Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators (PCTO) hereby respectfully submits this statement of concern in light of the prevailing national energy emergency and its significant impact on the telecommunications sector. The PCTO acknowledges the importance of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and its objectives of expanding digital connectivity for all Filipinos. However, in consideration of the extraordinary circumstances currently facing the nation, the PCTO respectfully urges all relevant government agencies and regulators to give immediate and serious attention to the following: EXTENDED AND SPACED POLICY CONSULTATIONS Given the magnitude and urgency of the national energy emergency, the PCTO requests that policy consultations pertaining to the various issues such as the access list, dig once policy, SMPF, infrastructure sharing & cybersecurity and others related to the implementing rules under the Konektadong Pinoy Act be extended and appropriately spaced. Compressed timelines and simultaneous consultation processes place an undue burden on stakeholders whose operational capacities are presently strained. Adequate spacing of consultations will ensure that inputs are substantive, well-considered, and genuinely reflective of the entire industry stakeholders’ position. DUE CONSIDERATION FOR INTERNAL OPERATIONAL AND COST PRESSURES The ongoing national energy emergency has given rise to significant internal challenges for telecom operators, including increased operational costs, supply chain disruptions, workforce constraints, and heightened demand for essential connectivity services. The PCTO respectfully requests that regulators give due consideration to these compounding pressures when crafting and enforcing policy timelines, compliance requirements, and related obligations under the law. 28 th Floor, The Globe Tower, 32 nd Street corner 7 th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig ∙ Tel 7797 4268 ∙ Fax 7797.2697 FULL UTILIZATION OF THE ONE-YEAR SMPF PROMULGATION PERIOD The Konektadong Pinoy Act provides a period of one (1) year for the promulgation of the Spectrum Management and Policy Framework (SMPF). The PCTO strongly appeals for the full and meaningful use of this statutory period to allow for comprehensive consultation, collaborative drafting, and thorough review among all spectrum stakeholders. Rushing the SMPF process risks producing a framework that is inadequately aligned with technical realities, market conditions, and the long-term interests of both industry and the public. MORATORIUM ON POLICY ISSUANCES DURING THE CRISIS PERIOD Considering the foregoing, the PCTO respectfully appeals that, for the duration of the ongoing national energy emergency, the Government refrain from unduly rushing the release of any circular, directive, or policy that would materially affect the telecommunications industry. A moratorium and proper extension of time for stakeholder consultations is not merely a procedural accommodation, it is a practical necessity. The overriding urgency at this time is to ensure that the telecommunications industry remains operational, financially viable, and fully capable of keeping critical telecom infrastructure functional and resilient. Stability in the sector is not an industry interest alone, it is a public interest, as connectivity has proven indispensable in times of national crisis. The PCTO remains committed to working constructively with all government agencies toward the shared goal of advancing digital connectivity for every Filipino.

FULBRIGHT, CHED, DOT launch consortium to position Philippines as global study hub for U.S students

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is officially opening its doors to American students seeking academic credit and cultural immersion in Southeast Asia. The Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP) was officially launched on Tuesday, March 24, in a high-level ceremony led by the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (Fulbright Philippines), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. The initiative unites 15 of the country’s top Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) into a streamlined network, creating a direct pipeline for U.S. universities to send students to the Philippines for short-term courses, semester exchanges, and faculty-led programs. Turning the Tide on Student Mobility For decades, the flow of education has been predominantly one-way, with Filipinos traveling to the U.S. for studies. CSAP seeks to attract more American students by promoting Philippine universities as destinations for study and cultural immersion, positioning the country as a hub for international education. “CSAP is more than just a network; it is a unified national gateway built on four strategic pillars: Standardized Academic Rigor, Uniform Duty of Care, ‘Living Laboratories,’ and Streamlined Mobility,” said July Amador III, Executive Director of Fulbright Philippines. “By providing this structured pathway, we ensure that students and scholars gain not only global-standard academic knowledge but also a deeper appreciation of the cultures and communities that shape our societies.” Jessica Simon, U.S. Embassy Counselor for Public Affairs, affirmed the importance of educational exchanges as a cornerstone of the U.S.-Philippines relationship, especially as the two countries celebrate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. “Today, there is a growing interest among American students to pursue academic and field-based experiences in the Philippines, particularly in marine biology, agriculture, environmental science, and other disciplines.,” Simon said. “Beyond academic growth, at its core, welcoming U.S. students and faculty for cultural exchange and collaborations unite people and cultures. The United States remains committed to deepening our partnership with the Philippines through scholarships and exchanges to empower our people, develop our workforce, and prosper together.” (Left to right) Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Christine Joy E. Cari, U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Counselor for Public Affairs Jessica Simon, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis, Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano, and PAEF Executive Director Julio S. Amador III lead the joint ceremonial button press to officially activate the Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP) digital portal. A Government-Backed Initiative The launch featured keynote support from CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis, who emphasized the importance of the role of CSAP in bringing universities together. “Global education today runs on reliability.” Agrupis stated. “Partner institutions need to know that programs are comparable, credits can be transferred, and students will be supported from admission to completion.” Education Tourism To strengthen education tourism, Asec. Christine Joy Cari mentioned the ongoing transformative projects of DOT. “Through flagship programs such as the Voluntourism and the Philippine Experience Program, a cultural immersion initiative showcasing Filipino heritage and gastronomy across multiple regions, we are providing learners and visitors meaningful engagements with our culture and communities,” she said. The CSAP Network The founding members of CSAP include Ateneo de Davao University, UP Los Baños, UP Visayas, and Silliman University. The consortium offers programs ranging from Marine Biology and Tropical Medicine to Development Studies and Asian Politics. For more information on partner institutions and programs, visit https://csap.fulbright.org.ph Established on March 23, 1948, PAEF is a non-profit, binational organization sponsored by then U.S. and Philippine governments. It is the oldest continuously active Fulbright commission in the world and the oldest international scholarship in the Philippines. PAEF has awarded grants to more than 3,000 Filipinos and close to 1,000 Americans to pursue graduate degree study, teaching, and research in the Philippines and the United States.

