BSU eyes 100 has. bamboo forest in La Trinidad town

By Liza Agoot

 

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- The Benguet State University here is set to establish about 100 hectares of bamboo forest to support reforestation efforts, the bamboo textile project and engineered bamboo production. 

    Dr. Roscinto Ian Lumbres, BSU vice president for research and extension, in a briefing Tuesday, said the project began in 2024 with the production of propagules that were planted starting this year. 

    He said they used the PHP5 million bamboo development project fund from Senator Loren Legarda for the propagation of planting materials in San Pascual, Tuba, Benguet.

    Initial reforestation sites include a two-hectare area at the Benguet Corp. in Itogon and the BSU compound in the municipality of Mankayan, he said.

    Lumbres said the goal is to plant “bayog” and the “giant” bamboo species in at least 20 hectares this year.

    He added that they are producing the “bayog” and the “giant” bamboo, which are indigenous to the region and the country.

    He said they have teamed up with cooperatives to be more productive, noting that they have inked a memorandum of agreement with the manufacturer of the engineered bamboo in support of the wood industry. 

    “The BSU project is also part of the regional bamboo initiative that is in support (of) the bamboo production of the Cordillera,” he said.

    Lumbres said they are also developing products, such as soap, using bamboo as raw materials instead of the usual baskets, bags, chairs, tables, and others.

    He also mentioned the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) - Department of Science and Technology (DOST) that established the Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub at the Abra State University campus in the municipality of Lagangilang, to help boost the country’s bamboo fiber production.

    He said the Japanese government has found interest in the university’s revival of its bamboo forest area during their visit to the school last December.

    “They are coming back next week to finalize the partnership for the bamboo area project,” he said. 

BSU president, Dr. Kenneth Laruan, during the same event, said the project is timely as the university celebrates its 39th charter anniversary this month with the theme “Advancing knowledge, research, technology, and environmental stewardship for a sustainable tomorrow.”

    "What happens in the Cordillera ecological system may affect other regions. That is why there is a need to make some refocus and come up with programs for the environment," he said. -- PNA

 

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Beneco lineman gives rescued owl to DENR

By Laarni S. Ilagan 

 

BAGUIO CITY -- Benguet Electric Cooperative lineman Reagan Acdong turned over a Philippine Scops Owl (Otis megalotis) to the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources-Cordillera Administrative Region Friday morning.

Acdong handed the owl over to Jasper Oligo, DENR-CAR’s wildlife and rescue officer at their office here 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 Jan. 3 by Beneco linemen.

The linemen were checking the wooden creosoted pole behind the wooded area at the Baguio Convention Center.

 “We initially noticed 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, this was the first live rescued wild life,” engineer 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 told Acdong he will be releasing the owl in a heavily forested area, its natural habitat.

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SM Prime: Green buildings toward decarbonization goals

Environment

Josie Lyn Galario

For property developers, transitioning into energy-efficient buildings and greener developments has become the standard in light of the world’s climate change challenges.
    Such is the case for SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia. SM Prime is committed to building innovative and integrated sustainable lifestyle cities, with an eye toward long-term resilience and a healthier environment for future generations.
    “By focusing our efforts on sustainability, climate resilience, and operational excellence, we continue to create practical solutions that will elevate the quality of life of the Filipino people,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim. 
Taking the LEED
Over the years, SM Prime has gained international recognition for its leadership in the industry. Taking the LEED Certification program to heart, several SM Prime developments have secured Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold-level certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
    Whether for work or leisure, it is no secret that buildings consume significant energy and resources. Shopping malls have now become vital to a dynamic and progressive urban life, and offices and work spaces in the city play critical roles in a burgeoning economy.
    Thanks to a high-performance building envelope that lowers solar heat, SM Aura Premier by SM Supermalls is the first and only shopping mall in the country to receive a LEED Gold-rating. The mall’s green features surpassed international standards in indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency.
    Along with other SM Malls, recycled water is used in air-conditioning operations, cooling towers, water closets for flushing toilets, and gardens are kept green.
    For SM Hotels and Conventions Corporations, Conrad Manila is an icon in the hotel sector. The high-end hotel and retail complex was awarded a LEED Gold-certification for its sustainable investments in CO2 reducing materials made from non-volatile organic compounds that minimize carbon emissions.
    Its bicycle facilities, occupancy sensors, and insulated glass that keep heat and noise out, combined with world-class hospitality and the Bay City setting, make it an example of more profound luxury. 
Meanwhile, SM Prime’s SM Offices conscientiously built its roster of green commercial properties long before the pandemic.     In the Mall of Asia Complex, multiple E-Com Center office buildings are interconnected to the Mall, Hotels, and other destinations through a series of elevated covered bridgeways that help lessen carbon footprint by promoting a more active and pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.
    Its LEED Gold-certified ThreeE-Com Center and pre-certified LEED Gold FourE-Com Center incorporate expansive sky gardens to earmark spaces that encourage rejuvenation and better work-life balance, as well as emphasize an active effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adding to SM Offices’ roster of sustainable and innovative properties are LEED Gold-certified office towers linked to SM Malls and major transport terminals, highlighted by the S-shaped Mega Tower landmark at the gates of the Ortigas CBD along EDSA, SM North Towers 1 and 2 in SM North EDSA Quezon City, and SM Aura Office Tower in BGC.
A commitment to Net Zero
In developing communities and creating a climate-resilient future, the property arm of the SM Group believes it is essential to identify and understand the interests of its stakeholders, whether through installing electronic vehicle (EV) charging units across all shopping malls or creating workspaces rooted in innovative green designs. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach toward the decarbonization goal, Net Zero is achievable with the guidance of LEED standards. It has been USGBC’s holistic framework for reducing GHG pollution in buildings for over a decade.
    SM Prime commits to achieving Net Zero by 2040 by continuously expanding its renewable energy portfolio, optimizing energy efficiency, and efficient water management. SM Prime commits to sourcing renewable energy for at least 50% of its electricity consumption.
    These are among the company’s initiatives underpinning the Department of Energy's initiative to increase the country's share of renewable energy supply to 35% by 2030. SM Prime’s journey towards a net zero end, while endeavoring to achieve its business growth and trajectory, is achievable through fruitful partnerships across all sectors.
    “SM Prime’s building strategy is anchored on the practical principles of sustainability and the smart use of resources. As we take the lead in the country’s real estate industry, we are determined to become a role model and show how Philippine companies can innovate to balance economic development with environmental conservation and climate action,” says Lim.
The company’s heightened focus on sustainability and resilience will enable SM Prime to navigate tomorrow’s business landscape, ensuring its continued ability to create long-term value for all its stakeholders through sustainable integrated property developments that thrive for generations. SM Prime has cemented its place as the leading real estate developer in the Philippines.

