Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

DAVAO, Philippines – As the United States and the Philippines celebrate 80 years of diplomatic ties, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing honored Filipino war veterans at a Congressional Gold Medal awarding ceremony, the first of its kind in Tagum and second time in Mindanao. In Davao, he deepened economic and people-to-people ties in meetings with public and private sector leaders as well as students. In Tagum, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing joined Philippine Defense Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Reynaldo Mapagu, and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib at the 45th presentation of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal. It is the highest civilian honor conferred by the U.S. Congress. The awards delivered in Tagum were signed into law with the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015. These Congressional Gold Medals recognize the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who fought shoulder-to-shoulder with U.S. forces to turn the tide in the Pacific during World War II. The first-ever Congressional Gold Medal was approved by the Continental Congress in 1776 and awarded to George Washington, a remarkable example of the deeply interwoven history of the United States and the Philippines as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. “When their nation called, they stepped forward. They answered,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing. “And in doing so, they not only shaped the course of history but also forged the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the United States – a relationship built on shared sacrifice, mutual trust, and deeply held values.” “The number of living Filipino World War II veterans continues to decline with each passing day, but through commemoration activities and recognition such as the awarding of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II veterans, their heroic legacy will live on,” said Undersecretary Mapagu. In Davao, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing toured the National Museum of the Philippines-Davao in the People’s Park with City Councilors Rachel Zozobrado and Ragde Niño Ibuyan, Davao City Investment Promotion Center Officer in Charge April Marie Dayap, and a group of Philippine alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. The visit was an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the rich heritage and natural resources of Davao City and Mindanao while also discussing partnership opportunities to promote U.S.-Philippines prosperity. The Davao City officials expressed interest in exploring trade and investment opportunities, education and exchange programs, and revitalizing sister city relationships. Chargé d’Affaires Ewing also took a moment for a group photo with the City Councilors in front of the iconic Davao City Hall, which celebrates its 100th anniversary, sharing a connection with the U.S. Embassy in Manila, as both buildings were designed by renowned Filipino architect Juan M. Arellano. At a General Membership Meeting of the Mindanao chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing spoke about efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and expand energy cooperation, and underscored opportunities for two-way trade and investment including the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit, a Trump Administration priority initiative to promote investment into the United States. Chargé d’Affaires Ewing placed a spotlight on U.S.-Philippines education partnerships when visiting Filipino participants in the U.S. Embassy’s English Access Scholarship Program, a two-year, intensive after-school program that enhances academic and employment opportunities for public school students aged 13 to 15 through American excellence in English language instruction. “Chargé d’Affaires Ewing’s visit to the 50 English Access Scholarship Program students highlights the strong commitment to youth development and educational partnership. His presence affirms the scholars’ potential and inspires them to strive for excellence, leaving a lasting impact,” said Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Reynante Solitario. “The United States and the Philippines share more than an ironclad Alliance,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing. “We share a deep and enduring friendship and a commitment to partnerships that deliver concrete benefits for the American people while strengthening the bonds between our two nations.”

Fullerton Health Philippines brings preventive healthcare closer to JCB Platinum Cardmembers with Exclusive Offer

