Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — To ensure that John Hay Golf remains open to the public and maintained to world-class standards, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has approved a one-year extension of the interim operations and maintenance contract of Golfplus Management, Inc. and Duck Sports and Music Productions, Inc. for John Hay Golf in Camp John Hay, Baguio City. The extension secures uninterrupted operations through 2026, following the successful transition of John Hay Golf into a public golf facility. This ensures continued access for golfers, residents, and visitors while BCDA undertakes longer-term arrangements for its sustainable management. BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang emphasized that the stewardship of the John Hay Golf Course remains a priority, with a strong commitment to preserving its historic character while responsibly managing the property. “Extending the interim management ensures the uninterrupted operation of the John Hay Golf Course all while safeguarding public access and maintaining the quality of services expected by golfers and visitors,” he added. As part of the extended engagement, the interim management will also organize the BCDA Chairman’s Cup in 2026, alongside the continued implementation of facility and amenity improvements. The management is likewise set to sustain the hosting of major events, tournaments, and related activities, further strengthening the golf course’s role as a premier sports and recreation destination in Baguio City. The John Hay Golf course will remain open to the public, with various playing rights and access options available, subject to the payment of applicable green fees. ‘Best shape I’ve seen’ Recently, John Hay Golf, together with the Baguio Country Club, hosted the Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament, one of the Asia-Pacific region’s longest-running amateur tournaments. “The course is actually in the best shape I’ve seen John Hay. The greens are fair and the fairways are actually very lush. It is great playing today, this 75th edition of the FilAm,” Luisita team skipper Abe Rosal said in an interview. Beyond tournaments, John Hay Golf is investing in the future of Philippine golf. In partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission and the National Golf Association of the Philippines, the facility grants free access to boys and girls aged 18 and below, supporting early talent discovery and long-term athlete development. The extension underscores BCDA’s commitment to keeping John Hay Golf open, inclusive, and well-managed as a public asset for present and future generations.

La Union stands out as World Surf League host

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION, Philippines — The Province of La Union became a global surfing scene as it welcomed 170 surfers from 25 countries across the globe for the World Surf League (WSL) from January 10 to 26, 2026. Set at the Monaliza Point in Barangay Urbiztondo, San Juan, the major global surfing competition will feature international professional surfers from Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, United States of America, Japan, Indonesia, Italy, and Spain among others including the host country, Philippines. Competitors will ride the legendary waves of San Juan, the “Surfing Capital of the North”, as they contend for the World Junior Championships and the Longboard Tour Qualifying Window, highlighting their prowess and styles on the waves. The surfing event marks another significant milestone in showcasing La Union to the global surfing community while providing opportunities for Elyucanos to display their world-class surfing skills and reinvigorate the development of the province’s tourism sector.

Flagship U.S. English Program Invests in Filipino Students

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines announces three new cohorts of the English Access Program Scholarship in Davao City, Bohol, and Bataan, benefiting 150 high-achieving Filipino students. The program is a partnership between the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office, the Philippine Department of Education, and public schools in each location. Students and teachers selected through a competitive, merit-based process gain invaluable skills from American innovation and excellence in English language content and instruction, preparing them to enter the workforce. Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the two-year, intensive after school program strengthens English proficiency while building digital, leadership, and critical thinking skills among public school students aged 13 to 15. Participants also participate in cultural activities, including celebrating American excellence in partnership with U.S. officials as part of America’s 250th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026. “By focusing on advanced literacy and professional-level communication, we are preparing these high-achieving students for the demands of the global workforce,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna. “Their success is a direct investment in the future of the U.S.-Philippine relationship and our shared goals—ultimately making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous.” On January 8, the Regional English Language Office launched the first 2026 cohort at Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School in Bunawan, Davao City, with 50 exceptional students joining from various schools across the area. “The English Access Scholarship Program plays a significant role in raising the English proficiency of learners, especially those from far-flung schools. Through well-structured weekly lessons, interactive, learner-centered activities, and support from mentors, the program builds learners’ confidence and communication skills in English, empowering them to express themselves more effectively and opening wider academic and future opportunities,” said Department of Education Davao City Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Sagot. The second cohort launched on January 10 in Panglao, Bohol, with 50 students at Lourdes National High School. The third cohort, also with 50 students, will launch on January 17 at the City of Balanga National High School in Balanga City, Bataan. Since its inception in 2004, over 200,000 students in more than 85 countries have received the English Access Program Scholarship, including nearly 1,500 alumni in the Philippines. Educators in the program also join a global network of Access teachers to strengthen their instructional skills through American English excellence to better serve their communities.

