LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap is mulling to file charges against those involved in the multi – disqualification charges filed before the Commission on Election against him. To date, seven disqualification cases have been filed against Yap, the latest which was forwarded as of this writing, from petitioners Cresencio Akia, Danny S. Montes, Patricio A. Ananayo, Demetrio A. Martin, Ceasar D. Sotelo, Luis B. Santiago, Bronson B. Sacpa, Valentin C. Leo, Ramos S. Guivac, Eleazar B. Narciso, Marcial E. Flores, Leonero C. Joseph, and Janielyn A. Takingan. “Another disqualification case was filed against me today, to date, it’s the seventh already. Again, the petition questions my citizenship but with no proof to back up their claims,” Yap said. Despite garnering a lopsided 144,093 votes, Yap’s proclamation was put on hold earlier following an order from Comelec due to a disqualification case filed before the May 12 election. “As mentioned previously, the petitioners will face serious charges. Our lawyers are drafting the charges already against every single one of them. Masyadong malaking damage na yung ginagawa nila and nararapat lang siguro na may pananagutan din sila sa ginagawa nila because this is no longer ethical and professional, ito po ay mockery na, pambababoy na sa proseso. It’s important to note na itong mga kaso po ay filed after the election, after malaman na kung sino ang pinili ng mga tao,” added Yap. Yesterday, May 27, Yap also received the sixth disqualification case filed be petitioners Rufino Soriano III and Agustina Igualdo Peter, both residents of Buguias, Benguet, also questioning the citizenship of the re-elected solon. ” We know who’s behind all these but we will deal with that later. Kailangan lang muna sagutin ang mga ito otherwise, we risk not having a sitting Benguet Representative come July 1st. We will hurdle these and the petitioners will have their day in the court after,” Yap said. (PR)

The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Cordillera Administrative Region (DILG-CAR) was conferred the Gold Gender and Development (GAD) Seal for FY 2023 alongside four other Regional Offices during the Department’s GAD Seal Recognition Rites held at Sequoia Hotel in this city, on May 7, 2025. This recognition is the highest level under the DILG’s GAD Seal Certification Program. It is conferred to DILG Regional Offices that have consistently upheld the principles of Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women by integrating gender and development in their systems, policies, operations, and service delivery. The GAD Seal Certification Program, initiated by DILG Region XII and adopted through DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2023-070, aims to institutionalize gender mainstreaming within the Department. The revised guidelines established uniform assessment indicators and introduced a three-tiered recognition system—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—corresponding to scores of 91–100 points, 81–90 points, and 70–80 points, respectively. The DILG-CAR earned the Gold Seal by institutionalizing a functional GAD Focal Point System (GFDS) and the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), establishing a GAD Database and GAD corner, conducting GAD-related trainings, providing GAD-related technical assistance to the local government units and other stakeholders, utilizing the 5% GAD budget, establishing necessary facilities and implementing various GAD-related initiatives. DILG-CAR Regional Director Araceli A. San Jose said that this seal exemplifies the Regional Office’s unwavering commitment to realizing GAD Plans and Budgets and translating these into tangible accomplishments. “This recognition shows that our commitment to gender and development is not just in documents or plans, but rather these are seen and felt as a hallmark of our organizational culture,” she said. This is the second GAD Seal for the DILG-CAR since 2022, and RD San Jose vowed to continue championing gender-responsive governance and inclusive public service in all DILG Field Operating Units and local government units across the region. “We will continue to lead by example in promoting local governments that are inclusive, respectful, and responsive to the needs of our communities,” RD San Jose said

  LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — Landslide victory was achieved by the relectionist candidates of Benguet province. In the initial results of the polls, Congressman Eric Yap, with 144,093 votes, is miles ahead of his opponent Tagel Felipe, with 62,371 votes. Yap’s groups that follow him are the re-election of Governor Melchor Diclas, with 116,212 votes, while in the Vice Governorship, No.1 Board Member Marie Rose Fongwan-Kepes won, with 116,169 votes. In District 1 of Benguet, Sander Fianza, Johannes Amuasen, Chairmaine Molintas, Thomas Wales, Myrna Nazarro, Jani Galutan, Jhonar Rebutazo and Lison Latawan, Jr. are leading. In District 2 are Ruben Tinda-an, Romeo Salda, Manny Fermin, Armando Lauro, Neptali Camsol, Frenzel Ayong, Jim Botiwey and Joel Tingbaoen. Winners of 13 Municipality In the capital town of La Trinidad, Roderick Awingan won Mayor, Vice Mayor Guiller Galwan, while in Sangguniang Bayan members were Nestor Fongwan, Jr.; Ted Walang, Belmer Elis, Jayson Dangwa, Bartolome Baldas, Jr., Horacio Ramos, Jr., Boyet Tereng and Tyrone Diaz. In Sablan, the Mayor was Alfredo Dacumos, Jr., Vce Mayor Arthur Balo, while the Councilors were Leo Lawana, Andoy Ome, Romeo Amboy, Cornelio Almagen, Johnny Cutay, Ireneo Baldo, Harold Busoy and Arthur de Leon. In Mankayan, retired General Cesar Pasiwen won as Mayor; Vice Mayor Aldrin Camiling, while the Councilors are Jeston Balong-angey, Ambino Padawi, Dick Tip-ac, Alexander Dapiawen, Reynal Manuit, Camilo Munoz, Pacito Donato and Lloyd Luspian. In Buguias, Mayor Julius Amos, Vice Mayor Ronald Kimakim and Councilors Manuel Yans, Melchor Guesey, Jerahmee Lasegan, Jose Bayas, Jr., Glenn Bigo, Federico Aquino, Vicente Kitongan and Wilnard Tolida won. Mayor Clarita Sal-ongan retained her seat in the town of Tuba, while Vice Mayor Maria Carantes. Councilors are Eugene Gabino, Gary Behis, William Abance, Reachelle Takinan, Nestor Baban, Rebecca Apil, Jerome Palaoag and Arnulfo Milo. In Itogon, Mayor Bernard Waclin, Vice Mayor Dax Godio, while the Councilors are Cesar Artiga, Norberto Pacio, Clint Galutan, Albert Carantes, Lucky Busacau, Albino Diego, Alejando Palangdan and Noel Bilibli. Kabayan winners, Mayor Rex Alwin Aquisan, Vice Mayor Sario Minas and Councilors Mircoles Lamses, Rudy Alos, Pelino Bugnay, Sandy Wa-is, Eugene Daoal, Marlon Nginsayan, Malou Cosalan and Ghislyn Lucio. In Bokod, Mayor Erik Donn Ignacio, Vice Mayor Doroteo Beray and Luis Acong, Marian Calawen, Miguel Jr. won. Cosalan, Pedro Anton, Gerardo Beray, Sonny Olas, Edward Albin and Alex Piok. Larry Tello won the Mayorship of Kibungan, while Vice Mayor Laurence Toking and Sangguniang Bayan members Roger Tugade, Labio Nabe, Brenson Siadto, Paulin Gumpic, Marcial Lingaling, Narciso Cayad-an, Ronico Agayo and Jovel Bentres. In Kapangan, Mayor Harris Dizon, Vice Mayor Santos Bastian, Sangguniang Bayan Members Bruno Canuto, Rechel Marcelo, Maribelle Diclas, Grant Balagsa, Johnson Andiso, Anthony Andong, Hector Mariano and Danny Eke. In Tublay, Mayor Juan Esnara, Vice Mayor Cruso Daguioa, Jr., Councilors Marvin Mayos, Lailyn Polig, Daniel Kaimpa-oy, Tikboy, Mendoza, Dinglee Berto, Nemescio Benito, Shane Awacan and Shangtaw Pangayan. Mayor Franklin Smith remained in Atok, while Vice Mayor Edward Beliano and Councilors Marilou Alos-Zarate, Raymundo Sarac, Edward Haight, Sammy Fianza, Charlie Lingbanan, Kelly Tomas, Simon Backian and Paul Mayos. And in Bakun, the winners are Mayor Bill Y. Raymundo, Vice Mayor Fausto T. Labinio and SB Members Jesus D. Lozano, June Raymundo C. Suni-en, Florencia L. Balakiao, Marciano P. Kigisan Jr., Mark C. Bayawa, Dixie L. La Madrid, Tokias Jayson L. Tokias and Edgar P. Ognaden.(By Zaldy Comanda)

