BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Baguio City Field Office (DILG-BCFO) under Dir. Millicent B. Carino emerged as Champion in two major categories during the 2025 Saleng and Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards of DILG-CAR, Dec. 2, at Hotel Elizabeth, here. The DILG-BCFO was chosen as Best Provincial/Highly Urbanized City (HUC) Team under the 2025 Saleng Awards and Most Innovative Provincial/Highly Urbanized City Team under the 2025 Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards. Carino said these recognitions honor the team’s unwavering dedication, collective hard work, and innovative practices that continuously strengthen local governance across the region. The Best Provincial/HUC Team Award acknowledges exceptional teams whose initiatives and collaboration contribute significantly to effective and responsive local governance, while the Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards celebrate the enduring legacy of the late Sec. Jesse M. Robredo, whose iconic “tsinelas leadership” embodies humility, sincerity, and genuine service to the community. “The DILG-BCFO’s win reflects its commitment to these values through forward-thinking and impactful innovations,” she stressed. Carino, and former DILG-BCFO personnel Allan F. Ocal, and Joe Pablo M. Gernale were also recognized during the occasion for their exemplary efforts and dedication in ensuring the successful implementation of various DILG projects, programs, and activities. These include the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards; Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children; Local Council for the Protection of Children; Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangay; and the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit. – Gaby B. Keith with DILG reports        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE) Main Campus Baguio celebrated 110 TESDA scholars who completed their three-year diploma programs during the 2025 Commencement Exercises held at the CSITE Multipurpose Hall, Military Cut-Off, Baguio City, on December 12, 2025. A separate Mass Baccalaureate and Closing Ceremony on December 11 recognized 197 completers from various short-term certificate and NC II programs including Barista, Driving, Food and Beverage Services, Masonry, Machining, SMAW, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance, underscoring CSITE’s growing role in producing job-ready skilled workers for the region. The diploma graduates completed four industry-aligned programs: Diploma in Culinary Arts (25), Diploma in Hospitality Supervision (12), Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology (34), and Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology (38). All scholars were beneficiaries of TESDA scholarship programs that supported their full three-year academic and practical training. With the theme “Pathways to Progress: Strengthening Engineering and Hospitality Excellence through TVET,” the ceremonies highlighted the value of technical-vocational education in preparing graduates for high-demand sectors of the Philippine economy. Keynote Speaker Mark Jefferson C. Ng encouraged graduates to uphold innovation, professionalism, and adaptability as they enter dynamic hospitality and technical industries. He also reminded them that their TESDA training gives them a strong foundation that can open doors locally and globally and urged them to continue sharpening their skills as they pursue their careers. Campus Administrator Melita D. Pinic congratulated the graduates and commended their resilience throughout their training. She also acknowledged the hard work of CSITE instructors and reminded the completers to carry the discipline and professionalism they learned as they move into the workforce. Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon delivered an empowering message, emphasizing CSITE’s strengthened mandate to shape globally competitive TVET graduates. She highlighted the institute’s expanding diploma offerings, deepening industry partnerships, and CSITE’s leading role in elevating Cordillera’s workforce development. Director Bungallon also urged the graduates to embrace continuous learning and to build careers that reflect excellence, integrity, and service. Representing Acting Regional Director Glenn Murphy, APD Arlene Cadalig extended a warm congratulatory message, recognizing the dedication of the graduates and the support of their families and trainers. She encouraged them to uphold the values instilled during their training and to carry the TESDA brand of quality and competence as they begin their careers. Academic Achievers Gwen Mariz C. Balegan (Tourism Sector) and John Ellis O. Panarngon (Engineering Technology Sector) were also honored for their excellence and perseverance. Meanwhile, CSITE Ifugao held its graduation on December 3, recognizing 61 graduates from various TVET programs including Trainers Methodology I, Masonry NC II, EIM NC II, Driving NC II, SMAW NC I, and Motorcycle or Small Engine Servicing NC II, with the theme “TVET graduates: equipped with 21st century skills through quality TVET programs.” Across its campuses, CSITE continues to advance regional workforce development through industry-driven programs and expanded access to quality technical education.          