Subic General Hospital, A Mystery Solved

Opinions

Opinions / Street Journal

Subic General Hospital, A Mystery Solved The mystery that is haunting the completion of the hospital which was long been promised by the local government of Subic, Zambales was finally given resolve. Workers fast tracking the finishing touches of the P349 Million three-story Subic General Hospital in Cawag, Subic, Zambales. The hospital will be operated and manage by the national government thru Department of Health. In an effort to clarify the misleading and disinformation telltales surrounding the construction of the hospital, representatives from the local government of Subic, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Department of Health (DOH), met with local media on Tuesday. During the said meeting, it was clarified the allegations of critics that the construction of the hospital has already reaching ten years, that the hospital is merely a “ghost project”, that it is an open example of graft and corruption of the administration, and so forth. The hospital was originally planned as infirmary hospital with a capacity of only 20 beds with a budget of P10 million and to be constructed in 1.5 h.a. land donated by Fiesta Community developer Willy Tan. The ground breaking was in 2022 near WEA in Barangay Cawag. However, in 2023, the proposal was redesigned to become 75-bed capacity, causing to temporarily halt the construction and fundings. However, upon inspection of the officials from the DOH: its strategic location being the nearest for Hyundai Shipyard in Redondo Peninsula, and Seatrium Shipyard in Bgy. Cawag; and the expected beneficiaries from Olongapo City and Zambales- in May 2024, the proposed hospital was upgraded to Level 2 facility with 100-bed capacity. The budget also rose to ₱289.5 Million. Then, in 2025 another adjustment was made by expanding the bed capacity to 150, thus the budget allocation received an additional ₱50 million, and the land area was expanded to 15,000 sq.m. The total budget allocation has reached ₱349 Million. The changes in bed-capacity means adjustments in structural design of the building from single to three-storey: its foundation become bigger, the land area has to be expanded, and the budget also has to be adjusted. Thus, these adjustments, not corruption, significantly caused the delays in completing the hospital. It was also clarified that the Level 3 Hospital to be named Subic General Hospital will be funded, manage and operated completely by DOH, with no single peso coming from LGU Subic. Accordingly, a Level 3 hospital is described as “a tertiary-level, teaching/training hospital offering highly specialized care, including residency programs, advanced labs (like histopathology), blood banks, dialysis, physical rehab, and often larger bed capacities (200-1500), providing comprehensive services beyond basic and secondary care levels.” DPHW officials expected that the completed and finished physical structure of Subic General Hospital (SGH) will be transferred to DOH on November this year. Hence, the operational budget, medical equipment, furnishing, and personnel and other necessary compliments for the hospital shall be filled by the national government. Hear’s to watch: If all these facts are the reasons for the delays in the completion of the long dreamed hospital for Subic, let me quote one official who said it all, “It’s worth the hassles!”