SSS further expands social security coverage of JO, COS workers in Northern Luzon

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CiITY, Philippines – The Luzon North 1 Division of the Social Security System (SSS) continues its efforts in 2026 to expand social security coverage and protection of Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) workers from various government agencies through the KaSSSanga Collect Program (KCP). Through newly signed partnerships with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Ilocos Norte and Benguet State University (BSU) in La Trinidad, more than 800 JO and COS workers will be covered as self-employed members, with contributions conveniently deducted from their monthly salaries and remitted to the SSS. “This structured system removes the burden on workers to pay individually and helps ensure consistent contribution remittance to maintain active SSS membership,” SSS Vice President for Luzon North 1 Division Normita Cruz said. Around 127 JO and COS workers from PENRO Ilocos Norte will be registered, with the agency subsidizing P300 of their monthly SSS contributions. At BSU, around 700 workers will also be covered as SSS members, with contributions conveniently deducted from their monthly salaries. Cruz clarified that JO and COS workers in government agencies are not covered under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Law, prompting the need to expand SSS coverage within the professional sector. “Through the KCP, these government workers shall have access to a wide range of SSS benefits, including sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death, and funeral, as well as loan privileges,” Cruz said. The monthly contribution for self-employed members ranges from P760 to P5,280, depending on the member’s declared monthly income. This amount already includes Employees’ Compensation (EC) contribution, which ranges from P10 to P30. “The EC Program provides additional benefits to employed and self-employed members in case of work-related sickness, injury or death,” added Cruz. She encouraged other interested government agencies to participate in the program, noting that SSS branches are open to discuss partnership arrangements and program details. “Interested agencies are always welcome to visit our branches and learn more about the benefits of the KCP. This initiative is a meaningful way to show appreciation and recognition for the valuable contributions of JO and COS workers in advancing governance initiatives,” Cruz concluded.

Grand Ammungan Festival reduced to one-day event amid Austerity Drive

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The 2026 Grand Ammungan Festival (GAF), the annual founding anniversary celebration of the province, will be compressed into a one-day event from its original five-day schedule, in line with a belt-tightening directive from Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, as the provincial government moves to conserve funds and redirect savings into financial assistance for sectors severely affected by the ongoing fuel price crisis linked to global tensions in the Middle East. Festival Director General Eunice Galima -Gambol said the decision reflects a broader austerity program aimed at ensuring that public resources are used prudently while addressing the immediate needs of Novo Vizcayanos grappling with rising costs of basic commodities and transportation. Originally scheduled from May 20 to 25, the Grand Ammungan Festival was set to feature major crowd-drawing events such as the Travel and Tourism Expo, the Saniata ti Nueva Vizcaya pageant, Street Dancing Competition and a grand concert. The downsizing marks a significant shift in what has traditionally been one of the province’s biggest annual celebrations. In her official statement, Gambol underscored that the move was reached after careful deliberation and anchored on principles of unity, prudence, and fiscal discipline. “This will be a modest but meaningful celebration to commemorate the history and spirit of our great province,” she said, noting that her role as a public servant compels her to prioritize the welfare of the people over festivities. She added that resources saved from the scaled-down event would be channeled to critical programs and aid initiatives, particularly for vulnerable sectors bearing the brunt of the economic strain. While the announcement confirms the shift to a one-day observance of the province’s foundation anniversary, Gambol did not specify which activities from the original lineup will be retained or adapted for the condensed program. Despite the scaled-down celebration, Gambol assured the public that the essence of the Grand Ammungan Festival—honoring the rich cultural heritage and unity of Nueva Vizcaya—will remain at the forefront. Gambol also called on residents to remain resilient and united as the province navigates the challenges posed by global economic pressures.