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

JCB Platinum Credit Cardmembers can now take charge of their health with an exclusive PHP 3,000 discount on Executive Health Screening Packages at Fullerton Health Philippines. TAGUIG CITY, Philippines – Fullerton Health Philippines, the Philippines’ first dedicated Executive Health Screening (EHS) and advanced diagnostic imaging center, offering a five-star personalized healthcare experience, has partnered with JCB to extend exclusive healthcare benefits to JCB Platinum Cardmembers. Under this collaboration, cardmembers are entitled to PHP 3,000 off Fullerton Health Philippines’ Diamond and Sapphire EHS packages, delivering a first-class preventive health screening experience designed for busy professionals and executives. This partnership underscores JCB’s commitment to delivering meaningful lifestyle and wellness benefits to its Cardmembers while supporting Fullerton Health Philippines’ mission to make healthcare more personalized, accessible, and efficient. The initiative encourages professionals to take charge of their well-being through comprehensive executive screenings that are fast, private, and technologically advanced. “Our collaboration with Fullerton Health represents the ideal union of wellness and convenience for our Platinum Cardmembers. We are delighted to offer eligible Cardmembers an exclusive opportunity to access world-class EHS services at a preferential rate. We invite these Cardmembers to take advantage of this partnership and experience Fullerton Health’s personalized care.” said Wataru Tamura, Country Manager of JCB Philippines. Fullerton Health delivers a distinctly different executive health screening experience. Appointments can be booked in as little as 15 minutes, and comprehensive screenings are completed within three hours, with services designed to maximize privacy, personalization, and operational efficiency. The facility is the only dedicated center in the country for executive health screening and advanced diagnostic imaging, consistently receiving five-star reviews for its clinical care and customer experience. “This partnership is an exciting opportunity for JCB Platinum Cardmembers to prioritize their health without compromising their busy schedules. Our executive EHS packages are tailored to deliver efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind. We hope more professionals will embrace this chance to become the CEO of their own health,” said Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead for Fullerton Health Philippines. Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, Head of Radlink and Fullerton Health EHS for the Philippines added: “JCB members in the Philippines can expect a health screening experience unlike any other in the country. We have thoughtfully designed our screenings to make our clients feel like they are pursuing self-care and not just clinical care, combing Filipino hospitality with Singapore-based technologies. We’re thrilled to welcome them and demonstrate how preventive healthcare can be seamless, empowering, and accessible.” The promotion runs from January 15 to July 15, 2026, offering JCB Platinum Cardmembers a valuable opportunity to experience Fullerton Health’s executive health screenings at a special rate.

Woogle Corp. to withdraw equipment following MGB suspension order

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday Woogle Corporation has committed to pull out all of its equipment from Sitio Keon, Barangay Bitnong, Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya following the suspension order issued by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) on the company’s exploration permit. The commitment was made by Woogle Corporation President Tommy Alfonso during a Senate Committee on Local Government hearing on Tuesday to address mining concerns in the municipality. During the hearing, Committee Chair Sen. Jinggoy Estrada said the company should remove all its equipment to dispel doubts among residents that Woogle intends to continue its exploration activities despite the suspension order. Alfonso said pulling out the equipment would be easy, but the rehabilitation of the affected area could take months. He explained that the company would need to plant trees as part of its rehabilitation efforts before fully completing its withdrawal from the site. Estrada added that it would be up to the MGB whether to permanently cancel the exploration permit previously granted to the company. During the hearing, it was revealed that no proper consultations were conducted with the barangays covered by the exploration activities. Barangay chairpersons within the affected areas maintained that what took place was merely a presentation of the company’s profile and not a formal consultation. They said they were not asked whether they consented to mining operations in their respective barangays. It was also agreed during the hearing that alongside the pullout of equipment, the company would be allowed to release the ore samples it had extracted and turn them over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for further study. Estrada told barangay officials to immediately inform him if the company returns any equipment to the area, saying he would personally look into the matter. Also present at the Senate hearing was former governor Ruth R. Padilla, who reiterated her strong opposition to mining activities in Nueva Vizcaya. According to the former governor, the cost of mining would be the destruction of mountains and farmlands, directly affecting farmers who depend on the land for their livelihood.