Nueva Vizcaya earns P862.1M in 2025 tourist arrivals

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The province of Nueva Vizcaya recorded significant gains in visitor arrivals in 2025, with tourism receipts for the year reaching PHP 862,113,820, according to the Provincial Tourism and Culture Office (PTCO) 2025 Tourism Report. The report shows 214,792 tourists visited the province in 2025, an increase of 10.2 percent from 194,918 in 2024. Excursionist arrivals—day visitors—also climbed to 706,017 in 2025, up 5.4 percent from 670,003 the previous year. The figures continue an upward trend from 2023, when the province logged 174,061 tourists and 416,355 excursionists. On receipts, domestic tourism accounted for the bulk of earnings at PHP 852,396,000, while foreign tourist spending totaled PHP 9,717,820, bringing the combined total to PHP 862,113,820 for 2025. Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito expressed gratitude to tourists who visited the province and pledged to further boost Nueva Vizcaya’s tourism, a priority of his administration. ”We thank all tourists who visited Nueva Vizcaya and took time to experience our nature, culture, and heritage. Tourism is among the priorities of my administration, and we will continue to invest in programs that protect our destinations and highlight what makes Nueva Vizcaya unique,” Gambito said. The province’s most visited sites in 2025, ranked by visitor numbers, were: Sky Escape 360 (Ambaguio) Tam-an Mt. Resort & Hotel (Bayombong) Love Camp (Ambaguio) PLT Wellness & Mt. Resort (Solano) Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park (Diadi) Bambang Integrated Agri‑Tourism & Learning Site (Bambang) Heavenly Resort (Bambang) 24/7 Inn & Resort (Solano) Malico Salacsac Pass (Santa Fe) Edralin Falls (Kasibu) Areola Farm & Resort (Bambang) People’s Museum and Library (Bayombong) Humming Strawberry Farm (Bagabag) Imugan Falls (Santa Fe) Mount Tugew (Kayapa) Provincial Tourism Officer Marichelle O. Costales said the report is a consolidated compilation of local tourism statistics prepared using the Department of Tourism’s standard local tourism statistics system, based on data submitted by municipal tourism offices, individual tourist sites, and tourism-related establishments.

Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Renewables expands digital learning access in Benguet through AuroraPH

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

BENGUET, Philippines — Six previously unenergized schools in Benguet now have access to electricity, the internet, and digital learning tools through AuroraPH, a flagship program by Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (AFI) in partnership with Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. The AuroraPH program aims to narrow energy gaps through solar power systems in last-mile schools, enabling meaningful digital learning and displacing kerosene lamps which were once used to light the way With installed solar power systems, learners and teachers gained access to the internet and multimedia learning tools, empowering schools with stronger Information and Communications Technology (ICT) capacity. Six previously unenergized schools in the province were prioritized, namely, Ampucao Elementary School in Ampucao, Itogon; Bakian Guinawan Elementary School in Sitio Bakian Guinawan, Ekip, Bokod; Awing Elementary School in Sitio Awing, Lusod, Kabayan; Labney Primary School in Sitio Labney, Ansagan, Tuba; Piminggan Elementary School in Ansagan, Tuba; and Marcelo Marquez National High School, also in Ansagan, Tuba. Both students and teachers can now easily conduct research and use ICT tools. Due to the project, stronger engagement among learners has also been observed. “We recognize the challenges communities face in education, and we are dedicated to ensuring every learner has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed,” Jowell Ann Cruz, AFI Impact Lead for Education, said as he emphasized the broader goal of the program. “With reliable power and internet connectivity, classrooms become spaces of endless possibilities—where students can explore, connect, and dream without limits.” “AuroraPH helps improve learning conditions in far-flung areas one school at a time,” added Noreen Vicencio, First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations at Aboitiz Renewables. “Behind every connection, a student learns, a teacher innovates, and a community grows. Seeing students engage confidently with digital tools and teachers explore new ways of teaching demonstrates the power of connectivity and collaboration.” Aboitiz Renewables operates nine run-of-river hydropower plants in Benguet through its hydropower arm Hedcor. With six schools now energized, AuroraPH is helping lay the groundwork for expanding sustainable power, connectivity, and digital learning opportunities to last-mile schools across the Philippines—empowering students and teachers to thrive, innovate, and lead in a connected world.