Northern Samar weaves livelihood and opportunities through Abaca

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — In the quiet farms of Northern Samar, abaca is more than just a crop; it is the primary source of income for many Nortehanon families. From planting to stripping the fiber, abaca farming provides food on the table and supports the education of children. Today, the province stands as one of the top abaca producers in Eastern Visayas, supplying nearly 65% of the region’s total output. In 2025 alone, Northern Samar produced 6,766.16 metric tons of fiber, reflecting the strength of an industry built on hard work and dedication. With more than 12,000 hectares of plantations, abaca in Northern Samar has evolved from a traditional crop into a symbol of growth and opportunity. The province has invested in processing centers, farmer training programs, and technical guidance, turning its abaca industry into a hub of livelihood, innovation, and sustainable development that benefits both local communities and the global market. Reinforcing this vision, the Provincial Government through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), in coordination with the Silvino Municipal Tourism Office, conducted a site inspection of Silvino Lubos, known for its rich abaca resources, as part of its initiative to establish the proposed Ibabao Abaca Industrial Park. The proposed site spanning 3 to 5 hectares, provides ample space for processing facilities and support infrastructure. Its strategic location and accessibility make it a strong candidate for abaca-based enterprises while also offering opportunities for farm tourism, such as farm visits, product demonstrations, and cultural experiences that benefit the local community. This initiative highlights the importance of inter-agency support in assessing the viability and potential of the project. With strong production output and emerging industrial opportunities, abaca is seen more than an economic crop but also a lifeline that sustains families, strengthens communities, and shapes the future of Northern Samar. From the hands of dedicated farmers to the industrial hubs, the abaca fiber continues to weave opportunities for generations of Nortehanons. Source: PEDIPO

DAR turns over farm equipment to Ifugao farmers’ group

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

IFUGAO, Philippines — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has turned over P208,000 worth of farm machinery and equipment to a farmers’ organization in Barangay Aduyongan here, aiming to improve productivity and strengthen community-based agriculture. The assistance was granted on March 26 to the Aduyongan Agrarian Reform Farmers Organization (ARFO), an agrarian reform beneficiaries’ group supported by the DAR Provincial Office of Ifugao, led by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Elpidio C. Santos. Funded under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Program (CRFPSP) – Sustainable Livelihood Support for Disaster-Affected Areas (SLSDAA), the package includes two rotavators, two power sprayers, two water pumps, three brush cutters, and one pelletizer machine. Distributed equipment is expected to ease manual labor, speed up farm operations, and increase crop yields among members. “Dagituy nga naited ket arapaap tayo nga maaddaan iti gamit tapno iti kasta ket adda usaren tayo nga agtalon. Ket tatta nga addan, ikkan tayo kuma iti importansya dagituy nga equipment. Sapayla kuma ta babaen agituy nga naited nga FMEs ket ag-increase iti produksyon ti ani tayo nga farmers. Tulungan tayo daytuy nga organization tayo tapno ag thrive ken madi nga ag-fail,” said Barangay Captain Jose Balajo. thanked DAR for the support, saying the equipment had long been a goal of the organization. Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Leonor C. Bascos reminded the group that government assistance comes with responsibility, stressing the need to properly manage and maintain the equipment. She warned that failure to use the equipment effectively could lead to its reassignment to other beneficiaries. An orientation on the proper use of the machinery was conducted following the turnover to promote sustainability and accountability among members. A memorandum and trust agreement was also signed to formalize the responsibilities of both DAR and the farmers’ group in the use and safekeeping of the equipment. The turnover was witnessed by members of the community, including PARCCOM representatives.

