Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Danny Estacio PAGBILAO, Quezon — Upang maihanda ang dalawang lokal na paaralan sa pagbubukas ng klase, nakiisa ang Therma Luzon, Inc. (TLI), isang subsidiary ng Aboitiz Power Corporation, sa annual n Brigada Eskwela ng Department of Education (DepEd) sa bayan ng Pagbilao, Quezon. Katuwang ng mga mag-aaral, guro, at magulang sa Pagbilao ang mga boluntaryo mula sa TLI sa paghahanda ng mga paaralan. Kabilang sa mga ginawa ang paglilinis ng kampus, pag-aayos ng mga halaman, at pagpipinta ng mga gusali. Ang proyektong ito ay inilunsad sa dalawang paaralan sa Isla Grande: ang Pagbilao Grande Island National High School (PGINHS) at Binahaan Integrated School (BIS). Higit sa karaniwang paglilinis at pagsasaayos, nagbigay tulong din ang AboitizPower sa pamamagitan ng pagpopondo sa pagaayos ng mga pasilidad upang masiguro na ligtas ang kapaligiran para sa pag-aaral ng mga estudyante sa isla. Sa Pagbilao Grande Island National High School (PGINHS), tumulong ang AboitizPower sa pagaayos at pagpapaganda ng covered court ng paaralan. Dahil dito, muling magagamit ang mahalagang pasilidad na ito para sa mga klase sa Physical Education (PE), mga asembleya, at iba pang aktibidad ng mga mag-aaral. Samantala, sa Binahaan Integrated School (BIS) naman, pinondohan ng AboitizPower ang pagpapatayo at pagkakabit ng isang matibay at bagong main gate upang mas mapalakas ang seguridad sa loob ng kampus. “Ang epekto ng mga pagbabagong ito sa imprastraktura ay higit pa sa pagpapaganda ng itsura. Sa pamamagitan ng pagtatayo ng matibay na pangunahing gate sa Binahaan Integrated School, direktang nag-aambag ang AboitizPower upang mas maging ligtas at protektado ang ating kampus para sa ating mga mag-aaral,” pahayag ni Catalino L. Porta, Pagbilao Public School District Supervisor. Ang pakikibahagi ng TLI ay bahagi ng kanilang adbokasya para sa pagtutulungan at katatagan ng komunidad. “Hindi namin ito itinuturing na simpleng pamimigay lang ng donasyon o obligasyon ng kumpanya—ito ay tungkulin na ginagampanan namin kasama ang mga komunidad na aming pinaglilingkuran,” ani Lou Deligencia, AboitizPower AVP for Corporate Services for South Luzon & Metro Manila. “Sa pamamagitan ng paglahok sa Brigada Eskwela, binibigyang-pugay namin ang mga guro, magulang, at mag-aaral na walang pagod na nagsisikap para sa kinabukasan ng ating bansa.” Ang mga aktibidad ng Brigada Eskwela sa Pagbilao ay patunay sa magandang idinudulot ng pagtutulungan ng gobyerno at ng pribadong sektor para sa kapakanan ng mga paaralan at komunidad. Sa pagbubukas ng taong panuruan, hindi lamang mga silid-aralan ang isinaayos, kundi maging ang kolektibong pag-asa para sa isang ligtas, patas, at may kapangyarihang kapaligiran sa pagkatuto.