La Union plans tourism center to showcase province’s attractions

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

By Kathlene Joyce C. Ramones- PIA-La Union SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines — The provincial government of La Union plans to establish a tourism center in San Juan to strengthen the province’s tourism industry and promote its destinations, Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega announced. The proposed center, located in San Juan’s main tourist area, is envisioned as a hub for showcasing attractions across the province. “This will be a big investment, but we need it to effectively promote all tourist areas in La Union,” Ortega said. San Juan remains the province’s top tourist spot, particularly for surfing. The tourism center aims to encourage visitors to explore destinations beyond the coastline. “With this center, we can highlight not just San Juan but all other tourist spots in La Union,” the governor added. The initiative comes amid rising tourist arrivals. The Department of Tourism reported that more than 300,000 tourists visited La Union as of October 2025. The provincial government also plans to develop new adventure tourism sites, including camping areas, hiking and cycling trails, and motorized and non-motorized routes. Ortega noted that many tourists seek activities beyond surfing, creating a need for clearly defined outdoor experiences. Destinations like Tangadan Falls in San Gabriel and Bulalakaw Falls in Bagulin are expected to enhance visitor experiences while preserving surrounding natural areas. These developments are intended to support local economic growth while promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. They are part of a broader strategy to position La Union as a premier destination for adventure, nature, and eco-friendly travel.

BCDA beats 2025 revenue target, hits P14.1B in cash inflows

Business

Business / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) closed 2025 with Php14.1 billion in cash revenues, surpassing its Php10 billion target by over 40 percent and exceeding the Php11.66 billion recorded in 2024 by 20.9 percent. The strong performance underscores BCDA’s solid liquidity position and improved cash generation, supported by increased private-sector activity in its economic zones and the strategic use of land assets for priority national infrastructure projects. “BCDA’s 2025 results show that investor confidence in our economic zones is strengthening, driven by disciplined asset management and projects that are ready for execution,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. “This allows us to convert land value into real cash flows that directly support government priorities.” He added that the transfer of BCDA properties for priority infrastructure projects reflects the agency’s role in advancing connectivity and inclusive economic growth. Cash revenues refer to actual collections received within the year, providing a clear picture of BCDA’s liquidity and cash performance. This differs from prior disclosures based on accrual accounting reflected in audited financial statements, which include revenues recorded but not yet collected. BCDA’s 2025 cash revenues were generated from a combination of land dispositions, lease arrangements, concession fees, and investment-related receipts across BCDA-administered economic zones. These were supported by higher private-sector investments, improved performance of transport-related concessions, and continued investor uptake in strategic growth areas such as New Clark City and Camp John Hay. Supporting AFP modernization From the Php14.1 billion cash revenues generated in 2025, an estimated Php3.29 billion is expected to be remitted to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. This is on top of BCDA’s cumulative Php103 billion contribution to the AFP Modernization Program and the replication of military facilities from May 1993 to December 2025, in line with Republic Act No. 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act. Under the law, BCDA transforms former U.S. military bases and Metro Manila camps into centers of economic growth, generating revenues through land development and partnerships, while channeling proceeds to national defense, priority infrastructure, and socioeconomic programs of the government. “BCDA remains focused on sustaining strong cash performance,” Engr. Bingcang said. “This enables us to reinvest in high-impact projects, help strengthen national defense, and deliver long-term value for the Filipino people.”