SSS assures OFW members in the Middle East of uninterrupted digital access to benefits

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Social Security System (SSS) today assured its members in the Middle East that they can access benefits and services via digital platforms despite escalating regional conflicts. SSS President Robert Joseph M. de Claro highlighted the My.SSS Portal’s reliability, enabling Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and loan applications without interruption, provided they meet qualifying conditions. For example, OFWs who were involuntarily separated can avail of unemployment benefit provided they meet the qualifying conditions and certified by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). “Even in these challenging times, our digital infrastructure ensures seamless service delivery,” de Claro said. “Members in the Middle East need not worry; they can manage their accounts safely from anywhere with internet access.” He noted that SSS pensioners in the region can comply with the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) using the recently launched Facial Authentication feature on the SSS website, www.sss.gov.ph. “A standout innovation is the ACOP Facial Authentication with Liveness Check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere,” de Claro explained. “It reduces fraud risks and eliminates the need for travel amid the current security situation in the Middle East. These tools were purpose-built to empower OFWs, allowing transactions ‘whenever, wherever’ even in crisis zones.” As of December 2025, there are 1,476,645 OFWs covered with the SSS with 540,018 as active paying members. “We remain committed to supporting our OFWs through innovation and resilience, no matter the circumstances,” de Claro concluded.

Ceremonial signing of Deed of Donation marks a milestone for Quezon PPO

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

QUEZON, Philippines – The Ceremonial Signing of the Deed of Donation with Acceptance for a lot for the Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO) was successfully held at the Visitor’s Lounge, Camp BGen Vicente P. Lim, Calamba City, Laguna. The momentous event was graced by PBGen Hansel Marantan, Acting Regional Director of PRO CALABARZON, together with the generous donor, Mrs. Merian H. Reyes, whose invaluable contribution made this milestone possible, alongside PCol Romulo Albacea, Provincial Director of Quezon PPO, and other distinguished guests and police personnel. The donated lot will serve as the future site of a new QPPO building, aimed at enhancing operational capability and strengthening police service delivery in the province of Quezon. Marantan emphasized the importance of community partnership, while Alvacea expressed gratitude to the donor, recognizing the contribution as a vital step toward a more capable and service-oriented police force. The ceremonial signing reflects unity, cooperation, and QPPO’s continued commitment to infrastructure development and effective public service.

Nueva Vizcaya tightens belt as fuel crisis deepens

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

Gov.Gambito warns of ‘Worst-Case Scenario’ By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines -‘ Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has ordered stricter austerity measures across the provincial government, warning of a potential “worst-case scenario” as surging fuel prices continue to strain the economy amid tensions in the Middle East. The directive came during an emergency meeting convened Monday with department heads to map out additional interventions to mitigate the deepening impact of the crisis on both government operations and vulnerable communities. Gambito called for disciplined spending and forward planning, urging officials to brace for prolonged economic strain. “Let us assume that we are moving toward a situation of scarcity. To sustain ourselves, we must save so that we have resources when they are most needed,” he said, stressing that the scenario, while extreme, remains possible if geopolitical tensions persist. Savings generated from the intensified austerity program, he said, will be redirected to fund financial assistance for vulnerable sectors, particularly those still recovering from recent calamities. “Many of our farmers are only beginning to recover from the effects of recent typhoons. Now they are confronted with another crisis,” the governor added. As part of intensified cost-cutting efforts, the provincial government is eyeing the suspension of non-essential programs, projects, and activities (PPAs), particularly those that can be deferred without compromising the office performance. These include capability-building initiatives and certain infrastructure projects that may be implemented in phases. From these measures, the province expects to generate savings, including an estimated ₱5 million specifically from the temporary suspension of capability-building activities. The provincial government is also considering scaling down the Grand Ammungan Festival, with proposals to shorten the celebration from five days to a single-day event. The festival has an allocated budget of ₱15 million, part of which could be realigned under the austerity program. Meanwhile, potential savings of around ₱5 million are being eyed from the temporary suspension of selected capability-building programs Earlier, the provincial government implemented a four-day workweek as an initial austerity measure. Meanwhile, financial assistance for the transport sector is currently being processed, with the provincial government allocating ₱18 million for the program. Additional support initiatives are also underway. The “Bagas ti Umili” program, with a budget of ₱17.2 million, is set to be rolled out next month. This is on top of the ₱80-million rice subsidy program funded by the national government and implemented at the provincial level. Support for the agriculture sector will also continue through the provision of agricultural inputs and seed subsidies. “Our people must feel that in the midst of this crisis, there is a government that genuinely cares for them”, Gov Gambito said. “We are dealing with a a very serious problem that affects everyone—perhaps even more severe than COVID-19. By providing assistance, we aim to restore the purchasing power of our citizens and help revive the local economy”.

Author name: Street Journal

PCTO Calls for measured implementation of Konektadong Pinoy Act amid National Energy Emergency