By Katrina Garcia, UIO Intern The Saint Louis University (SLU) Marching Band emerged as overall champion of “Pagalingan 2024: The Marching Band Competition” held at the San Diego De Alcala Parish in Polo, Valenzuela on 12 November 2024. Aside from securing the top spot, SLU Marching Band also won special awards such as Best Color Guards, Best Group Majorette, and Best Uniform. The marching band performed two main drills that took place in three judging stations. First, they executed a two-minute fancy drill with forward-marching formations, dance moves, and a musical rendition of “Stadium Jams 4”. Afterwards, they performed a five-minute exhibition drill that included a three-minute band exhibition and two-minute color guard and majorette showcase to renditions of “El Tigre” and “Children of Sanchez.”    

The new leadership of the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) will be implementing appropriate interventions and strategies to continuously reduce the crime incidents committed that affects the city’s law and order. BCPO City Director Police Col. Ruel Tagel said that on anti-criminality, the local police force will strengthen the service of warrants of arrest of wanted persons coupled with the intensified campaign against loose firearms. Further, the BCPO will also remain aggressive in the implementation of anti-illegal drug operations, particularly buy busts and the sustained effort to curb the proliferation of illegal gambling. He also will work in the intensified anti-logging operations aside from target hardening and the inspection and engagement with security guards. According to him, there will also be a sustained inspection of vital installations in the different parts of the city, particularly cell sites, water reservoirs, electric towers among others aside from the collaboration, engagement and inspection of barangay officials and tanods with the usual engagement with friendly forces. Tagel said that there will be various simulation exercises on the conduct of camp or station defense plans supported by the beefing up of the beat and foot patrol apart from the usual Oplan Tambuli, Oplan anti-road obstruction. Moreover, there will also be inspection of firearms and deadly weapons in drinking establishments, implementation of the curfew for minors and the implementation of routinary checkpoints, inter-driven checkpoints, Comelec checkpoints during the election period among others. He pointed out that the BCPO will maximize the use of the 32 mobile patrols with a global positioning system and the use of 100 internet protocol radios with GPS during deployment. Tagel also reported that crime incidents in the city from January to November 12 this year decreased by nine percent compared to the recorded peace and order indicators during the same period last year. He said that for this year, there were some 602 crime incidents related to peace and order indicators that were recorded compared to the 663 incidents that were documented by the local police force during the same period last year. However, the public safety indicator slightly increased by two incidents or two percent from 876 crimes last year compared to the 878 incidents recorded from January to November this year. The BCPO official claimed that reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, physical injuries and damage to properties greatly contributed to the increase in the public safety indicator of the city’s crime rate during the current period. He said that of the 3,019 incidents, 1,754 fall under the public safety indicator. On the other hand, he pointed out that of the recorded crime incidents, 3001 have been reportedly cleared, 2,587 have been solved while 18 are still under investigation. According to him, a case is solved when the suspect is identified and arrested, case filed in court while case cleared is when a suspect is identified but not arrested and case is filed in court. He cited that a reason for a case classified under investigation is that the suspects are unidentified. Tagel disclosed that theft remains to be the common crime committed in the city with 146 cases followed by physical injury with 50 cases; rape – 37 cases; robbery – 20 cases; carnapping of motorcycle– 11 cases; homicide – 5 cases and murder and carnapping of motor vehicle – 4 cases each. (By Baguio-PIO)  

BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) has introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting the city’s transport industry through the ‘BTC Gasolina Voucher’ (Perks Card) program. This innovative project offers valuable benefits and discounts to drivers and operators of jeepneys, taxis, accredited tourism vans, and school buses.   Led by Wilson Bumay-et Jr., one of the leaders of the BTC Tourism G9 Transportation Sector and the current Baguio Jeepney Federation President, the BTC Gasolina Voucher provides various advantages, including up to a PhP 3.00 discount per liter of diesel or gasoline from partner gasoline stations. Additionally, cardholders are eligible for discounts on oil change services and select products, such as lubricants and maintenance essentials. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara emphasized that the program underscores the Council’s commitment to supporting the livelihoods of transport workers, who are crucial to Baguio’s tourism and daily mobility. “Supporting our drivers and operators is a top priority. With initiatives like the BTC Gasolina Voucher, we aim to help alleviate some of their operational costs while strengthening our partnerships with local businesses and gasoline stations,” Vergara stated. Since its launch, the program has already benefited over 250 drivers and operators, demonstrating its positive impact on the community. To further expand this initiative, BTC will be visiting various barangays throughout November to make it easier for more transport workers to access and enjoy the program’s perks. The BTC Gasolina Voucher is one of many strategic programs implemented by the Baguio Tourism Council to promote economic support and inclusivity across the city’s tourism-related sectors. Through this initiative, BTC seeks to enhance both the city’s tourism experience and the livelihoods of those who contribute to its thriving transport network.  

