LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Philippines — The “Strawberry Capital of the Philippines” officially bloomed as the local government unit of La Trinidad launched this year’s Strawberry Festival with the theme, “Limitless La Trinidad: Heart, Harvest, Harmony”, on March 4. The celebration commenced with an Ecumenical Service at the municipal gym, then the Ribbon Cutting and Opening of the Strawberry Lane at the municipal park. This year’s lane features 35 stalls showcasing the town’s pride of diverse strawberry products, ranging from processed delectables to freshly picked produce, including cultivated varieties such as Sweet Charlie, Honey Oye, and King Berry. “Community first, tourism second,” Mayor Roderick Awingan shared during the opening. Underscoring the festival’s roots as a town fiesta, he added, “The municipality would not be where it is today without the community’s support, so we invite everyone to enjoy because this is for you.” With the Strawberry Lane declared open, officials, guests, and media proceeded to the Lednicky Hall for the Kapihan to take a more profound look into the industry. Benguet State University President, Dr. Kenneth Laruan, provided an overview of the current status of the world-famous Strawberry Farm located in barangay Betag. Municipal Agriculturist, Nida Organo, further discussed LGU programs that support and secure the industry, specifically noting the success of the recent Youth Farmers Challenge winners. To conclude the day with a bang, barangay representatives adorned the 11 pairs vying for the coveted titles of Mister and Miss La Trinidad 2026 with their official sashes. This year’s contestants are from Barangays Lubas, Poblacion, Bahong, Tawang, Wangal, Shilan, Alno, Alapang, Pico, Puguis, and Betag. (By RR Babsa-ay)

BENGUET, Philippines — Benguet Lone District Rep. Eric Go Yap filed a joint resolution seeking the immediate suspension of excise taxes on fuel, warning that skyrocketing transport costs are threatening the livelihoods of highland farmers and the country’s food security. In a House Joint Resolution introduced by Yap, the Benguet solon calls on the President to exercise temporary emergency powers to bypass the standard three-month waiting period and suspend excise taxes on motor fuels under Republic Act No. 10963, also known as the TRAIN Law. The move comes as the Philippines faces consecutive weekly fuel price hikes, with diesel and gasoline prices surging by as much as P1.90 per liter as of March 2, 2026. These spikes are largely attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating military conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. “This is no longer a question if the prices of petroleum products will rise, it is a matter of when and how we can we cope. We call for the immediate suspension on the imposition of excise taxes on gasoline, diesel and other petroleum products by granting temporary emergency powers to the President to do so, ” said Yap. The suspension of excise tax on fuels could benefit farmers of Benguet, who supply approximately 80% of the country’s highland vegetables as the fuel crisis has localized consequences that reach far beyond the pump. At the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post, the primary artery for northern Luzon’s agricultural trade, the impact is already being felt in “bagsakan” areas. Historically, a sharp rise in fuel prices has forced truckers to implement additional delivery charges, often adding at least P0.50 per kilo to transport fees. Because farmers in remote Benguet municipalities typically shoulder the entire cost of transporting produce from farm to trading post, these increases directly slash their take-home pay as production and logistics costs soar. Without the tax suspension, many farmers may be pushed further into debt as farmers group in the province have previously noted that high fuel costs, combined with low demand and the influx of smuggled vegetables, create a “chain reaction” that hurts both producers and consumers. “It is imminent. The effect of high gasoline prices cannot be stressed enough, it will be an economic burden. Direktang pahirap sa tao. We cannot simply allow our transport sector, our commuters, our farmers, almost everyone who consumes petroleum products,” added Yap. The resolution notes that while excise taxes would be suspended, the State would maintain its right to impose customs duties on petroleum products not used for vehicle power or manufacturing. “We may have enough supply for now pero hindi natin alam hanggang kailan matatapos ang gulo sa Iran and Middle East. We should be proactive and not wait for our oil supply to be depleted,” Yap further said.    

