BAGUIO CITY –After being re-elected for a third term, Mayor Benjamin Magalong assured the public that his administration will continue to pursue its seven-point core agenda to address the Summer Capital’s pressing issues. These are:  Environment, land use and energy; Climate and Disaster Resilience; Urban Regeneration; Empowering the Youth; Economic Recovery and Development; Smart City Management; and Good Governance.“Ituloy-tuloy namin iyong aming mga programa.We will continue to pursue our seven-point agenda at kailangan natin talagang i-fasttrack at i-expedite iyong mga programa para masolusyonan iyong problema natin sa urban decay,” he said. Urban decay refers to a process where a city or parts of it deteriorates and declines, often characterized by dilapidated buildings, poor infrastructure, increased social problems, and more. Magalong promised his unwavering commitment to fighting all forms of corruption as he also expressed his gratitude to residents for re-electing him and to his supporters for their continued trust and confidence in his leadership. “Your trust is my strength, and I draw inspiration from it to continue advocating for Good Governance and a Corrupt-Free Baguio whose leaders do not lead by greed but with honor. Let us make Baguio a model of Good Governance for the entire country,” he stressed. Calls for Unity,Reconciliation Now that the noise of the recent midterm elections has faded, Magalong is urging residents of the Summer Capital “to turn our energy toward reconciliation, unity and shared purpose.” “Isang-tabi na ang bangayan. Let us rise above division and instead focus on working together, supporting the leaders that the people have chosen,” he said. As he thanked everyone for “your trust, your courage and your love for our city”, the Mayor assured that his administration will continue to work tirelessly for the sustainable progress of “our beloved Baguio”. Magalong stressed that his electoral victory is a victory for every Baguio resident who believes in honest governance, inclusive leadership, and a vision for a better, more progressive city. “Magtulungan tayo, sama-samang bumangon, at isulong ang progresong tunay na nais ng mga taga-Baguio,” he appealed. Gaby Keith and Ariel Biala

Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City (May 17, 2025) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged the 266-strong members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Siklab-Laya” (Sundalong Isinilang na Kasangga at Lakas ng Ating Bayan Para sa Kalayaan) graduating class of 2025 to prioritize “love of country” over anything else. “Our country needs men and women who put their country and others above themselves, who sacrifice for the good of all, and who overcome us because they believe in the bright future ahead,” Marcos Jr. told the new Second Lieutenants and Ensigns led by valedictorian Jessie Ticar Jr., who rightfully promised, “we are ready”. The President stressed, “the most important is your love of country. That is an officer who knows how to love his country despite its flaws in the most sincere way.” Marcos Jr. admitted he is impressed by the perseverance, strength and dedication showed by these year’s PMA graduates, which enabled them to reach the culmination of their study and training. He also recognized that the path treaded by the Siklab-Laya class of 2025 was not easy, while citing how their class valedictorian, despite having a very difficult childhood went on the top the premier military training institution, even as a summa cum laude and with the highest point grade among the four so far who graduated as such. The President while acknowledging there may be nights of self-doubt amongst the graduates and possibly questions if they made the right choice, he lauded them for not giving up, adding that after four years of discipline training, hard work, they are now ready to serve the country as new officers (of the Armed Forces of the Philippines).” Marcos Jr. also primed that today’s warfare goes beyond land, seas and skies. ‘We have battles that are invisible to radar once they take place in cyberspace, in protecting information and safeguarding the environment and helping communities during crisis.’ Fortunately, your training now includes courses that were once unseen in the military academy, artificial intelligence, drone operations, strategic thinking, ethical leadership, amongst others. The President admired Siklab-Laya class of 2025 being the first batch to be trained on Pag-asa Island . “You also brought the PMA‘s name to international foreign competitions that both your organizational military skills from academic conferences in Palermo International sailing regatta in Italy India, among others in every instance. You have proof that the Filipino soldier is ready to face the world with dignity and to show his excellence.” Marcos Jr. further noted that physical strength and agility are no longer enough. “What we need just as much are your mental sharpness and your compassion. ✍️📷ARTEMIO A. DUMLAO  

In a proactive effort to enhance barangay security, John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) President and CEO Manjit T. Singh Reandi recently met with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Atty. Isagani Nerez to discuss strategies for strengthening safety measures within the John Hay reservation communities. Sharing a deep connection to their hometown, Baguio City, the two leaders agreed to underline the necessity of monitoring community vulnerabilities and adopting effective security actions to protect local residents. JHMC, for its part, conducts around-the-clock patrols to enforce community safety measures and guidelines, ensuring a more secure Camp John Hay. This latest collaboration, however, seeks to go even further by creating opportunities for synchronized programs, enhanced support for barangay safety campaigns, and awareness initiatives shaped by both law enforcement agencies—all while maintaining a strong commitment to community development goals    