Puregold’s Lucio Co takes over Villar Group’s PrimeWater in Subic

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

By Ruben A.Veloria SUBIC, Zambales — Crystal Bridges Holding Corporation (CBHC), owned by Puregold Price Club founder Lucio Co, has officially taken over the management and operations of PrimeWater in this municipality. The transition follows CBHC’s 100% acquisition of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.’s stocks from the Villar Group, effectively transferring control of the Subic Water District joint venture as of May 11, 2026. The acquisition was announced during a media briefing attended by senior PrimeWater officials, led by President Engr. Jose Paulino Santamarina and General Manager Engr. Jose Dinulong. Also present were Subic Mayor Jon Khonghun, Zambales 1st District Representative Jay Khonghun, and Subic Water District Chairperson Paulyn Goña. An Apology to Consumers During the briefing, Santamarina apologized to the thousands of local households—representing roughly 35% of Subic’s water consumers—who have been plagued by chronic water shortages. ”We recognize the severe impact these water disruptions have had on local businesses and households,” Santamarina said. “We sincerely apologize to the public for the hardships they have experienced.” To address these issues, Santamarina announced several immediate initiatives to ensure a steady, high-pressure water supply through the dry and rainy seasons alike. The new management’s pipeline for the year includes constructing three new deep wells and replacing aging distribution pipes. Local Leadership Demands Accountability tability Local officials did not hold back their frustration regarding the town’s previous service provider. ”We were completely neglected by PrimeWater,” Subic Mayor Jon Khonghun said in Tagalog. “This must not happen again under Crystal Bridges.” Congressman Jay Khonghun echoed the sentiment, noting that past promises went unfulfilled. “The Villar Group promised us infrastructure development and better services, but nothing was delivered. Under Lucio Co’s leadership, we expect genuine and improved service.” To ensure accountability, Rep. Khonghun, Mayor Khonghun, and Engr. Dinulong have mandated that the new management submit a comprehensive program plan, detailing specific engineering upgrades and project timelines. Funding and Rate Freezes When asked if Co was prepared to heavily invest in the rehabilitation of Subic’s water network, Santamarina assured the public that the necessary capital is already secured. ”Crystal Bridges is fully committed. The resources have been prepared, and the funds are ready,” Santamarina stated. “The new management will settle all outstanding liabilities left behind by the previous operator. We acknowledge the financial obligations required for a total system rehabilitation, and we have sufficient funding to do it.” In a final reassurance to residents, Santamarina pledged a strict rate freeze during the transition period. ”While we work on improving water services across all barangays in Subic, there will be absolutely no water rate increases until all promised upgrades are completed and consumers are fully satisfied with our service,” Santamarina concluded.

SNAP highlights watershed and environmental conservation in observance of World Environment Day

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

In celebration of World Environment Day, SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship through watershed management, reforestation, forest protection, and community-based conservation programs. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, SNAP continues to promote climate resilience and sustainable development in its host communities. Among its major initiatives is SNAP-Magat’s Partnership in Uplifting Upland Natural Resources Livelihoods and Assets (PUNLA), an Upper Magat Watershed Management Program focused on the Province of Ifugao. PUNLA supports enrichment planting, reforestation, and the restoration and rehabilitation of the iconic Ifugao Rice Terraces while engaging local communities in watershed protection and sustainable livelihood activities. To date, PUNLA has rehabilitated and restored 34.3 hectares (ha) in the municipalities of Mayoyao and Banaue, reforested and enriched 100.44 ha of forest areas in Banaue and Hungduan, and established 5 ha of agroforestry farms in Lagawe, Ifugao. These efforts have helped mitigate an estimated 6,722 tons of soil erosion across the Ifugao Province. Complementing these initiatives is SNAP-Benguet and the National Power Corporation’s (NPC) 5-kilometer-radius Technical Cooperation Agreement, which strengthens forest fire prevention and suppression efforts through the establishment of firelines and greenbelts, the provision of firefighting equipment to community volunteers, and logistical support during wildfire response operations. The program maintains at least 13 kilometers of greenbelt areas and 12 kilometers of firebreaks annually, with volunteers deployed to assist various agencies in fire protection activities. SNAP-Benguet also supports the Adopt-a-Watershed Program, which advances NPC’s carbon sequestration objectives and consolidates watershed rehabilitation and protection efforts within a 1,000-hectare watershed area. Under NPC’s Energy Sector Carbon Sequestration Initiative, SNAP completed 42 hectares of its 50-hectare reforestation commitment from 2022 to 2025. SNAP further strengthens forest conservation through the Aboitiz Passion for Agroforest and Reforest to Keep (A-PARK), the Aboitiz Group’s flagship agroforestry and reforestation program. The initiative aims to establish at least 20 hectares annually through the planting of native and fruit-bearing tree species while promoting sustainable land management practices that create both environmental and livelihood benefits for partner communities. As of May 31, 2026, SNAP has planted 487,775 seedlings across 408.34 hectares within its watershed areas from 2008 to 2025, achieving an average survival rate of 91 percent. These efforts form part of the company’s long-term strategy to enhance watershed health, strengthen biodiversity, and support the sustainability of hydroelectric power generation. In support of this year’s World Environment Day observance, anchored on the call for “Now for Climate,” SNAP carried out environmental stewardship activities that promote sustainability and climate action. On June 5, 2026, SNAP-Magat conducted reservoir clean-up drives in Ramon, Isabela, helping protect water resources and surrounding areas. Meanwhile, on June 8, 2026, SNAP-Benguet employees participated in Hug-a-Tree eco-walk activities in Itogon and Bokod, Benguet, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of environmental conservation. Through these collective efforts, SNAP continues to champion environmental responsibility and contribute to building greener, safer, and more resilient communities for future generations.

