Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Rose Frejane Cruz Comanda BAGUIO CITY – About 100 indigent families from four neighboring barangays were blessed during the annual gift giving activity of the Baguio Filipino-Chinese group in connection with the celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year or Spring Festival 2026 in Baguio City, on February 13. Peter Ng, executive committee, together with other Chinoy leaders and City Social Welfare and Development Officer Liza Bulayungan led the distribution of 100 grocery packs and tikoy to beneficiary families of Barangays Lower Quirino Hill, Middle Qurino Hill, East Qurino Hill and West Quirino Hill, which was held at the covered court of Middle Quirino Hill. According to Ng, this occasion is to show gratitude for the relationship between Filipinos and Chinese, by sharing a small contribution from the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community Group to show the good relationship and support for development programs and projects in Baguio City, He said, “This program is a tradition that we have been doing, so it is now part of the annual Spring Festival celebration, which is now in its 28th year. We wish for good relations and we are ready to help for the development of our city,’ Ng said. On the side of the city government, Bulayungan also thanked the Chinese community for their tireless assistance to small communities and the city’s development programs. The Filipino-Chinese Community Group is composed of nine associations to further strengthen the relationship between Chinese and Filipinos and support any city program and help the community. The crowd drawing event of the Grand Colorful Parade is on February 18, while the Little Chinatown display is on February 15 and 22.

CIAC promotes MRO, aerospace industry development at Singapore Airshow 2026

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Philippines — The Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) showcased investment opportunities at Clark Aviation Capital during the recent Singapore Airshow 2026 held at the Changi Exhibition Centre in Singapore. The airshow, one of Asia’s largest aerospace and defense exhibitions, gathered global industry leaders, government officials, and corporate executives to present the latest developments in aviation and related technologies. CIAC joined the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Transportation, along with private partners LIPAD and Bertaphil, at the Philippine Pavilion. CIAC Board Director and CAAP Director General Raul Del Rosario and BCDA Vice President Kenneth Peralta also attended the event. CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar said the agency’s participation aimed to attract more investments in aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and other aerospace-related industries. He said meetings with global aviation players opened opportunities for potential partnerships, particularly in helicopter maintenance and other specialized MRO services. Several companies expressed interest in exploring business prospects in Clark. “CIAC’s participation strengthened our investment ties and highlighted Clark’s readiness to support the growing demands of the global aerospace industry,” Alcazar said. He added that the event also allowed CIAC officials to observe global best practices in aviation operations, safety standards, technology adoption, and workforce development. These insights, he said, will guide Clark Aviation Capital’s continued expansion as a competitive aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region. Alcazar cited the 2024 Philippine Aerospace Industry Roadmap, which projects the country’s aerospace sector to become one of the fastest-growing in the region. He noted that Clark is positioning itself to meet the increasing demand for reliable MRO services as global aircraft fleets require regular maintenance while maintaining strict safety and efficiency standards. Currently operating in Clark are some of the world’s largest MRO providers, SIA Engineering and Metrojet Engineering, which underscore Clark’s growing reputation in the aerospace sector. CIAC said its long-term goal is to transform Clark Aviation Capital into a dynamic business and logistics hub and eventually the country’s leading global aviation center. Alcazar emphasized that lessons learned from the airshow support the administration’s push under Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to attract more foreign investments and strengthen trade relations. As the premier land and aviation development arm of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, CIAC is mandated to develop Clark Aviation Capital into a full-fledged aerotropolis. It oversees the Clark aviation complex, where firms operate in industrial, commercial, mixed-use, warehousing, and manufacturing businesses, underscoring Clark’s steady transformation into a dynamic, aviation-driven hub.

