All The WOW News in Cordillera

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Igorot artist from Atok, Benguet creates realistic replicas of bus, trucks, jeeps, vans

Photo Courtesy || Marion Codeo

Cordillera - Marion Codeo, hailing from Calasipan, Atok, Benguet, has found his artistic calling in the quaint town of Bontoc, Mt. Province. Renowned for his remarkable skill in crafting miniature vehicles, he specializes in creating tiny masterpieces like mini buses, truck, vans, jeeps, and an array of other vehicles.

His journey into the world of miniature artistry began in elementary school, where his passion for creating small cars first took shape. Over the years, his craft has evolved and modernized, reaching new heights in 2004. Today, he not only continues to refine his art but also shares his talent with others, helping them replicate their own vehicles in miniature form.



Despite his growing popularity, Codeo remains humble, with most of his clientele being fellow community members. Pricing for his meticulous work varies, depending on the intricacy and size of the project. His innovative methods include using flat sheets, recycled plastics, damaged umbrellas, and various other materials.

Codeo's dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed. In 2016, he clinched the top spot in an Artwork Contest, showcasing his exceptional talent. Furthermore, in 2022, he received a prestigious Plaque of Recognition for Outstanding Practices in Upcycling and Crafts Production.

For Codeo, each miniature creation is a labor of love, requiring immense patience and hard work to replicate every intricate detail of a vehicle. Alongside his passion for crafting, he also tends to his farm, embodying a true Renaissance spirit in both art and agriculture.

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Monday, March 11, 2024

Igorota PH Air Force Officer from Sagada is among 2024 OWLENS Awardees

Photo Courtesy || Republic Defenders

Cordillera - Philippine Air Force Officer 1LT Lei Vanette D. Alangui is one of the 2024 OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AND NATIONAL SECURITY (OWLENS) AWARDEES. 

1LT Alangui who traces her roots to Sagada, Mt. Province is among the women in PH law enforcement and national security who have surmounted many obstacle and shown skills, unique perspectives, creative ideas, and teamwork.

1Lt Alangue, a registered nurse and working full time as a certified military pilot of the Philippine army. 

1LT Alangue is among the Philippine Air Force pilots who came from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

The OWLENS, a brainchild of Republic Defenders (RD) in partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation is an annual search to honor the exemplary contributions of Filipino women in the fields of law enforcement and national security.

OWLENS helps to inspire and motivate Filipino women by recognizing outstanding performance that have greater impact in the organization, the communities and the public.

PLt. Alangui is now among the PAF pilots who came from the Cordillera Administrative Region. 

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Honest Jeepney Driver in La Trinidad Returns Lost Cash (P23,000) to owner

Photo Coutesy ||Junric Creo

Cordillera - An honest jeepney driver from the town of La Trinidad, Benguet was commended online for retuning a large sum of money to its rightful owner. 

In a social media post by Junric Creo, the driver was identified as Ben P. Salipan, who drives a jeepney from Baguio to La Trinidad.

"Ako ay nagpapasalamat ng marami sau uncle napakabaiit mo at napaka honest mo po bihira nlng po ang tulad mo s panahon ngayon sya Ben p. Salipan jeep driver po ng swamp magsasay po byahe nia sya po ay nagbalik sakin ng 23k n nahulog kpo sa jeep nia salamat po uncle God bless po sa buong family nyo" Creo wrote.

Uncle Ben stood out as a paragon of honesty in the Filipino transport sector. Unlike others, he never entertained the thought of keeping found money; instead, he immediately sought out the rightful owner, exemplifying integrity and goodwill. 

READ ALSO: Honest students in Bontoc, Mt. Province return P50,000 cash to the rightful owner

Meanwhile, many netizens expressed their admire the good deeds that uncle Ben showed.

A netizen wrote " God bless you more uncle, you are really a good Samartian, kasi sa panahon ngayon na krisis baka hindi nila sinuli yan pero yong tama parin and sinunod nyang gawin and I salute you po. God bless you more."

Another netizen said " God bless po sa inyo sir Ben Salipan and Family. Yan ang mga katangian na dapat tularan, honest na driver."

