their support boosts our ability to rescue surplus food and provide it to those in need. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against food waste and hunger.” CEB is the first and only airline partner of SOS in Southeast Asia. They aim to promote the importance of managing surplus food effectively, aligning with global sustainability goals and setting a positive example for the aviation industry. CEB and SOS sign a Memorandum of Agreement, formalizing a partnership aimed at reducing food waste and supporting communities in need. [From left to right: Mac Edsel Florendo, SOS Food Rescue Supervisor, and Lei Apostol, CEB VP for Customer Service Operations]

Foresight and Anticipatory leadership in Local Governance and Development Training in Baguio

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

Mayor Benjie Magalong graced the young public servants in a 3-Day training on Foresight and Anticipatory Leadership in Local Governance and Development for the Sangguniang Kabataan of Ormoc at Azalea Hotels and Residences. The theme “Nurturing Youth Leaders; Unleashing Their Full Potential towards Accelerating Sustainable Development Goals Localization in Ormoc City.” aligns with the training’s goals, which focus on enhancing the SK’s capabilities in community management. The goal for the youth leaders is to develop a sustainable development roadmap, enabling them to contribute effectively to nation-building and foster a sense of hope and optimism. Mayor Magalong served as a guest speaker and presented Empowering Young Changemakers: Harnessing Youth Potential to Drive Local SDG Implementation. Photos by: Ezer Owindo

Author name: Street Journal

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