Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Illegal resort owners hiding under the robes of “environmental network” are trying anew to spread baseless and unproductive statements mocking the initiatives of the Provincial Government of Zambales as diversionary tactics to lure the residents’ attention from dredging activities. These illegal business owners, who are supported by a leader of a progressive people’s organization, and an individual with the capability to influence, again are trying to discredit the good intentions of the Office of the Provincial Governor by spreading baseless and unproductive statements that merely are hoping to get attention and trust of the local fishermen of Zambales. These owners, less than a handful in numbers, whose business were illegally constructed in the accretion area which was long ago the DENR has declared as danger zone, and that they were warned that sooner or later the soil will be “reclaimed” by the sea. And so it happened. And they are now blaming the government and the dredging or desilting projects in the rivers. The illegals are blaming the very government that warned them and informed them years ago that they are in danger zone. That is why the government cannot issue them land titles, more so building permits or environmental compliance certificates. But they failed to convince the people of Zambales and the fisherfolks they are trying to drag into the false cause. Hence, they look for allies in Congress who know nothing about the truth, and contacted skilled influencers who half heard the truth. Yes they found. MODERN FISHING BOATS. Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. (center in red shirt, white cap) was flanked by happy leaders of fisherfolks after the Naming and Turn-over Ceremony for three 45-footer multi-million fishing boats (seen in the background) donated to fishermen as part of the province’s program to modernize fishing capabilities of the province. Two more boats will be delivered on March this year, including 92-footer and 100-footer Mother Boats. (RAV) Hears To Watch. There is no need to cover-up good projects which intentions are to help the Zambaleňos in need. Giving them strong and modern equipment to become competitive over foreing poachers, and to have a bountiful harvest of fish, and give them more chances to earn more. According to Engineer Domingo Mariano, the Zambales Provincial Consultant for Development and Infrastructure, the real score is that more that 200 fishermen groups in 13 towns of the province are supporting the efforts of the province with regards to rehabilitating the major river channels of Zambales. During the provincial congress of Pagkakaisa ng Bayang Zambaleňo (PABAZA) whose members are from sectors of farmers, fisherfolks, small-scale miners, drivers, its President Basilio Damaso Jr., urge the Zambalenos to instead of doing fault-finding or maghanap ng sisisihin, everyone should share something good for the community.

DOH,PGLU enhance links for quality healthcare programs

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines -Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Dr. Glenn Baggao paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega on January 21, 2026 at the Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union to discuss the alignment of national health initiatives with local programs that will further enhance the province’s overall healthcare system. Gov. Mario warmly welcomed Usec. Baggao alongside the newly installed DOH Region I Officer-In-Charge Regional Director Dr. Pritchelle Tolentino and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Herminigildo Velasco. Dr. Baggao cascaded the key healthcare programs and thrusts of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to Gov. Mario, geared toward the delivery of quality and accessible healthcare services to the constituents. The discussions centered on the governor’s flagship health programs, plans on the new rehabilitation and mental health centers, and upgrading of district hospital services. Governor Mario also expressed his support for the full implementation of the Universal Healthcare Law in the province. Upholding the spirit of #LaUnionAgkaysa, the Provincial Government of La Union continues to partner with the national agencies to ensure that constituents, particularly those in far-flung areas and vulnerable sectors, receive timely medication and comprehensive healthcare.