New DTI provincial office building to rise in Kalinga

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Philippines — A new Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Office to be constructed at the site of the old Provincial Jail in Purok 6, Bulanao officially broke ground on Feb. 13 and expected to be completed on May 2027. With a contract cost of P29,384,470.28 pesos, the building was designed as a four-story building with basement to be used as a multi-purpose hall and provisions for parking and elevator. The DPWH-Lower Kalinga Engineering Office said that an additional 20 million is needed to be sourced out to complete the building and other facilities. DTI Assistant Secretary Grace F. Baluyan underscored the significance for the DTI-Kalinga to have its own office as savings from office rentals and venue for trainings, seminars, and meeting can be redirected to programs that support micro, small, and medium enterprises; strengthen consumer protection; and drive industry development. “This building will stand as a symbol of collaboration, foresight, and commitment to service. It is a testament to what can be achieved when leaders and communities work together for the common good. ASec. Baluyan also acknowledged the assistance of former Rep. Allen Jesse Mangaoang and current Kalinga Rep. Dr. Caroline Agyao in securing funding for the project. She also recognized the Provincial Government through Gov. James S. Edduba for donating the lot. Tabuk City Mayor Darwin C. Estrañero, represented by Aurora Amilig, said that the new building will serve as a hub for industry growth in the province and a place for enhanced collaboration with LGUs, partner agencies and private sector in fostering holistic economic growth. “The city government is dedicated to continuing and deepening its partnership with DTI, supporting all your programs, and collaborating on initiatives that empower local entrepreneurs, protect consumers, and foster fair competitive markets,” she said. Governor James S. Edduba hailed the project as vital in the long-term development of Kalinga through the provision of accessible services to the public. He underscored its contribution to stimulate local economy, job creation, strengthened value chains, and encourages inclusive growth across the province. Kalinga Lone District Representative Caroline Agyao, represented by former Congressman Allen Jesse Mangaoang shared optimism that the building will serve as a one-stop shop for driving growth, innovation and competitiveness by centralizing services and provide easier access to mentorship, training, product development, and business registration. Also present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Punong Barangay Cosme Gunnawa, Atty. DTI-CAR Regional Director Atty. Raymond Panhon, DTI-Kalinga Provincial Director Renie Ramos, District Engineer Ruby Uyam (DPWH-LKDEO), Engr. Rafael Fernando ( DPWH-LKDEO), Engr. Alexander Colangan ((DPWH-LKDEO), and other DPWH, DTI, Provincial and city officials. (Tabuk City Information Office)

Converge earns prestigious MEF 3.0 Certification

Business

Business / Street Journal

Reinforcing commitment to Global Standards and Innovation Manila, Philippines – Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (Converge), a leader in fiber optic technology, today announced it has earned the prestigious MEF 3.0 certification—a remarkable leap forward for connectivity and digital excellence in the Philippines. This milestone underscores Converge’s unwavering dedication to meeting the industry’s highest global standards for performance, assurance, and agility. The MEF 3.0 certification stands as a globally recognized mark of excellence in network services, validating that Converge’s Carrier Ethernet solutions meet the most stringent benchmarks for quality, interoperability, and security. This achievement not only cements Converge status as a world-class provider prepared to address the dynamic challenges of today’s digital economy, but also marks Converge entry into the newly evolved Mplify Alliance. This evolution, accelerating the AI-powered digital economy with standardized and trusted automated services, enables Converge to become part of a global federation of automated networks—unlocking new opportunities and demonstrating commitment to innovation on a global scale. “Securing the MEF 3.0 Certification is a game-changer that underscores our strict adherence to international standards,” said Paulo Martin Santos, Converge Chief Technology Officer. “By aligning with the world’s highest benchmarks for performance and agility, we are providing our clients with a third-party seal of approval on the quality of our network. This validation gives Filipino businesses the confidence to compete on the international stage with faster, more agile, and more secure connections.” This definitive achievement signals that Converge has moved beyond being a local player to becoming a world-class technology powerhouse. As the company transitions into a full-scale techco, its infrastructure is being optimized to exceed the rigorous demands of the global digital economy. This evolution proves that the Philippines is no longer just catching up—it is setting the pace for world-class connectivity. For enterprise and wholesale clients, this framework ensures seamless connection with international carriers and guaranteed performance backed by strict reliability standards. The infrastructure is purpose-built to support next-generation connectivity solutions allowing Filipino enterprises to adopt secure remote work setups and high-capacity data transfers with absolute confidence. While this foundational certification is now secured, the company is nearing the completion of several other variant certifications. This ongoing roadmap ensures that every layer of the network operates at peak global efficiency, reinforcing the status of Converge as a world-class technology provider dedicated to powering the Philippines’ digital future.