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Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Honest students in Bontoc, Mt. Province return P50,000 cash to the rightful owner

Photo Courtesy || Dep Ed Tayo Cordillera

Cordillera - On a warm afternoon of March 3, two boys with their younger friends and siblings decided to get some fresh air in the mountains overlooking Bontoc, the capital town of Mountain Province. Little did they know that their fortitude and character would be tested during this outing. At around 5pm on their way back, Christopher who is a Grade 9 student of MPGCHS and the eldest of the group noticed a brown wallet lying on the middle of the road a few meters after they have passed by Teng-ab. Together with Troy, a Grade 8 student of the same school, they made their decision to return Mrs. Shirlene Mang-usan’s wallet containing her cards and P50,000. Below is an insight of how the two best friends, who have known each other since Grade 1, came up with their choice to do the right thing. 

What was your reaction when you discovered the contents of the wallet?

Chris: We were shocked because it was our first time to be holding that number of 1,000-peso bills. We hurriedly closed the wallet and tried to overtake the motorcycle we met earlier because the ID in the wallet matched the face of the lady riding the motorcycle and whose bag was open.

Troy: Initially, we tried calling the number in the ID but there was no response because there was no signal in most areas in the upland. We turned the motorcycle around and tried to overtake them, but we had to turn back when we reached the boundary between Bontoc Ili and Guina-ang for we were already low on fuel.

What did you talk about on the way back?

Troy: We were joking and imagining about what to buy with it. While resting, we opened the wallet again and started counting the bills which amounted to P50,000. The younger boys said that we’ll keep it because no one saw us anyway. However, I was afraid of doing that. I knew that with that amount of money, it was surely meant to be used for something important.

Chris: Since we couldn’t go to Guina-ang, we stopped by at the first store we reached, bought load, and tried calling the number in the ID but it was out of coverage. We know that signal was not stable there, so we told the Uncle who owns the store about the situation. He told us to let him keep the wallet because he knows the owner. We planned to go get it the next day so we can hand it to the owner when we will see her.

How were you able to contact the owner? 

Troy: My mother sent a message via Facebook Messenger to inform Ma’am Shirlene that we found her wallet and to agree on where to meet. We went first to retrieve the wallet at the store and meet the owner at the Post Office. However, we couldn’t find her there. We decided to bring it after class to the police station or radio station because it was nearly 7:30 and we would be late for the flag ceremony.

What were your reactions when you met her?

Chris: During the last period, I saw a lady pass by our classroom, but I didn’t recognize her for I was not expecting that she would come to school. When we were dismissed, I went to wait for Troy so we could go to the police station. I saw a lady waiting outside their room and somewhat realized it was the lady on the motorcycle. To be sure, I asked what she was waiting for, and she mentioned the name of Troy. I brought out her wallet and handed it to her which really made her smile broadly.

What did you talk about while waiting for Troy?

Chris: I told her everything that happened including the fact that her wallet has passed by the hands of many persons and that she should count it to be sure that everything is there. She also said that she has just withdrawn the money which is to be used to buy house construction supplies.

Did you accept her invitation for lunch?

Troy: We didn’t go for lunch with her because our friends were waiting and wanted to know what happened. Aunty Shirlene understood and gave us something to show her appreciation of which we are very thankful. 

So, what is something that you could tell others who will experience the same situation?

Troy: I would like to share what my mother said. “Big or small, always return what you find to the rightful owner.”

Christopher: “The good and even bad things we do will eventually come back to us. I also felt that I would displease Nan Intutungcho if I kept what is not mine.”

Christopher is the son of  Maybel Madchalang Sigua and Antony Jose Sigua while Troy is the son of Marie Kidpo Chumapoy and Henry T. Chumapoy Jr. The boys who grew up together are neighbors in Pokisan, Bontoc Ili.

Source || DepEd Tayo Mountain Province


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Friday, March 1, 2024

Joshua Pacio Reclaims ONE Strawweight MMA World Title

Photo Courtesy || Eduard Folayang

Cordillera - Igorot Mixed Martial Artist Joshua "The Passion" Pacio reclaims the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title by disqualification brought by an illegal spike by American fighter Jarred Brook during the ONE166: Qatar on March 1, 2024. 