NV Prosecutor drops charges vs anti-mining activists

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The prosecutor’s office in Nueva Vizcaya has dismissed the criminal complaints filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) against seven members of an anti-mining group arrested during the enforcement of a writ of preliminary injunction on Jan. 23 in Sitio Keon, Barangay Bitnong, Dupax del Norte. In a consolidated resolution, Prosecutor II Atty. Orville Ibarra said the cases were dismissed for lack of sufficient evidence, citing the absence of a clear factual basis to establish probable cause against the respondents. The resolution pointed to uncertainty over the exact location where the writ was implemented, saying it was not clearly established whether the enforcement area was part of the barangay road network or within land belonging to the protesters and their supporters. Ibarra also noted that although a crowd had gathered, the act was described as a peaceful expression of sentiment–an activity protected under the Constitution. The prosecutor’s office further ordered the release of all seven accused. Police earlier arrested six women—identified as members of the indigenous community in the area and an anti-mining leader, Florentino Daynos, after authorities alleged they obstructed the enforcement of the writ by forming a human barricade. The writ of preliminary injunction, issued by Judge Paul R. Attolba Jr. of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 30, authorized Woogle Corporation to continue its mining exploration in Sitio Keon and directed the clearing of the route leading to the company’s exploration site. The PNP filed three charges against each of the seven: direct assault, resistance and disobedience to an agent of a person in authority, and obstruction, alleging the group formed a human barricade in violation of the court order. Following the dismissal of the cases,the group returned to Sitio Keon and held a canao—a traditional indigenous thanksgiving ritual as a gesture of gratitude for the prosecutor’s decision and to celebrate their release from the charges.

Magalong calls to end ‘Padrino System’,‘Utang na Loob’ in public service

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – “Ang serbisyo publiko ay hindi dapat transaksyon, at ang pamumuno ay hindi dapat nakabatay sa personal na utang.” In a social media post, Mayor Benjamin Magalong said that for genuine change to last, the current system must be changed to prevent the asking of favors from politicians in exchange for votes. “Panahon na ring wakasan ang kultura ng padrino at utang na loob. Ang pamahalaan ay dapat gumana sa malinaw na patakaran, pantay na serbisyo, at pananagutan: hindi sa palakasan,” he said. Magalong pointed out that good governance starts when government institutions are strong, and processes are clear. “Ang tunay na reporma ay nagsisimula sa pagbabago ng sistema, hindi sa pansariling pabor,” he stressed. “CONVICTION, INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT NEEDED TO SERVE EFFECTIVELY” “In public service, true leadership requires unwavering faith not only in God but in the purpose of serving the people.” Thus, declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong in a social media post, as he pointed out that just as the wind tosses a wave, a leader who doubts can be easily swayed by challenges, criticism, or uncertainty. He said that to serve effectively, “one must act with conviction, integrity, and steadfast commitment, trusting that sincere intentions and faithful actions will guide positive change.” “Let us, therefore, approach every decision and responsibility with faith, clarity, and courage, anchored in service to the community and the common good,” the Mayor stressed. (Gaby B. Keith)

Learner’s Choice Voucher Bill gets backing from student coalition

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA. Philippines — The Student First Coalition has formally endorsed Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano’s The Learner’s Choice (TLC) in Private Basic Education Act of 2025, which aims to reform education subsidies by expanding private school choice for students and providing critical support to low-income families. In a letter of support sent to the Senate Committee on Basic Education, the coalition called for its urgent passage to address the school congestion problem as soon as possible. “We appreciate the provision… by Sen. Alan Cayetano, which prioritizes learners who are enrolled in or transferring from public basic education schools officially identified by the DepEd as congested as the first and second priority for voucher allocations,” Student First Coalition Convenor Assistant Professor Luigie Almojano said in the letter to the committee dated January 19, 2026. The senator’s measure (Senate Bill No. 422) replaces the current education support system, including the existing Educational Service Contracting (ESC) under Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE). Cayetano now proposes for a single, portable voucher for K-12 students which gives families direct funding to choose any DepEd-recognized private school. His model is inspired by the City of Taguig’s successful voucher program, praised by the national Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) study. Priority for the most vulnerable Cayetano’s TLC voucher employs a tiered priority system. It targets low-income families in congested public schools and learners from low-income households who are not from congested schools but require financial assistance. Alternative Learning System completers are also included in the system. The senator emphasized that this is to “ensure equity and social justice, this assistance shall be targeted, prioritizing the underprivileged.” For transparency and accountability, DepEd will publish a database of participating schools’ fees and performance. The bill also boosts support for private school teachers through better salary subsidies and training funds. Oversight of the new system will fall to a Bureau of Private Education within DepEd, with Commission on Audit safeguards. It also encourages LGUs to align local scholarships with the portable national voucher. Ahead of the January 24 celebration of the International Day of Education, Cayetano framed the bill as a tool to drive a systemic shift in the basic education sector. “The collective, balanced, and sustained use of public and private education… will lead to better learning outcomes for Filipinos,” he said.