 

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Raffle draw set to ‘save Chico River’

By Roger Sacyaten

BONTOC, Mountain province – A raffle draw was set here to “save the Chico River.”
    Radyo Natin and Lang-ay Organization, in partnership with the Provincial Tourism Office, Provincial Information Office and the MP     Environment and Natural Resources Office are sponsoring “Save the Chico River raffle draw,” that involves collection of plastic bottles in the province and region to be raffled and drawn on Dec. 16.
    Tarpaulins and flyers announcing the activity announced the raffle draw was free to all to participants.
    They should write on a piece of paper their complete names and addresses, contact numbers, and signatures, place the pieces of papers in clean and dry plastic bottles and bring entries at the Provincial Plaza before 1 p.m.  of Dec. 16.
    The draw will be done at 1 p.m. that date.
    John Tay-og Pelew, Radyo Natin station manager and one of main organizers of the raffle draw, said participants may bring the plastic bottles starting in the morning of Dec. 16 until 1 pm.
    On many occasions he said that the more entries you have, the more chances to win the different prizes of 1 brand new motor cycle, TV sets, 1 brand new mountain bicycle, android and keypad cellphones, 10 consolation cash prizes of P100 each, and many more.
    He said that people from the other provinces of the Cordillera may participate in the activity or they can extend their support by contacting their relatives and friends to participate.
    “We participate in the proper disposal of waste through the reduce, reuse, and recycle principle”. He commented in one of his radio programs subscribing to the environment advocacy.
    Clarifications or more information may be obtained from the Lang-ay Organization at the Pearl Café, Radyo Natin, the Provincial Tourism Office, the Provincial Information Office, and the Mountain Province Environment and Natural Resources Office.
    On why it is billed “Save the Chico River, Pelew said ecological advocacy redounds to preserving the Chico River where all waste from the various communities of the province cascades.
    Paulino Tumapang, Jr., chairperson of Lang-ay Organization, wrote Mountain Province Schools Division Superintendent Benilda     Daytaca to coordinate participation of the school children.
    Last year, the Central School of Besao brought trucks of plastic bottles submitted by pupils and they won prizes.
    “The movement is promoting environmental protection and preservation of the Chico River through awareness, clean-up activities and advocacies among government and private agencies in the communities, municipal, provincial, regional, and national levels.”

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Baguio ups advocacy for safe e-waste management

BAGUIO CITY -- The city government here has upped advocacy to promote safe management of electronic waste, or e-waste to prevent toxic pollution and protect health of citizens and the ecosystems.
    At a lively forum held Nov. 28 at Bakakeng Central, Mayor Benjamin Magalong urged folks especially the youth, to take steps to prevent and reduce e-waste, which includes a wide range of discarded electrical and electronic products and their parts that often contain hazardous materials.
     “We need to do something to address one of the fastest growing waste streams on our planet.  We have to show that we really care for our environment,” he told over 50 enthusiastic participants, including newly installed Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials, civil society leaders and university students.
    “The first step that we need to do is to change the mindset of our people about e-waste. How do you discard wires, batteries, chargers and other e-waste?  Most of the time, we don’t really care.  As long as there is a trash bin, we just throw it there,” he observed, adding “young people can really help in (changing this mindset) because they believe in change.”
    The forum was co-organized by the City Environment and Parks Management Office, Environmental Management Bureau – Cordillera Administrative Region, Barangay Council of Bakakeng Central and civil society groups Zero Waste Baguio and EcoWaste Coalition to raise awareness on growing environmental threats from e-waste and need for concerted action. 
    In her welcome remarks, Beki Tenefrancia, President of Zero Waste Baguio and  member of the EcoWaste Coalition’s board of trustees, described the e-waste crisis as a “ticking time bomb,” which can have a very detrimental impact on people’s lives and the environment if not addressed. 
    “We hope that the discussion will bring about action plans for the youth, for the barangays, for Baguio City and beyond addressing the e-waste problem,” she said.
    Engineer Marie Pina Rodas, Chief of Clearance and Permitting Division of EMB-CAR, said e-waste, if not managed safely, can pollute the ecosystems and pose serious threats to public health as they often contain hazardous chemicals, or generate toxic emissions and releases when improperly dismantled, recycled or treated.
    Among these hazardous chemicals are heavy metals like cadmium, lead and mercury, flame retardant chemicals like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) found in plastic casings, and many other substances of concern.
    To promote the safe management of e-waste produced by Baguio City’s households and other small e-waste generators, the city government is cooperating with the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources, United Nations Industrial Development Organization, Integrated Recycling Industries, Zero Waste Baguio and the Eco-Waste Coalition for the first-ever e-waste facility that will soon commence operations at Bakakeng Central. 
    In her presentation, kagawad Alicia Dizon told participants about efforts to set up the said e-waste facility, including visits made to the e-waste facilities in Barangay Bagong Silang, Caloocan City and Barangay Dampalit, Malabon City, and the progress so far, including the construction of the facility and the acquisition of the required Environmental Compliance Certificate to the delight of the crowd. 
The facility will soon be in full operation to serve residents of Baguio City. 
    Engineer Leah Texon, National Project Manager of UNIDO, congratulated Bakakeng Central Captain Dan Daniel and the Barangay Council for their success in establishing the e-waste facility, the first to be set up outside the National Capital Region. 
    “Hopefully you will be able to maximize the use of the facility in compliance with the EMB requirements.”
    Nils Viklund environmentalist from Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (SSNC), a partner of the EcoWaste Coalition, commended the initiative of the government and people of Baguio City on safe e-waste management. “It’s really inspiring and it positively shows what can be done to address the e-waste challenge,” he said, noting the need to tackle chemicals throughout their lifecycle.
    Engineer Marivic Empizo, assistant head of CEPMO closed the forum by acknowledging the concrete results of consultative meetings on e-waste held last year and by inviting the participants, especially the youth, to come up with more innovative ideas and projects for the betterment of Baguio City and its environment.
    At the end of the forum,  participants posed for a group photo with some holding placards highlighting two of the many benefits of safe e-waste management: preventing environmental pollution and reducing harmful exposures.
    Meanwhile, the Office of the City Mayor has instructed the General Services Office and all  128 Punong Barangays to conduct e-waste collection from Nov. 29 to Dec. 5, and to designate e-waste drop-off and pick-up points per barangay.
    The Special Services Division was directed to monitor compliance by all barangays in Baguio City. 
 