Fifty child development workers (CDWs) in Baguio City have completed the advanced Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Services NC III training, reinforcing the foundation of early childhood education in local communities. The graduation ceremony was held at the Baguio City Hall Multipurpose Hall on February 25, 2026, in coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), led by Ms. Liza D. Bulayungan. The training, conducted at the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE)—Main Campus, supports national efforts to professionalize the early childhood workforce under Republic Act No. 12199, also known as the ECCD System Act. The law mandates enhanced training, higher qualifications, and continuous professional development for child development workers and teachers, ensuring they are equipped to provide quality early education. CSITE Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon confirmed the graduates, joined by officials from the City Government of Baguio. Mr. Benjie Macadangdang delivered the keynote message on behalf of Mayor Benjamin Magalong, highlighting the strong partnership between national and local government institutions in building a qualified and competent early childhood workforce. TESDA-CAR Acting Regional Director Engr. Glenn N. Murphy emphasized the significance of the training: “More than a certification, it is a testimony that you are now equipped with the skills to guide the foundation of any person’s life, their early childhood. These are crucial stages where young ones learn how to speak, think, feel, and trust,” Murphy said. Baguio City Councilor and Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services, Women, and Urban Poor, Betty Lourdes “Lulu” F. Tabanda highlighted the indispensable role of child development workers: “You aren’t just teaching children; you are shaping the foundation of our future doctors, engineers, farmers, and leaders. The guidance and care you provide today will help them stand tall tomorrow,” Tabanda said. In her closing remarks, CSITE Main Campus Administrator Melita D. Pinic highlighted that the graduates’ achievements are an investment in themselves, their families, and Baguio’s children, and a step toward becoming advocates for child welfare. This recognition marked the second batch of ECCD NC III training completers under TESDA-CSITE, underscoring Baguio City’s commitment to developing a highly skilled and professional early childhood workforce. By equipping CDWs with advanced competencies, the city continues to ensure that its children receive quality early education, setting them on a path to lifelong learning and success.              

CORDILLERA REGION, Philippines — “Malakas at klarong boses ang sandata sa pagsasagawa ng Family Development Sessions (FDS) upang maibahagi ng maayos ang mga mahahalagang kaalaman at impormasyon  sa mga benepisyaryo.” Ito ang wika ni Merietta S. Ognayon, City Link (CL) ng City Operations Office – Baguio City sa ilalim ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) ng Department of Social Welfare and Development – Field Office – Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) tungkol sa natanggap nilang mga bagong hanay ng mga FDS kits kamakailan lang. “Malaking tulong ang paggamit ng lapel microphone upang ito ay makamit. Kung noon, namamaos kaming mga tagapagtalakay pagkatapos ng FDS, hindi na ngayon sapagkat modulated na kapag kami ay nagtatalakay,” dagdag ni Ms. Ognayon. Para kay Delma C. Barino, ML ng Lagayan, Abra, lubos na nakatulong ang FDS kits, kabilang ang lapel, para mapag-igihan nila ang pangunana ng FDS. “Malakas na ang boses at abot na sa likod ng silid at maging sa open area venue, nakukuha ang atensyon ng mga benepisyaryo at tinitiyak nito na makikinig talaga sila,” sabi ni Ms. Barino. Kasama sila sa kabuuang 177 na City/Municipal Links (C/MLs) na nakatanggap na ng kani-kanilang FDS kits sa rehiyon upang magamit sa kanilang buwanang FDS – isa sa pinakamahalagang bahagi ng programa. Bitbit ang mga kagamitan at kaalaman para magsagawa ng FDS kasama ang mga benepisyaryo ng 4Ps malaking papel ang ginampanan ng mga C/MLs ng 4Ps sa buong CAR para sa pag-unlad ng mga pamilya sa ilalim ng programa. Ang FDS ay plataporma upang maturuan ang mga pamilya ukol sa wastong pagpapalaki ng anak, kalusugan, kabuhayan, at responsableng pag-aaral. Ang mga FDS Care Kits ay magsisilbing standard tools ng mga field workers. Naglalaman ito ng mahahalagang kagamitan tulad ng correction tape, ballpen, payong, colored paper, masking tape, markers, bond paper, manila paper, at lapel. Sa tulong ng kit na ito, mas magiging organisado at epektibo ang mga talakayan, at mas mapapalakas ang kakayahan ng mga C/MLs na magbigay ng maagap at mapagkalinga na serbisyo sa mga benepisyaryo. Dala ng FDS Care Kits ang tatak ng pag-unlad—kaalaman, gabay, at suporta. Kaagapay ang mga C/MLs, ang programang 4Ps ay patuloy na kumikilos upang gawing realidad ang pagbabagong ito. (DSWD-CAR Release)