Zambales hospital gets new building, equipment; expands services

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

By Ruben A.Veloria ZAMBALES, Philippines – The San Marcelino District Hospital (SMDH) here formally received on Monday one newly constructed building and equipment that will help in providing additional medical services to residents. Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. led the turn-over ceremony. Congressman Jay Khonghun (1st Dist, Zambales), and Rowena Zabat-San MAteo, acting Branch Manager of PhilHealth, also grace the ceremony. According to Gov. Ebdane, the San Marcelino District Hospital has always been serving as example to other government agencies which prioritizes improvement of its facility for the welfare of the Zambalenos. “That is why I salute you for extending your professionalism and dedication to the job you chose to serve our people. That is why the Office of the Governor does not gets tired of doing its best to improve our hospital,” said Gov. Ebdane. As gesture of his sincerity, Gov. Ebdane announced that he already acquired three hectares of land nearby where he plan to construct the new and bigger hospital. He also mentioned that the DoH has pledged the amount of P300 Million for the project. “However, the amount maybe not enough budget for a bigger hospital, so we are to add more fund from the taxes derived from lahar extractions,” Ebdane said. In closing, Gov. Ebdane reminded all the employees of SMDH, especially the front liners, to be always ready with lots of patience in dealing with patients and their companions. “Always wear your best smiles. Because you are forbidden to frown, show irritation or act sulky in front of the patients,” he added. Meanwhile, Chief of Hospital Dr. Cresencio Gonzales Jr. said that among the new equipment and facilities that turned-over to SMDH were the new dietary building, Ambulatory Surgery Clinic, office for Hospital Information System, upgraded public comfort rooms, and an ambulance which was acquired through the DOH-Health Facilities Enhancement Program. Other important equipment and apparatus received by SMDH includes endoscopy and other medical equipment, brand new ambulance, and the official implementation of PhilHealth GAMOT and YAKAP program. “The new facilities and equipment are not just structures, they are the manifestations of true care for the dignity and welfare of every patient,” Gonzales said. Meanwhile, Cong. Khonghun said because of the effective management and operation of SMDH, the hospital serves as the hub of faster relief of patients, and promised to double the budget of the hospital to guarantee bigger improvement.

CIAC, BCDA showcase Clark investment opportunities to Japanese investors

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

NEW CLARK CITY, Tarlac, Philippines ——The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and its subsidiaries, including the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), presented current and upcoming projects to Japanese companies during the BCDA-Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) Project Pitching event held today, 23 January 2026, at the Athletics Stadium. Representatives from the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), and Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC) also attended. “CIAC fully supports BCDA’s efforts to strengthen collaboration with Japanese companies, facilitate project partnerships, and identify viable investment opportunities within the Clark Aviation Capital. Our goal is to create business opportunities that generate jobs and improve the quality of life for Filipinos,” said CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar. The Japanese companies in attendance specialize in sectors such as water and wastewater treatment, infrastructure, industrial park development, information technology for public safety and smart transportation, energy and energy transition, agriculture, and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). JBIC, a Japanese government financial institution, promotes Japan’s overseas strategic initiatives, focusing on green growth and addressing social challenges. The project pitching event follows the recently signed memorandum of understanding between BCDA and JBIC, which aims to strengthen cooperation in promoting BCDA projects and programs, particularly those advancing energy transition, environmental and social sustainability, and quality infrastructure across sectors. On behalf of CIAC, Chief Business Development Officer Melissa Feliciano presented the corporation’s flagship projects, highlighting investment-ready opportunities including the Clark National Food Hub, Urban Renewal & Heritage, Conservation Program, Clark International Aviation Campus, and the Clark Pharmaceutical Hub. As BCDA’s premier aviation and land development arm, CIAC remains committed to transforming the Clark Civil Aviation Complex into the Clark Aviation Capital, a vibrant business and logistics hub poised to become the country’s leading global aviation center.