 

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PBBM releases P271-M climate fund to Mt Prov

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- More than half of the P541 million People’s Survival Fund climate adaptation funds Malacañang released on Wednesday was allocated to the provincial government of Mountain Province.
    President Marcos led ceremonial turnover of P271.15 million to Mountain Province Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr.
    The amount will be used to build a climate field school for farmers in the province.
    Mayor Bryne Bacwaden of Besao town received P2 million to build a water harvesting structure.
    Maramag, Bukidnon received P126.4 million for the installation of drainage and early warning systems; Borongan in Eastern Samar, P117.9 million for embankment structure and reforestation, and solar-powered irrigation systems in three barangays in Cabagan, Isabela, P21.28 million.
    A total of P2.464 million was allocated for mangrove rehabilitation in Catanauan, Quezon.                  
 
 

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SM Cares deploys Eco Vendo machines in malls

By Josie Lyn Galario

As part of its environmental programs on solid waste management, SM Cares recently deployed special recycling booths in two of the biggest SM malls in the country, providing mall-goers with a fun and convenient way of disposing of their recyclable plastic bottles and aluminum cans.
    Through the reverse vending machine of SM Cares called “Eco Vendo”, the first of its kind in the private sector, SM mall goers can enjoy special discounts in exchange for their PET bottles and aluminum cans.
    To participate, they can simply deposit these recyclable items in the specially designed vending machines located in specific areas in select SM malls.
    For every 1,000 mL worth of polyethylene terephthalate or PET bottles and/or aluminum soda cans deposited, the customer can choose one of the following reward discounts: 15% off at SM Skating, or 15% off at SM Bowling.
    The machine will then print a voucher that the customer can use to redeem their discount. Customers can use one discount per transaction, and it must be claimed within 60 days from date of issuance, from Monday to Thursday in the following branches: SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, and SM Fairview (for SM Bowling); and SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia (for SM Skating). Or, if the recycled items are less than 1000 ml, proceeds will automatically go to SM Cares, which will support its various programs.
    SM Cares deployed one Eco Vendo each in SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall, which will be available from January 20 to April 20, 2023. These can be found in the following locations: SM Cinema, 3F Building A, SM Megamall (near Snack Time counter) & SM Cinema, 2F Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia (near Snack Time counter).
“    With the continued degradation of our environment due to the global waste crisis, we need to ramp up our efforts to mitigate it. Every little thing counts,” said program director for SM environment and sustainability engineer Liza Silerio. “    Through our reverse vending machine project, we want to communicate to our mall-goers that properly disposing of even just one plastic bottle already makes a difference.”
“    By doing this, participants can also avail of rewards they won’t get anywhere else. But of course, nothing can be as rewarding as everyone being able to enjoy their right to a healthy environment,” she added.
    SM’s other initiatives for the environment include the Trash to Cash recycling market every first Friday and Saturday of the month, across all SM Malls. Trash-to-Cash is SM’s long-running environmental initiative aimed at educating the community to recycle, dispose of their trash properly, and earn in the process.
    Aside from Trash to Cash Recycling Market, SM Supermalls, through the SM Cares Program on Environment and supported by SM Cyberzone, also launched its Electronic Waste Collection (EWC) Program.
    This corporate social responsibility and sustainability initiative encourages mall shoppers, communities, and individuals to bring their old gadgets and other e-waste for proper disposal by accredited hazardous waste collection partners. This was shared as part of sustainability best practices to the 3rd batch of Engineering and Architecture students during the Sustainability Tour last Oct. 27.
    These initiatives align with many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including “SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation,” “SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities,” “SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production,” “SDG 13: Climate Action,” and “SDG 14: Life Below Water.”
    SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community, including programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its programs on environment.