Three fast food chains wins Panagbenga Festival’s large float category

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – Three well-known fast food chains won the large float category in the grand float parade of the 30th Panagbenga Festival on March 1 in Baguio City. During the Kapihan sa Panagbenga on March 4, the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFI) announced the winners of the large, medium, and small categories. McDonald’s float was crowned grand champion with a prize of P1,000,000. It can be recalled that they also took second place last year. Jollibee, which was the champion last year, is second this year, with a prize of P400,000, while Chooks to Go is third, with a prize of P300,000. In the medium category, Chowking, which was third last year, is this year’s champion with a prize of P350,000, while Mang Inasal, which was the champion before, is second this year with a prize of P250,000 and Palawan Pawnshop is third with a prize of P150,000; Zaparitas Garden Parrot float won in the small category, with a prize of P100,000; Eureka Garden came in second with a prize of P50,000 and Zaparitas Garden came in third, with a prize of P30,000. According to the BFFFI, they have increased the prize money for the float this year, where the previous P700,000 for the large float will now be P1,000,000 and even the medium and small floats will have additional prizes. The award ceremony for all winners of the Panagbenga Festival competitions will be held during the closing ceremony on March 8 at the Melvin Jones Football ground, where there will also be raffles for those attending the program and the more than month-long celebration of the 30th Panagbenga Festival will end with a grand fireworks display.

Yap files resolution to suspend fuel excise tax amid Middle East crisis

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

BENGUET, Philippines — Benguet Lone District Rep. Eric Go Yap filed a joint resolution seeking the immediate suspension of excise taxes on fuel, warning that skyrocketing transport costs are threatening the livelihoods of highland farmers and the country’s food security. In a House Joint Resolution introduced by Yap, the Benguet solon calls on the President to exercise temporary emergency powers to bypass the standard three-month waiting period and suspend excise taxes on motor fuels under Republic Act No. 10963, also known as the TRAIN Law. The move comes as the Philippines faces consecutive weekly fuel price hikes, with diesel and gasoline prices surging by as much as P1.90 per liter as of March 2, 2026. These spikes are largely attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating military conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. “This is no longer a question if the prices of petroleum products will rise, it is a matter of when and how we can we cope. We call for the immediate suspension on the imposition of excise taxes on gasoline, diesel and other petroleum products by granting temporary emergency powers to the President to do so, ” said Yap. The suspension of excise tax on fuels could benefit farmers of Benguet, who supply approximately 80% of the country’s highland vegetables as the fuel crisis has localized consequences that reach far beyond the pump. At the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post, the primary artery for northern Luzon’s agricultural trade, the impact is already being felt in “bagsakan” areas. Historically, a sharp rise in fuel prices has forced truckers to implement additional delivery charges, often adding at least P0.50 per kilo to transport fees. Because farmers in remote Benguet municipalities typically shoulder the entire cost of transporting produce from farm to trading post, these increases directly slash their take-home pay as production and logistics costs soar. Without the tax suspension, many farmers may be pushed further into debt as farmers group in the province have previously noted that high fuel costs, combined with low demand and the influx of smuggled vegetables, create a “chain reaction” that hurts both producers and consumers. “It is imminent. The effect of high gasoline prices cannot be stressed enough, it will be an economic burden. Direktang pahirap sa tao. We cannot simply allow our transport sector, our commuters, our farmers, almost everyone who consumes petroleum products,” added Yap. The resolution notes that while excise taxes would be suspended, the State would maintain its right to impose customs duties on petroleum products not used for vehicle power or manufacturing. “We may have enough supply for now pero hindi natin alam hanggang kailan matatapos ang gulo sa Iran and Middle East. We should be proactive and not wait for our oil supply to be depleted,” Yap further said.