The Baguio City Mobile Force Company (CMFC), successfully conducted an Educational Visit and Outreach Program in partnership with Barangay DPS Compound, under the leadership of Punong Barangay Ariel Del Monte. Lt.Col. Czymeere Nicanor Valencerina, force commander said the event is part of the “Panag-aywan Iti Kailyan” Program, marked a special celebration for National Children’s Month. The outreach event, held at the Barangay DPS Compound Covered Court, benefited 150 daycare pupils from six neighboring barangays, along with their parents and guardians. As part of the initiative, CMFC distributed essential hygiene kits and school supplies in collaboration with Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Baguio to promote the children’s well-being and support their educational needs. The event was graced by Col. Ruel Tagel, city director, who delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasizing the crucial role of parents in guiding and nurturing their children. His message underscored the importance of family involvement in child development and safety. The Program highlights included a detailed presentation on police uniforms and their functions, helping children understand the important role of law enforcement in maintaining community safety. This outreach event reflects CMFC’s ongoing commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for children, while also promoting the active participation of families and the community in raising a generation that is both informed and empowered.  

BAGUIO CITY — A 49-year-old male accused of Statutory Rape and violation of RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act) was apprehended in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, on November 13. The arrest was carried out by operatives of BCPO- Police Station 8, CIU, RIU-14, CIDMU, TSC-RMFB 15, CIDG-BAGUIO and Dagupan City Police Station, Dagupan City. He is currently listed as the Number 6 Most Wanted Person at the provincial level by the CIDG-Baguio City for the 4th Quarter of CY 2024. BCPO City Director Ruel Tagel said the arrest marks a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to apprehend individuals facing serious criminal charges and underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the protection of children and the enforcement of justice.

BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City was officially honored during the flag-raising ceremony at Baguio City Hall on Monday, November 11, for its outstanding achievement in being named the Grand Winner of the Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit (LGU) at the ATOP National Tourism Pearl Awards which was held in Koronadal, South Cotabato last October. This prestigious recognition underscores Baguio’s exemplary commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and visitor engagement through innovative programs and collaborations. This achievement is a testament to the unified efforts of the City Tourism Office, led by Supervising Tourism Officer Engr. Alec Mapalo; the Baguio Tourism Council (BTC), chaired by Gladys Vergara; and the Department of Tourism CAR (DOT-CAR), headed by Regional Director Jovi Ganongan. Together, these partners have worked tirelessly to create memorable experiences and uphold the city’s reputation as a premier tourism destination. Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed deep pride in the city’s accomplishments, attributing the success to the collaborative work of various public and private sectors. “This recognition as the Best Tourism-Oriented LGU highlights our shared vision to elevate Baguio as a destination that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Our collective efforts are a reflection of what can be achieved when we work together for the city’s prosperity,” he said. In addition to the highly coveted Best Tourism-Oriented LGU Award, Baguio City was honored with several other accolades, demonstrating its diverse and robust tourism initiatives: Grand Winner,Best Tourism Promotion-Video for the “#BreatheBaguio Video,” directed by Ferdinand Balanag, which beautifully captured the essence of Baguio’s heritage, culture, and natural splendor. First Runner-Up, Best Event Hosting (Local) for “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2023,” a holiday celebration that enchanted residents and visitors alike. First Runner-Up,Best Tourism Week/Month Celebration for “HRAB’s 16th Annual HRT Week in Baguio,” a showcase of hospitality and tourism excellence. First Runner-Up, Best Sports Tourism Event for the “Sang-atan BLISTT Bike Festival 2023,” celebrating adventure tourism in the region. First Runner-Up,Best Cultural Festival for the “Gong Festival 2023,” highlighting indigenous traditions and cultural pride. Special Citation for Best Practices on Sustainable Tourism for “Baguio Country Club’s Sustainable Tourism Practices,” the only finalist in the Highly Urbanized City category. Second Runner-Up, Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism for the “Baguio Pony Boys,” honoring their unique contribution to Baguio’s tourism identity. Second Runner-up,Best Tourism Promotion-Brochure for the “#BreatheBaguio Tourism Brochure.” First Runner-Up, Best Institutionalized Program for Culture and the Arts for the “Montañosa Film Festival 2023,” celebrating artistic creativity and community heritage. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara remarked, “The recognition we received acknowledges the dedication and passion of Baguio’s people — from cultural bearers to creative artisans, city staff, and our steadfast partners in the public and private sectors. Together, we work to make Baguio a world-class destination while staying rooted in our heritage.” Looking ahead, Baguio City will have the honor of hosting the next Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Convention in October 2025. This major event will showcase Baguio’s leadership in tourism innovation, hospitality, and cultural richness, further cementing its status as a beacon of excellence in Philippine tourism.  