  

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Baguio cops wins 3rd Red Orchid Award for smoke-free programs

 CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY – This summer capital attained its third Red Orchid Award for its effective implementation of smoke-free programs.
    With the feat, the city was elevated to the Hall of Fame of the prestigious incentives award program, the highest distinction given by the Dept. of Health to government organizations working to achieve a 100 percent smoke-free environment.
     The DOH-CAR awarded the plaque of recognition to the city government through the City Health Services Office led by Acting Asst. City Health Officer Dr. Lourdes Pakoy during the Am-Among for Health Gawad Kalusugan program held last Oct. 20, 2023.
    The city achieved a score of 91.66 percent based on the quality standards on tobacco prevention and control set by the World Health Organization.
    The Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed pride in the city being a “a beacon of excellence in implementing smoke-free programs recognized as a smoke-free City having one of the best and strongest anti-smoking ordinances in the country.”
    The city received its first Red Orchid Award in 2018 and the second in 2022 where it garnered a score of 98.8 percent for its continued efforts of strictly implementing the Smoke-Free Baguio Ordinance through inspection, apprehension, and information and education campaigns.
    The task force said the city has around 1,500 smoke-free enforcers coming from the city and community task forces.  The apprehension activities are supplemented by massive information drives involving the different sectors.
    The Smoke-Free Baguio Ordinance regulates tobacco products and ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems), and disallows smoking in public areas and indoor smoke areas. Penalties range from P1000 to P3000 for individuals and P2000 to P5000 for establishments. The content of the ordinance can be found in www.smokefreebaguio.com/ordinance.
    The city actively implements Ordinance No. 34-2017 or the Smoke-Free Baguio Ordinance  which regulates tobacco products and Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) and disallows smoking in public areas and indoor smoke areas. Penalties range from P1,000 to P3,000 for individuals and P2,000 to P5,000 for establishments.
 

 CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

Compassionate city: Baguio’s mental health program

BAGUIO CITY -- Student interns of the Mental Health and Wellness Unit of the Baguio City Health Services Office undergo hands-on training on the city's mental health programs including actual interactions with vagrant patients.
    Mental Health coordinator Ricky Ducas Jr. said bulk of the on-the-job training tasks of these students involve field work that had them conduct profiling and administering basic care to vagrants with psychosis with supervision from their office.
Ducas said this is in keeping with the city government's thrust to foster service with compassion.
    The CHSO now under Acting City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes started this community immersion program last year when they began accommodating student interns taking up nursing and psychology courses.
    Around 300 psychology and nursing students from St. Louis University, University of the Cordilleras and Pines City Colleges undergo immersion at the office each year.
    Ducas said that to make their exposure to the community relevant and worthwhile, students were taught to relate with the patients, do profiling for recording and monitoring purposes and provide basic services to them.
    "They provide psychosocial support like they talk to them to give them a sense of interpersonal relationship," Ducas said.
    "They take their vital signs and maintain their personal hygiene like give them a bath with the help of the pay comfort room owners who waive their fees, give them a change of clothing, trim their nails and the like." 
    Ducas said this is so that students learn about compassion and empathy early on so they can imbibe these virtues in their future professions and treat their future patients with genuine care.
    Their records showed there were 22 psychotic vagrants being served in the city.  Six of them had been reintegrated to their families through the joint effortd of the CHSO, the City Social Welfare and Development Office, Baguio General Hospital and other public and private offices and groups.
    Their profiling includes assessments of the patients' health conditions and family background and it was found out that that most of these vagrants have no more support groups capable of caring for them so that despite the offices' efforts to rescue and reunite them with their families, they still go back to the streets.
"It's either that their siblings are too old or sickly.  They may have younger relatives but they have their own families and have problems of their own.  Most of them are also economically deprived.  There are those who may be capable of caring for them but are wary because of the stigma that a person with such illness can be dangerous," Ducas said.
Nevertheless, efforts to provide them basic assistance and find ways to reunite them with their families and communities are continuing, Ducas assured.

CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

9 food establishments closed/Training seniors on computers

BAGUIO CITY -- Nine establishments, six of which were good businesses, had been subjected to closure proceedings due to unsanitary condition of their operations since January this year.
    Engr. Bryan Charles Carame, head of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Division of the City Health Services Office, said that of the six food establishments, two were engaged in taho production, two in lumpia wrapper production, one pizza production and one kakanin production.  
    The three others were sari-sari stores. 
    Some of these establishments have reopened after complying with the recommendations and correcting their infractions under the guidance of the division.  
    Carame said monitoring still continues to ensure that they will not repeat their misdeeds.
    Last Oct. 10, 2023, a a lumpia wrapper factory at Hilltop Market was closed down by the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) assisted by the Public Order and Safety Division by virtue of a closure order issued by Mayor Benjamin Magalong.
    The lumpia factory was found to be operating under unsanitary conditions as per the result of inspections conducted by the sanitation division. 
    It was also found to be operating without a business permit and thus has not been paying regulatory fees and business taxes. 
    Also last September, a taho factory at Brookside barangay was flagged by the sanitation division also due to unhygienic condition and for causing air pollution. 
causing nuisance in the neighborhood. 
    A Sanitary Order and Notice of Violation were issued to the establishment which was directed to comply with sanitation standards and to stop using coconut husks for cooking to avoid excessive smoke within three days. 
    Carame said the division will continue monitoring establishments in the city to ensure the health and safety of the city’s populace. 
    Violations may be reported to the division at tel. no. 074-4449217.
              ***
A total of 25 senior citizens from different barangays underwent training on
basic computer literacy and hands-on use of laptops today, Oct. 12 at the Dept. of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Cordillera Training Center.
    The Office of the City Social Welfare and Development Officer under OCSWD Officer Liza Bulayungan said the digital literacy and computer operation training is part of the Senior Citizens Wellness Camp which is among the line-up of activities for the 2023 Elderly Filipino Month celebration with the theme: "Honoring the Invaluable Legacy of the Filipino Senior Citizens."
    The activity was headed by the OCSWDO and Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs Office (OSCA) headed by Laurito Alinao in partnership with the DICT-CAR, Federation of Baguio Senior Citizens Associations and the City Mayor's Office.
Under the camp, the city's elderly are also scheduled to undergo swimming lessons and yoga classes scheduled this month.