Miss Tubao crowned Mutia ti La Union 2026

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

The crowned candidates as Mutia ti La Union 2026 are (From left) Mutia ti Kayangan 2026 Xianna Laussaneugan Trinidad; Mutia ti Kalikasan 2026 Nicole Antonette Tilap; Mutia ti La Union 2026 Savannah Panganiban; Mutia ti Agrikultura 2026 Samantha Kyle Pagar and Mutia ti Turismo 2026 Reign Gaile Nejal. SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines – A 20-year-old architecture student from Tubao town, won the title of Mutia ti La Union 2026, during coronation night held at Francisco Ortega Convention Center Grounds, as part of the celebration for the 176th founding anniversary of La Union, on March 2. Savannah Panganiban, student of Saint Louis University in Baguio City, who won the title of Mutia ti Tubao in 2024, is a model and social media influencer, known for her advocacy for transformative education, cultural pride, and youth empowerment, topromote positive values and inspire the youth. Aside from the crown, Panganiban also received a special award as the Best Designer’s Choice Award. Reign Gaile Nejal, 22, of Santo Tomas, La Union, who is also a candidate for Miss Universe Philippines 2026, was crowned as Mutia ti Turismo 2026. She also received the special award of Miss Photogenic and Best in Evening Gown. Samantha Kyle Pagar, of San Fernando City, was crowned as Mutia ti Agrikultura 2026, also winning the special awards of Mutia Beautiful Skin; Mutia ti Kalikasan 2026 was Nicole Antonette Tilap, 22, of Sudipen town, who was also crowned as Best in Swimsuit; and Mutia ti Kayangan 2026 was Xianna Laussaneugan Trinidad, of Agoo, La Union. Other candidates who won special awards were Charisse Pauline Calderon as Mutia Body Beautiful, of Bauang, La Union; Mutia Vibrant Smile May Ann Samson, of Rosario town; Mutia Beautiful Hair – Reign Gale G. Nejal, of Santo Tomas; Miss Congeniality – Nathalie Gayle V. Ubaldo, of Aringay; Miss Punctual – Sofia Zoe V. Delfin, of Bacnotan. Governor Mario Ortega happily congratulated the 20 candidates who showed strong unity so that the competition was successful and the spirit of Agkaysa was felt. “The goal of this competition is not to win, but to bring together 19 towns and one city to fulfill our desire to establish a strong partnership and cooperation,” said Ortega, who is the author of Agkaysa La Union. “ Huge congratulations to our very own Queen Savannah for being crowned Mutia ti La Union 2026. What a historic night Savannah’s grace, intelligence, and heartfelt advocacy truly captured the “Rikna ti Agkaysa” spirit. Your hometown is bursting with pride as you take on this journey to represent the beauty and culture of our beloved province. May your reign be filled with impactful service, and may you continue to inspire every Elyucana to dream big and serve with passion, “ said Tubao Municipal Mayor Atty. Jonalyn Garcia Fontanilla-Piayas.(By Zaldy Comanda

AboitizPower releases 336 pawikan hatchlings in Bataan, marks conservation milestone

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Ruben A. Veloria Morong, Bataan, Philippines — Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) released 336 sea turtle or pawikan hatchlings in a ceremony at its adopted hatchery site in Sitio Fuerte, Barangay Poblacion, Morong, Bataan, recently. Through private limited partnerships GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD), the event served as the high point of the company’s three-year SagiPaWeCan project. This flagship conservation program supports GMEC and GNPD’s “Preserve the Planet” initiative under its P.U.S.O. Corporate Social Responsibility framework, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals 14 (Life Below Water) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Morong Mayor Leila Linao-Muñoz noted that the cooperation between the Morong and SagiPaWeCan is a proof that when the community, government and the private sector unite their efforts, they could achieve significantly. “Sama-sama po nating itaguyod ang ating adbokasiya na maging tagapangalaga ng ating mga pawikan, at maging aktibo para po pangalagaan natin ang ating kalikasan,” she added. Building on this momentum, GMEC and GNPD Reputation and Stakeholder Management (RSM) Manager Joseph Paolo Mendoza announced that the program will be extending for another five years with a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) which will be formally signed on March 25, 2026, together with the Provincial Government of Bataan (PGB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the local people’s organization, Sagip Pawikan Sitio Fuerte Association. “We’re not done yet. We’re choosing to commit and protect because conservation is not seasonal, it’s generational,” Mendoza said. He note that every hatchling being released carries proof that when the community, government, and private sector move together, they create real impact. Since 2023, the program has transplanted 55,190 olive ridley eggs, resulting in the successful release of 53,435 hatchlings, representing a 97% hatching rate. If left unprotected, the rate could be only about 25% or lesser because of natural predators and other environmental disturbances. The Philippines is home to five of the seven sea turtle species in the world, three of which — the green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles — nest on the shores of Bataan which are protected under the Philippine Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147). This makes conservation efforts like GMEC and GNPD’s project SagiPaWeCan timely and necessary, serving as a compelling example of how private sector leadership, together with community collaboration, can create meaningful and lasting impacts. Photo Caption for pic1 –

