Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

For generations, tapuy has been part of life for the Ibaloi, Kankanaey, and Kalanguya tribes of Tuba. Brewed from local kintuman rice and shared during gatherings and celebrations, the traditional rice wine carries stories of identity, culture, and community. Today, that tradition is helping sustain livelihoods. Through royalty shares from Aboitiz Renewables, Inc., the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), which operates the Irisan 3 Hydropower Plant in Tuba, tribal communities in Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet have scaled up their tapuy-making practice — turning it into a small but growing enterprise that preserves culture while creating income opportunities for the Ibaloi, Kankanaey, and Kalanguya tribes. “Tapuy has always been part of our lives,” said James Maranes, an Ibaloi leader and head of the Council of Elders. “I started making it as a child, when my mother first taught me the process.” The brewing process has remained unchanged for generations. Local rice is fermented with yeast and stored in clay jars for approximately one month before the tapuy is ready for consumption. This unbroken practice serves as a living record of each tribe’s cultural identity — one that communities continue to actively preserve and pass on. A jar of tapuy, priced at ₱2,500–3,000, reflects both cultural heritage and a growing source of income for Indigenous communities. (Photo courtesy of Bakun Municipal Tourism, Culture and the Arts Council Page ) In the past, tapuy production was largely limited to home brewing for personal use and community rituals. As lifestyles shifted over the years, fewer families continued the practice. Royalty shares linked to the Irisan 3 Hydropower Plant have since enabled communities to sustain and scale production — improving packaging and bringing their tapuy to local markets and visitors. Tuba Ancestral Domain Indigenous Peoples Organization (TADIPO) president Zaldy Guileng said TADIPO continues to support initiatives that strengthen cultural preservation and community livelihood. “This is more than just a source of income; it instills pride in our communities to continue our ancestors’ legacy while helping families provide for their needs. By investing in traditional practices like tapuy production, we ensure our heritage remains relevant and create sustainable opportunities for our people.” “The Ibaloi, Kankanaey, and Kalanguya tribes have long held tapuy as a cultural cornerstone, and it is meaningful to see it also generating tangible opportunities for their communities,” said Noreen Vicencio, First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations at Aboitiz Renewables. “This is what responsible community partnership looks like in practice — supporting what communities already value and helping them build on it.” For the tribes of Tuba, tapuy remains a practiced tradition — one that continues to generate both cultural and economic value for the communities that keep it alive.

Globe Network preparedness amid National Energy Emergency

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — In light of the recent declaration placing the country under a State of National Energy Emergency, Globe assures its customers that its services will continue without disruption and as close to normal as possible, with its business continuity plan (BCP) activated to ensure that its network remains stable and operational amid concerns over fuel supply and energy availability. Under the BCP, the company will undergo the following initiatives: Expanded work from home for all Globe employees except critical workforce in network and IT operations, stores and other sales channels, customer service, and network security. Other energy saving measures have also been introduced including limits on travel policy, car pooling, and new incentives for EV use. Prioritization of network fuel and energy needs to ensure that network services will continue to operate unimpeded. Globe is working closely with partners so that gensets across our cell sites will have ample fuel supply in case of commercial power interruptions. Battery runtime management is also in place to address scenarios where both grid power and generator support may be affected. Globe is strengthening its energy management approach through energy efficiency measures and increased use of renewable energy to diversify its power sources. Currently, approximately 30 percent of Globe’s network runs on renewable energy. The company also continues to deploy energy-efficient technologies, including AI solutions that help optimize energy consumption across its sites. Globe remains focused on maintaining reliable service while strengthening its operational resilience and energy strategy in response to the volatile geopolitical and energy conditions.