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has auctioned off the lease and redevelopment of the 6,647-square-meter Mile Hi property in Camp John Hay, Baguio City, signaling a significant boost to the local economy and tourism sector. Under the proposed plan, the site will be redeveloped into an eco-hostel with upscale retail and dining spaces along Sheridan Drive in Camp John Hay. “This strategic redevelopment of Mile Hi underscores our commitment to unlocking the full potential of Camp John Hay. By attracting private sector investment and creating new commercial opportunities, we are not only enhancing the camp’s appeal as a premier destination but also generating employment and stimulating economic activity for the benefit of the community and the nation,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said. The 25-year lease agreement allows for the restoration, renovation, and upgrading of the Mile Hi property into a modern commercial hub while preserving its historical essence and promoting environmental sustainability. This initiative is projected to attract a significant influx of tourists and further solidify Camp John Hay’s position as a leading leisure destination in the Philippines. The Mile Hi project builds on the BCDA’s strong track record in Camp John Hay, where over Php1 billion in investments has been generated since the property’s recovery. The camp is experiencing a wave of private sector investment, with key players like Metro Pacific Investments Corporation subsidiary Landco Pacific Corporation managing The John Hay Hotels, as well as Golfplus Management Inc. and DuckWorld Philippines overseeing John Hay Golf. Furthermore, businesses such as Stern Real Estate Development, Amare La Cucina, and Top Taste Trading have also committed investments to the area. The Mile Hi property, named for its unique elevation approximately one mile above sea level, holds a special place in Camp John Hay’s history. Once a popular indoor recreation center featuring a bowling alley, billiard and ping-pong tables, arcade games, and a fondly remembered snack bar, the site is poised for a new chapter. A Taste of Italy: Grazie Bistro Now Open at Grand Summit Hotel General Santos Grand Summit Hotel General Santos proudly announces the grand opening of Grazie Bistro, a specialty Italian dining concept that brings the flavors of Italy to the heart of Mindanao. This casual yet refined bistro offers guests an authentic Italian experience — from handmade pasta and pizzas to rich desserts, creamy gelato, and thoughtfully selected wines. “The idea for Grazie Bistro was born from a desire to bring something fresh and distinctive to General Santos,” said Mr. Jesse Raymond Chua, General Manager of Grand Summit Hotel General Santos. “Italian cuisine, with its warmth, artistry, and timeless appeal, felt like the perfect fit. It’s a celebration of flavor and culture”. Grazie Bistro features an open theater-style kitchen — a signature element that sets it apart from other dining venues in the city. Guest are not only served the rich, comforting flavors of Italy, but are also invited to witness the artistry behind each dish. As chefs prepare meals from scratch in full view, diners enjoy a multisensory experience that brings energy, transparency, and a deeper connection to the craft of cooking. Must-try highlights include Grazie’s signature handmade pizza and pasta, crafted using traditional methods and only the finest ingredients. Cap off your meal with a scoop of authentic Italian gelato, or pair your dish with a glass of Italian wine or a refreshing aperitivo for a truly indulgent experience. The name Grazie — which literally means “thank you” — reflects the bistro’s brand promise: to promote a positive environment by appreciating the joy of food in every bite. This spirit of gratitude transcends the plate, as we thank each guest for choosing to dine with us.   Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love for Italian cuisine, Grazie Bistro promises a grand dining experience where tradition, passion, and gratitude come together.

By Pigeon Lobien   BAGUIO CITY -The longest serving politician who was absent the last two terms is back. “I am happy,” said the former two time three term mayor and three term congressman Atty. Mauricio Domogan in his initial message to a group of journalists. Domogan leads all other candidates with 45,767 total votes against his closest pursuer, Isabelo Coasalan, Jr. with 32,690 vote. This as third term seeking Mayor Benjamin Magalong leads Rep. Mark Go substantially, 55,497 against 42,146. This as Domogan and Magalong quashed the dynastic effort of the Go couple, an unprecedented attempt to win the top two posts in the city. “Congratulations sa winners! Thank you sa lahat. I’m very happy I was given (a) chance to share my ideas and I’m proud in helping stop the dynasty project,” said losing congressional candidate Francis Rae Camtugan. Domogan said that he ran to stop the Go couple from winning as mayor and congressman. He waited for the final day actually to file his candidacy. Third term seeking vice mayor Faustino Olowan is also topping councilor Mylen Yaranon where he leads the three term councilor by a mile. For the city council, nine old timers returned with three newbies joining the ranks. The winning city councilors are No.1 Edison Bilog (58,218), No.2 Joel Alangsab (57,174); No.3 Jose Molintas (56 196); No.4 Leandro Yangot (55 972); No.5 Vladimir Cayabas (53,461); No.6 Peter Fianza (51,602); No.7 Van Dicang (49,434); No.8 Fred Bagbage (48,642); No.9 Paolo Salvosa (48,544); No.10 Lourdes Tabanda (47,807); No. 11 Yuri Weygan (47,054) and No.12 Elmer Datuin (46,036).    

