As suspension of classes continue brought about by the monsoon rains, Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap is pressing for online learning contingency in the hopes of helping curve learning crisis across the country. “It is high time to develop an online learning contingency for suspended classes. Hindi na pwede na ‘May Pasok’ or ‘Walang Pasok’ lang ang announcements. We should consider adding a category na shift to online learning when in-person classes are suspended. Hindi naman lagi, kasi minsan naman apektado din ang internet connection ng bagyo or other calamities,” said Yap. Yap added the possible shift to online learning could be one way of reducing educational crisis in the country, as some students in both private and public schools struggle to recover from lost lessons due to limited remedial programs and the absence of consistent alternatives during suspensions. While acknowledging that implementation will be difficult, Yap stressed the urgency of starting the transition which could help preserve the academic calendar, reduce backlogs, and maintain learning momentum, even amid frequent disruptions. “It can help maintain the academic calendar and reduce backlogs. Teachers din ang nahihirapan dahil dito. Ilang days a year ba ang average na nawawala because of disruptions? 30days? More? Masyadong marami yun. And there were instances na maaga ang suspension pero biglang maaliwalas ang weather throughout the day. So that should be taken into consideration as well,” the solon added. According to a report from the Department of Education, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) already recorded 35 class disruptions in 2024, accounting for the highest number of school days lost in the country, mainly due to natural disasters and calamities. “We are facing learning crisis. Frequent class suspensions will not help address this. We are a disaster-prone country, not to mention, marami din mga national and local holidays. There’s way too many disruptions,” added Yap. Several studies recently showed that the problem on class disruption have resulted to widening learning gaps, reduced engagement for both learners and teachers, increase in drop-out risk, and even teacher burnout as some educators are forced to compress lesson into fewer days. Yap said the shift to an online contingency mode is seen as a pragmatic solution, though not without challenges. “But this will not be easy, we need to prioritize and invest on better digital infrastructure, teachers should be prepared as well, and a shift of mindset should happen on our students so they are equally motivated and engaged even during online classes. Challenging and this will take time but should we not take action now,” Yap quipped.

Son of Kalinga as new Cordillera Top Cop CAMP DANGWA,Benguet — Police Brig.Gen. Ericson Dilag has officially assumed his post as the new Regional Director of the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) following the Turnover of Command Ceremony held at the PRO CAR Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet on July 21. Dilag, a proud son of Kalinga, succeeded Brig.Gen. David Peredo,Jr.,who served with distinction as PRO CAR Regional Director for over two years. Acting Deputy Chief PNP for Operations,PLt.Gen.Alan Okubo,presided the ceremony and served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. Okubo lauded both the outgoing and incoming regional directors for their steadfast leadership and dedicated service to the public. A highlight of the event was the passing of the PRO CAR command symbol and the turnover of the property equipment inventory book from the outgoing Regional Director to the incoming Regional Director, marking the formal transfer of leadership and responsibility. Peredo extended his heartfelt gratitude to all personnel and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout his leadership. Dilag expressed his deep honor in taking on the leadership of PRO CAR. He pledged to sustain and build upon the gains of the command, calling for unity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication from all personnel as they continue to serve the Cordilleran community. He also affirmed his strong alignment with the vision and directives of PNP Chief, PGEN Nicolas D Torre III. The event was witnessed by key officers and representatives from various units of the PNP, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-CAR, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, Local Government Units, PNP Press Corps, PRO CAR Officers Ladies Club, Regional Advisory Group for Police Transformation and Development, and family members, relatives, and close friends of both the incoming and outgoing Regional Directors.

  The Department of Tourism-Cordillera congratulates Mt. Camisong Forest Park in Barangay Loacan,Itogon,Benguet on the inauguration and blessing on new features that elevate the visitor experience-rooted in sustainability, inoovation, and eco-conscious hospitality. 𝙎𝙤𝙡𝙖𝙧 𝙋𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧 𝙎𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙢: 363 solar panels with a total capacity of 201 kW now fully power Phase 1 and Phase 2. Designed to retain 80% efficiency for up to 20 years, the system also allows excess energy to be sold back to BENECO. 𝙀𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘 𝙈𝙤𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮: Two 22kW AC EV fast-charging stations have been installed for eco-conscious travelers. These are supported by zero-emission transport options—electric club cars for internal mobility and Pinoy Transporter EV shuttles by Francisco Motors from Baguio. 𝙆𝙖𝙣𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙣 𝙃𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙇𝙖𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝: The park’s first indoor events venue, a 64-sqm flexible space for meetings, intimate events, or private functions. Dining options are provided by in-house establishments: Alapaap Dining, Marahuyo Café, Pica Pica, and partner Hatch Coffee. The hall includes support areas for staff and operations. The event was led by Mt. Camisong Chairman Ms. Ludette Querubin, President Oliver Samala, Marketing Head Ms. Jamie Blomdahl, and the Board of Directors & Partners, joined by Itogon officials headed by Mayor Bernard Waclin and Vice Mayor Dax Godio, DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovi A. Ganongan, EMB-CAR OIC Regional Director Engr. Jean C. Borromeo and other distinguished guests. Mt. Camisong Forest Park and Events is no DOT-Accredited Tourism Recreation Center- a model for sustainable tourism done right. Sustainability. Innovation. Cordilleran hospitality.That’s the Mt. Camisong experience

SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet (SNAP-Benguet) marked its 17th anniversary on July 10, 2025 at the Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant in Itogon, Benguet, with the theme “SNAP-Benguet at 17: Charting New Horizons.” The event gathered local stakeholders, partners, and employees to celebrate the company’s legacy and reaffirm its commitment to a sustainable energy future. The celebration reflected SNAP-Benguet’s continuing journey of transformation from a leading hydropower operator to an emerging player in new technologies such as battery energy storage solutions (BESS). The company shared its strategic direction as part of the energy transition, emphasizing innovation and creating shared value in the communities where it operates. “We are proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past 17 years, and we are equally excited for what lies ahead,” said SNAP President and CEO Joseph Yu. “SNAP’s entry into battery energy storage is our contribution to the energy transition while ensuring that we continue to deliver reliable and responsible power.” The event underscored the importance of collaboration among government, communities, and the private sector in pursuing energy security and sustainability. In his remarks, Vice Mayor Alain Xavier “Dax” Godio wished SNAP-Benguet many successful years ahead and offered “continued support and partnership as [we] move forward together.” In the days leading up to the celebration, employees spearheaded various community-focused initiatives, including a blood donation drive, a workplace mental health awareness talk, and a local clean-up activity. On July 9, SNAP-Benguet, signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for CSR projects with Barangay Tinongdan, headed by Barangay Chairman Edwin Atumpag. The MOA will cover funding for special CSR projects aligned with SNAP’s sustainability programs, which include environment, livelihood, health, and education. As SNAP-Benguet moves forward, it remains focused on delivering reliable, sustainable energy while supporting the communities where it operates. In his speech, Yu said, “With our strong foundation in hydropower and our growing focus on emerging technologies, we hope to continue supporting local development and the country’s energy goals.” About SNAP Group: SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) is a joint venture of Scatec and Aboitiz Power Corporation (AP). Scatec is a leading renewable energy solutions provider, accelerating access to reliable and affordable clean energy in emerging markets. As a long-term player, they develop, build, own and operate renewable energy plants, with 4.6 GW in operation and under construction across four continents today. They are committed to growing their renewable energy capacity, delivered by their 800 passionate employees and partners who are driven by a common vision of ‘Improving our Future’. Scatec is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ‘SCATC’. AP is the holding company of the Philippines-based Aboitiz Group’s investments in power generation, distribution, and retail electricity services. It advances business and communities by providing reliable and ample power supply at a reasonable and competitive price, and with the least adverse effects on the environment and host communities. SNAP owns and operates the 112.5-MW Ambuklao and 140-MW Binga hydroelectric power plants in Benguet; the Magat hydroelectric power plant which has a nameplate capacity of 360 MW and maximum capacity of 388 MW on the border of Isabela and Ifugao; the 8.5-MW Maris hydro; and the 24-MW Magat battery energy storage facility in Isabela. The non-power components such as dams, reservoirs, and spillways are owned, managed, and operated by the government.     PHOTO CAPTION:

Tabuk City – In recognition of his compassion and commitment to public service, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tabuk City has declared Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go as an adopted son of the city, bestowing upon him the name “Charutag,” which means solicitude or one who deeply cares and shows concern. Through Resolution No. 250, series of 2025, approved during a regular session on July 8, the City Council acknowledged the Senator’s extensive support to the people of Tabuk, especially in the areas of healthcare, disaster response, and social welfare. The resolution stated that the name “Charutag” reflects not only the cultural identity of Tabuk but also the personal values and dedicated public service of Senator Go. The resolution was personally handed to Senator Go during a special adoption rite organized in his honor. Local officials and residents gathered to express their gratitude for his instrumental role in the establishment of the Malasakit Center at the Kalinga Provincial Hospital and his continued efforts to bring government services closer to the people. The adoption resolution was moved and duly seconded, and officially adopted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod during its session at the Legislative Building in Dagupan, Tabuk City.

The Department of Tourism – CAR brings the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) Training to Lagawe, Ifugao. In collaboration with the Ifugao Police Provincial Office (IPPO) and the Provincial Tourism Office of Ifugao, 50 police officers proudly completed the 4-day training aimed at improving the quality of tourism services in the province. The TOPCOP training reinforces the role of police officers not just as enforcers of the law, but as frontliners in the protection of tourists. As guardians of peace and order, they play a crucial part in creating a safe and secure environment where both visitors and local communities can interact harmoniously. Through proper tourist handling, sensitivity, and responsive service, they will ensure a positive and memorable experience for travelers, ultimately contributing to the growth and improvement of tourism in the Province of Ifugao.      

Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas warmly welcomed Mayor Yoshito Arisaka of Minamimaki Mura, Japan, during the latter’s courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office recently. Mayor Arisaka was joined by Secretary General Shimizu Toshihiro of the Japan Agricultural Exchange Council (JAEC), along with other delegates from Minamimaki. During the visit, Mayor Arisaka extended his congratulations to Governor Diclas and the newly elected officials of Benguet on their recent electoral victory. He expressed appreciation for the Benguet farmer-trainees currently deployed in Minamimaki, commending them as “the best farmers because of their experience in highland vegetables.” He emphasized their contribution to Minamimaki’s agriculture-based economy, particularly in the cultivation of highland vegetables, strawberries, and livestock. Looking ahead, Mayor Arisaka expressed hope for stronger ties and collaboration between Benguet and Minamimaki. They also discussed plans to establish sisterhood agreements with the municipalities of Buguias and Tublay, with formal discussions scheduled this week. The proposed partnerships aim to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, tourism, and culture. Minamimaki currently has a sisterhood agreement with the Municipality of La Trinidad. Governor Diclas, in turn, thanked JAEC and the Municipality of Minamimaki for their continued friendship and support, stressing how the partnership has been helpful in the exchange of knowledge and agricultural technology that benefits the people of Benguet. Also present during the meeting were Benguet Board Members Romeo Salda, Armando Lauro, and Jim Botiwey.    

The Community-Based Farm Tourism Development initiative in Barangay Shilan, La Trinidad, Benguet is a project of the Department of Tourism through the Office of Tourism Development Planning, in partnership with World Vision Korea and World Vision Philippines. With support from the Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), the initiative continues to gain momentum through strong collaboration with local stakeholders and community members. As part of the ongoing assessment under the DURE Project, the team visited key local sites – a coffee farm, an organic farm, and local beekeepers – to explore opportunities for tourism product development, community-based livelihoods, and enhanced visitor experiences. The team also engaged with barangay officials led by Barangay Chairman Mr. Melecio Orid, La Trinidad Municipal Councilor Belmer Ellis, Ms. Amber Depnag of the La Trinidad Tourism Office, the Shilan Tour Guides Association (SHITOGA), and other members of the community. Discussions centered on empowering locals, enhancing tourism offerings, and unlocking Shilan’s tourism potential. To cap the visit, DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovita Ganongan convened the team to discuss field insights, assess progress, and map out strategic next steps. Her engagement reaffirmed the regional office’s support for inclusive, sustainable, and community-driven tourism development in the Cordilleras. Sustainable tourism, created with the community, for the community.  

Baguio Lone District Rep. Mauricio G. Domogan underscored that the eventual establishment of the autonomous region in the Cordillera will be the gift of the elders and leaders to the youth who will be the ones to reap the fruits of self-governance and genuine development. In his message during the kick off program of the 38th founding anniversary of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) held last July 1, 2025 at the Baguio Convention Center, Domogan said that one of the priority bills that he intends to file within his first 100 days in office is the proposed autonomy law with the support of fellow Cordillera congressmen and other lawmakers who support the region’s clamor for self-rule. He reiterated that the autonomy bill that will be filed will not affect or diminish the present powers and benefits being enjoyed by the region under the present special temporary administrative set up bit will instead increase the same aside from allowing the autonomous regional government to formulate policies, programs and activities that are suitable to the prevailing conditions unlike in the present set up where all initiatives emanate from the central government even if it is not feasible to be implemented in the Cordillera. The returning congressman pointed out that Cordillera elders and leaders will be remiss in their duty to provide the future generations with a better set up of government with the establishment of the autonomous region if they will not unite and aggressively work for its realization as the same is already long overdue. According to him, he will personally make the appropriate representation with Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, who earlier committed his support to the region’s clamor for autonomy when he was a member of the House and a senator, to push for the provision of funds that will sustain the operation of the autonomous region as he does not buy the idea of the national government that it cannot support the requested funds for the autonomous region. Domogan also argued that the contention that a third Organic Act might have legal impediments because current jurisprudence provides that there will be no hindrance to the said initiative until such time that Congress shall have passed an autonomy law acceptable to the people of the region. He asserted that elders and leaders should be passionate in supporting the region’s quest for autonomy because it will be the future of the youth that will be at stake and he does not want future leaders to put the blame on the present ones for not doing their duty to fight for what is right for the region. Section 15, Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution mandates the establishment of autonomous regions in the Cordillera and Muslim Mindanao The lawmaker stipulated that lawmakers from Mindanao have expressed their support to the passage of the Cordillera autonomy bill long ago because they want to return the compliment in recognition of the support of the Cordillera congressmen to the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law that resulted to the enhancement of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). (Baguio PIO)