DOT-CAR conducts trail assessment to boost mountain tourism

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

CORDILLERA Region, Philippines — The Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) recently conducted multi-day trail assessment and validation activities in Bauko and Sabangan, Mountain Province, from January 19 to 21, 2026, in line with its efforts to strengthen mountain tourism in the Cordillera. The activity evaluated existing and newly developed trails for their suitability for mountain biking, as well as trail running, hiking, camping, forest bathing, birdwatching, and other nature-based experiences. It also assessed the feasibility of expanding mountain biking routes in selected areas. In Bauko, trail sites in Barangays Guinzadan, Lagawa, and Otucan Sur showed strong potential for downhill, enduro, and cross-country mountain biking, as well as camping and nature appreciation activities. In Sabangan, the team validated a newly developed multi-use trail traversing several barangays, built through the collective efforts of local communities under the TUPAD program following Typhoon Uwan. While already suitable for trail running and mountain biking, further improvements were recommended to enhance safety and trail conditions. The team also revisited Batacang Adventure Park in Barangay Data. This developing outdoor site has already welcomed visiting mountain bikers from nearby municipalities and has previously hosted an overlanding activity. Although still relatively little known, the area shows strong potential for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, camping, and overlanding. DOT-CAR underscored the importance of proper trail maintenance, safety measures, community participation, and environmental protection to ensure the sustainable development of these mountain tourism sites.

Borongan City celebrates 3rd year of PAL partnership

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

BORONGAN CITY, Philippines — In celebration of Philippine Airlines’ third year of connecting Borongan City to the world through the skies, a team of executives from the Borongan City Government made an important visit to the flag carrier’s headquarters at the Lucio K. Tan, Jr. (LKTJ) Center on Tuesday, January 20, to discuss the team’s shared vision for the development of BPA operations. With Mr. Justin Nicholas Warby, PAL’s Vice President for Sales; Mr. Ping Choi Chung, Assistant Vice President for Network Planning; and Mr. Matthew Mark Llamas, Senior Specialist for Development and Sales in attendance, the meeting tackled proposed promotional approaches highlighting Borongan City as a premier tourist destination for Mabuhay Milers. Dubbed as the gateway to the rest of Eastern Samar, Borongan City’s flight tourism campaigns are also poised to target other municipalities in the province. During the meeting, Warby expressed his appreciation to the Borongan representatives for taking the time to visit PAL headquarters, noting that Borongan is celebrated as the first-ever local government unit to implement an efficient partnership model with the airline. As a surfing enthusiast, the PAL Sales VP also voiced an interest in exploring Borongan, a famed surfing destination in Eastern Visayas. The meeting culminated in a tour of the Philippine Airlines Museum, where guests were treated to an immersive display of the airline’s 85-year history in the skies. The LGU Borongan party was composed of Acting Mayor Emmanuel Tiu Sonco; City Legal Officer Atty. Celestino Cabato; Atty. Orland Jerico Cordero, Head of the Internal Audit Services Office; City Information Officer and Flight Ops Chair Vittorio Ignatius Raagas, Executive Assistant Amanthea Dala, and Marissa Josephine Acorin, Officer-In-Charge at the City Tourism Office. As part of the flight operations’ slated innovations this year, the City Government of Borongan is set to launch a flight booking website that will be made accessible for passengers looking to book LGU seats. This development is expected to give significant relief to those who cannot make a personal visit to the Fun Borongan Booking Office to make their reservations and payments. Borongan City renewed its partnership with Philippine Airlines on the 19th of December last year.

Author name: Street Journal

No diversion acts, just boats to help fisherfolks in Zambales