Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

As the Philippines observes Fire Prevention Month, communities are reminded that safety begins with vigilance, preparedness, and collective responsibility. MANILA, Philippines — In the heart of Manila’s 5th District, quiet heroism thrives. Every cry of fire sets off a chain of swift, coordinated action from the San Andres Manila Fire and Rescue Volunteer Association, Inc. (SAMFRVAI). For decades, these volunteers have answered the call—not for recognition or reward, but for the safety and well-being of the communities they serve. Their mission was strengthened in January 2025 when Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) supported the brigade with an 8,000-liter capacity fire tanker, enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies. For volunteers like John Michael Reyes, Fire Marshal Director and Public Information Officer with 31 years of service, and James Paul Benzon, Training Officer, Officer-in-Charge, and Director with 27 years in the brigade, the additional equipment represents more than just an operational upgrade—it reinforces their commitment to serve. “The tanker is a symbol of trust and partnership,” Reyes says. “Every deployment must be professional, purposeful, and with care. It reminds us that our responsibility is to the community.” For Philip Francisco U. Dy, President of MBFI, the partnership reflects the importance of supporting responders and promoting preparedness among the public. “Fire Prevention Month reminds us that safety is a shared responsibility. By supporting community-based responders like SAMFRVAI, we hope to empower those on the frontlines while encouraging every household to remain vigilant and prepared.” Brotherhood and Empowerment In the face of danger, courage is rarely a solitary act. Among the volunteers of San Andres, strength comes from unity. “We encourage each other, empower each other to do better,” Reyes shares. “When someone feels unsure, the others guide them, mentor them, remind them that no one faces the fire alone.” This spirit of camaraderie runs deep within the brigade. Each firefighter understands that their safety and success depend on the people beside them. In moments when the stakes are high and decisions must be made in seconds, trust becomes their most valuable asset. Benzon echoes this sentiment, explaining that encouragement within the team goes beyond words. “Knowing that your fellow volunteers are ready to support you gives you the confidence to face danger head-on,” he says. The San Andres brigade, Reyes says, is more than an organization. “It is a family. Every member’s life depends on the other. Together, we motivate one another, lift each other up, and celebrate every small success.” The San Andres fire volunteers respond to a fire incident under Task Force Bravo at NIA Road, Brgy. Pinyahan, Quezon City on March 6, 2026. Passion for Service “Being a fire volunteer is not easy,” Reyes admits. “You face adrenaline, chaos, and sometimes hostility at the scene. Yet, what drives us is the passion to serve—helping others, protecting homes, and saving lives.” For Benzon, the motivation is simple but profound. “It’s about commitment to the community, not recognition,” he says. “Every mission reminds us why we began volunteering in the first place.” Through years of responding to emergencies, the volunteers have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of fires—and the life-saving difference that preparedness, teamwork, and quick action can make. The fire tanker provided through MBFI’s support has also expanded the brigade’s ability to assist communities during emergencies. Its stainless-steel tank allows it to deliver clean water during shortages and other urgent situations. “With the new tanker, our reach expanded,” Benzon explains. “It’s not just about putting out fires. It’s about extending our service wherever help is needed.” (From left to right) The San Andres fire volunteers respond to fire incidents at F. Alarcon St., Brgy. Maysan, Valenzuela City (March 2, 2026) and Brgy. 898, Punta Sta. Ana, Manila (March 1, 2026). Facing the Real Dangers The challenges faced by firefighters are immense. In many parts of Manila, narrow streets and densely populated communities make firefighting particularly difficult. Every second counts, and every decision matters. Yet according to Reyes, one of the most overlooked dangers is not the fire itself. “Many people think flames are the biggest threat,” he explains. “But most lives are lost because of smoke and suffocation. That’s why every escape plan, every safety measure, and every fire drill is important.” Fire Prevention Begins at Home While firefighters stand ready to respond to emergencies, Reyes and Benzon emphasize that preventing fires in the first place is everyone’s responsibility. Simple safety practices can make a significant difference—checking electrical wiring, unplugging unused appliances, properly monitoring LPG tanks, and conducting evacuation drills with family members. “Fire prevention is a mindset,” Benzon explains. “It’s about being vigilant every day, not just during Fire Prevention Month. Safety should always come first.” The True Rewards of Service Despite the dangers and long hours, the volunteers find fulfillment in the lives they protect and the communities they serve. “The gratitude of a family safe from harm—that is our reward,” Reyes reflects. He also takes pride in mentoring younger members of the brigade, helping them develop the skills and discipline needed to carry on the mission in the years ahead. For Benzon, the meaning of their work remains clear. “We do this for our brothers and sisters in the community,” he says. “We give back without expecting anything in return. And when a life is saved, that is reward enough.” A Shared Responsibility The life of a fire volunteer demands courage, sacrifice, and commitment to service. Yet the responsibility for safety does not rest on firefighters alone. Communities also play a vital role in preventing tragedies. Being alert and mindful—at home, in school, or in the workplace—can save lives. Participating in fire drills, maintaining safe electrical systems, and practicing emergency preparedness are small but powerful steps that everyone can take. For the fire volunteers of San Andres, every alarm is a reminder of their mission: to protect, to serve, and to stand ready when their community needs them most. And through their courage, dedication, and brotherhood, they continue to inspire others

