Motorists going up to Baguio City now easily negotiate the newly asphalted portion of a bypass road in Barangay Twin Peaks, Tuba, Benguet. Earlier , District Engineer Isagani Cayme, head of Benguet 1st Engineering District,DPWH-CAR leads the inspection in said area to facilitate the repair to ease traffic congestion and enhance safety together with his staff. Present are Engr. Henry Apostol ,chief of the Maintenance Section and Engineering Assistant Sean Payad. Repair works follow engineer Khadaffy Tanggol, regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Cordillera Administrative Region ( DPWH -CAR) advisory to motorists due to repairs.Photo by Primo Agatep/

By Rio Bassong   The Kalinga’s newly crowned queen took home several prizes including P60k from the PLGU, P10k worth of McDonalds gift certificate, and P10K from Miss Gandang Lanie Salon Aesthetic Center, during the Search for Miss Kalinga 2025 coronation night held at the Kalinga Sports Center, on February 10. Fatima Rose Peralta, a 19-year-old stunner from Barangay Tanglag, Lubuagan, is a second year criminology student at the Kalinga State University. Peralta also won special awards, including Best in Creative Attire and Best in Evening Gown. She is the first-ever representative from Lubuagan to win the title. Tabuk City’s Ezra Kiser Lagasi bagged the Miss Kalinga Tourism title while Claire Bagitan from Rizal was crowned Miss Kalinga Environment. Ehdrian Nicole of Lubuagan, sponsored by the Pallayoc Club, was named first first runner-up, and Mary Ann Solog of Tinglayan finished second runner-up. With the theme “Elevating Timeless Beauty and Elegance,” the event was part of Kalinga’s 30th Founding Anniversary and 6th Bodong Festival.      

The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Cordillera Administrative Region (DILG-CAR) announced that 51 local government units (LGUs) across the region have been conferred the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG) for Calendar Year 2024, underscoring their unwavering dedication to safeguarding and advancing the rights and welfare of children in their communities. The SCFLG is awarded to LGUs that have demonstrated excellence in designing and implementing child-centered programs, policies, and services under the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA). The audit assesses LGUs through key pillars of child welfare and security, such as Survival, Development, Protection, Participation, and Governance. To earn the seal, an LGU must attain an overall passing rate of at least 80% in the evaluation. The 51 cities and municipalities recognized for their commitment to child-friendly governance are: From the Province of Abra, the municipalities of Boliney, Danglas, Dolores, Lacub, Lagayan, Lagangilang, La Paz, Licuan-Baay, Luba, Peñarrubia, Pidigan, Pilar, San Juan, Sallapadan, Tineg, Tubo, and Villaviciosa have earned the seal. In the Province of Apayao, the LGUs of Calanasan, Conner, Flora, Luna, Pudtol, and Sta. Marcela are among those honored. In the Province of Benguet, Atok, Buguias, Itogon, Kapangan, Kibungan, La Trinidad, Mankayan, and Tublay were recognized. From the Province of Ifugao, Alfonso Lista, Asipulo, Banaue, Hungduan, Kiangan, Lagawe, Lamut, and Tinoc bagged the seal. The Province of Kalinga’s awardees include Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil, Rizal, Tabuk City, Tanudan, and Tinglayan. From Mountain Province, the municipalities of Bauko, Barlig, Bontoc, and Tadian were conferred the seal. The City of Baguio rounds out the list of national passers in the Cordilleras. Strengthening Local Initiatives for Children DILG-CAR Regional Director Araceli A. San Jose lauded the outstanding performance of the recognized LGUs, emphasizing the importance of sustained commitment to child-friendly governance. “These LGUs have proven that part of good governance is about ensuring that no child is left behind. Their efforts in nurturing safe, healthy, and supportive environments for children are indeed commendable, and we encourage all LGUs to continue developing programs that uphold children’s rights and well-being,” RD San Jose said. She added that LGUs must remain committed to safeguarding children’s well-being through accessible healthcare, quality education, child protection measures, and active youth participation. As the Cordillera region continues to champion child-friendly policies, RD San Jose said the DILG-CAR reaffirms its commitment to guiding and supporting LGUs in enhancing their programs for children considering that for FY 2025, the CFGLA will pilot the implementation of the audit at the provincial government level, highlighting the need for broader capacity development interventions to uphold child-friendly LGUs. (DILG-CAR/FFP)