 

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10 shanties demolished at Camp 7 watershed

By Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- Ten shanties illegally built within Camp 8 watershed were dismantled Oct. 10 by the City Demolition Team.
    Engineer Donald Gas-ib, head of the investigation and demolition division of the City Buildings and Architecture Office (CBAO) said this is pursuant to Demolition Order No. 28-2023 issued by Mayor Benjamin Magalong.
    He said there were at total of 17 identified illegal shanty-structures in the area and seven were earlier voluntarily demolished by the owners.
    On Oct. 13, 2023, a two-story structure was also demolished at Pinget barangay also covered by another demolition order.
    Gas-ib said the building is located within an alley that is part of the right-of-way of a private lot.
    The team was assisted by the Baguio City Police Office in both demolition activities.
    The operations are part of the continuing aggressive campaign against squatting all over the city.
 

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Baguio’s land use plan/Climate change measures

 CITY HALL BEAT 

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- All but 13 of the city’s 128 barangays have undergone public consultations on the updating of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), which charts the city’s physical and economic development for the next 10 years and the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP), which serves as the implementing instrument of the CLUP.
    The public consultations that transpired in 116 barangays began in July last year and are being conducted by the City Planning, Sustainability and Development Office under CPSDO coordinator architect Donna Tabangin.
    The consultation process is crucial to generate inputs on the barangay’s challenges, potentials and future development needs from the residents themselves.
    During consultations, the CPDSO made sure that the attendees were informed of the issues affecting their barangays to help them decide on the developmental goals and directions.
    To prepare them for the consultation, the participants were introduced to the concept of carrying capacity and the data gathered through the digital twin program for their barangays and were presented with facts on the current state of their barangays and how they can become livable communities.
    The inputs from the public consultations will be considered in drafting the updated CLUP.
    Tabangin said currently underway is the development of the seismic zoning of the barangays based on the 2021 research of the Dept. of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Vulcanology and Seismology (DOST-PhilVolcs) together with the University of the Cordilleras, St. Louis University, University of Baguio and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers Baguio Chapter which will be an integral part of the CLUP.
    The updated CLUP will have to pass through the City Development Council, City Council and Dept. of Human Settlement and Urban Development for approval.
    ***
Baguio City’s aim to become a resilient city by 2026 is anchored on the need to prepare for the inevitable and grim effects of climate change, Mayor Benjamin Magalong said.
    “Climate experts say that by 2028, there will be a drastic change in our environment as a result of climate change and our city has to be prepared beforehand to be able to withstand its environmental, economic and social impacts,” the mayor told department heads during the Management Committee meeting on Sept. 26, 2023.
    He said attaining the goal in line with the international “Making Cities Resilient (MCR) 2030” program  will be the city’s focus in the next three years to make the city not only resilient but also “safe, inclusive and sustainable” in face of the looming impact of global warming.
    MCR2030, a big flagship project of the United Nations, is said to be “a unique cross-stakeholder initiative for improving local resilience through advocacy, sharing knowledge and experiences, establishing mutually reinforcing city-to-city learning networks, injecting technical expertise, connecting multiple layers of government and building partnerships.”
    It provides support to make cities worldwide “safer, preventing risks, promoting innovation and investments and building resilience” through the delivery of a “three-stage roadmap to urban resilience, providing tools, access to knowledge and monitoring and reporting tools”
    A total of 1,603 cities worldwide have joined the program.  In the Philippines, only Makati City has so far achieved resiliency status.
Baguio City through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) applied for MCR2023 compliance in 2021 by making a commitment to strive “to become inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable by 2023 and commits to reducing disaster and climate risk and continue to improve sustainability by taking actions to enhance resilience.”
    CDRRMO Local DRRM Officer II Stephanie Trinidad said the city has passed the first of the three-stage roadmap namely awareness, planning and implementation.
    However, the mayor said there is still an acute need for awareness on the effects of climate change among the different sectors thus the need to revert to the first stage.
    Trinidad said the city has undergone preliminary assessment of its resiliency using the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities with the following thematic addenda: public health, inclusion of persons with disabilities, food system and resilience and cultural heritage.
The city gained a rating of 58. 2 percent which means a lot still need to be done to attain the resiliency goal.
 