Pacio was immediately brought to the hospital for check-up, and as per report he was safe from possible injury based on the result of his CT scan.

"Joshua “The Passion” Pacio is clear in his ct scan results according to the doctor who read the results, there is no fracture, brain damage and neck injuries", Eduard Folayang wrote in a post. 

The American trash-talker Jarred Brooks unintentionally rendered an illegal spike to Pacio's head and striking it afterwards.

Under the Global Mixed Martial Arts Rule Set, slams to the head, neck, or spine are prohibited. Consequently, Brooks was disqualified in the first round at the 56-second mark, leading to Pacio being awarded the ONE strawweight MMA world title.

Meanwhile, Brooks sent a heartfelt message to Pacio, saying, "@joshuapacio, I wish nothing but the best for you, brother. I hope you're okay. I am sorry for letting down my family and the organization. I did not intend to do anything wrong. #andnew Congratulations!"

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Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Igorot actress Roxanne Baeyens nominated Promising Female Star of the Year

Photo Courtesy || VP Choice Award

Cordillera - Igorot actress Roxanne Baeyens made it to this year's official nominees for the upcoming 5th Village Pipol Choice Award (VPCA).

The VP Choice Awards is the gathering of Philippines' biggest of stars and online personalities to highlight the finest in the Business, Technology, Travel, Lifestyle, and Entertainment industries. 

The most anticipated 5th VP Choice Awards will be held in May 2024. The online voting will start from March 5 to April 5, 2024. Winners of the awards will be based on online votes and scores coming from panel of judges.

Photo Courtesy || VP Choice Award

Roxanne Allison Agnaonao Baeyens, also known as Roxie Smith in the entertainment industry, is a Filipino-Belgian actress, model, and beauty pageant winner. 

She earned the title of Miss Philippines Earth 2020, making history as the first winner of the virtual contest. Before that, she had also secured the national title in the Face of Tourism Philippines 2019 pageant.

In addition to her success in pageantry, Roxie has made a mark as a commercial model, featuring in TV ads for brands like Jack 'n Jill, Axe, NescafƩ, and others.

Born and raised in Baguio city, Philippines, Roxie's background includes a real estate broker and environmentalist mother, Julia Agnaonao, from Catengan, Besao, Mountain Province, and an information technology specialist father, Walter Baeyens, from Brussels, Belgium. 

She is the youngest among three siblings, with her sister Michelle residing in Belgium and her brother Jeff Anthony working as a mechanical engineer in Subic.

Roxie pursued her education at Baguio City National High School and later graduated from Saint Louis University with a degree in Tourism Management. 

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Friday, January 19, 2024

Pag-IBIG members to gain more benefits under new rates starting February 2024


Pag-IBIG Fund members are set to enjoy doubled savings and higher cash loan entitlements while continuing to have access to affordable home loans, as the agency is set to increase the nearly four-decade old mandatory monthly savings for both members and their employers starting February 2024, officials announced Wednesday (17 January).

Under the agency’s new rates, the monthly savings of Pag-IBIG Fund members for both the employee’s share and the employer’s counterpart shall increase to two hundred pesos (P200) each from the current one hundred pesos (P100). This follows the adjustment in the maximum monthly compensation to be used in computing the required two percent (2%) employee savings and two percent (2%) employer sharefor Pag-IBIG Fund members, which shall now increase to ten thousand pesos (P10,000) from the current five thousand pesos (P5,000).


“We at Pag-IBIG Fund have long recognized the need of our members to have higher savings that shall provide them with decent and fair returns upon their retirement, as well as higher cash loans to help them during times of need. By implementing the new Pag-IBIG Monthly Savings Rates of both members and employers originally scheduled in 2021, not only would we be able to improve the benefits of our members, we would also be better equipped to finance the growing demand for home loans of our members while maintaining our affordable rates. All these are in line with the call of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to provide Filipino workers with opportunities to gain comfortable and productive lives,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar, who heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees.