BAGUIO CITY — A Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Baguio, led by Mayor Benjie Magalong, and Wilcon Dept Inc., represented by William Belo, was inked on November 7. The MOA expresses the commitment of Wilcon Dept Inc. to support the City in improving the circle or street island located along the stretch of BGH Rotonda through the Adopt-A-Park program. Wilcon Dept Inc. will act as the park’s development partner. Additionally, the volunteer will assist in the park’s preservation, introduce improvements and development projects approved by CEPMO, ensure accessibility, and then finally turn over all accomplishments upon the revocation or termination of the agreement. Meanwhile, the city will exercise its authority to review and approve any programs and projects of the cooperative before its implementation. It will also supervise the execution of these, ensure the preservation and safeguarding of park facilities, allow the temporary setting up of the volunteer’s signage at the location, and enforce existing laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances on the management and operation of City parks. The Adopt-A-Park program allows government and non-government entities to participate in development activities for city parks. Photos by Eunice Tomacder

BAGUIO CITY — A 36-year-old male individual, identified as the Top 8 Most Wanted Person in the City of Baguio, was arrested during a coordinated police operation in Bulaoen East, Sison, Pangasinan on November 7, 2024. The operation was carried out by the joint forces of the City Intelligence Unit (CIU) along with the City Investigation and Detection Management Unit (CIDMU), BCPO Police Station 4, Regional Intelligence Division (RID) PRO CAR, City Intelligence Team Baguio RIU-14, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Pangasinan Police Front Unit – Special Action Tracker Team 3, and the Sison Municipal Police Station. The individual, a married resident of Sison, Pangasinan, is facing charges for committing 31 counts of Theft. He was booked in Sison Municipal Police Station and will soon be transported to Baguio City Police Office, where he will face charges filed against him. The Baguio City Police Office, under the supervision of Col.Ruel Tagel,city director, continues to step up efforts to apprehend individuals with outstanding warrants as part of its commitment to public safety and public service.                  