TOUR OF LUZON 2026

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

𝟓𝟖 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐅𝐖𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐮𝐞𝐯𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐳𝐜𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐏𝟏𝐌 𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐖𝐖𝐀 𝐚𝐢𝐝

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in coordination with the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya, distributed close to P1 million worth of assistance to 58 distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The payout ceremony was held at the Old FTM Building in Bayombong and facilitated with support from the Public Employment Service Division (PESD). Beneficiaries received various forms of support, including medical and livelihood assistance. The family of a deceased OFW from Aritao was also granted burial and death benefits. PESD chief Dolly Rose Minas urged distressed OFWs, including those recently repatriated due to tensions in the Middle East, to register at the OFW Welfare Center located at the provincial capitol. “Registration will help establish a database of OFWs in need, allowing authorities to provide timely and appropriate assistance,” Minas said. Board Member Flodemonte Gerdan, representing Governor Jose V. Gambito, cited the importance of sustained government intervention for OFWs and disclosed plans of Gov Gambito to establish a One-Stop Shop integrating services of OWWA and the Department of Migrant Workers. OWWA Regional Director Virsie Tamayao reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to OFW welfare and thanked the provincial government for providing office space that would enhance service delivery in the province.

Globe CEO showcases AI‑Driven Transformation and Digital Inclusion at MWC 2026

Business

Business / Street Journal

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz discussed how AI serves as a strong catalyst for transformation within Globe at The Great Indoors Podcast, hosted by Matthew Roberts, Customer Marketing Head of Amdocs, during the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. Cruz shared insights on Globe’s digital inclusion journey and its mission to make connectivity an enabler for progress in the Philippines. Now in its 12th season, The Great Indoors explores how storytelling drives technological innovation and bridges the gap between complex advancements like AI and the human experience. Cruz’s participation highlighted Globe’s evolving role from a telco to a trusted lifestyle partner, enabling education, livelihood, healthcare, and digital inclusion across the country. Reflecting on his first year as CEO, describing it to be both humbling and energizing, Cruz emphasized Globe’s commitment to customer‑centricity, sustainability, and partnerships that expand universal access. He underscored how initiatives such as AI‑driven personalization, disaster response, and collaborations with global partners like Starlink and Amdocs are shaping a more inclusive digital future for Filipinos “With the Philippines being an archipelagic nation of over 7,600 islands, serving 65 million customers has both challenges and opportunities. This is where our recent Starlink partnership announcement on direct‑to‑device satellite technology becomes transformative. By complementing mobile and fiber with satellite, we can now reach the remaining 4% of the population living in mountainous and remote areas, bringing our coverage closer to 100%. This breakthrough ensures that even the most underserved communities can finally participate in the digital world, access government services online, and be fully connected,” said Cruz. Globe is redefining customer centricity in the digital‑first era by investing in AI‑driven care, self‑service platforms, and proactive network monitoring to resolve issues before they disrupt lives. Central to this commitment is the GlobeOne App, which empowers subscribers to manage accounts, track usage, pay bills, and access hyper‑personalized offers seamlessly, placing control and convenience directly in the hands of every customer. Cruz also underscored the company’s proactive stance against online risks, noting that Globe was among the first operators globally to stop sending SMS messages containing links as early as five years ago. This pioneering move was designed to shield subscribers from potential scams and malicious content. The initiative reflects Globe’s broader mission to go beyond providing connectivity by educating and informing subscribers on digital safety. “Being truly customer‑centric means ensuring that our subscribers are safe in the digital space,” he said. “We operate in a world where connectivity is essential, but protection is equally critical. That’s why Globe made the call years ago to block SMS messages with links, and since 2021, we have successfully prevented more than 12 billion spam and scam messages from reaching our customers. It’s second nature to us because safeguarding our subscribers is part of our responsibility as a trusted network.” Cruz likewise pointed to Globe’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, describing it not as an HR agenda but as a business philosophy. By ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the Filipino population, Globe strengthens its customer‑centric culture and ability to serve varied needs across the nation. Cruz reaffirmed the company’s mission to create a safer digital space, uplift the lives of every Filipino by building meaningful connections, relentless care for customers and its people, and committing to the nation’s progress through innovation and inclusivity.