KALINGA, Philippines — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-Kalinga awards 390 land titles benefitting 490 farmers from Tabuk City, Pasil, and Tinglayan, in a ceremony today, Feb. 17, 2026 at the Kalinga Sports Center. The agency also conferred Certificates of Condonation and Release of Mortgage to 1,043 farmers from Tabuk City, Pasil, and Pinukpuk, relieving them of over P38 million in debt. Additionally, the DAR-Kalinga awarded one unit four wheel drive tractor worth P1,422,500 each to the Cabaruan Multi-purpose Cooperative and the Dugpa Agriculture Cooperative, and one unit of mini four-wheel tractor to the Malagnat Pinukpuk Irrigators Association. DAR-Cordillera Regional Director Jimmy Santiago led the awarding together with DAR-Kalinga chief Adela Damaso, Gov. James S. Edduba, and other local officials, government partners, and stakeholders. (PIA-Kalinga)

SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP), a joint venture between Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. and Scatec ASA, has reached financial close on February 3, 2026 and is preparing to begin development of two new battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in Benguet totaling 80 megawatts (MW). The projects include a 40-MW BESS at the Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant (Phase 2) and a 40-MW BESS at the Ambuklao Hydroelectric Power Plant. Both systems will be co-located with SNAP’s existing hydro facilities and are designed to provide ancillary services to the Luzon grid through the reserves market. The new capacity builds on SNAP’s growing energy storage portfolio, including the 24-MW BESS at the Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant, which has been delivering ancillary services since 2024. SNAP also has additional BESS capacity under development—40 MW at Binga and 16 MW at Magat—scheduled to begin commercial operations later this year. Once completed, SNAP’s total BESS capacity in operation and under construction will reach 160 MW. Battery energy storage plays a critical role in supporting grid stability, providing fast-response services that help manage real-time frequency fluctuations, and enabling the integration of variable renewable energy sources. As the Philippines continues to scale up renewable energy under its energy transition goals, the need for flexible and reliable ancillary services is expected to grow. Through continued investments in hydro, battery energy storage, and other renewable technologies, Aboitiz Renewables and SNAP are advancing a more resilient and flexible portfolio that supports long-term energy security and sustainability. Aboitiz Renewables is the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation.

                TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Philippines — A new Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Office to be constructed at the site of the old Provincial Jail in Purok 6, Bulanao officially broke ground on Feb. 13 and expected to be completed on May 2027. With a contract cost of P29,384,470.28 pesos, the building was designed as a four-story building with basement to be used as a multi-purpose hall and provisions for parking and elevator. The DPWH-Lower Kalinga Engineering Office said that an additional 20 million is needed to be sourced out to complete the building and other facilities. DTI Assistant Secretary Grace F. Baluyan underscored the significance for the DTI-Kalinga to have its own office as savings from office rentals and venue for trainings, seminars, and meeting can be redirected to programs that support micro, small, and medium enterprises; strengthen consumer protection; and drive industry development. “This building will stand as a symbol of collaboration, foresight, and commitment to service. It is a testament to what can be achieved when leaders and communities work together for the common good. ASec. Baluyan also acknowledged the assistance of former Rep. Allen Jesse Mangaoang and current Kalinga Rep. Dr. Caroline Agyao in securing funding for the project. She also recognized the Provincial Government through Gov. James S. Edduba for donating the lot. Tabuk City Mayor Darwin C. Estrañero, represented by Aurora Amilig, said that the new building will serve as a hub for industry growth in the province and a place for enhanced collaboration with LGUs, partner agencies and private sector in fostering holistic economic growth. “The city government is dedicated to continuing and deepening its partnership with DTI, supporting all your programs, and collaborating on initiatives that empower local entrepreneurs, protect consumers, and foster fair competitive markets,” she said. Governor James S. Edduba hailed the project as vital in the long-term development of Kalinga through the provision of accessible services to the public. He underscored its contribution to stimulate local economy, job creation, strengthened value chains, and encourages inclusive growth across the province. Kalinga Lone District Representative Caroline Agyao, represented by former Congressman Allen Jesse Mangaoang shared optimism that the building will serve as a one-stop shop for driving growth, innovation and competitiveness by centralizing services and provide easier access to mentorship, training, product development, and business registration. Also present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Punong Barangay Cosme Gunnawa, Atty. DTI-CAR Regional Director Atty. Raymond Panhon, DTI-Kalinga Provincial Director Renie Ramos, District Engineer Ruby Uyam (DPWH-LKDEO), Engr. Rafael Fernando ( DPWH-LKDEO), Engr. Alexander Colangan ((DPWH-LKDEO), and other DPWH, DTI, Provincial and city officials. (Tabuk City Information Office)