By Malou Laxamana – Pascual   Paano mo matatawag na tulong kung balot ito ng pulitika? Naiintindihan ko; ang panahon ng eleksyon ay ginagawang parang campaign poster ang bawat programa ng gobyerno. Ngunit ang isang bagay na tunay kong iginagalang ay tapat, batay sa pangangailangan na tulong. Ibase natin sa katotohanan, hindi sa political maneuvering. Upang matiyak ang patas na pag-access, mahalagang i-sideline ang anumang mga bias na dulot ng bulung-bulungan. Ang mga matibay na pahayag ni DSWD-CAR Regional Director Maria C. Aplaten sa Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) ay dapat maging isang wake-up call sa sinumang sumusubok na sirain ang layunin nito. In her interview, she debuns claims that AKAP is just another politicians’ playground. Sa halip, binibigyang-diin niya ang direkta at malinaw na proseso ng aplikasyon ng programa, na nilalampasan ang impluwensyang pampulitika. Direktang aplikasyon, Hindi pampulitika na paborito Ang paglilinaw ni Aplaten tungkol sa ruta ng aplikasyon ng AKAP ay walang puwang para sa kalabuan. Ang mga prospective na aplikante ay hindi nangangailangan ng “pagpapala” ng mga pulitiko upang makakuha ng tulong; maaari silang mag-aplay nang direkta sa Social Welfare Office, na may mga dokumentasyon at mga grassroots verification checks sa lugar. Tinitiyak ng prosesong ito na ang tulong ay makakarating sa mga tunay na nangangailangan nito, na walang mga pag-endorso o impluwensya sa pulitika. Hindi maaaring i-claim ng mga pulitiko na hawak nila ang susi sa AKAP, at ang mga pag-endorso mula sa kanilang mga opisina ay hindi kinakailangan o priyoridad. Cross-Matching at Verification Si Aplaten ay hindi umaasa sa salita-ng-bibig o pampulitikang rekomendasyon. Ang mga detalye ng bawat aplikante ay sumasailalim sa isang cross-matching na proseso upang kumpirmahin ang kanilang pagiging karapat-dapat, na nagpapakita ng pangako ng departamento sa katumpakan. Ito ay hindi tungkol sa marangyang mga pag-endorso ngunit tunay na pag-verify ng data—isang pananggalang upang maprotektahan ang integridad ng programa. Ang pagbibigay-diin ng Aplaten sa katumpakan ay nangangahulugan din na ang mga kasalukuyang benepisyaryo sa ilalim ng 4Ps program ay hindi karapat-dapat para sa AKAP, na nagpapatibay na ang tulong na ito ay naka-target na dagdagan ang mga pangangailangan ng malapit sa mahihirap. Transparency higit sa Impluwensiya Malinaw ang apela ni Aplaten sa publiko: ang mga tanong tungkol sa proseso ng AKAP ay dapat na direktang pumunta sa kanilang opisina. Hindi na kailangang mag-funnel ng mga katanungan sa pamamagitan ng opisina ng mayor o congressman. Tinitiyak niya sa publiko na ang paghingi ng tulong sa pamamagitan ng mga channel na ito ay hindi tinitiyak ang tahasang pag-apruba. Nandito ang programa para maglingkod, hindi para gamitin bilang political vehicle. Sa pamamagitan ng pagputol ng mga hindi kinakailangang middlemen, hinihikayat ng DSWD-CAR ang transparency at accountability, tinitiyak na ang mga tao ay ganap na alam at may kontrol sa kanilang mga aplikasyon. Debunking the Myth of Political Endorsements Ang mga pag-endorso, lalo na sa panahon ng ikot ng halalan, ay maaaring magdala ng mapanlinlang na timbang. Nais ni Aplaten na malaman ng publiko na habang ang mga opisyal ng lokal na pamahalaan ay maaaring subukang magbigay ng kanilang “suporta,” ang isang pag-endorso ay hindi katumbas ng garantisadong pag-apruba. Umiiral ang AKAP para tulungan ang mga nahihirapang pamilya, hindi para magsilbing political leverage. Ang mga pampublikong opisyal na umaasang mapakinabangan ang abot ng programa ay dapat tandaan na ang pag-endorso ay hindi nakakaimpluwensya sa proseso ng paggawa ng desisyon sa DSWD-CAR. Pagpapanatiling nakatuon ang AKAP sa publiko Ang tiwala ng komunidad ay nakasalalay sa isang malinaw na paghihiwalay sa pagitan ng pampublikong tulong at mga ambisyong pampulitika. Tinitiyak ng diskarte ni Aplaten na mananatiling malaya ang AKAP sa anumang kulay pampulitika. Para sa kanya, ito ay tungkol sa pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga tao nang direkta at may integridad. Inaanyayahan niya ang lahat na dumiretso sa tanggapan ng DSWD, pinatitibay na ang transparency at pagiging patas ay nasa ubod ng AKAP. Bakit ang pananaw ni Aplaten sa Serbisyong Pampubliko ay nararapat ng higit na pagtuunan ng pansin Ang paninindigan ni Direktor Aplaten ay nagbibigay liwanag sa pagkakaiba ng serbisyo publiko at postura sa pulitika. Sa halip na umasa sa mga pag-endorso sa pulitika o tumutugon sa mga kapritso ng mga madla, itinutulak niya ang AKAP tungo sa isang tunay na modelo ng serbisyo—walang kabuluhan, malinaw na suporta lamang kung saan ito higit na kailangan. Ito ay isang tapat na pananaw, isa na humihimok sa mga pulitiko na iwanan ang kanilang mga personal na interes sa pintuan at unahin ang aktwal na kapakanan ng komunidad. Sa buod, ang mga pahayag ni Aplaten ay nagwawalang-bahala sa anumang mga pagtatangka na pamulitika ang AKAP, na nagpapakita na posible ang isang epektibo, walang kinikilingan na diskarte sa kapakanang panlipunan. Sa pamamagitan ng pagpapanatiling bukas sa mga pinto para sa direktang mga aplikasyon, paglilinaw sa proseso ng cross-checking, at pagtiyak na ang mga pag-endorso sa pulitika ay walang epekto, pinapanatili ng DSWD-CAR ang pangako nito sa isang people-first approach.