Nueva Vizcaya honors youth programs, films promoting adolescent health

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya — The provincial government honored outstanding youth programs and films promoting adolescent health during the Pammadayaw Excellence Awards for CineKabataan and the Information and Service Delivery Network (ISDN) on March 26 at the Highlander Hotel. The event, organized by the Population Division in partnership with the Public Affairs Infornation and Assistance Division(PAIAD) under the Office of the Governor, was attended by Ms. Theresa C. Soriano, regional director of the Cagayan Valley Commission on Population and Development; former governor Ruth R. Padilla; Board Members LC L. Cuaresma and Emerlene Jane Galanta Martinez; and Alvin Paul G. Basco , consultant to the Office of the Governor, who represented Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito. Gambito, who provided more than half a million pesos in funding for the initiative and awards, said, “When we empower our youth with the right information, support, and opportunities, we help them build a healthier and brighter future.” In the CineKabataan Makaindag filmmaking contest, The Frontier Film Production of PLT College Inc. swept major honors, taking Best Film, Best Picture, Best Cinematography, Best Screenplay and Best Advocacy Film. Toni Faye Duerme was named Best Director; Jeremiah Beniña and Rachelle Bongol won Best Actor and Best Actress. “Tinig Arkitektura” of Saint Mary’s University received the Best Social Impact Award. The contest, themed “Choices and Consequences,” is part of the MAKAINDAG project — a Gaddang phrase meaning “It Can Wait” — which promotes responsible decision-making and addresses teenage pregnancy. In the ISDN awards, Villaverde was named Best ISDN for Adolescent Health and Development while the towns of Quezon Kayapa, Aritao, Diadi and Bayombong were recognized for Most Innovative and Functional ISDNs. Alfonso Castañeda, Ambaguio, Bagabag, Bambang, Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, Kasibu, Santa Fe and Solano were cited for maintaining Functional ISDNs. Fifteen municipal local government units participated in the assessment of Teen Centers, designated safe spaces that provide adolescents with health services, information and support. Elvira Tongson, head of the Provincial Population Division, said teenage pregnancy remains a serious public health and social concern in underserved communities, driven by limited access to accurate reproductive health information, cultural taboos and the lack of youth-friendly platforms. She added that MAKAINDAG and stronger ISDNs aim to help adolescents make informed choices, stay focused on education and personal growth, and delay early pregnancy.

Nueva Vizcaya’s skies soar anew with Paragliding comeback

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines – Nueva Vizcaya reopened its skies to paragliding on Friday, April 3, with the launch of the “Skyridge” take-off site in Barangay Tiblac, Ambaguio, ending a two-year lull in organized flying activities. The event, dubbed the “Grand Re-Awakening,” formally revived paragliding operations in the province and signaled its renewed push as an adventure tourism destination. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito led the inauguration rites alongside Department of Tourism Regional Director Troy Alexander G. Miano, Ambaguio Mayor Ronelio B. Danao, and paragliding pioneer Violet Lucasi. The Skyridge site will host organized flights and competitions, with landing designated at Green Lake View Adventure Park in Barangay Masoc, Bayombong. Lucasi said activities lined up for the reopening include the Skymazing Race, a solo flight competition, tandem flights, and a target-landing contest. Pilots from South Korea, Indonesia, and Germany joined the event, highlighting its growing international appeal. Governor Gambito said the relaunch is expected to boost local tourism, create economic opportunities for hospitality and outdoor recreation enterprises, and expand Nueva Vizcaya’s reach among both domestic and international adventure travelers. He added that establishing a paragliding pilot school in the province is a priority initiative under his administration. The program aims to develop local talent, professionalize training, and strengthen safety standards as Nueva Vizcaya builds its air sports industry.