By Janieca Edejer — UB Intern   BAGUIO CITY — A total of 1,290 cases of Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been recorded in Cordillera since 1984 until now. Darwin Babon, Development Management Officer III of the Center for Health Development – ​​Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CHD-CAR), made this known during the Kapihan Health Media Conference held in conjunction with the 42nd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, held at the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region office, on May 8. The department aims to discuss the current status of HIV cases in the region and steps being taken to improve the HIV care cascade in the provinces of Cordillera. According to Babon, from the total cases in the region, Baguio City has the most cases with 731 (56.6%), followed by Benguet (189) and Abra (182). By 2025, the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the region is estimated to reach 2,400, however, 1,164 of them have not yet been identified or diagnosed. Of the confirmed cases, 1,236 have been diagnosed (52%), but only 888 are actively enrolled in treatment (72% of those diagnosed), and 552 of them are virally suppressed (62%). The data shows that a large percentage of new HIV cases are among youth and young adults. According to the data, 48.29% of cases are from the age group of 25-34, while 28.92% are from the age group of 15-24. Correspondingly, three out of every ten cases are youth aged 15-24, while one out of two cases are in the age group of 25-34. The median age of HIV cases in the region is 28 years old. In the past two months of 2025, eight cases were recorded from the age group 15-24, proof that the youth sector continues to be at risk from the spread of the disease.   It also emerged that men still account for the majority of HIV cases in the region, with 1,198 cases (92.85%) compared to 92 cases (7.15%) among women and most of these cases are from biological males who have sex with men and transgender women. He also emphasized the stigma and discrimination that PLHIV continue to experience. According to Babon, it is important to promote comprehensive education, gender sensitivity, and confidentiality to encourage more people to get tested and receive treatment. DOH-CAR called on the public to join in the activities that will be conducted this month as part of the AIDS Candlelight Memorial, in recognition of those who lost their lives and in continuing the fight against HIV.      

  LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Four people were arrested after P3.6 million worth of dried marijuana was seized in a buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Cordillera in Barangay Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet on May 7. According to PDEA Regional Director Derrick Arnold Carreon, joint operatives nabbed the four peddlers after one of them sold 30 pieces of approximately 30 kilos of tubular-shaped marijuana wrapped in suspected dried marijuana leaves with stems. In addition, a black Toyota Fortuner loaded with illegal drugs was also seized. Carreon said two of the suspects are from Santol, La Union, while the other two are from Tublay, Benguet. The suspects will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.  

Congressional candidate and Benguet Vice-Governor Ericson “Tagel” Felipe is facing disqualification case filed by a private citizen for the use of government issued vehicles during his campaign. The private citizen, who requested anonymity cited in his petition for disqualification filed on May 2 that Felipe allegedly violated Section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC), particularly on the use of government vehicle for giving material consideration to influence, induce, or corrupt voters. In the affidavit, the white vehicle marked “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” on the front passenger door regularly parked in front of Felipe’s property in Baguio City was concealed by a magnetic signage bearing the phrase “Good Governance Benguet,” rendered in the congressional candidate’s signature color theme as candidate for Congressman of the Lone District of Benguet. The petition added the “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” marking is being deliberately concealed by magnetic signage bearing the phrase “Good Governance Benguet” as indicated by visible residue surrounding the affected area. Aside from concealing the markings, it was also alleged that the vehicle’s plate is being interchanged from time to time. Section 68 of the OEC specifies that any candidate who, in an action or protest in which he is a party is declared by final decision of a competent court guilty of, or found by the Commission of having (a) given money or other material consideration to influence, induce or corrupt the voters or public officials performing electoral functions. Based on the documents obtained by the petitioner, the vehicle is owned by the Provincial Government of Benguet as certified by the Provincial General Services Office (PGSO) which issued a Property Acknowledgment Receipt to Felipe. The petition also cited that the Supreme Court clarified that prior conviction is not necessary to sustain a petition for disqualification; it is sufficient that substantial evidence exists to support the violation. The petitioner also prayed that Felipe’s certificate of candidacy be cancelled and declared null and void for performing prohibited acts, and that the votes cast for him should be counted or treated as stray votes.