By Jesse Maguiya   Tabuk City, Kalinga — Mayor Darwin Estrañero recently convened a meeting with members of the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council (MBCC) and esteemed elders, or pangats residing in the city. The meeting aimed to review the present condition of customary law as detailed in the Itabuk Pagta and debate any required adjustments to ensure its continued relevance and efficacy in the modern era. One of the key issues discussed was the absence of a clear and systematic process for initiating mediation, especially for accused individuals. It was noted that in disputes between sub-tribes, relatives often bypass formal mediation channels and directly seek intervention from government officials, such as barangay chairpersons or police officers. These officials, in turn, facilitate informal resolutions outside the Itabuk Pagta framework, effectively sidelining the MBCC’s role as the designated mediator. This lack of coordination undermines the integrity of customary law and highlights the need for a more structured approach to dispute resolution.   Another major concern raised was the role of the MBCC in cases involving heinous crimes. Both the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recommended that the MBCC refrain from intervening in drug-related offenses, murder, and rape cases, especially when minors are involved. Such cases should be referred directly to the courts to ensure due process. In cases involving minors, the DSWD or the Child and Women’s Desk of the Philippine National Police should be the first point of referral. It was also observed that in some instances, the victim’s family negotiate indemnity with the accused. Once compensation is received, they often believe the case is resolved, leading to the misconception that the suspect should be released. This practice overlooks the distinction between civil and criminal liability, underscoring the need for adherence to legal procedures in serious offenses. Mayor Estrañero emphasized the importance of determining fault in vehicular accidents, especially when the injured party is the violator of traffic rules. He cited cases where vehicle owners unfairly bear the medical expenses of individuals responsible for accidents, such as those driving under the influence of alcohol. The mayor stressed that a driver whose vehicle was hit by an intoxicated motorist should not be obligated to cover the hospital bills or expenses of the responsible party. According to Engr. Andres Ngao-I, MBCC Chairman, the Itabuk Pagta already specifies fault determination as a primary consideration before any financial settlements are made in vehicular accidents. However, it was noted that, in practice, individuals not at fault often voluntarily contribute to the expenses incurred by the guilty party, sometimes out of concern for their safety, fearing potential retaliation or conflict. The discussions underscored the importance of refining the Itabuk Pagta to align with legal frameworks, while also preserving the cultural significance of customary law and respecting community’s cultural diversity which includes non-binodngan. By implementing clearer mediation processes, reinforcing legal accountability for serious crimes, and ensuring fairness in accident cases, the MBCC and city officials aim to enhance justice and order in the community, while honoring the diverse cultural practices and values that define local society. After the meeting, Mayor Estrañero called on the Bodong Task Force to convene and develop an outline for revisions to the Itabuk Pagta. The proposed changes, including possible amendments, repeals, revisions, or new legislative reforms, will be based on the feedback from the meeting. In response, the MBCC is set to draft a letter inviting all Bodong Holders to a scheduled Bodong Congress, which will coincide with the Matagoan Festival. During this Congress, proposed amendments and revisions to the Itabuk Pagta will be presented. Once the revised Itabuk Pagta is finalized, the Bodong Task Force will implement an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign across all barangays in Tabuk City to ensure community-wide understanding and support for the new provisions.      

