BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong underscored the critical role of public-private collaboration during the recent Economic Survival and Growth Briefing here in partnership with the Metropolitan BLISTT (Baguio, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba and Tublay) Development Authority and the Baguio Business Club. The event highlighted the need for stronger coordination between government institutions and the private sector to navigate ongoing economic uncertainties and external shocks affecting both local and global markets. A key presentation during the briefing was delivered by City Planning and Development and Sustainability Office (CPDSO) head Donna Rillera Tabangin, titled “Outlook on Fuel Price Disruption: Economic Continuity & Resiliency Planning.” It outlined pressing global risks, including the continuing conflict in the Middle East, which threatens oil supply chains, international trade routes, and financial market stability. The presentation emphasized that Baguio City, known for its service-oriented economy and reliance on tourism, is particularly vulnerable to rising fuel prices, inflation, and supply chain disruptions that could significantly impact business operations, transportation, and the overall cost of living in the Summer Capital. In response, stakeholders stressed the importance of adopting strategies centered on resilience, economic diversification, and strengthening local industries to cushion potential impacts. It was noted that passive approaches are no longer sufficient but instead, proactive planning and concrete measures are essential to ensure uninterrupted services and maintain the city’s economic stability in the face of global uncertainties.(Gaby B. Keith)        

Baguio folk told to put up more storage tanks   BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio Water District (BWD) is urging the public to strengthen water conservation efforts as the water utility intensifies measures to protect and sustain the city’s water supply amid the effects of prolonged dry conditions. BWD General Manager Engr. Salvador M. Royeca emphasized that while the district continues to implement contingency measures and optimizes available water sources, public cooperation remains vital in ensuring water supply throughout the dry season. “Water conservation should not only be practiced during El Niño. It must become part of our daily lifestyle because every drop of water saved helps extend supply availability and protect the environment,” GM Royeca said. Although Baguio City is far from experiencing a total water crisis, Royeca explained that the seasonal decline in water source yield continues to contribute to temporary supply shortages, particularly in identified challenging areas. “We are implementing measures to cushion the effects of the seasonal decline in water sources, although we cannot completely prevent it from occurring. Climate change has long been affecting our environment, and BWD remains committed to pursuing solutions that will help ensure water security for the public,” he added. As part of its ongoing preparations, BWD continues to closely monitor its facilities while fast-tracking the activation and commissioning of additional water sources to augment supply. At present, BWD operates seventy-five deep wells, four spring sources, two rainwater harvesting facilities, and two mini-bulk water suppliers, which collectively contribute to meeting the city’s water requirements. The district also continues to conduct leak detection and repair activities, manage equitable water distribution, and maintain 24/7 monitoring of water systems and facilities to help minimize service disruptions. Despite operational challenges brought about by declining source yield, BWD assured the public that proactive measures are continuously being undertaken to lessen the impact of dry conditions on water service delivery. BWD likewise encourages households and communities to adopt practical water-saving habits, such as promptly fixing or reporting leaks, minimizing unnecessary water use, reusing water whenever possible, and avoiding wasteful consumption. “Preparedness is not solely the responsibility of the water district. Water security is a shared responsibility between the utility and the community it serves,” GM Royeca emphasized. The BWD is also appealing to residents to put up more storage tanks in their respective homes to store water for their daily needs and prevent difficulties in accessing the potable water supply, especially during the summer season when there is a decline in supply from its sources. Royeca said there is no doubt that potable water supply from existing sources, such as deep wells, springs, and other open sources, declines during the summer season because there are no rains to recharge the aquifers. He said residents should start investing in the installation of water tanks and other suitable storage facilities in their homes and ensure that these are filled during their scheduled water supply to last until the next scheduled supply. Royeca reminded the public that BWD has released water supply schedules for residents in the different barangays during the summer season to ensure that the available supply is equitably distributed among consumers, as water balancing is now being employed to help maintain sufficient water supply. The BWD official pointed out that some residents have already invested in larger water tanks in their respective homes to maximize water storage during their supply schedule and ensure enough supply until the next schedule. He also reminded consumers to adopt water conservation measures to prevent wastage. He encouraged residents living in highly elevated areas of the city, who often experience low water pressure and limited supply during the summer season, to consider installing more water storage facilities to ensure the availability of water within their households until the next water supply schedule. Royeca expressed hope that more households will consider putting up additional water tanks and storage facilities in their homes so they can store more water for their daily needs, especially during the summer months.