Zeferino Arroyo High School wins 2026 Tinagba Festival Street Dance Exhibition

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

IRIGA CITY, Philippines — The 2026 Tinagba Festival Street Dance Exhibition dazzled the crowd with electrifying performances, vibrant costumes, and powerful rhythms that truly embodied the spirit of Tinagba. ð—–ð—¢ð—¡ð—šð—¥ð—”ð—§ð—¨ð—Ÿð—”ð—§ð—œð—¢ð—¡ð—¦, ð—¦ð—§ð—¥ð—˜ð—˜ð—§ ð——ð—”ð—¡ð—–ð—˜ ð—–ð—›ð—”ð— ð—£ð—œð—¢ð—¡ð—¦! 1ð—¦ð—§ ð—£ð—Ÿð—”ð—–ð—˜: Zeferino Arroyo High School ðŸ®ð—¡ð—— ð—£ð—Ÿð—”ð—–ð—˜: Rinconada National Technical Vocational School ðŸ¯ð—¥ð—— ð—£ð—Ÿð—”ð—–ð—˜: San Antonio National High School To all participating contingents, thank you for showcasing the rich culture and talent of our Irigueño youth. (Lungsod ng Iriga) Arriba Iriga!

After decades abroad, OFW’s discipline and saving pay off in a big way

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

More than two decades of hard work overseas—and a lifelong habit of disciplined saving—came full circle for Benedicto Marra, 62, an overseas Filipino worker based in Saudi Arabia, after he emerged as the grand draw winner of 1 Million BDO Rewards Points under BDO Unibank’s Save Your Way to a Million Rewards Holiday Raffle Promo. A mechanic and heavy equipment technician for over 20 years, Marra left home out of necessity, driven by the responsibility of providing for his family. “Ginusto kong mag-abroad kasi kailangan. Mahirap ang buhay,” he shared, recalling the many challenges he faced—including a serious work accident—while continuing to persevere for his loved ones. “Number one d’yan yung pagkalayo sa pamilya. Yun ang di nababayaran ng salapi.” Since opening his BDO Kabayan Savings account in 2003, Marra has viewed banking not just as a place to store money, but as a tool to build long-term stability. His primary goal was simple yet deeply meaningful: To secure a home for his family. “Kahit papaano may masilungan,” he said, underscoring how saving with purpose guided his financial decisions through the years. While working abroad, Marra found reassurance in having reliable access to his finances through his Kabayan Savings account. He cited the convenience of online banking, real-time remittance crediting, competitive exchange rates, and transparent charges—features that proved especially valuable during the pandemic, when in-branch transactions were difficult. “Anytime, anywhere… basta may signal, nagagamit talaga,” he shared. By opening a new account with a minimum deposit of ₱50,000 during the promo period and signing up for BDO Pay for an additional raffle entry, Marra qualified for the holiday raffle—an initiative that turns everyday saving into opportunities for meaningful rewards. BDO said the promo reflects its broader commitment to encouraging responsible saving habits while recognizing the perseverance of its Kabayan clients. “Our overseas Filipino clients play a vital role in their families’ financial security,” said BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance Genie T. Gloria. “Through Kabayan Savings and other bank services, we aim to provide secure, convenient, and accessible tools that support their long-term goals, wherever they may be.” Now spending more time at home and preparing for retirement, Marra hopes to open a small business related to his trade and build a more comfortable future for his children and grandchildren. His advice to fellow OFWs is grounded in experience: “Kung kailangan mo mag-save ng salapi, gumamit ka ng bangko. Kung may isinuksok, may madudukot.” Through initiatives like the Save Your Way to a Million Rewards Holiday Raffle Promo, BDO continues to recognize the quiet discipline of everyday savers—transforming years of sacrifice into moments worth celebrating.

Gumaca honors hall of fame awards by DHSUD

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio LUCENA CITY, Quezon, Philippines – The Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development region 4A awarded the Gawad Husay sa Pagpaplano (GHP) – Hall of Fame to Gumaca town under the leadership of Mayor Webster Letargo at Quezon Convention Center, this city. Letargo received the awards for five consecutive years. Gumaca town is the first town in Quezon to be awarded a Hall of Fame in Gawad Husay sa Pagpaplano. Letargo on his FB post said, “We are very proud of this recognition because the town of Gumaca is the only Hall of Fame Awardee, and this is the result of continuous planning, clear development direction, and proper use of data to ensure the safe, orderly, and long-term development of our town”. Letargo added that ‘this award is not just for the government, but for every Gumaqueño. Let us continue to plan correctly—because true development begins with a clear plan and concern for the people. With Letargo was Jefferson Uy, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator (MPDC), who continues to guide and lead the formulation of programs focused on sustainable and inclusive development. Letargo added that he recognized the tremendous contributions of the former MPDC officer Geminina Fernando.