 

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DENR opens 1st e-waste materials recovery facility outside NCR

ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE

Liza Agoot

BAGUIO CITY – The Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) opened on Monday the first materials recovery facility (MRF) for electronic waste outside National Capital Region (NCR) here in Barangay Bakakeng. 
    DENR Undersecretary for Sustainability and Climate Change Analiza Teh said the project was first launched in Metro Manila in 2017 in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), before reaching Baguio.     The project will end its more than six-year run in January 2024.
    “This is the third e-waste MRF, the first two are in Caloocan City and Malabon City. This is the first outside Metro Manila," Teh said.
    E-waste comes from discarded electrical or electronic devices, like appliances, tools, toys and telecommunication equipment, among others.
    “If there is no appropriate gadget or facility, it will be harmful to the health of the dismantlers who are mostly children and women. There is also pollution to the soil where they are thrown if not properly disposed of,” Teh said on the sidelines of the signing of the memorandum of agreement with the city government and other stakeholders.
    In an interview, Bakakeng Central barangay captain Dan Daniel said the barangay council studied and eventually approved the proposal to convert their MRF into an e-waste MRF, which sits on a 60 by 20 square meters of land. 
    “We saw a lot of benefits so we grabbed the opportunity to convert our MRF to e-waste MRF. We hope to see some residents engaging in this activity, training to dismantle their source of livelihood. This will also be a source of revenue for the barangay that we can use for other programs,” he said in Ilocano.
    Teh said the proper management of e-waste could help mitigate the impact of climate change and address water pollution.
    “We generate at least 61,000 tons of mixed garbage daily and only 20 percent is being recycled. The others land as marine litter, waste in rivers and seas or they land in the sanitary landfill as mixed waste when the law only says residual [waste] goes to the sanitary landfill,” she said.
    Melissa Vergel De Dios, chief sustainability officer of PLDT Inc. and SMART Communications Inc., in a message during the program said their company contributed to the initiative by setting up key collection points for e-waste. -- PNA

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Electric vehicles hurdle uphill Baguio roads

By Jessa Mardy P. Samidan

BAGUIO CITY -- Another electric vehicle was tested in Baguio’s uphill road terrain Sept. 18 to 19 as part of the government’s efforts to adapt a sustainable transport system to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
    Engineer Thea Camiring of the City Engineering Office said the EV manufactured in Laguna was brought to Baguio for road worthiness test to promote low carbon Urban Transport Systems in the Philippines (LCT) Project – an environmental initiative co-implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Dept. of Transportation (DOTr) funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
    The EV with model name Panda manufactured by China 6/11 was tested on Sept. 18 along the Irisan main highway route and Minesview.
    On Sept. 19, the routes were along Loakan EPZA and Aurora Hill Bayan Park. Camiring said all trips were tested with 23 seating passengers and three to five standing passengers in full capacity.
    Per technical assessment, Camiring said the EV is suitable for 15 degrees slope or less such as at the central business district, Loakan and Aurora Hill.
    Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong had been a staunch advocate of low carbon urban transport systems, thus the series of road tests among EV units in Baguio City’s uphill terrain to check efficiency and cost-effectivity before these are adapted by partner transport cooperatives.
    Two EV test runs were conducted earlier this year in the city with different EV suppliers.
    The adaption of low carbon urban transport is in line with the city’s target to become the next Resilience Hub by 2026 under the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Making Cities Resilient project.

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Trimming, not killing trees, exec says/ Mayor wants youth in decision-making

 CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- City Environment and Parks Management Officer Rhenan Diwas explained the department’s tree trimming program that covers trees in parks and roads.
    He said that contrary to the perception that the procedure was rash and will result to the “killing” of trees particularly at Burnham Park, the CEPMO’s tree ground reduction or trimming process is scientific and therefore safe and beneficial for both the trees and the residents. 
     “Let us understand that these trees are now over 50 years old and like humans, humihina na rin ang kanilang tuhod and tree ground reduction or trimming is one technique to reduce the weight they are carrying,” Diwas explained.
    He said ground reduction reduces the risk of the trees getting damaged or sustaining breakages during strong winds and rain during typhoons.
     “When the size of a tree’s canopy is reduced, the surface area exposed to strong wind is also reduced.  This allows the tree to withstand the inclement weather,” Diwas said.
    He said controlling the height of a tree also helps prevent the chances of it getting toppled at the height of typhoons and cause damage to life and property.  It also prevents accidents in parks and public places.
    The process also has aesthetic purpose as trimming improves the appearance of trees in the long run.
     “Like us humans who need to have our crowning glory trimmed regularly for good grooming, our trees also need proper and regular pruning to improve the tree’s structure and direct new healthy growth.
    ***
    The city government will open more doors to enable the city's youths to participate in decision-making processes on the city's strategic programs. 
    Mayor Benjamin Magalong directed the inclusion of youth representatives in the membership of the various city boards, committees and other bodies to give the sector the opportunity to take part in deliberations and give suggestions on the programs, projects and activities of the city. 
    Among the bodies being considered are the city school board, solid waste management and health boards and information and communication technology council. 
    "We have to give our youths all the opportunities to get involved in the decision-making on matters affecting our city," the mayor said. 
    He said the youth of today are more innovative and connected with information because of modern technology. 
"They have the power to bring fresh ideas to the table and to challenge the status quo when it no longer serves the greater good," he said 
    The mayor said the youths have to imbibe the development goals that the city is now pursuing including sustainability, innovation and resiliency. 
    "There is no better time than now to give them leadership responsibilities.  Our youths should no longer be regarded as future leaders because they can be capable leaders now," the mayor said. 
    "This is why every chance we get to include and involve them, to engage and interact with them and to support them, we do so without any hesitation," he added.
    The mayor said the youths need to build their knowledge and capabilities in government work both executive and legislative functions as well as conflict resolutions and other aspects of governance. 
    More importantly, good leadership values especially integrity and accountability need to be ingrained in them to really become good stewards of the nation.