No cause of alarm on ‘Superflu’ variant in Baguio – CHSO

Baguio City, Tourism / Health

Baguio City, Tourism / Health / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, of the City Health Service Office, assures the public that the increase in cases of the new variant of H3N2 Influenza, dubbed “Superflu” in the United States and detected in the Philippines, there is currently no cause for concern, reinforcing the statement of DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa. She reiterates the advisory issued last October 2025, which urges the public to strengthen preventive measures, particularly for residents with pre-existing health conditions. “We have consistently reminded residents and visitors to follow preventive measures since last year, including before the Christmas season, to help avoid potential surges in influenza cases,” Dr. Brillantes emphasized. Although Baguio City has not seen a significant increase in influenza cases, prevention remains the most effective safeguard—especially as students return for the new school season. According to Department Memorandum No. 2023-0391, an influenza-like illness (ILI) is defined as “any person with an acute respiratory infection with ALL of the following: measured fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, and cough or sore throat with symptoms.” Dr. Brillantes highlighted that ILI occurs throughout the year, with predictable peaks from August to October during the rainy and early cold months. The highest case counts are observed among children aged 1–9 years and older adults. In response, the CHSO strongly advises the public to remain vigilant and practice recommended health measures. ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð˜ð—µð—² ð—šð—²ð—»ð—²ð—¿ð—®ð—¹ ð—£ð˜‚ð—¯ð—¹ð—¶ð—° Everyone is encouraged to reactivate and sustain the good health habits practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic: Wear a mask if you have a cough, cold, or any flu-like symptoms. Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Observe proper coughing and sneezing etiquette. Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and toys. Avoid crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation. Get vaccinated to avoid severe effects of the flu virus, especially for the elderly and children. ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð—Ÿð—²ð—®ð—¿ð—»ð—¶ð—»ð—´ ð—œð—»ð˜€ð˜ð—¶ð˜ð˜‚ð˜ð—¶ð—¼ð—»ð˜€ Elementary and high schools, universities, and training centers are advised to monitor the health status of students and staff. Individuals with coughs or colds should stay home until they have fully recovered. Parents are encouraged to bring symptomatic children to the nearest District Health Center for a free consultation. If symptoms persist for 3-5 days. Schools may consider hybrid learning options to support continued education. ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð—ð—®ð—¶ð—¹ ð—™ð—®ð—°ð—¶ð—¹ð—¶ð˜ð—¶ð—²ð˜€ Given the higher risk of transmission in closed settings: Isolate Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) showing ILI symptoms. 2. jail personnel on identifying early signs of illness. Early detection and isolation help prevent outbreaks in crowded facilities. ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð—–ð—¼ð—»ð˜€ð˜ð—¿ð˜‚ð—°ð˜ð—¶ð—¼ð—» ð—¦ð—¶ð˜ð—²ð˜€ Contractors and site managers are reminded to: Provide spacious and well-ventilated barracks or resting areas. Supply masks and ensure symptomatic workers wear them at all times. Maintain handwashing and alcohol stations. Workers with symptoms persisting for 3-5 days should visit the nearest District Health Center for evaluation. ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð—ªð—¼ð—¿ð—¸ð—½ð—¹ð—®ð—°ð—²ð˜€ (e.g., Hotels and Restaurants, BPO companies, government offices, private establishments) Employers and managers are encouraged to regularly monitor the health of their personnel. Those exhibiting flu-like symptoms should stay home and seek consultation at the nearest District Health Center. Workplaces should promote frequent handwashing and proper cough etiquette. 4. Adequate ventilation must be maintained by opening windows or improving airflow. Frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and equipment should be disinfected regularly. To know your nearest DHC, check the link below: https://bit.ly/YourDHCBaguio ð—™ð—¼ð—¿ ð—§ð—¼ð˜‚ð—¿ð—¶ð˜€ð˜ð˜€ Tourists and visitors are advised to assess their own health before traveling and ensure they are well-rested. If symptoms develop, they should seek medical attention and remain at home until fully recovered. For urgent or unavoidable travel, wearing a mask is recommended to prevent virus transmission. The CHSO Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit reported a three-year analysis that describes influenza-like illness (ILI) trends in Baguio City from 2023–2025 using sentinel facility surveillance data. A total of 12,007 ILI cases were reported, with a sharp increase in 2024 and a decline in 2025. However, ILI cases in 2025 remained higher than in 2023. Laboratory findings confirmed ongoing circulation of multiple ILI-causing viruses, with influenza A and B, RSV, rhinovirus, and SARS-CoV-2 predominating. Pathogen or virus diversity was broader in 2023, while 2024–2025 reflected a more typical influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) seasonal pattern. The CHSO also explained the increase observed in 2024 likely reflects overlapping drivers: intensified circulation of respiratory viruses post-pandemic, school-related transmission, possible increased consultation and reporting, and co-circulation of influenza and RSV.

Author name: Street Journal

BCDA extends interim management of John Hay Golf to keep course open, public, and world-class