LU showcases vibrant wildlife through Birdwatching

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION, Philippines — The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) through the Provincial Government – Environment and Natural Resources Office showcased La Union’s vibrant wildlife through birdwatching activity, held recently as part of the celebration of World Wildlife Day. Around 40 nature enthusiasts, environmental advocates and local partners gathered for an orientation before the birdwatching activity in the forest area outside the Naguilian Watershed Forest Reserve in Barangay Casilagan, Naguilian, and in the mangrove wetland of Bauang Bakawan Eco Park in Barangay Parian Oeste, Bauang, La Union. The activity produced impressive results, with 26 bird species and 65 bird counts recorded in Naguilian, including Gray-faced Buzzard and the Philippine Serpent Eagle. In Bauang, they documented 12 bird species with 31 bird counts, including waterbirds like the White-winged Tern, Great and Little Egret, and White-breasted Waterhen. They also spotted endemic species such as the Scale-feathered Malkoha, Guaiabero, Philippine Hanging Parrot, Philippine Coucal, Philippine Pied Fantail, Red-keeled Flowerpecker, Philippine Magpie-Robin, Philippine Jungle Crow, Garden Sunbird, and Philippine Swiftlet. Migratory and resident species were also sighted, namely Brown Shrike from Siberia, Korea, and China; Gray-faced Buzzard from Japan, China, and Russia; Arctic Warbler from Alaska, Siberia, and Japan; Blue-tailed Bee-eater from Southeast Asia; the Eastern Cattle Egret from Japan; Zebra Dove and Arctic Warbler. The presence of these species served as a testament to the province’s healthy ecosystem, and acted as bioindicators of clean water sources, healthy riverbank vegetation, mature and relatively undisturbed forest, showing that natural environment matters for communities and wildlife. Jesley Angelo Mariñas and Ms. Nesfena Wal-lit of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office – La Union, Mr. Randall Brioso and Mr. Daryl Dacumos of Region 1 EcoBird Guides (BILLIT Org) and Dr. Jocelyn A. Floresca of Wild Bird Photographers of the Philippines were among the participants who gathered to witness the province’s rich wildlife. The PGLU’s commitment on environmental stewardship and effective conservation is reflected in the thriving ecosystem of the province, and it continues to promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts, ensuring community involvement while embodying the spirit of Agkaysa for a sustainable La Union.

Woman leader sees intimate relationship as key factor for cooperation with Tinongdan farmers

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

BENGUET, Philippines — Even with the advent of technology that helps improve production in the field of agriculture, the presence of agriculture extension workers in every barangay, municipality, province, and even cities has proven to be an important part in the process of effecting positive change, particularly in the lives of farmers in the communities and their families. Leonora Carpio, a Barangay Agriculture Extension Worker (BAEW) and a woman leader of Tinongdan in Itogon, Benguet, practices participatory methods, recognizes and respects gender, identifies indigenous needs and problem solutions, and serves as a link for their local farmers to have access to programs and projects offered by the government such as the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera including the private sector. As a woman leader, Leonora reiterates that her connection to her constituents is often an intimate relationship and one which demands much tact and resourcefulness. Being an agent for change, she intervenes to bring about change to help improve the lives of their farmers and their families. Her intimate relationship among her constituents has allowed her to encourage their farming community to adopt the use of technology. As an extensionist, Leonora tries her best to make her constituents become aware of latest innovations and persuade them on the usefulness or importance of new technologies. “Our continuous encouragement and assistance to our farmers in Barangay Tinongdan to consider the innovations and technologies introduced by the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera have assisted our farmers in improving their production of agricultural products even on a family consumption level. But what is important is that these agricultural products are produced safely,” Leonora said. Aside from being a BAEW of Tinongdan, this woman leader is also a practicing farmer engaged in integrated farming by producing rice, vegetables, and ducks in their family’s farm, which also produces heirloom rice. She is proud to share that a greater number of the registered farmers in their barangay are composed of women. “Of the 1,200 farmers registered in the barangay, majority of these farmers are women who are engaged in the production of rice, high-value crops, coffee, and corn that follow good agricultural practices. Even in our coordination meetings, most of the participants are women farmers who eagerly attend the said activity, to be aware and informed of the latest programs and projects of DA-CAR,” Leonora explained. She also does her best to be an intermediary between researchers and farmers, and diagnoses problems of their constituents by advising them on how to resolve these challenges and difficulties. “As we continue to follow good agricultural practices in our production of agricultural products, we remind our fellow farmers to prioritize the production of sufficient food for their families. Being one of the Barangay Agriculture Extension Workers of Tinongdan, we constantly notify our farmers on maintaining their production of agricultural products without using chemicals, and for them to be aware of interventions available from DA-CAR to improve their efficiency, productivity, overall livelihood, while reducing possible environmental impact,” Leonora added. Tinongdan’s main source of income is agriculture, with the agricultural system ranging from the intensive type of wet rice planting to slash-and-burn cultivation of both grain and root crops. Significantly, taro and sweet potato are among the most preferred root crops, with taro considered very important to the Iwak tribe of the barangay as both a staple food and for ritual purposes. Most residents of Tinongdan rely on agriculture for subsistence, including backyard gardening, mango production, and livestock raising. Other sources of income include gold panning, small and medium enterprises, and ecotourism. Despite producing agricultural products primarily for subsistence, Leonora reiterates to her fellow farmers the importance of not selling their produce to ensure the availability of food for their families and their barangay. At the same time, staying true to the values and work ethic instilled in them by their ancestors, and ensuring that their legacy in agriculture lives on. // JTLlanes