PDEG nab No.9 MWP in Bacolod City

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

Operatives of Special Operations Unit NIR, PNP Drug Enforcement Group under the command of Director PBGen.Elmer Ragay, conducted a manhunt operation that resulted in the successful arrest of one a.k.a. “Mark, 22, ” Top #9 Most Wanted Person Provincial Level and Top #2 Most Wanted Person Municipal Level (MWP) in BS Aquino Drive Brgy. 4, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, on February 9. The arrest was made by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Hon. Karen Joy Tan Gaston, Presiding Judge of RTC 6, Branch 43, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental dated February 5, 2026 for violation of Section 12, Article II of R.A. 9165, docketed under Criminal Case Number 25-62519 for service of sentence. The arrested wanted person was brought to Police Station 2, Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. for documentation and proper disposition. “The PNP Drug Enforcement Group commends the operatives of the Special Operations Unit NIR for the successful arrest of Top 9 provincial, Top 2 municipal most wanted person. This achievement demonstrates their professionalism, dedication, and continued commitment to the enforcement of the law and the campaign against illegal drugs.” Ragay, stated. Recently, joint operatives of Special Operations Unit 10, PNP DEG, together with Regional Explosive Canine Unit 10, Regional Intelligence Unit 10, Regional Intelligence Division PRO 10, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, PNP Maritime Group (5th SOU SND SBC), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit Lanao Del Norte and IMEG – Mindanao Field unit 1, conducted a buy-bust operation in Purok 3, Brgy. Caniogan, Tubod, Lanao Del Norte that resulted in the successful arrest of one a.k.a. “Imaw,” male, 28 years old, identified as a High-Value Individual (HVI) and one a.k.a. “Bryan,” male, 24 years old, identified as a Street Level Individual (SLI), on February 10. The operating units seized approximately 15 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated total standard drug price of PhP102,000.00, along with other non-drug items. The arrested suspects were brought to Tubod Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition, while the confiscated drug evidence was turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit 10, Patag, Cagayan De Oro City for laboratory examination. “The arrest of a High-Value Individual in Tubod, Lanao del Norte reflects the PNP Drug Enforcement Group’s relentless drive against illegal drugs. This operation sends a clear warning that drug personalities will be pursued and brought to justice through sustained, intelligence-driven operations.” Ragay said.

BoC,PDEA,PNP intercept P278-M shabu shipment in MICP

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — In one of the largest drug interdictions to date, combined operatives of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Philippine National Police (PNP), successfully intercepted a shipment of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, with an estimated value of ₱278,000,000.00, at the Manila International Container Port (MICP), North Harbor, Manila on February 10, 2026. The seized shabu weighed approximately 41 kilograms. This major anti-drug operation highlights the strength of inter-agency collaboration and invaluable assistance of foreign counterparts in the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs. The operation was conducted under the institutional guidelines formulated by the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), and in accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the Filipino people from the devastating effects of illegal drugs. The operation was a product of information sharing from foreign counterparts that highlighted the capabilities of BOC’s x-ray screening process and PDEA’s Narcotics Detection Dogs (NDDs). “This is a major victory for the Filipino people and a severe blow against organized drug syndicates,” said PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R Nerez. “The interception of the shabu shipment at the port represents prevention at its strongest — stopping the threat before it could reach our streets, schools, and communities.” he added. The seizure of such a massive quantity of illegal substances represents not only a major law enforcement success but also a significant social impact. By preventing these dangerous substances from reaching communities, the operation has potentially saved countless lives, shielded families from harm, and safeguarded the future of the country’s youth from the threat of addiction. PDEA extends its utmost appreciation to its partner agencies for their vigilance, professionalism, and unwavering cooperation. “The success of this operation once again demonstrates that unified government action remains the most effective weapon against the drug menace.” DG Nerez expressed. This landmark achievement sends a clear message: the government will remain relentless in dismantling drug networks, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting public safety. Through its supply reduction strategy, the PDEA and other law enforcement agencies target the production and distribution of illegal drugs. By reducing the proliferation of illegal drugs, the government lowers drug dependency, eases the burden on rehabilitation services, and ensures more efficient use of public resources.

Author name: Street Journal

100 indigent families receive gift packs in Baguio City