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City – Pinangunahan ni Cadet 1CL Jessie Ticar Jr. bilang Topnocher mula sa Quezon City ang PMA Siklab-Laya (Sundalong Isinilang na Kasangga at lakas ng ating Bayan para sa Kalayaan) Class of 2025 sa pagtatanghal na isinagawa ng Philippine Military Academy, noong Mayo 7. Ayon kay PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia, ang 1CL Ticar ay tatanggap ng Presidential Sabre Award mula kay Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., sa graduation rites sa Mayo 17. Si Ticar, 23, ay pararangalan din sa pagiging Summa Cum Laude at iba pang parangal tulad ng Jusmag Saber, Tactics Group Award, Natural Sciences Plaque, Army Professional Courses Plaque, Army Saber, Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award, General Antonio Luna Award, Humanities Plaque. Si Ticar ang bunso sa tatlong magkakapatid na mahirap ang buhay dahil na-stroke ang kanyang ama na isang taxi driver, habang ang kanyang ina ay sidewalk vendor malapit sa Quezon City Hall. Nang makatapos siya ng senior high school, sumali siya sa PMA Entrance Examination at pinalad na makapasa. Si Ticar ay nagtapos hindi lamang bilang nangungunang kadete kundi bilang summa cum laude na may average na grade point na 9.52 porsyento. Siya ang ikaapat sa kasaysayan ng PMA na nakakuha ng summa cum laude status pagkatapos ng Cavalier Artus noong 2021 na may gradong 9.51, Cavalier Gaerlan noong 1995 na may gradong 9.38 at Cavalier Lorenzo noong 1997 na may gradong 9.32. Ang No. 2 Cadet 1CL Murthan Zabala, ng Cebu City, ay tatanggap ng parangal na Vice Presidential Saber at mga parangal tulad ng Academic Group Award, Management Plaque, National Security Studies Plaque, Spanish Armed Forces Saber, Information Technology Plaque, Social Sciences Plaque. Ang iba pa sa Top Ten ay si No. 3 Cadet 1CL Joana Marie Viray, ng Pasay City, na tatanggap ng parangal na Cum Laude, Best Australian Defense Performance, Philippine Navy Saber, SND Saber. No. 4 si Cadet 1CL Carlo Badiola, ng Camarines Sur; No.5 Cadet 1CL Jetron Giorgio Nazareno, ng Oriental Mindoro; No.6 Cadet 1CL Kobe Jo Ann Pajaron, ng Negros Oriental; No.7 Cadet 1CL Malvin Brian Dapar, ng Bohol; No.8 Cadet 1CL Elzur Salon, ng Nueva Vizcaya; No.9 Cadet 1CL Aprilyn Magsigay, ng Agusan del Sur at No.10 Cadet 1CL Kristine Kate Senados, ng Zamboanga Sibugay. Ang PMA Siklab-Laya Class 2025 ay may kabuuang 266 na kadete, na kinabibilangan ng 212 lalaki at 54 na babae. (By Zady Comanda with reports from Jimmy Ceralde)            

BAGUIO CITY — Sa anim na araw na lang ang natitira bago ang pagsasagawa ng Midterm polls, ang City Joint Security Control Center ay nagpulong sa BCPO Headquarters para tapusin ang paghahanda para sa 2025 National and Local Elections, noong Mayo 6. Ang pulong ay nagsilbing plataporma para sa mga kinauukulang ahensya na ihanay ang kanilang mga pagsisikap at tiyakin ang maayos, maayos, at kapani-paniwalang pagsasagawa ng paparating na halalan. Iniharap ng BCPO ang pinal na deployment plan ng PNP personnel kasama ang komprehensibong security operations nito. Samantala, sinabi ni Atty. John Paul A. Martin, ang Election Officer mula sa COMELEC, inulit ang mga alituntunin at regulasyon ng Komisyon na dapat sundin. Nagpahayag ng kumpiyansa si BCPO Director Ruel Tagel na makakamit ang isang ligtas at mapayapang proseso ng halalan at tiniyak sa mga kalahok na ganap na handa at handang tumugon ang kapulisan sa anumang hindi inaasahang pangyayari na maaaring makagambala sa maayos na pagsasagawa ng halalan. Sa pag-uulit ng katiyakang ito, sinabi ni Dir. Binigyang-diin ni Milicent B. Cariño, DILG City Director, ang kahalagahan ng 4 C’s — Communication, Cooperation, Collaboration, and Commitment — bilang mahahalagang haligi sa tagumpay ng mga operasyon ng seguridad sa halalan. Sa kanyang huling paggabay, sinabi ni Atty. Pinaalalahanan ni Martin ang lahat ng ahensya at stakeholder na habang nakahanda na ang mga paghahanda, dapat manatiling mapagbantay ang lahat at panatilihing bukas ang mga linya ng komunikasyon upang agad na maiulat ang anumang insidente o alalahanin na maaaring makaapekto sa integridad ng proseso ng elektoral. Ang pagpupulong ay dinaluhan din ng mga kinatawan mula sa mga pangunahing tanggapan ng lungsod, iba pang ahensya ng pambansang pamahalaan, sektor ng relihiyon, non-government agencies, at media groups.