CITY HALL BEAT
Aileen P. Refuerzo

Batang Pinoy tryouts on/ Mayor on youth’s role in BSK polls

BAGUIO CITY -- The city government through the City Sports Development Office is now conducting try-outs among athletes to select the city’s contingents to the forthcoming 2023 Batang Pinoy and Philippine National Games which will be simultaneously conducted on Dec. 17-22 in Metro Manila.
    Sports Division Chief Gaudencio Gonzales said there will be 25 events for the two competitions  namely archery, arnis, athletics, badminton, basketball (3x3), boxing, chess, cycling, dancesport, esports, football, gymnastics, judo, karatedo, lawn tennis, pencak silat, sepak takraw, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, beach volleyball, weightlifting, wrestling, wushu and kickboxing.
    Around 500 athletes are expected to make up the city’s delegation to the two sporting competitions.
    Batang Pinoy is a national youth sports meet for athletes aged 17 years old and below while the PNG is a national multi-sport tournament for athletes 18 years old and above conducted to select the national pool of athletes to represent the country to international sports competitions.
    The Dept. of Interior and Local Government said the conduct of the two sports meets under the auspices of the Philippine Sports Commission is by virtue of Kautusang Tagapagpaganap Bilang 44-1998 at 163-1994.
A total of 149 cities and 82 provinces from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are expected to join the two tournaments             
 ***
Mayor Benjamin Magalong engaged with the youth and stressed on the importance of their active participation in the coming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on October 30, 2023.
 “Your vote matters. And collectively, your votes can bring about the change you seek. It is not just a privilege; it is a duty--- one that will determine the course of our local governance for years to come,” the mayor told the youth participants to the forum and workshop, “Gen Z Votes: Inspiring Change Through the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections” last Sept. 4 at the Plaza Lodge Hotel.
    The two-day activity was organized by the Ateneo School of Government, through a non-partisan, pro-democracy coalition to increase awareness and encourage greater participation in the upcoming BSKE.
    The mayor said that to be able to select the best leaders, the Gen Z (referring to the generation of people born in the late 1990s and early 2000s as defined in Merriam-Webster dictionary) must do their homework:
    "Research the candidates and understand their platforms; attend debates and forums; ask questions; and engage in discussions before they vote for their respective leaders."
    The mayor also underscored the youth's increasing role in shaping today's society.
"As we look at the political landscape, it becomes increasingly evident that the torch of leadership is already in the hands of your generation.  The decisions made within our barangays and Sangguniang Kabataan have profound impact on our daily lives," he said.
    "By participating in these elections, you are not merely casting your ballots, you are becoming active agents of change.  You are the architects of the future you wish to see, the ones who will ensure that our neighborhoods are safe, that our environment is protected and that our voices are heard..;
    "Your generation is known for its innovation, its global perspective and its commitment to justice and equality.  You are more connected than any generation before you, with information at your fingertips.  You have the power to bring fresh ideas to the table and to challenge the status quo when it no longer serves the greater good.” – With a report from Mileyvonne Tiamzon

 
 
 

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Thousands join coastal cleanup in Cagayan

By Vince Jacob Visaya and Ernie Esconde

TUGUEGARAO CITY -- At least 500 volunteers from the business sector, national government agencies, municipal and barangay local government units teamed up to clean the Pinacanauan River and tributaries in line with the International Cleanup Day on Saturday.
    More than 2,200 kilos of garbage composed of plastic wrappers, straws, bottle caps and styrofoam among others were collected in the cleanup activity which was held simultaneously in the country.
    The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) engages people to remove trash from the world's beaches and waterways to raise awareness about the growing pollution on various beaches of the world.
    With the theme "Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries," most of the attendees were employees of SM City Tuguegarao, along with some employees of government agencies and police and firefighters.
    Department of Environment and Natural Resources regional director Gwendolyn Bambalan said garbage must be properly disposed of not in rivers, especially plastic materials, that end up in the seas and destroy marine biodiversity.

    "Environmental volunteerism is alive," she added.

    SM Tuguegarao mall manager Kristine Iris Ceballos said they have been implementing year-round sustainable programs called the green movement, emphasizing that their operations are aligned with sustainable and environment-friendly practices focused on energy conservation, solid waste reduction and water conservation.

    In Balanga City, SM City Bataan led in the cleanup of the City Wetland and Nature Park, a well-known tourism area here visited by migratory birds.

    Paula Erika Gayeta, SM City Bataan public relations officer, said 100 kilograms of various wastes, mostly food wrappers, plastic straws, bottle caps and plastic beverage bottles, were gathered in the coastal area along Barangay Tortugas.

    Joining SM City Bataan and SM Supermarket employees, agency and security personnel were representatives from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Bataan Police Provincial Office, schools and residents of Barangay Tortugas and Pto. Rivas.

    "Leading the coastal cleanup reflects the strong commitment of SM Supermalls to environmental responsibility and sustainability coupled by its dedication to reducing carbon footprint, conserving resources and promoting eco-friendly practices," said Gayeta.

    In Samal town, thousands of volunteers also joined the simultaneous cleanup drive.

    Chairman Hector Forbes of Barangay Sta. Lucia and Ibaba Barangay chairman Orland Malibiran led volunteers in the early morning cleanup in their respective villages.

    Sacks full of different garbage were gathered in a river in Sta. Lucia and along the coastal area in Ibaba.

In Sta. Lucia, most of the participants were members of the barangay council, barangay police, health workers and other barangay officials and volunteers.

    Forbes said Samal Mayor Alex Acuzar directed leaders of 14 barangay and village and municipal workers to participate in the activity.