BFFFI takes responsibility for artificial turf issue

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) has issued a statement regarding the widespread issue that several dance performers suffered burns on their feet due to the hot artificial turf laid at the Melvin Jones Football ground where the grand street dancing showdown performance was held on February 28. Despite the scorching sun, most of the participants were barefoot during the presentation, as their performance was a cultural part of their tradition of not wearing anything on their feet. In a statement, the BFFFI said there was no malicious intent in the installation of artificial turf, as in previous years, participants in the Grand Street Parade were at the Melvin Jones Football field under dust, rocks, and hot sand. The intention was to improve the performance area, however, the result caused damage and fell short of the care, discretion, and cultural sensitivity required of us as organizers. “To our performers, schools, families, and the people of Baguio and the Cordilleras, we acknowledge the serious concerns raised regarding the artificial turf used at Melvin Jones during the Grand Street Dance Parade. To the students, teachers, trainers, and contingents who experienced pain, injury, and distress, I apologize for this error in judgment and take full responsibility,” said Anthony R. De Leon* Executive Committee Chairperson Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. De Leon said, as Executive Committee Chairperson, he takes full responsibility for the incident. “We are now coordinating with affected schools and contingent leaders to document incidents and extend the necessary and appropriate assistance; conducting an immediate review of the decision, safety assessment, and implementation; committing to stakeholder consultations, with schools, cultural practitioners, and concerned sectors before any similar measures are adopted in future festivals.” Our Committee for the Street Dance Parade and the performers are not at fault. The responsibility to ensure a safe and culturally respectful performance environment rests with me. Panagbenga belongs to the people. We hear your concerns, we accept accountability, and we will act accordingly. I thank you for your patience and understanding. We will update the Local Government and our local media on our courses of action, BFFFI said.

La Union Moves Forward as One: Honors 176 Years in #Agkaysa

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION, Philippines — A shared sense of pride and purpose filled the grounds of the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center as the Provincial Government of La Union employees, officials, and local leaders stood as one for La Union’s simultaneous flag-raising ceremony on March 2, marking the province’s 176th Founding Anniversary. The ceremony was led by Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, alongside Vice Governor Eric B. Sibuma, 1st District Representative Francisco Paolo B. Ortega V, and 2nd District Representative Dante S. Garcia. Also present were party-list representatives Kenneth C. Tereng of Kilos Mamamayan, Ngayon Na! and Mila Aquino-Magsaysay of the United Senior Citizens Party-list. Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan attended in full force, including Board Members Maria Rosario Eufrosina P. Nisce, Miguel Corleone B. Magsaysay, Gerard G. Ostrea, Aaron Kyle M. Pinzon, Ernesto V. Rafon, Alyssa Kristine B. Sibuma, Teresita Tess O. Garcia, Eulogio Clarence Martin P. De Guzman III, Ruperto A. Rillera Jr., and Jeferson B. Fernando. Also in attendance were Ex-Officio Members Harold Dave E. Sibuma, Ramon Guio Ram A. Ortega Jr., Danielle Bianca G. Ortega, and Joyce M. Abuan, along with mayors, vice mayors and councilors from the province’s 19 municipalities and one city. Participants began their La Union: Agkaysa formation march, eventually forming the province’s battlecry through a large-scale human formation—visibly embodying the spirit of unity. Adding a surprise to the celebration, a paragliding display soared above the coast, carrying the 176th Founding Anniversary banner of La Union, symbolizing the province’s soaring spirit and shared aspirations. United as one province, the annual ceremony serves as both a remembrance of La Union’s past and a reaffirmation of its aspirations—pushing forward, together, toward a better tomorrow as it celebrates 176 years of shared history and hope.

Author name: Street Journal

United States honors Filipino War Veterans, Deepens ties in Tagum and Davao visit