Borongan City to boost coastal resilience and biodiversity with CRC-NURTURE Project

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

ð— ð—®ð˜†ð—¼ð—¿ ð—”ð—´ð—±ð—® ð—½ð—¿ð—²ð˜€ð—²ð—»ð˜ð˜€ ð—½ð—¿ð—¼ð—½ð—¼ð˜€ð—®ð—¹ ð—¶ð—» ð—Ÿð—²ð—®ð—¿ð—»ð—¶ð—»ð—´ ð—®ð—»ð—± ð—–ð—¹ð—¼ð˜€ð—²-ð—¼ð˜‚ð˜ ð—²ð˜ƒð—²ð—»ð˜ BORONGAN CITY, Philippines — The City of Borongan is nearing the fruition of its enhanced nature-based solutions (NbS) to community climate risks with the Learning and Project Close-Out event held for the Climate Resilient Cities – Nature-based Urban Resilience Through Unifying and Responsive Engagement (CRC – NURTURE) project in Legazpi City from March 16-18. One of the highlights of the event was its “Learning from Cities” component, where Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda served as a panelist alongside Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail and Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso. In his presentation, Mayor Agda shared Borongan’s existing NbS solutions, including its Former Rebels to Forest Rangers program, tree-planting requirement for civil unions, and engagements with the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund and the People’s Survival Fund, among others. He also expressed his gratitude to the CRC-NURTURE collective for choosing Borongan as one of its project recipients, noting that their support will be instrumental in realizing Borongan’s vision of an inclusive climate resilience plan that harnesses its natural resources as part of the holistic risk solution. On Day 3 of the close-out event, Mayor Agda, CENRO Head For. Jojito Acla, and City Administrator Atty. Romeo Alexis Devora joined the visit to Ibalong Park, where they each planted saplings to demonstrate their commitment to the CRC-NURTURE partnership. The three-day event was likewise attended by CRS Country Representative Mr. Jonas Tetangco; Director Elenida Basug of the DENR Climate Change Service; CRS Head of Programming Ms. Maria Conception Nobleza; Director Ibani Padao of the DHSUD – Environmental, Land Use, and Urban Planning and Development (ELUPD) Bureau; and Mr. Alan Silayan, CRC Project Chief of Party. As part of its undertaking with CRC-NURTURE, the Borongan City Government submitted a proposal for the upgrading of its native beach forest nursery along Baybay Boulevard that is set to provide a steady supply of indigenous seedlings for coastal forest expansion, on top of the development of an adjacent green open space that will serve as a community hub for tourism and recreation. Aside from its proposed two-component Baybay Boulevard project, Borongan’s partnership with CRC-NURTURE also bore positive outcomes in a series of capacity-building initiatives. The risk communication workshop held at Prim Hotel from February 24-26, in particular, is slated to roll out its IEC materials to select climate risk-vulnerable Borongan communities. CRC – Nurture is an initiative funded by the United Kingdom’s Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) Program aimed at boosting climate resilience in Philippine cities by co-creating inclusive and nature-based solutions that empower local communities. Borongan is one of only three cities across the country selected by the CRC-NURTURE team to receive its support in mounting localized nature-based solutions and capacity-building projects, joining Zamboanga and Legazpi City. (Borongan City-PIO)