With a heartfelt commitment to serving the community, the PRO CAR Officers Ladies Club Foundation, Inc. (OLCFI) successfully conducted a Medical and Dental Outreach Program in Sitio Bonbon-Ay, Barangay San Ramon West, Manabo, Abra on February 1, 2025. Spearheaded by Mrs. Grace A. Peredo, Adviser of the PRO CAR OLCFI, the initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the OLCFI members of Abra PPO, police officers from Abra PPO and the Regional Medical and Dental Unit of PRO CAR, True Vine Christian Fellowship International, Inc., and Leon-Agila International Humanitarian Club, Inc. As the highlight of the event, a total of 646 residents and 100 PNP dependents benefitted from free medical consultations, dental check-ups (including fluoride application and tooth extraction), eyeglass distribution, physical therapy, blood sugar screenings, free haircuts, and counseling sessions. Adding joy to the event, the children were given new slippers, jogging pants, and free snacks while engaging in fun-filled parlor games organized by police officers and OLCFI members. The activity not only provided essential healthcare services but also fostered a sense of hope and unity within the community. It is a testament to the OLCFI’s unwavering dedication to social responsibility, compassion, and meaningful community engagement.    

By Jesse Maguiya -Tabuk City PIO   Tabuk City, Kalinga – Mayor Darwin C. Estrañero has issued Executive Order No. 47, placing stricter regulations on construction activities within the city. The order mandates barangay officials to actively monitor and report all construction projects, whether or not they have permits, to the City Buildings and Architecture Office (CBAO). This move aims to improve compliance with building codes, enhance public safety, and maintain order within the city. The executive order places a significant responsibility on barangay officials, requiring them to submit detailed reports on construction activities within their jurisdictions. These reports must include the property owner’s information, the location of the construction site, the type of construction (residential, commercial, or industrial), and the status project. The order also reinforces the ongoing mandate for continuous road clearing operations. Barangay officials are tasked with ensuring that public roads remain free from obstructions and illegal structures, aligning with national directives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). This initiative supports the Barangay Road Clearing Operations (BaRCO) and aims to reclaim public spaces for public use. The Executive Order emphasizes coordination between barangay officials and city agencies. Officials are expected to work closely with the CBAO and other relevant departments to address unauthorized construction and enforce regulations. Non-compliance with the executive order carries consequences. Barangay officials who fail to fulfill their duties face administrative sanctions, including reprimand, suspension, or even dismissal from office. The executive order takes effect immediately, signaling the firm commitment city government to enforce construction regulations and ensure accessible public roads. This initiative is expected to improve urban planning, mitigate safety risks, and prevent unauthorized construction within Tabuk City      

The Civil Service Commission Cordillera Administrative Region (CSC CAR) is pleased to announce the “2025 Search for Outstanding Government Workers in the Cordillera Administrative Region.” The annual search, undertaken through the CSC Honor Awards Program (HAP), is pursuant to Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), Executive Oder No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, and Executive Order No. 508, s. 1992, as amended by Executive Order No. 77, s. 1993. The Search aims to recognize and reward individuals and groups of individuals for their outstanding contributions and achievements and consistent display of exemplary conduct and ethical behavior in public service. All officials and employees in the career and non-career service of the government are encouraged to join the Search. Posthumous nominations may also be made for a public servant who died in the line of duty or in the pursuit of his/her official duties and responsibilities as a civil servant. Said nomination should be formalized within 12 months from the time of death of the government official or employee. Heads of agencies are strongly encouraged to automatically nominate their officials or employees who were awardees under their agency’s Program on Awards and incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), pursuant to CSC Memorandum Circular No. 2, s. 2019. Government agencies may submit to the CSC Regional or Field Offices the nomination entries in any or all of the three (3) award categories: Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award (Individual or Group), Dangal ng Bayan Award (Individual only), and Civil Service Commission PAGASA Award (Individual or Group). Nominations for the Search are now being accepted nationwide through the Civil Service Commission’s Regional and Field Offices. The guidelines, list of requirements, and nomination forms to be used for the 2025 Search are available on the CSC website through this link: https://www.csc.gov.ph. The deadline of the submission of the nomination entries, together with the complete documentary requirements, is on 31 March 2025. For any queries, you may email the CSC CAR Regional Office at rocar.pald@csc.gov.ph or call 074-443-5982. The CSC CAR may also be reached via its Official Facebook Page, Civil Service Commission Cordillera (https://www.facebook.com/csccordilleras).  