Pag-IBIG Fund’s new monthly rates were initially approved by its Board of Trustees in 2019, after obtaining the concurrence of stakeholders to implement a scheduled increase in 2021. During that time, the agency saw the increase necessary as it projected that the amount of loans disbursed will eventually outpace the total collections from both loan payments and members’ savings. However, due to the difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and 2022, the Pag-IBIG Fund Board deferred the increase of the agency’s savings rates.

The agency again deferred the implementation of the increase in 2023, following the request of the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) to provide the business community with time to further recover from the continuing financial challenges due to the health crisis. The deferment was also the Pag-IBIG Fund’s response to the call of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. early last year, to alleviate the financial burden of fellow Filipinos due to the prevailing socio-economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source || Pag-ibig Fund

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Thursday, January 18, 2024

Honest Grade 12 Student in Besao Returns Lost P30,000 Cash

Photo Courtesy || Besao MPS

Cordillera - Cordillerans, known for their deep-rooted values, recently witnessed a shining example of honesty in Besao, Mt. Province. 

A grade 12 student, Mr. Doro Beyden Jr., found a substantial amount of P30,000 while walking home from school on the Tinagapan ground.

Rather than succumbing to the temptation of unexpected fortune, Mr. Beyden and his friends exemplified the Inayan culture instilled by their parents and grandparents. 

Without hesitation, they handed the discovered money over to the local police in Besao.

The police, upon receiving the money, conducted an investigation and successfully traced the rightful owner—a businessman who intended to use the funds to purchase a cow. 

The businessman expressed gratitude for the integrity displayed by Mr. Beyden and his friends.

Besao Municipal Police Station (MPS), recognizing the exceptional act of honesty, commended Mr. Beyden. 

In a statement, they acknowledged, "You have spelled out the true meaning of honesty and integrity, and we hope that other students will follow this example in the future. Your good deed was worthy of praise and emulation."

The local government unit of Besao, in collaboration with the Besao MPS, also presented Mr. Beyden Jr. with a Certificate of Commendation. 

This recognition not only celebrates his individual honesty but also highlights the crucial role played by teachers and parents in shaping the ethical foundation of the younger generation. 

Mr. Beyden's story serves as a beacon of inspiration, emphasizing the enduring value of honesty in the Cordilleran culture.

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Thursday, January 11, 2024

New attraction in Atok, Benguet: Goat Cliff Rock Adventure and Camping

Photo Courtesy || Aniki Motovlog

Cordillera - Embrace the thrill-seekers within you at The Goat Cliff Rock Adventures and Camping, Atok's newest gem nestled in the midst of fog-kissed landscapes. 

To the daring campers who find joy in open fields, sunrises, and the occasional moonrise,  Goat Cliff Rock Adventures and Camping present an unparalleled experience. 

While this little place in Atok is often cloaked in fog, when the heavens part, the vibrant displays of colors are nothing short of breathtaking.

At Goat Cliff Rock Adventures and Camping, adventure knows no bounds. Engage in heart-pounding activities like rappelling and Via Ferrata, pushing your limits against the stunning backdrop of Atok's natural wonders. 

For those seeking tranquility, our camping grounds provide a serene escape, where the fog dances with the moonlight, creating a magical ambiance.

Choose your adventure by day and relax under the stars by night. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Atok, where each month unveils unique spectacles. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, Goat Cliff Rock Adventure and Camping offers an unforgettable blend of excitement and tranquility.

Don't miss the chance to be among the first to experience the thrill of Goat Cliff Rock Adventures and Camping – where foggy Atok reveals its hidden wonders to those willing to explore. Pack your tents, embark on a journey, and become part of an adventure that will leave you yearning for more.

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Harold Banario: The Igorot MMA fighter and portrait artist

Photo Courtesy || Harold Banario

Cordillera - Honorio Banario, known for his prowess in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), is making waves in the art world with his remarkable talent as a portrait artist. 

The Benguet native gained widespread recognition in 2017 when his "Beauty and the Beast" masterpiece featuring Emma Watson went viral on social media. 

Inspired by the movie, Banario recently unveiled a new rendition, replacing the "Beast" with a self-portrait.

Expressing his admiration for the characters, particularly Emma Watson as Belle, Banario explained, "I did that portrayal of war and love, inspired by the Beauty and the Beast story." 