SM Supermalls extends support through Operation Tulong Express

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — In support of families affected by the recent earthquake in General Santos City, SM City Baguio joins the Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) initiative of SM Supermalls to help provide assistance to impacted communities. Customers and mall visitors may extend their support through cash donations at the Operation Tulong Express donation booth located at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Baguio. Donations gathered through the initiative will go toward relief efforts in coordination with the Philippine Red Cross to help affected families and communities. Those who wish to directly send assistance may also course their donations through the Philippine Red Cross. The initiative reflects a shared effort among communities, partners, and volunteers to help provide timely support and assistance to those affected by the disaster.

A Home and a New Beginning: A Story of Hope through the Pag-abot Program

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

CORDILLERA, Philippines — Hope often reveals itself in the quiet strength of ordinary people. For Alfred Chullag, a Pag-abot beneficiary, hope became the light that carried him through years of hardship. Settled in the mountains of a small rural neighborhood in Barangay Dontogan, Baguio City, Alfred’s story represents one of perseverance. Through every struggle, he remained steadfast—a man whose resilience became the foundation of his family’s success and a better future. Alfred Chullag was born in Bontoc, Mt. Province but was raised in Zambales where his father worked as a miner at the Akoje Mining Company. He lost his eyesight due to a severe case of measles at the age of three, a condition shared by his wife, Aurelia Balittle, who in 2019 married Alfred after being widowed in 2015. Due to their underlying conditions, it makes it challenging for them to find a regular job. Alfred has previously completed training in massage therapy, however this skill did not translate into viable work due to his physical frailty and weak hand strength limiting him from performing tasks required in that field. This has led to Alfred’s frequent busking in the public streets which he did for more than 10 years especially along Session Road regardless of his safety, visual disability, advanced age and the local government’s prohibition against such activities. His persistence to continue busking stems not from the disregard of the regulations but from the pressing need to provide for his family. Alfred also lives with step-son, Aurelmar, who continues to pursue his education in accordance with his parent’s wishes despite their difficult circumstances. His days living on the streets living off busking were about to come to an end when on 07 May 2025, he was approached by a team from the Pag-abot Program during a profiling and reach-out activity. Through the intervention of the Pag-abot’s social workers, Alfred expressed his desire to receive appropriate support to avoid returning to street-based activities and improve his living conditions. Alfred received financial assistance from the program amounting to PhP 10,000.00 which signified his start to a more dignified quality of life. Alfred’s situation improved after the Pag-abot Program reached out and assessed his family’s needs. He received PhP 60,000.00 worth of Livelihood Assistance, which enabled his family to start a rug-making business and eventually expanded into a LPG and water-retailing business. Alfred also received assistance from DSWD’s partners including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) which provided trainings in Basic Bookkeeping, Financial Literacy and Business Registry Assistance and Processing. These initiatives helped provide the knowledge and skills Alfred and his family need to sustain and expand their livelihood despite their disability and economic situation. Looking back at the time he spent on the streets to where he is now, Alfred shared: “Pagyanamak iti dagitoy DSWD Pag-abot Program ta tinulungan dak met uray kaskasanu, ada met iti kasla ma-irikrikos met nga pagalalaen ti kwan nu awan pay kurang nga kwan ket inararereg da ken kasta met agyamanak met kadakayo nga social worker nga nang tulong ken dakami ta nu awan kayo ket siguro talaga nga rigak, haan mi amo ti pangalaan mi ti kwa. (I am very thankful for the Pag-abot Program for helping me by providing the means me and my family need to live and for the investment for our business. I am also thankful for the social workers of the Pag-abot Program who helped me. Without them I would still be experiencing hardship because even through busking we were not able to live off of that.)” Alfred hopes to inspire his fellow beneficiaries still living in the streets. “Dakayo met nga kakadwak nga kwan, haan kayo nga madanagan ta nu bilang man ada met ti mangkwan kadakayo tulungan dakayo dagitoy DSWD Pag-abot Program tapnu nu kasta ket haan tayo unay marigatan. ‘(To my fellow beneficiaries and visually impaired, do not worry because there is always help like the DSWD Pag-abot Program who will make sure that we do have a hard time living.)’” Alfred Chullag’s journey is a testament that hope can still be found even in the most difficult circumstances. From spending years surviving through busking on the streets despite his disability and old age, he and his family are now slowly building a more stable and dignified life through perseverance, community support, and the assistance provided by the Pag-abot Program. Further, Alfred and Aurelia are now active members of a Persons with Disabilities organization in the city, demonstrating their commitment to community engagement and support. Alfred’s story is a reminder that the struggle for daily survival can turn into an opportunity for growth, self-reliance, and renewed purpose, with the right support such as the Pag-abot Program. #Sky P. Aguinaldo, Project Development Officer II