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Philippines — Stakeholders of the Cordillera Agriculture and Fisheries Resources Research and Extension Development Network (AFRREDN) advance research, extension, and development initiatives in the region during the 1st Quarterly Committee Meeting, held on February 4–5, 2025, at the Agriculture Training Institute (ATI), BSU Compound, KM 5, La Trinidad, Benguet. The activity was spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-RFO CAR) with the Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Training Institute CAR (DA-ATI CAR). The two-day meeting brought together the AFRREDN committees—Research for Development Committee (RDC), Extension and Technology Transfer Committee (ETC), Institutional Development Support Committee (ISC), and Knowledge Management Committee (KMC)—to present 2025 accomplishments, discuss the National Extension Agenda and Programs, and plan the network’s priority activities for FY 2026-2029. Participants included representatives from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), namely Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST), Apayao State College (ASC), Kalinga State University (KSU), Ifugao State University (IFSU), Benguet State University (BSU), and Mountain Province State University (MPSU); Local Government Units (LGUs) of Baguio City and Tabuk City, and the Provincial Local Government Units of Mountain Province, Abra, and Benguet; line agencies including the Department of Science and Technology (DOST CAR), Department of Tourism (DOT CAR), Bureau of Plant Industry Baguio National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center (BPI NCRDPSC), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP CAR), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR CAR), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR CAR), and the Philippine Rice Research Institute–Isabela (PhilRice Isabela); Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Council (RAFC) private institutions namely Mount Carmel Agri-Tourism and Learning Center, Inc. The Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD) also participated. During the opening program, Dr. Charlie C. Sagudan, Vice Chair of CAR AFRREDN and Center Director of ATI-RTC CAR, emphasized the importance of advancing the agriculture and fisheries sectors in the Cordillera. “This initiative by the Cordillera AFRREDN management aims to critically examine how we can effectively operationalize programs in the region. We need to benchmark with other regions to ensure that we continue moving forward, using these agenda as a foundation to promote agriculture and fisheries development in the Cordillera,” Sagudan said. The AFRREDN serves as a bridge linking network members to research funding institutions such as the DA–Bureau of Agricultural Research. Its committees act as the primary mechanism for building partnerships among Research for Development and Extension (R4DE) stakeholders, including national government agencies, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), local government units (LGUs), private institutions, and Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs). Mr. Nicasio S. Baucas, citing the AFRREDN designation and position, underscored the role of research and extension in advancing the agriculture sector, noting that under the DA’s 10-point agenda, Research for Development and Extension is central to maximizing the sector’s potential. He emphasized that these efforts are aligned with the national aspiration of “Para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.” He also echoed the vision of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., who highlighted the need to modernize Philippine agriculture to ensure equitable benefits across the value chain—where farmers and fisherfolk receive fair value for their produce, consumers enjoy affordable prices, and industry players achieve sustainable profitability. Meanwhile, the DA-BAR joined the meeting virtually to provide updates and guidance on its programs, research proposal processes, funding mechanisms, and the national R4DE agenda, from national to local levels. The activity served as a vital platform for collaboration, strengthened extension efforts, and ensured that research-based interventions from national and regional R4DE institutions effectively reached local communities through the network. // Vincent G. Savella, Research Division