Beyond his success in MMA with a record of 4-1, Banario is proving his versatility in the arts. Notably, he spearheaded the "Heroes" mural project at the Baguio Athletic Bowl, celebrating the Cordillera region’s talents who excelled on the international sporting stage. 

Honorio Banario continues to leave an indelible mark both inside and outside the MMA cage, showcasing his multifaceted talents to the world.

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Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Tabuk City, Kalinga awarded ASEAN Clean City for the First Time


Cordillera - The city of Tabuk in Kalinga province has been bestowed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Clean Tourist City Award for espousing the ASEAN Tourism Standard.

This is the first time that the city of Tabuk is receiving the award, which is being given every other year. 

Tabuk passed all the seven criteria set under the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard including  environmental management, cleanliness, waste management, awareness-building about environmental protection and cleanliness, green spaces, health safety and urban safety and security, and tourism infrastructure and facilities.

The ASEAN Clean Tourist City award is a recognition given to member-nations to encourage them to improve the quality of tourism in their cities, increase marketing competitiveness, create jobs for local residents and push economic growth.

The award is a testament of the dedication of the LGU Tabuk to uplift its name and be certified among ASEAN clean tourist cities in the Philippines. 

Such recognition is expected to boost local tourism of Tabuk both in the local and international community as its name will be included on the ASEAN's official website and will also be included at the ASEAN Tourism Forum, festival and associated events.

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Monday, January 1, 2024

Inspiring 30-year-old father enrolled in Grade 1 to learn how to read and write

Photo Courtesy || AnneBonitaaa

Cordillera - In a heartwarming display of determination, Rizalde Bisalona, a 30-year-old resident of Glan, Sarangani, has become an internet sensation after a video of him attending Grade 1 classes at Tamala Elementary School went viral. 

Enrolled for the 2022-2023 school year alongside classmates six to seven years younger, Rizalde's decision to pursue education was driven by a unique circumstance – his son is also a student at the same school, and rather than idling away his time waiting, he chose to make the most of it.

Despite facing challenges like not knowing the alphabet, Rizalde showcased eagerness to learn, expressing excitement as he gradually grasped the fundamentals of reading and writing. 

His teacher interviewed him in a video uploaded on September 2, 2022, by Anne Patigayon, an employee of the Department of Education Sarangani, on TikTok. 

The heartening footage has resonated with netizens, amassing over 5.1 million views, 671,000 likes, and 17,100 comments. 

Many online users have commended Rizalde's admirable determination to pursue education at an age when most have long left elementary classrooms, applauding his commitment to learning to read and write. 

Rizalde's story serves as an inspiring example of lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge against all odds.

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Saturday, December 30, 2023

LOOK: Ifugao Artist Christopher Atiwon Produces Stunning Artworks Using "Kititkit"

Photo Courtesy || Christopher Atiwon

Cordillera - Christopher Atiwon, a Baguo-based artist with roots in the enchanting Ifugao province, hails from the land celebrated as the home of the country's finest wood carvers. 

Renowned for his breathtaking wood artworks, Atiwon crafts masterpieces from various types of wood, each possessing a unique character – some smooth, others raw, all distinguished by intricate details.



Atiwon employs the distinctive "kitikit" method of wood carving, an ancient Ifugao tradition that adds a touch of cultural richness to his creations. 

His works, reminiscent of the sculptural mastery of the Greeks and Romans with marble, elevate wood to the realm of fine arts. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Fine Arts would find his pieces worthy of its prestigious collection.

Recognized as one of the Philippines' premier wood artists, Atiwon stands out for his exceptional skill, intelligence, and status as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. 

His legacy is etched in the grains of wood and the hearts of those captivated by his extraordinary craftsmanship.

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Friday, December 29, 2023

College of Medicine in Benguet State University (BSU) now a reality

Photo courtesy || Congressman Eric Yap

Cordillera - Benguet State University (BSU) is now on its way of realizing the dream of establishing it College of Medicine after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed into law House Bill No. 312 which seeks to establish College of Medicine at BSU.