Benguet, Philippines — Reinforcing its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development, Hedcor, the run-of-river hydropower arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), has turned over more than P6 million in community shares to its host municipalities and barangays in Benguet. These funds are expected to help improve local infrastructure, enhance public services, and support livelihood programs that benefit thousands of residents across the province. With nine run-of-river hydropower facilities operating in Benguet, Hedcor plays a key role not only in providing clean and renewable energy, but also in advancing community well-being through long-term partnerships with local government units. Through the community shares, which are part of the Energy Regulation (ER) 1-94 program of the Department of Energy, Hedcor has contributed to rural electrification, disaster response, educational support, and community-based medical missions—efforts that continue to strengthen both the local economy and social services. The recent turnover of community shares marks another step forward in Hedcor’s partnership with Benguet’s municipalities. The Municipality of Sablan received over P2 million, while three of its barangays received a combined P1.3 million. According to Mayor Alfredo Dacumos Jr., the funds will be directed toward projects that improve mobility, expand access to markets, and support agricultural development. “As the fruit basket of Benguet, our priority is agriculture. We aim to establish Sablan as a recognized agricultural hub. These funds will directly support our farmers and help ensure food security for our community,” he said. In La Trinidad, the local government plans to use its community shares to expand rural electrification across 16 barangays, focusing on far-flung and mountainous areas that have long struggled with limited access to power. “Many of our remote communities still live without electricity. This affects children the most, as they are forced to study and live in darkness,” said La Trinidad Mayor Romeo Salda. “With Hedcor’s support, we’re powering up these barangays and national highway communities. A portion of the funds will also go to scholarship programs for underprivileged youth who cannot afford to attend school.” Meanwhile, the Municipality of Tuba intends to allocate its community shares from Hedcor’s Irisan 1 and Irisan 3 facilities to enhance local water systems, ensuring access to clean and reliable drinking water for residents. The local government also plans to implement infrastructure improvements that address flood-prone areas and strengthen road safety, particularly during extreme weather events. These projects reflect the value of collaboration between Hedcor and its host communities. “These community shares do more than just provide financial support. They directly impact thousands of lives—strengthening local economies, improving public services, and helping communities become more resilient,” said Noreen Vicencio, General Manager for Hydro Operations. “By investing in our host communities, Hedcor is not only delivering renewable energy—it is ensuring that sustainability translates into real, long-term progress for the people of Benguet.” As Hedcor continues to generate clean energy for the country, its support for Benguet’s rural communities remains unwavering. The company’s commitment to inclusive development ensures that the benefits of renewable energy go beyond power generation and are felt by the people who make it possible.            

ATOK, Benguet – Officials of this town welcomed this year’s batch of the Lucky Summer Visitors (LSV) with fervent hope that this visit will not be their last. On Black Saturday, the LSV, escorted by officers of the Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club (BCBC) visited this town’s most frequented tourist destination — the Northern Blossom Flower Farm. Mayor Franklin Smith credits Northern Blossom owner and manager Lany Ganayan for the growing tourism industry in the municipality. He said the flower garden, famous for its cabbage roses on manicured plots has become part of the itinerary of many tourists who usually visit Baguio and the capital town of La Trinidad. As a result, other businesses such as accommodation establishments, souvenir stores, tour guiding, and opening other eco-parks have also increased as a result of the influx of tourists at the site, Smith said. “We hope this will be the first of many. Atok used to be a stopover only. We are so blessed”, Smith told the LSVs and BCBC officers. The mayor said visits to the Northern Blossom alone contributed substantially to the town’s revenue. The LGU collected P3 million in environmental fees in 2023 and P8.2M in 2024. The number of accommodation establishments in Atok have also increased. In 2023 there were only 11 accommodation establishments. For 2024 and 2025, there are 30, the mayor said. For the past two years, the number of business permits issued have steadily increased. The mayor said there were 602 permits issued in 2023, 720 in 2024, and 722 for the first quarter of 2025. The mayor also proudly said that Atok is an emerging venue for conventions and benchmarking for small groups. Smith said the LGU is addressing potential concerns that might occur as a result of tourist influx. The municipal market is being reconstructed into a five-storey structure where three floors will be devoted for parking. The mayor admitted that parking is currently a challenge especially at the surrounding areas of the flower garden. The building will also have a multipurpose hall for conventions. Municipal Tourism Operations Officer Johanna Mae Lopez-Balao said there is more to see in Atok. She said the LGU agreed to host this year’s batch of the LSV with the intent of promoting other destinations in the town. “We take pride in our cool weather and warm hospitality”, Balao said, and thanked the BCBC for Including Atok in the tour of the LSVs. She and the mayor hopes that when they host next year, the guests will stay overnight so they can be toured in the town’s other tourist attractions. Other tourist destinations here are the, Half Tunnel, Haight’s Place and Benguet- Kochi Park, Wagangan Rock Formation and Lourdes Grotto, Goat Cliff Adventure and Camping, 2nd Highest Point of the Philippine Highway System, Hidden Cypress Botanical Garden, and Mt. Timbac summit. The Search for the Lucky Summer Visitor is an annual project of the BCBC as its way of helping promote tourism in Baguio. The tour, which used to be concentrated in Baguio and the Strawberry Farms of La Trinidad has included new and emerging destinations such as Atok and Tublay in Benguet and Pugo in La Union. This year’s LSVs, spouses Ricardo and Carolyn Celestino, their children Jerome and his partner Jellyn Bautista, Julia, Eunice, 13 and grandchild Eugin are from Pasig City. The LSVs also visited the Beacon Hill and Polig’s Farm, both in Tublay. Beacon Hill is a theme park located bearing symbols of the United Kingdom such as the Union Jack, the King’s Guards, the red-double decker buses, and telephone booths. Polig’s farm is a berry farm with a coffeeshop designed like a kettle as centerpiece. — BCBC release