 

 

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Sustainability, greening effects tour to kick off at SM Baguio

SM Updates

(From L-R) Mr. Engel Sabado, UC Officer Career Center, Ms. Elaine Del Rosario, SM Group Marketing Manager-North 1, Engr. Billy Corpuz, SM Engineering Operations Manager, Ms. Luz Lani Delovino, SM Baguio Assistant Mall Manager, Ms. Irene Peralta, SM Regional HR Manager, Engr. Dexter Apnoyan, UC Academic Dean-CEA, Engr. John Nicholas Baldo, UC Program Char-Civil & Sanitary Engineering, Engr. Nelson Notarte, UC Graduate Program Coord. MS in Civil Engineering, AR. Jericho Bernardo, UC Program Chair-Architecture

By Josie Lyn Galario

BAGUIO CITY -- Universities in Baguio in collaboration with SM City Baguio and will launch Mall Sustainability Features and Greening Effects tour as part of its commitment to the community and the environment.
    The recent Academe Partnerships with the top universities of Baguio signaled this collaboration between schools and SM Supermalls in areas of learning and development.
    With the launching of the Sustainability Features and Greening Effects Tour, SM Supermalls will provide opportunity to influence commitment in giving back to the planet, which was cemented and made a central thrust toward the future through the SM Green Movement, where all of SM is working together to give back to the planet.
    This tour will help students equip themselves with knowledge as each tour will be facilitated and delivered by an expert.
 “Students will be exposed on the industry part where in they will see the different aspects of sustainability especially on the part of civil and sanitary engineering wherein they will be visiting the treatment plant, the water filtration system of the company and also for the other courses that we are offering for architecture department, if there will be a chance to tie up with the design part, that is a good exposure for the students” said Engr. Dexter Hansel Apnoyan, University of the Cordilleras-CEA Academic Dean.
    As part of the tour, students will know more about sustainable mobility, waste segregation, water recycling initiatives and how the rainwater facility treatment works.  SM City Baguio, as an active industry partner of the University, is excited to showcase the mall’s sustainability initiatives, via educational tour that aims to provide an overview and valuable insights of the mall’s sustainability practices and how we integrate them in our day to day mall operations. 
    Mall Sustainability Features and Greening Effects Tour kicks off on October 6, 2023, with selected students from College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) of the University of the Cordilleras.
    The attainment to community development and long-time advocate for environmental stewardship is a commitment shared across SM. This passion continues to bridge innate student potential as well as providing a channel for the youth to play an active role in community and nation building.

 Collaboration: Key in creating sustainable agri-enterprises 

Limited market information and market access are two major obstacles to increased smallholder farmers’ income. According to studies, farmers in grassroot communities often lack access to profitable, value-added markets. In the absence of critical supporting functions, such as infrastructure and service provision – farmers struggle to transform their traditional subsistence farms into a feasible commercially oriented production. Buyers, on the other hand, such as wholesalers, find it difficult to get the quantity and quality of produce that they need for processing on a timely basis.  
 Because of this challenge, SM Foundation collaborated with various government agencies, and engaged various SM business units such as the SM Development Corp. (SMDC), SM Supermalls and SM Markets to ensure that local farmers under the Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program have venues where they can sell their produce amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 
From training KSK participants in practicing sustainable farming technologies via technology transfer and product development, SMFI, together with various SM business units used the power of collaboration to create farm-market linkage - which intends to create a powerful driver of rural poverty reduction. 
    The Good Guys Market is a weekend market set up in SMDC properties to connect small-scale farmers directly with consumers—condo residents. This initiative links around 26,000 small-scale farmers directly with consumers. 
Together with SM Supermalls, SMFI launched the Green Lane initiative. Led by the wives of the KSK farmers, the social enterprise offers a wide variety of quality yet affordable indoor and landscape plants which cater to every enthusiast’s preference. In addition, the team also launched KSK farmer pop up booths in Mindanao to create additional market for local small-scale farmers in the south. 
    Meanwhile, SMFI also partnered with SM Markets in creating market for onion farmers. Through the partnership, SMFI was able to establish specialized onion pop up booths creating a stable market for small scale onion farmers. 
Millions of smallholder farmers are seeking ways to improve the productivity of their farms and to improve their market performance. Modern farming technologies, paired with market linkage, such as the SM KSK, plays a vital role in improving the livelihood of small-scale farmers and their families. 
    SM Foundation’s Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan (KSK) is SMFI’s Social Good program on sustainable agriculture that intends to uplift the lives of Filipinos in grassroot communities through sustainable agriculture via technology transfer, product development and farm-market linkage. To date, the program has trained more than 28,500 farmers from more than 3,400 barangays nationwide. 

SM scholars aspire to share gift of education 

SM scholar Krissa May Oquindo (right) aspires to be a teacher for her family and community.

    "I desire to become an educator not just to fulfill a dream but also to be a blessing to the next generation."  
     These inspiring words come from 18-year-old Princess Eunice Motel, an SM scholar currently pursuing her education at the Philippine Normal University. She is one of two children of Hildajane, an on-call factory re-packer, and Richard, a set man, hailing from Caloocan City.  
     Princess' dream of becoming a teacher has been a lifelong aspiration, deeply rooted in her heart and mind since her childhood. This calling became even more pronounced when she embraced her Christian faith.  

 When asked about her motivation to become a teacher, Krissa responded, "Being an educator has always been my passion. From the moment I set foot on a school campus, the idea of standing in front of students and sharing knowledge excites me." She has selected Science as her major to deepen her understanding of the subject and to enlighten others about it.  
    Krissa has no plans to teach abroad. She believes that while there is demand for teachers overseas, the same holds true in the Philippines: "My passion for teaching is rooted in caring for the next generation, especially for the youth of our country." 
    Through the years, the SM college scholarship program has empowered 3,791 graduates who have enrolled in over 120 partner colleges and universities across the nation. These scholars enjoy full tuition benefits, monthly allowances, part-time work opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks, job offers from the SM Group upon graduation, and engaging activities and enrichment programs.  
    Additionally, SM's tech-voc scholarship program has produced 4,669 graduates, further contributing to the development of skilled professionals in various fields.   

SM Scholar and aspiring educator Princess Eunice Motel 

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