By Jesse Maguiya-Tabuk City-PIO   Tabuk City, Kalinga – The Demolition Task Force of Tabuk City Local Government convened in a meeting to re-organize and prepare for their upcoming road right-of-way clearing operation scheduled for February. The operation is set to take place from February 24-26, 2025, in Barangay Agbannawag. The task force, a comprehensive team composed of various government agencies, includes representatives from the City Legal Office, the Tabuk City DILG Field Office, the DPWH Kalinga Engineering District, the City Building and Architectural Office (CBAO), the City Engineering Office, the City Motor and Equipment Pool Office, the Public Order and Safety Office, the City Assessors Office, the City Public Information Office, the the Tabuk City Police Office, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council, the Kalinga Electric Cooperative (KAELCO), and the Association of Barangay Councils. One of the critical points discussed during the meeting was the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2024-053, which details the nationwide implementation of the Barangay Road Clearing Operations, Assessment, Validation, and Recognition under the Bagong Pilipinas Program. The memorandum emphasizes the importance of clearing road obstructions, particularly in barangay areas, to ensure safer and more efficient infrastructure development. Attorney Arthur Kub-ao, Chairman of the Demolition Task Force, explained that the demolition operation, initially planned for December 2024, was delayed due to various factors. However, the rescheduled operation will now proceed in February 2025. According to Kub-ao, affected residents have already been notified through notices and general assemblies, leaving no further reasons for postponing the operation. One of the key reasons for the demolition is the construction of the new Agbannawag Police Station, along with the ongoing road widening project along the national highway in the area. These infrastructure improvements necessitate the removal of illegal structures that have encroached upon the road right-of-way. During the meeting, assessments were presented, showing that several structures along the national highway in Barangay Agbannawag have been occupying or encroaching on public road spaces. This has hindered both the development of the area and the smooth flow of traffic, making the road clearing operation essential for the area’s growth and safety. The demolition task force is committed to ensuring the timely execution of the operation, with full coordination between all involved agencies and the affected local communities. The operation is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and improve public safety across the region. Photos: Ralph Banna        

By Laarni S. Ilagan   Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) lineman Reagan Acdong turned-over a Philippine Scops Owl (Otis megalotis) to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Cordillera Administrative Region (DENR-CAR), on January 17. Acdong officially handed the owl over to Jasper Oligo, DENR-CAR’s Wildlife and Rescue Officer at their office in Baguio City after caring for it for two weeks. The baby owl still with its cottony tufts of soft downy feathers still starting to turn into harder feathers and could not yet fly, was rescued last January 3, 2025 by BENECO linemen J1 crew of BENECO. The heavy maintenance team linemen were conducting a scheduled retirement of idle wooden creosoted pole behind the wooded area at the Baguio Convention Center. Acdong is part of the J1 team. “We initially noticed that the tip of the pole was deeply hollowed. Baka adda billit dita (there might be a bird inside) kuna ni boss Rufo Madilat,” Acdong recalled. Madilat’s suspicion proved prophetic when the pole fell after the crew cut the pole with chainsaw, the baby owl came out of its hollowed tip. Acdong cared for it for two weeks and fed the owl with rodents, lizards and insects. He said he initially thought of releasing the baby owl at the area where it was rescued for the mother to come back and care for, but decided otherwise when he noticed it was still struggling to fly on its own. He also noticed the presence of cats that could prey on the vulnerable owl. While in his care he noticed the fast development of the owl’s wings and taught it to fly. “Wild life like this owl, that our crew usually encounter in the course of their work, were mostly sadly electrocuted. In my 20-years in BENECO as lineman and eventually as Construction and Maintenance Officer (CMO), this is a first live rescued wild life,” Engr Percival Aspillan said. According to Oligo, the owl could be 2-3 months old left alone by the mother that may have judged its youngling capable of surviving alone. It may also have been stressed by the chainsaw’s loud sound. Oligo lauded Acdong’s care for the baby owl and decision to turn-over to their office. Though he said that if in the future BENECO crew again rescue wild life, away from the city, they can immediately release them in the forest or vicinity they encountered them. Oligo assured Acdong that he will be releasing the owl this afternoon in a heavily forested area, its natural habitat.