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The City Health Services Office (CHSO) confirmed that many individuals are now availing of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tests from the health facilities to be aware of their HIV Status and avail of the free medicines being provided by the health treatment for the reduction of their respective viral load. City Health Officer Dr. Celiaflor Brillantes said during the World AIDS Day commemoration at the Baguio Convention Center that around 70 percent of those who availed of the existing HIV tests are now aware of their HIV status and are now taking their medicines provided by the health department for free to help in the local government’s HIV treatment. Further, she noted that one-third of the 70 percent who are considered HIV reactive or positive and have been taking their medicines have already recorded low viral loads through the years. She claimed that once individuals with HIV have low viral loads, it means that they can no longer transmit the said dreaded illness, provided that they regularly take their prescribed medicines for them to maintain the HIV being non-transmittable. However, she still advised those with HIV, even those with low viral load, to still practice safe sex through abstinence, being faithful to their partners, and the use of condoms, among others, to minimize the opportunity to spread the virus. The medical officer of the city government, through the CHSO, remains aggressive in the implementation of various programs, projects, and activities that will contribute to reducing the number of individuals turning out to be HIV positive in the conduct of available tests. She rallied individuals to know their HIV status by availing of the existing tests in the different health facilities, and for them to be prescribed the appropriate medicines that will lower their viral load and make the virus untransmissible to prevent them from contaminating other people.      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — In a proactive move to bolster inter-agency coordination and public safety preparedness, personnel of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15 (RMFB15) conducted a comprehensive Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) Operations Seminar for personnel of the Philippine Air Force’s Tactical Operations Group 1 (TOG1). The training was held on December 8, 2025, at Loakan Airport, Baguio City. The seminar, held under the supervision of PLtCol Joey Jonathan Bagayao, Force Commander of RMFB15, was designed to equip military personnel with essential skills for managing potential civil unrest with professionalism and restraint. “The primary goal of this training is the preservation of life, property, and public order,” stated Bagayao. “In any civil disturbance scenario, a measured, lawful, and strategic response is paramount. This seminar ensures our personnel are not only prepared to restore order but are firmly grounded in the protocols that protect the rights of all individuals involved.” The activity emphasized that proper CDM training is vital for reducing risks, limiting damage to property, and, most importantly, preventing loss of life during periods of civil unrest. By educating personnel on these standardized procedures, the training enhances the capability of both the PNP and the PAF to protect communities while upholding the highest standards of public service.        

The partnership introduces DC EV charging hubs to support sustainable tourism in Baguio and expand ACMobility’s nationwide charging network   BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — ACMobility, Ayala’s mobility arm and the leading provider of EV charging solutions and infrastructure in the Philippines, has partnered with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) to accelerate the development of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in Camp John Hay, a key area under BCDA’s stewardship in Baguio City. Driving Sustainable Tourism Within Camp John Hay Spread out in three different key locations within Camp John Hay — Garden Wing, Public Parking Area, and Golf Club, these hubs are equipped with modern charging facilities that cater to different EV needs. With eight new charge points available, including Baguio City’s only DC Fast Charger to date, travelers heading up to Baguio for the holiday break can recharge conveniently and travel with confidence. This new addition is also on top of the existing EVCS at Camp John Hay Technohub, with more AC and DC chargers to be operational in the next couple of months. The Garden Wing hub will feature a 60kW DC Fast Charger capable of powering vehicles in as fast as 30 minutes alongside two 22kW AC chargers. Meanwhile, the Public Parking Area will have two 22kW chargers and the Golf Club hub will include two 7kW chargers. All chargers are likewise supported by the Evro app, allowing users to locate stations, check availability,  charge, and pay with ease. “This partnership marks a key milestone in Camp John Hay’s pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly tourism,” said Joshua M. Bingcang, President and CEO of BCDA. “By introducing reliable and accessible EV infrastructure at a location as strategic as Camp John Hay, we are creating not only greener and more convenient travel experience for residents and tourists, but also supporting ACMobility’s mission to provide accessible and reliable EV Charging across the country.” Expanding the EV Network Nationwide Looking ahead, ACMobility is also on track to deploy more charging points nationwide as we go into 2026 as part of their continuous efforts towards creating the Philippine EV Spine, a seamless network connecting cities and provinces to support the country’s transition to electrified mobility.   “This year, we are accelerating the rollout of our nationwide EV network to reach more cities and key locations across the Philippines,” said Carla Buencamino, Head of Mobility Infrastructure at ACMobility. “By expanding our network and partnering with organizations like BCDA, we aim to provide reliable and accessible charging experiences that make it easier for Filipinos to adopt cleaner mobility solutions.” For those interested in establishing an ACMobility charging station or exploring partnership opportunities, visit https://acmobility.ph/.      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The city has been accepted into the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), joining cities worldwide committed to advancing lifelong learning as a foundation for inclusive and sustainable development. Mayor Benjamin Magalong received formal notification of the city’s successful application from the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) on December 4, 2025, accompanied by an official Certificate of Membership. UNESCO announced the new member cities in a press release issued the same day. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻   Mayor Magalong hailed the development as a milestone for the Summer Capital, calling it “a testament to Baguio’s strong culture of learning and community empowerment.” “This recognition from UNESCO places Baguio on the world map not only as a creative city but now also as a learning city,” he said. “It validates the work of our educators, communities, and institutions in nurturing a culture where learning is accessible, inclusive, and lifelong. We welcome this opportunity to collaborate with global partners and further strengthen programs that uplift our people through education.” He added that the city will make full use of the platform to broaden its learning initiatives and advance sustainable development goals. 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 GNLC membership provides Baguio access to international platforms for policy dialogue, peer learning, and collaborative initiatives with learning-focused cities across the globe. Member cities work together to strengthen education systems, develop capacity-building programs, enhance monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and exchange knowledge on effective practices. UNESCO supports member cities in developing innovative approaches to lifelong learning strategies and encourages the sharing of successful models. Baguio has been invited to participate in UNESCO’s #ImALifelongLearner campaign, which promotes continuous learning among city residents. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼’𝘀 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 Long recognized as the educational center of Northern Luzon, Baguio’s acceptance into the GNLC affirms its enduring commitment to learning and knowledge-sharing. The Learning City designation strengthens initiatives already underway through the Creative Baguio City Council (CBCC), which advances creative education, cultural development, and community learning in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As a UNESCO Creative City, Baguio now holds dual recognition within UNESCO’s global networks, demonstrating how integrated approaches to culture, creativity, education, and community development can drive urban resilience and inclusion. 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽𝘀 The City Government, CBCC, and education stakeholders will develop local communication initiatives and align programs with UNESCO’s lifelong learning framework. UNESCO has provided official logos, communication templates, and campaign guidelines to support implementation. This achievement positions Baguio as a leader in demonstrating how Philippine cities can leverage international networks to advance sustainable and equitable development. The city’s application to the prestigious body was prepared by a team composed of Creative Baguio City Council (CBCC) co-chairperson Marie Venus Tan, City Tourism Operations Officer Aloysius Mapalo, City Planning Development and Sustainability Coordinator Donna Tabangin, artists Liezl Dunuan and Gabe Mercado, and representatives from the city’s different schools. – CBCC      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The City Health Services Office (CHSO) under Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes presented the ‘Golden Sandok’ award to 54 restaurants and other food establishments in the Summer Capital for consistently meeting high standards in their hygiene and sanitation practices as mandated by Presidential Decree 856 or the Sanitation Code of the Philippines. The establishments also went beyond minimum sanitation requirements to ensure a clean and healthy environment thereby minimizing the risk of disease transmission and contamination in their places of operation. The CHSO Environmental Sanitation Division identified the top three food establishments in key areas and Health Districts in the city while sanitation inspectors selected establishments in their assigned areas that have been consistently compliant. Those chosen then underwent a final validation inspection by a team led by Sanitation Division chief Albert Pay-an before including them in the list of Golden Sandok Awardees. Key areas verified  include cleanliness of the kitchen, dining area, and comfort rooms, proper food storage, water potability, and more The team also ensured that all establishment workers have undergone a food handlers training and issued a certificate by the CHSO. The award encourages local restaurants and other food establishments to strive harder in practicing hygiene and sanitation and challenge others to continue complying with the sanitation code and even go beyond standards. The Golden Sandok Awardees are: (𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Sumel Restaurant,  Calajo,  Sizzling Plate; (𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗮)  Inatep, Valley Bread, Holy-Grounds Café; (𝗟𝘂𝗰𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Big Brother Biryani,  Minda’s Eatery,  Health 100;  (𝗔𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗿𝗮 𝗛𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Starway Hotel and Restaurant,  Feli Ramen, Mitch Kitchenettte; (𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Gablet’s, Broccoli Canteen, Raffs Kitchen; (𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗼 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Noli’s, Rewind, and Anchorwheel Restaurant. (𝗣𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗮𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Aqua Garden Café, Mikko’s Kitchenette, Zion’s Corner Eatery; (𝗦𝗰𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Le Chef, Manor, Crazy Peri-peri, Emil Rose; (C𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Chias, Ganza, Cafe Will; (𝗜𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) J&C Eatery, Mamita’s Bulaluhan, Grumpy Joe; (𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Manduto Restaurant,  Arkeo Restaurant, and Kithay’s Food House. (𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘇𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Yasuragi Japanses Restaurant, Pinch Café, Shrimp Café; (𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗱𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Korean Palace, Newtown Plaza Hotel, Bonuan Seafood; (𝗟𝗼𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Mamabeth’s Cafe, Cai Tea Milk Tea Shop, Uncle Bhoy Eatery, Lei Cha Restaurant; (𝗔𝘁𝗼𝗸 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) M&N View Deck Cafe, Kitcup Cafe; (𝗔𝘁𝗮𝗯 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Luca’s Grill House, Gemmaica’s Eatery, Cozy Na; (𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Gracetin Restaurant, Hatch Coffee, Gli Amici’s Food House; (𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁) Lemon and Olives,  Amare Cucina, and Yangbews Cafe.- (Karl Jon Pagada and Gaby Keith)    

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines –“Christmas is near, pero ang laban para sa transparency at good governance ay hindi dapat natatapos.” Thus, declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong in a recent social media post. “Habang papalapit ang Pasko at ang huling araw ng Ber month ngayong taon, huwag nating hayaang matabunan ng selebrasyon ang ating panawagan para sa malinis na pamahalaan,” he stated. The Mayor added: “Ang hiling natin ngayong Pasko: Wakasan ang korapsyon; Panagutin ang mga tiwali; at Itaguyod ang tapat at makataong paglilingkod.” He also urged the Marcos administration to move faster in holding politicians allegedly involved in corruption accountable. Lawmakers linked to irregularities should face consequences for benefiting from anomalous schemes, Magalong said. Recently, Magalong urges public servants to “choose integrity over corruption”. “In the realm of governance and public service, true leadership is measured not by power, but by moral courage.” He said that amid challenges, criticism, and the persistent presence of wrongdoing, “leaders are called to uphold what is just, honest, and compassionate.” “Choosing integrity over corruption, service over self-interest, and truth over deceit is how we overcome the forces that undermine good governance,” he stressed. Magalong said that when public servants respond to negativity with principled action and ethical leadership, “they not only elevate themselves but also the entire community they serve.” He is a staunch advocate for good governance where public institutions manage public affairs, public resources, and human rights in a transparent, accountable, and efficient manner, free from abuse and corruption.- (Gaby B. Keith)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines —- Hotel Supreme lit its 20-foot Christmas tree at its event center as it also switched on positivity with hope,on December 3 Hotel Supreme founder Peter Ng said: “We look forward to being able to go past that darkness, to go on just as how life goes on. That is faith. That is hope.” With his wife Evelyn, his family including son and general manager Jefferson and the five grand children who offered prayer to start the lighting ceremony, Ng urged attendees to be hopeful. He went on: “This year is a little different amidst the uncertainties we are currently face as one country, yet we’re hopeful.” He added: “What better way to manifest that certainty is to switch on our positivity with hope. That positivity that we will all be enlightened.” A cheerful Ng said that “the future is bright. That we will shine.” He said that colors of red and green symbolizes the blood of Jesus, while green is eternal life, respectively as he added: “Together it symbolizes faith and hope.” The Ngs then distributed noche buena packs to indigent residents from chosen barangays. Since opening the door of hotel in 1989, the Ngs survived an earthquake and other disasters, but they withstood it and able to expand the hotel from a 36-room facility to nearly 190 and now some 300 rooms. The hotel also hosts restaurants and function rooms and halls. Despite the uncertainties of the Covid-19 years, the Ngs were able to continue construction of the latest annex which now houses the event center, function halls and a mammoth convention hall, while also housing a grocery and other facilities. The patriarch has always been a fount of hope as his perseverance saw him work odd jobs for minimal wages, become a taxi driver and operator, manage a hotel and eventually owning his very hotel. Pigeon Lobien