Balikatan Exercises in Quezon: AFP and U.S Forces break ground for new classroom

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio SAN NARCISO, Quezon, Philippines – The combined engineering forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)- Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM), and the Aviation Engineer Group of the United States Air Force conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of one unit, two-classroom school building at Villa Reyes Elementary School on April 1, in this town. The Philippine Army-564th Engineer Construction Battalion, and the United States Indo-Pacific Command-356th Aviation Engineer Group of the United States Air Force are responsible for undertaking the project part of the Engineer Civil Action Program (ENCAP) and was attended by the contingents from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led by the Battalion Commanders of the 564th Engineer Construction Battalion and the 85th Infantry Battalion, United States Counterparts, representatives from the local government unit (LGU) of San Narciso, and the local police. The project reflects the enduring commitment, strengthened unity, and close cooperation between the Philippines and the United States, as both nations work side by side in advancing community development. Exercise Balikatan stands as a powerful testament to the resilient and steadfast alliance between the two countries. The construction of a 7-meter by 18-meter classroom building, complete with a comfort room, is scheduled to be completed by May 15, 2026. Once completed, the additional classrooms are expected to benefit approximately 573 students for School Year 2026–2027. This initiative will provide a safer, more conducive, and adaptable learning environment while addressing the growing demand for classroom space. With only 11 existing classrooms, the addition of two new ones will help ease congestion and overcrowding, thereby enhancing the quality of education and supporting a more effective teaching and learning process. Ultimately, this development will serve both present and future generations of students within the community. The Humanitarian Civic Assistance conducted under Exercise Balikatan continues to enhance access to education and essential services for local communities, while strengthening community resilience and deepening bilateral ties. The AFP and U.S. Forces emphasize that, beyond enhancing protective capabilities and combat mobility, joint activities such as ENCAP also promote meaningful community engagement through sustainable and people-centered development initiatives. Army Lt. Gen. Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., commander of the Southern Luzon Command, emphasized the value of collaborative efforts in advancing education and community development. He said that initiatives under Exercise Balikatan not only enhance military interoperability but also deliver tangible and lasting benefits to local communities. Balaoro expressed appreciation to partner units, local government stakeholders, and community members for their continued cooperation, noting that these projects reflect the shared commitment of the Philippines and the United States to building resilient, peaceful, and progressive communities.

15 year-old student rise in Pencak Silat

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — At 15 years of age, Delenriz O. Avila from the Summer Capital has already carved a name for herself in the world of sports, particularly in Pencak Silat. A student of Pines City National High School under the Special Program in the Arts (SPA), she balances academic and athletics with discipline, determination and heart. Avila initially ventured into the sporting arena in grade 9 where she decided to take Pencak Silat over other options because of its unique techniques and challenging nature. Unlike other sports, Pencak Silat provided her with an opportunity to challenge her power, strength and imagination. She was inspired to demonstrate that a fighting sport is not for men only and accepted the challenge despite the training and hard work schedules because she had her parents to motivate her. Their encouragement continues to fuel her passion and persistence. The biggest challenge she faced was overcoming her nerves and adrenaline rushes during competitions especially when matched against strong opponents at national games. Her fears were overcome through prayer, self-trust, and positive thinking. Avila remembers her coach, Arnold Cayso, who often reminds her: “Mind over matter”, and this mantra became her anchor in moments of doubt. As a student, maintaining grades is crucial and she manages her time by heading straight to training after school, then completing missed activities at night–even if it means staying up late, as her dedication ensures she excels both in academics and sports, proving that discipline is the key to balance. Getting a medal was a state of utter joy and surprise since out of 35 players nationwide, she was one of only four to bring home a medal. This was not a personal win, but a win on behalf of her school, and Baguio City. Avila’s experience made her realize that one should be disciplined, religious and have self-confidence because she believes that without these, dreams remain out of reach. Prayer, she says, is vital, as it provides strength and guidance in every match. Her message to aspiring student-athletes is clear: train wholeheartedly, maintain discipline and always listen to your coach because success is built on persistence and respect for guidance. For those who are pursuing Pencak Silat, Avila leaves a powerful reminder: One step at a time. You won’t win or get a medal instantly–you must endure the hardships before triumph. Pursue with effort and perseverance. -Mariane Torres/PIO Baguio Intern/gabykeith