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government of Baguio will be hosting this year’s Regional Travel Fair at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center from May 15 to 17, 2026. The event organized by the Travel Promotions Board in collaboration with the Department of Tourism will highlight the Cordillera Administrative Region through Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumer engagements. An RTF Buyer’s Forum will also be conducted. To ensure the success of the event, Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong issued Memorandum No. 78, series of 2026 directing the City Tourism, Culture and Arts Office as the overall coordinator. Magalong also directed the Baguio City Police Office to provide traffic management and security during the event, and exempt the organizers from the implementation of the Number Coding Scheme Ordinance, as well as exempt the vehicles of suppliers from the Truck Ban Ordinance – upon presentation of the memorandum. The City Environment and Parks management office shall take charge of sprucing up and beautification of the venue; while the Health Services Office – Emergency Medical Service and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office shall provide standby emergency medical services. Meanwhile, the City Buildings and Architecture office shall allow and assist the organizers to install and display promotional banners in designated areas within the city and facilitate the waiver of corresponding fees, subject to existing rules and regulations. The City Treasury Office will also allow the participating concessionaires to operate during the event with the waiver of corresponding fees while the City Mayor’s Office – Business Permit and Licensing Office will facilitate the issuance of Special Permits to participating sponsors and concessionaires, waiving the corresponding fees. The mayor hopes that by supporting this activity, the city government will encourage more tourist arrivals for economic recovery amidst the impact of the global fuel crisis.(JM Samidan)        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  — Mayor Benjamin Magalong warned on the proliferation of “angkas” or “habal-habal” motorcycle-for-hire services in the city and urged the public against patronizing this unauthorized transport means citing safety, traffic and accountability concerns. Magalong said these motorcycle transport services lack proper safety training for drivers and do not provide commuter protection or insurance coverage for passengers. He added that the operation of unauthorized motorcycle taxis could further worsen the city’s traffic situation and increase the risk of road accidents especially along Baguio’s steep and uphill roads. “Besides, there is no clear accountability on the part of drivers involved in these unregulated operations,” he said. Magalong said Department of Transportation (DOTr) Regional Director Glen Dumlao has confirmed that no angkas permit has so far been issued in the city thus no individual or company is authorized to provide such motorcycle-for-hire services. On the mayor’s orders, the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) under P Col Ruel Tagel has intensified operations to deter angkas operations. Tagel said angkas deterrence operations are presently being mounted in various strategic locations in the city. In the past, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Cordillera (LTFRB-CAR) had said that motorcycle angkas operations are not safe in the city because of its terrain and even issued a warned against using motorcycles operating as public utility vehicles. Magalong said he had already recommended to concerned agencies the revocation of licenses of drivers caught operating under such unauthorized scheme.(Aileen P. Refuerzo)            

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – “Let us continue to strive, unite, and take action—because real change begins with our dedication to doing the right thing, every day.” This was the statement of Mayor Benjamin Magalong, in a social media post, pointing out that every day is an opportunity to do the right thing, to provide solutions, and to deliver the service our fellow citizens deserve. “Despite the challenges we face, we choose to move forward—stronger, more determined, and more willing to serve.” He emphasized that true leadership is demonstrated through gentleness rather than violence, humility rather than arrogance, and service rather than personal gain. “Whether in leadership or in daily life, the strength of our influence lies in our character—how we treat others, how we act, and how faithfully we uphold the values ​​of truth, compassion, and service. Through these virtues, we become instruments of guidance, unity, and positive examples for those around us,” Magalong stated. Meanwhile, Magalong shared his insights on good governance at the Leader’s Forum 2026 held recently in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. The event, themed, “Bridging Leaders, Building Hope,” saw him share his insights on Good Governance, as the guest speaker for the event. “Leadership is not about position—it is about purpose. Together, we affirm that building bridges among leaders and building hope is not just a theme but a responsibility that we carry forward in our communities,” he emphasized at the forum that brought together officials and other stakeholders from various local government units. The Mayor encouraged participants to continue to lead with courage, act with compassion, and serve with a strong commitment to the people. He also explained that Good Governance is not just about leaders doing their jobs well—it is a shared responsibility between government and citizens, based on integrity, accountability, and active public participation.          