SBMA, BJMP R3 to assist PRLs blend with workforce

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – A partnership that will help Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) blend back into the country’s workforce was signed between the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office III (BJMPRO-III). SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the Workplace Reintegration Program for Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) with BJMP Region 3 Director Jail Chief Superintendent (JCSupt) Ma. Annie A. Espinosa, at the SBMA Administration Building on June 4, 2026. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator Atty. Ramon O. Agregado, SBMA Labor Department Manager Atty. Melvin Varias, BJMPPO Zambales administrator JSupt Ferdinand G. Malabo, and officials of the Olongapo District Jail witnessed the signing. Aliño said that the agreement establishes a Workplace Reintegration Program to enhance public safety and extend rehabilitative or reformative efforts to PRLs or those released from incarceration. “Personally, I am a firm supporter of programs that aim to reintegrate PRLs as reformed and productive members of mainstream society. I strongly believe that it is not only our civic responsibility but more importantly, a just and humane act of service to our fellowmen,” he said. The program facilitates social mainstreaming and productivity by creating employment opportunities within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone through qualified skills-matching. Last year, the SBMA also entered into an agreement with the Department of Justice-Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA) for a workplace reintegration program for parolees, probationers, and pardonees. “In fact, that partnership or agreement made the SBMA the first government-owned and controlled corporation to support the DOJ-PPA’s workplace reintegration plan. Among our earlier initiatives toward this end was the promotion of inclusive employment,” Aliño said. Meanwhile, Espinosa said the agreement is a significant step toward strengthening the PDL’s reintegration into society. She added that the activity emphasizes both institutions’ shared commitment to support reformation beyond incarceration by creating pathways to meaningful and sustainable employment. “By opening doors to legitimate work opportunities, the agreement seeks to empower PDLs with dignity, purpose, and a renewed sense of responsibility as they transition back into society,” she cited. “Through this milestone partnership, the BJMPRO-III and the SBMA reaffirm their dedication to transforming lives, fostering hope, and creating a more inclusive community where reformation is matched with real opportunities for growth and success.”

P20-M PSC grant boosts athletes quarters project

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed his gratitude for the ₱20 million funding support from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), led by Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, saying that it will help complete the city’s athletes’ quarters, a project that had previously faced funding shortages. Magalong also shared that the city has submitted a proposed ₱50 million program of work to the Philippine Sports Commission. The proposal includes the rehabilitation of the swimming pool at the Athletic Bowl and the installation of a heating facility to improve training conditions for swimmers. Plans are also underway to develop the city’s athletic bowl into a regional training center, creating more opportunities for both local and national athletes and strengthening sports development efforts across the region. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio visited Baguio City and reaffirmed his strong commitment to sports development and youth empowerment. During the Flag Raising Ceremony held on June 8, 2026, at Baguio City Hall, Chairman Gregorio delivered an inspiring message highlighting Baguio’s role as a transformative city and a model for sports excellence in the Philippines. In support to the city’s dedication to athletics and sports development, the Philippine Sports Commission donated ₱20 million to support Baguio City’s sports programs and initiatives. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, together with other city officials, formally received the check on behalf of the city government. The funding will help enhance local sports facilities, nurture aspiring athletes, and further strengthen Baguio’s position as a premier sports tourism and training destination. In addition to the financial assistance, the PSC also donated basketballs and volleyballs for distribution to barangays, reinforcing its mission of bringing sports closer to communities and creating more opportunities for young Filipinos to participate in sports and physical activities. This support underscores the PSC’s commitment to empowering local government units and investing in grassroots sports development. Through continued collaboration and investment, Baguio City remains a shining example of excellence in Philippine sports and youth development. – Ariel Biala