Tourism decline in Baguio this Holy Week

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Rose Frejane A. Cruz BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The decline in tourists in the Summer Capital and neighboring areas of Benguet is being felt this Holy Week. Mayor Benjamin Magalong admitted earlier the decline in tourists after the Panagbenga Festival, which was followed by the gasoline crisis caused by the war in the Middle East. “Our tourist arrivals dropped by 40 to 50 percent during the successive increases in gasoline prices and maybe this Holy Week our tourists might increase by 60 percent, but after this, our tourism will definitely drop again,” Magalong said. He said he spoke to bus companies who actually reduced their trips by 50 percent and even the hotel and transients association and reported that their respective bookings during the Holy Week were low. According to Peter Ng, owner of a large hotel in the city, since the gasoline crisis began until this Holy Week, their hotel bookings have dropped by 40 percent. “This crisis has had a huge impact, not just me, all businesses, big or small, are really feeling the economic downturn. Right now, I have reduced the number of workers, or rather, they are alternates.” Ng stated. Andrew Pinero, spokesperson for the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio, said that bookings at establishments have dropped by about 40 to 50 percent since early March. He said that after the Panagbenga Festival, it is normal for tourist arrivals and hotel bookings to increase during the Holy Week and Summer Vacation, but this year the demand is very low. Occupancy rates that usually reach 80 to 90 percent during the summer have dropped to about 40 percent, reflecting the stress on the local tourism industry. He said that most hotels and restaurants are now using their own tricks such as promos and discounts to attract tourists as the Summer Vacation begins. In the biking area in Burnham Park, where the previous rental fee for a bicycle was P100, it is now only P50 or P100 for two bicycles, to attract the few visitors who come here. In the neighboring town of La Trinidad, where the Strawberry Farm is a tourist hotspot, now the number of tourists here is dwindling. “Before, during this Holy Week, my farm was full of tourists picking strawberries, it was fun to see so many of them, but now it is sad that there are almost no visitors,” stated Marife Agad, farm owner.

Globe promotes the Financial Health of Filipinos facing New Economic Hurdles

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — As the surge in global oil prices and Middle East tensions continue to impact the cost of basic necessities, Globe is doubling down on its mission to provide Filipinos with a digital lifeline. By bridging the gap between basic access and true financial health, the company is empowering citizens to exercise greater prudence and resilience in an increasingly challenging economic landscape. While account ownership in the Philippines grew to 50.2% as of 2024, the current global climate has highlighted the urgency of moving beyond mere access. At the recent Manila Times Economic Forum, World Bank Lead Economist Gonzalo Varela noted that many Filipinos remain in a “vulnerability trap,” where one in four citizens are just one “economic shock”, such as a spike in fuel prices or a sudden illness, away from falling back into poverty. To mitigate these shocks, Globe is aggressively expanding its network to serve as a critical bridge for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) framework for financial health. In an era where every peso is vital, reliable connectivity allows households to practice digital prudence: bypassing expensive transport costs by transacting from home, accessing real-time price monitoring for goods, and building emergency funds via mobile apps to avoid high-interest predatory debt. Strategic Tech Enabler This effort was the focus of a recent high-level discussion between senior leaders from BSP and Globe Telecom. The briefing, attended by BSP Managing Director Eugene C. Teves, centered on technologies that help Filipinos transact more safely and efficiently in today’s digital Philippine economy. By serving as a strategic tech enabler, Globe is helping the BSP build a digital ecosystem where Filipinos can stretch their budgets through more affordable and innovative services. Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer Darius Delgado said: “At Globe, we see ourselves as more than a telco. We provide the ‘rails’ that keep the economy moving. In these times of global volatility, our network acts as a stabilizer, ensuring that commerce and essential services remain accessible and cost-effective for every Filipino.” In direct response to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, Globe recently mobilized roaming goodwill offers to ensure that overseas Filipinos remain connected to their families during this critical time. Globe provided a complimentary roaming package, including 1GB of data, 15 minutes of calls, and 15 SMS, to customers in affected areas such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. For those in Iran and Iraq, Globe extended load assistance and billing adjustments. This initiative underscores Globe’s role as a proactive partner in times of crisis, ensuring that communication remains a bridge for safety rather than an added financial burden. Innovative Deployment Globe is directly tackling the infrastructure hurdles that traditionally drive-up service costs. Through pioneering partnerships with Lynk Global and Starlink, Globe has piloted Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology, allowing standard LTE phones to connect via satellite in remote areas. Additionally, by tapping Transcelestial to roll out 400 wireless laser links, Globe is delivering fiber-class speeds without the need for traditional, costly, and time-consuming trenching. By utilizing these “non-traditional” methods to lower the cost of deployment, Globe aims to pass these efficiencies directly to the consumer. This ensures that even as the prices of physical goods rise, the cost of staying connected and doing business remains within reach for the average family. “Connectivity is the backbone of how people work and save today,” said Carl Cruz, Globe President and CEO. “Our goal is to ensure that our network translates into real-world benefits: consistent service that is affordable enough to help many Filipinos weather the current economic storm.” These local efforts also prepare the country for its broader role in the region. As the Philippines prepares for the 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship and the push for ASEAN Regional Payments Connectivity, Globe’s network ensures the digital ecosystem is ready for faster, cheaper remittances and more efficient cross-border trade—further elevating the Philippines’ standing and protecting the economic interests of its citizens.