The Baguio Water District (BWD) is strengthening and recalibrating its water supply operations as part of its proactive preparations for the possible effects of the projected El Niño phenomenon expected to affect parts of the Asia-Pacific region in the coming months. BWD General Manager Engr. Salvador M. Royeca assured the public that the District has already activated enhanced contingency measures to help sustain the equitable distribution of water supply as the country transitions from the regular summer season into a potentially prolonged dry period extending into next year. “As always, we have our contingency plans in place. This is part of the annual operational cycle of water districts. We just have to calibrate it depending on the factors, this time the projected Super El Niño,” GM Royeca said. According to Royeca, the District is currently reviewing and refining several engineering and operational interventions aimed at minimizing the impact of prolonged dry conditions on the city’s water supply system. Among the measures being closely monitored is the performance of District’s newly activated deepwells, which are expected to significantly augment available water supply during the anticipated critical months. “Our newly activated deepwells will be put to the test during this period, and we are optimistic that these will help provide sufficient supply for the community,” he added. BWD is also banking on the continued utilization of its rainwater harvesting facilities to help stabilize supply availability. The Sto. Tomas Rain Basin (STRB), the District’s largest rainwater harvesting facility with a full storage capacity of approximately 700,000 cubic meters, remains at a substantial level and is expected to continue augmenting the city’s water supply as a backup source until the end of June. Meanwhile, the Busol Rainwater Harvesting Facilities remain on standby and are ready for activation during the projected critical months. While preparations are underway, Royeca acknowledged that several spring water sources have already begun experiencing seasonal decline, affecting reservoir recharge rates in some supply areas. As part of supply optimization efforts, BWD has implemented adjustments to water distribution schedules in selected areas, particularly in locations with higher demand and lower source yield. Despite these operational challenges, the District emphasized that its ongoing measures are designed to cushion the effects of the dry season while maintaining reliable service delivery across its service areas. GM Royeca likewise appealed for public cooperation through responsible and mindful water use, emphasizing that water conservation should remain a daily practice regardless of weather conditions. “Water conservation not only helps extend the availability of our water supply but also contributes to environmental protection,” he said. BWD continues to closely monitor weather developments and source conditions while implementing adaptive measures to help ensure the sustainability, resilience, and long-term reliability of the city’s water supply system. -BWD

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The local government under the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has begun distributing a sack of rice to 13,655 beneficiary families in the first phase of the Rice Distribution Project in Baguio City. Under the program, which aims to ease the burden of rising food and living expenses of poor residents and vulnerable sectors, qualified families will receive rice subsidies from the government. The project is funded through a P56-million allocation from the national government under the 2026 Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA), pursuant to DBM-DILG Joint Circular No. 1, series of 2026. This is part of the Assistance to Indigent Individuals or Families–Food Assistance/Rice Distribution program. CSWD Officer Liza Bulayungan said that identified families can receive up to one cavan or 50 kilos of rice, although the amount may vary depending on the number of family members. The distribution is scheduled to be conducted weekly in May, July, September, and October, and some batches are expected to be released earlier. The rice will be distributed in each district, either through clusters or through designated time slots at the Loakan National Food Authority (NFA) Warehouse, to ensure a smooth process. Bulayungan said the distribution will be conducted in close coordination with barangays and public utility jeepney (PUJ) associations to maintain an organized system and avoid traffic congestion. According to Bulayungan, the registration and assessment of beneficiaries began on April 13, 2026, in various barangays and designated areas throughout the city, following the guidelines set by the CSWDO. Beneficiaries include poor families, senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and qualified minimum wage earners who are genuine residents of the city. In this regard, Mayor Benjamin Magalong once again thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for including Baguio City in the program. He also thanked the CSWDO for ensuring fair selection and accountability of beneficiaries, in fulfillment of his promise to the President that the distribution would be free from political influence, favoritism, and other irregularities.      

  PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia (wearing Philippine Navy Uniform) with the Top Ten cadets of the Philippine Military Academy “Talang Dangal” Class of 2026 during the media presentation held at Fort del Pilar, Baguio City, on May 6. Photo by Zaldy Comanda   FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, Philippines  – A Batangueña topped the 207 members of the Philippine Military Academy “Talang Dangal” (Tagapagtanggol ng Lahing Dakila at Marangal) Class of 2026, during the media presentation held at the PMA’s Kapihan on May 6. This year’s topnotcher is Cadet 1CL Christine Kye Demisina Librada, 23, of Lipa City, Batangas, who will receive the Presidential Saber Award from President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., who is expected to attend the graduation rites on May 16. Librada, the daughter of a former soldier, will also be honored with the Philippine Army Saber. Information Techno;ogy Plaque, JUSMAG Award, Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award and other awards. The Vice Presidential Saber Award will be received by No.2 Cadet 1CL Mark John Vincent Utlang Catacutan, 24, of Napolian, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, called Magna Cum Laude, who also has the Philippine Air Force Saber Award, General Antonio Luna Award, Spanish Armed Forces Award, Alejandro Melchor Award, Management Plaque, Natural Sciences Plaque, Humanities Plaque, Pelagio Cruz Plaque, Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award. Others in the Top Ten are No. 3 Cadet 1CL Thomas Edgar Isla Sepulchre, 23, of Angeles City, Pampanga, who will receive the Secretary of National Defense Saber award; No. 4 Cadet 1CL Ian Harold Durana Hubilla, 23, of Sorsogon City, (Sorsogon, who will receive the Chief of Staff Saber award; No.5 Cadet 1CL Maeg Adriene Pajarillo Bermudez, 24, of Moncada, Tarlac, with the Social Sciences Plaque award; No. 6. Cadet 1CL Cherry Mae Panag Geco , 24, of Jamindan, Capiz. No.7 Cadet 1CL Elixa Anya Lumbang Hernandez, 22, of Padre Garcia, who will receive the Philippine Navy Saber, Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award; No.8 Cadet 1CL Catherine Beloa De Chavez, 22, of San Pascual, who will be awarded the Chief Justice Saber, Artemio Ricarte Plaque; No.9 Cadet 1CL Cedric Guingguing Polizon, 24, of Surigao del Sur (Cum Laude) and No.10 Cadet 1CL Mark Clement Dequinto Centina, 24, of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. According to PMA Superintendent Caesar Bernardo Valencia, of the total 207 cadets from the “Talang Dangal” Class 2026, there are 142 males and 65 females, of which 79 are in the Philippine Army, 62 in the Philippine Airforce and 69 in the Philippine Navy. (By Zaldy Comanda)    

  An American English Language Fellow trains college instructors on teaching complex subjects in English. BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — As part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic ties and the Freedom 250 commemoration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, through its Regional English Language Office, launched a specialized professional development program to help college instructors teach technical subjects more effectively in English. This initiative highlights American excellence in teaching innovation, bringing world-class instructional standards to Philippine classrooms. The two-day workshop, held in Baguio City on April 28 and 29 and facilitated by Saint Louis University, trained 50 college instructors specializing in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and social sciences. Led by American English Language Fellows, the workshop used experiential learning methods—including mini laboratories and solving complex math problems in English—to help participants experience firsthand the challenges students face when learning technical subjects in English. “By empowering Filipino faculty with tools to strengthen their English instruction, we are also helping them shape the next generation of subject matter experts who can effectively communicate complex ideas in English.  This collaboration bridges a future where the United States and the Philippines can work more easily toward shared goals, making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna. “This training has benefited the whole region through these professors and instructors to learn more ways of using English as a power and a tool in facilitating content courses.  From here, we will always share and pay it forward,” said Dr. Stephanie Busbus, Director of Global Relations at Saint Louis University. Participants also relied on the American English Toolkit—a collection of resources provided by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with American educators and professionals.  The Toolkit includes interactive games, songs, recorded virtual workshops, and other teaching tools that highlight American values, culture, history, and the arts, offering instructors valuable materials to incorporate into their classrooms. The Regional English Language Office (RELO) in Manila advances U.S. interests in the Philippines and the region by promoting English language teaching and learning programs that strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Philippines.  Through teacher training, curriculum development, and educational resources, RELO empowers educators and institutions to enhance English language instruction, creating opportunities for Filipinos to engage with American culture, values, and innovation.