Cebu Pacific wins Marketing Team of the Year, Grand Prix at Tambuli Awards

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) received three major honors at the 2026 Asia Pacific Tambuli Awards on June 5, earning recognition for its purpose-driven marketing initiatives that promote tourism, cultural preservation, and community development. The airline was named Marketing Team of the Year for its “Fly to Your Happy Philippines” campaign and received two awards for “Flight Patterns”, including a Grand Prix in the Builders of Society – Arts, Culture, and Heritage category, and a Silver award in the Builders of Society – Tambuli Origins category. Organized by the University of Asia and the Pacific, the Asia Pacific Tambuli Awards is an annual program that recognizes brands, organizations, and individuals that achieve business success while creating a positive impact on society. “Since the beginning, Cebu Pacific’s vision has always been to help build a stronger Philippines by connecting communities, celebrating cultures, and creating opportunities through travel. We thank our partners for helping us bring this vision to life through campaigns that put the Philippines on the global tourism map,” said Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer. “This recognition reenergizes us to create even more meaningful impact with the communities, partners, and teams we work with.” The Marketing Team of the Year award recognizes teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration, creativity, and excellence in developing and executing purpose-driven marketing programs. The CEB Marketing team, led by its director Michelle Eve De Guzman, is only the second winner of the category after it was first awarded last year. CEB earned the distinction through “Fly to Your Happy Philippines”, a campaign that leverages traveler insights from different countries to showcase the diverse ways people experience happiness when traveling to the Philippines. As part of the campaign, CEB became the first Philippine company to take over Dubai’s Burj Khalifa with a “Fly to Happy, Fly to the Philippines” lights and sound display. CEB also launched various activations at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan, Seongsu neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, and Orchard Road in Singapore which showcased the warmth of Filipino hospitality and the country’s diverse destinations to a global audience. The success of the campaign underscored the extensive work undertaken by the CEB Marketing team, from consolidating global insights and coordinating with international government organizations to collaborating with marketing and media agencies, as well as international influencers. These efforts helped bring the Philippines closer to travelers from the airline’s 15 international markets. Meanwhile, “Flight Patterns” received the Grand Prix for Builders of Society – Arts, Culture, and Heritage, the highest honor for this category which recognizes initiatives that foster appreciation and awareness of culture and creativity, as well as the Silver Award for Builders of Society – Tambuli Origins, which honors campaigns that highlight and preserve local traditions, values, and cultural identity. “Flight Patterns” brought traditional weaving heritage into everyday travel spaces through scannable QR codes placed on billboards along major thoroughfares, at airports nationwide, and in select magazines, shining a light on the Filipino weaving communities and artisans whose stories inspired the campaign. Each code features five weaving traditions from across the country: Ilocos Norte’s Binakol, Occidental Mindoro’s Ramit, Iloilo’s Hablon, Antique’s Patadyong, and Basilan’s Tennun. Scanning the codes allowed travelers to learn more about each weave, the destinations where they originate, and the communities that make them, sparking greater appreciation for the rich weaving traditions and artisans that continue to keep this important part of Philippine culture alive. The campaign was made possible through collaborations with key partners, including the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute. This latest recognition builds on CEB’s strong showing at the Tambuli Awards. In 2024, Iyog was named Chief Marketing Officer of the Year, recognizing her leadership in advancing the airline’s purpose-driven marketing initiatives.

Baguio supports Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Baguio city government has supported the proposed Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill filed by Albay 1st District Rep. Krisel Lagman, calling it a significant step toward strengthening public health protection nationwide. Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the bill is a timely and necessary step that will build on the efforts of local government units like Baguio City which has long been recognized for its leading smoke-free policies. He said, “I have always believed that we must do what is right. This principle has shaped our governance in Baguio, especially in our long-standing commitment to protect public health and promote a smoke-free environment. According to Magalong, Baguio’s smoke-free program was built through decades of consistent policy action, including the enactment of anti-smoking ordinances, stronger local laws, executive issuances, and ongoing enforcement campaigns. He said the city’s experience has shown that smoke-free and vaping-free policies are effective in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, protecting youth from nicotine addiction, and creating healthier public spaces. The proposed national measure aims to institutionalize smoke-free and vaping-free environments in public places and workplaces, harmonize policies nationwide, and strengthen local enforcement efforts. Magalong emphasized that while the local initiative, a unified national framework is needed to close the implementation gaps and ensure uniform protection for all Filipinos. The city, through the Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force, joined in the formal filing of the bill in the House of Representatives on June 1 with members of the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement. Magalong said the city is proud to have its anti-smoking ordinance recognized as a pioneering law that served as a model for other local governments and is now helping shape the proposed national law. “The right to clean air and public health must be protected not only locally but also nationwide,” the mayor said, adding that Baguio is ready to share best practices and lessons learned to support the implementation of the measure once it becomes law. The bill aims to provide stronger protection against cigarette smoke and vape aerosols in all public places, especially in areas frequented by children and youth.

Author name: Street Journal

Aboitiz Power, sanib-pwersa sa Brigada Eskwela 2026 sa Pagbilao, Quezon