180 incidents of child abuse recorded in Baguio in 2025

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Rose Frejane A.Cruz BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The City Social Welfare and Development Office reported a total of 180 incidents of Child Abuse were recorded of which 65 cases were filed, while 115 cases were not filed in the year 2025. In the data, 50 were physical abuse; 31 were incest rape; 23 were sexual abuse; 19 were neglect; 17 were acts of lewdness; 15 were emotional abuse; 12 were sexual molestation; 11 were incest-related rape (RA 11862) and two were Trafficking in Persons. The 180 cases of data in 2025 show a decrease from the 271 reported cases in 2024, where 48 were filed while 223 were not yet filed. In the said data, 53 were, while 117 were female victims, of which 17 belonged to the age group of 0-5; 15 were 6-8 years old; 23 were 9-11 years old; 82 were 12 to 15 years old, and 34 were 16-17 years old. It was further stated that 32 of the perpetrators were unrelated to their victims, while the rest could be family, neighbors, stepmothers, girlfriends, classmates, in-laws, playmates, landlords, family friends and acquaintances. For Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), data from January to December 2025 shows 168 cases of which 24 were female and 144 were male; 129 were students and 39 were OSY. Most of them, 111 belonged to the age group of 12 to 15 years old; while 47 were 16 to 17 years old, and there were five each for the age groups of 9 to 11 and 18 to 20. Their offenses included robbery, physical harm, assault, alleged frustrated murder, slight physical harm, attempted murder, sexual molestation, alleged sexual abuse, alleged rape, carnapping, robbery, rape, murder, grave coercion; alleged statutory rape, robbery, extortion and physical harm. In this regard, interventions are being implemented through coordinated efforts from government agencies while citing data from Child Abuse (CA), Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) and Children at Risk (CaR) cases in 2025 at the recently held first quarter meeting of the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC). These interventions include strengthening child protection systems, community awareness campaigns, support for families at risk, and collaboration with schools and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Medical, financial, food, educational, and livelihood assistance is available through the CSWDO, such as temporary shelter, counseling, psychological first aid, life skills, parenting sessions, value building, and referrals to protective custody. Safety assessment, debriefing, physical examination, referral, transportation, facilitation of sworn statements, and ongoing monitoring are also provided through the Health Services Office (HSO), Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), in coordination with other agencies.

Author name: Street Journal

Brewing heritage: Benguet tribes keep tapuy alive