Dizon’s second visit assures infra completion in Naga City

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

NAGA CITY, Philippines — Aside from assuring the Naga City government of his support for the completion of major infrastructure projects, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon also vowed to continuously implement the national government’s Oplan Kontra Baha in the city. On March 17, Dizon, along with Naga Mayor Leni Robredo, inspected the 500-meter MT Villanueva Avenue (formerly Liboton Street), where the city government plans to make the area pedestrian-friendly. This will be done by improving mobility and safety, especially for students whose schools are located along the avenue, through the expansion of sidewalks, installation of bike lanes, and planting of trees on both sides of the road to provide shade for passers-by. No vehicle will be allowed to park along any portion of the stretch once the project is completed. Robredo, however, said that a public consultation will first be conducted before finalizing the design. Ken Abante of Safe and Sound Cities Naga said that Neil Bartolome, a colleague, was tasked to undertake social preparations and tactical urbanism efforts. This means that the project’s trial phase will be led by young individuals, who will also take the lead in conducting public consultations and other social preparations. Bartolome’s group is involved in the Naga City Tactical Urbanism Project. Safe and Sound Cities–Naga, in collaboration with the LGU-Naga (PSO, CEPPIO, CEO, CENRO, CPDO, and the Urban Mobility Council), the Naga City People’s Council (NCPC), the Naga City Art and Culture Coalition (NCACC), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), joined the field survey along MT Villanueva Avenue in Liboton (Magsaysay Extension). The inspection aimed to identify key areas that can be improved to enhance the commuting experience of both commuters and drivers along MT Villanueva. The project is expected to begin next week. The mayor and the DPWH secretary were accompanied by a team of engineers and personnel from the DPWH Regional Office and the 3rd District Engineering Office in Camarines Sur. Mayor Robredo also said they visited the Bicol River Esplanade project in Barangay Mabolo to check on the ongoing desilting operations in flood-prone areas. The desilting is being supervised by DPWH personnel as part of the implementation of the national government’s Oplan Kontra Baha. These efforts focus on areas where floodwaters are unable to pass during heavy rains. The third stop of Secretary Dizon’s team was Julian Meliton Elementary School in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, which experiences severe flooding during heavy rains due to a defective drainage system clogged with garbage and hardened mud. Stagnant floodwaters were also observed in nearby waterways due to improper waste disposal. Dizon and the inspection team were also briefed on ongoing clearing and declogging operations behind two large commercial establishments in one of the city’s business districts. Flooding in the area has been attributed to the improper dumping of waste into natural waterways during the construction of the malls. The team also inspected portions of the Naga River and Sagop Creek, which are currently being cleared of garbage and other obstructions. It may be recalled that Oplan Kontra Baha was launched in Naga City in February 2026, with President Marcos Jr. leading the initiative. I via Jason Neola

P20-M marijuana plantation dismantled in Nueva Vizcaya

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday DUPAX DEL SUR, Nueva Vizcaya — Law enforcement authorities uprooted and destroyed an estimated ₱20 million worth of marijuana plants following the discovery of a hidden plantation in a remote upland area here on Tuesday, March 17. The operation, carried out in Sitio Gunot, Barangay Kimbutan, was led by the Dupax del Sur Municipal Police Station under Police Major Anthony Ayungo, in coordination with the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, the Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the Provincial Drug Enforcement Agency(PDEA). Police said the marijuana plantation was discovered by operatives on the afternoon of March 16 while conducting monitoring operations in Sitio Gunot. The discovery prompted immediate verification, which confirmed the presence of the illegal cultivation site, leading authorities to swiftly launch an operation to dismantle the plantation and identify those responsible. A total of 10,311 marijuana plants were uprooted from a 1,200-square-meter site. Authorities noted that a significant portion of the crop was already mature and nearing harvest, while the rest were in various stages of growth. Ayungo said the plantation showed clear indications of organized cultivation, with the terrain deliberately prepared for planting. Its remote location—accessible only after more than an hour of trekking—suggested a calculated effort to avoid detection. No individuals were apprehended during the operation. However, investigators observed signs that the plants had been recently sprayed, indicating that the cultivators may have fled shortly before authorities arrived. Sufficient samples were collected and preserved for submission to the Provincial Forensic Unit (PFU) for laboratory examination, while the remaining plants were destroyed at the site through burning. Police have launched follow-up investigations to identify those behind the illegal operation and to file appropriate charges. Authorities described the operation as a major setback to illegal drug production in the province, underscoring that the destruction of the plantation prevented the circulation of prohibited substances in surrounding communities. The Philippine National Police also assured that sustained monitoring and surveillance operations will be conducted in the area and nearby localities to prevent future cultivation.

Author name: Street Journal

Answering the Life Call: Life Lessons from San Andres Fire Volunteers