The bill which is now a law (RA 11970) granted BSU to offer Doctor of Medicine program plus Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine Program that aims to develop corps of professional physicians and help strengthen the country's healthcare system, as well as to respond to the human resources development of the Province of Benguet and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

"Ganap na pong batas ang panukala nating House Bill No. 312, na ngayon ay RA 11970. As a newly-appointed legislative caretaker in 2020, isa sa pinuntahan natin agad ang BSU. And we knew right there and then na kailangan magkaroon tayo ng College of Medicine - para mas maraming mabigyan ng pagkakataon makapag-aral, mas maraming scholarships, mas maraming opportunity para mai-angat ng kabataan ang standard of living ng kanyang pamilya", Benguet Congressman Eric Yap who authored the law wrote on a FB post.

Yap said the budget for the construction of College of Medicine building was also included in the 2024 National budget.

"We also made sure to lobby for funds for the construction of a College of Medicine building,  for next year, at aprubado na rin po at kasama na sa National budget ito," Yap said

"When I first talk about this idea openly, ang dami nagsabi na "masarap pakinggan pero mahirap magawa yan". Pero marami rin ang na-excite at nagpasalamat agad na naisip nating gawing panukala ito. Next year, we will welcome the very first batch of College of Medicine students in our very own Benguet State University," he added.

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Thursday, December 21, 2023

Exciting Opportunity for Nurses at Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC)

Photo Courtesy || BGHMC

Cordillera - In a bid to strengthen its commitment to excellent and compassionate medical services, Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) is actively seeking qualified and dedicated individuals to join its esteemed Nursing Service team.

Job Title: Nurse I (Nursing Service) - BGHMC

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: Baguio City, Philippines

Application Deadline: January 3, 2024, 5:00 PM

Position Summary:

We are thrilled to announce the opening of Twenty-Five (25) Nurse I positions, each offering an incredible opportunity to play a vital role in delivering patient-centered care, showcasing technical competencies, and contributing to the overall well-being of our patients.

Key Competencies:

Utilizes assessment skills to determine patient's problems and needs.

Develops and documents the plan of care based on patient's condition/needs.

Performs direct nursing care procedures, including bedside nursing, hygiene, pre and post-operative nursing care, admission, and discharge duties.

Monitors, records, and reports patient's symptoms, condition, and progress of treatment and therapy.

Administers medications following the golden rules.

Coordinates with other sections in the hospital regarding patient care.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Carry out the plan of care according to priority.

Provide safe and comprehensive care according to standards.

Complete requirements (scanned and in a single PDF format file) uploaded online before the deadline.

Minimum Qualification Standards:

Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Experience: None Required

Training: None Required

Eligibility: RA 1080 (Nurse)

Organizational Competencies:

Effective Communication Skills

Effective Interpersonal Relations

Organizational Awareness and Commitment

Technical Competencies:

Patient-Centered Care

Diversity Management

Maternal and Newborn Care

Nursing Care

Operating Medical Machines, Equipment, and Tools

People Management

Application Process:

Qualified applicants are required to take Psychological and Technical Exams. The schedule will be sent through the applicants' email address. Only applications submitted during the application period and with complete requirements will be considered for evaluation. The Next in Rank policy is applicable for permanent/plantilla positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO):

BGHMC observes the policy on "Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)." All qualified applicants are welcome to apply regardless of gender, civil status, age, religion, regional background, restriction/inability, and/or length of service unless otherwise required.

BGHMC is a leading healthcare institution renowned for its unwavering dedication to providing top-notch medical care. We are inviting talented and passionate individuals to contribute to our mission and join the Nursing Service department.



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Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Baguio, Cordillera students are top English speakers in the country

Photo Courtesy || Ar jay

Cordillera - The city of Baguio emerged as the top English-speaking and -listening city in the Philippines, according the 2023 English Proficiency Index released by the international education company EF Education First.

Baguio garnered a score of 619 which surpasses the high-scoring cities like Dumaguete and Davao.

Meanwhile the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) topped the English-speaking and -listening regions in the Philippines, surpassing the previous high-performing regions like Eastern Visayas and Davao.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Commitee on Basic Education commended Baguio and Cordillera region and the country should learn their best practices to boost learner's English proficiency.

"Congratulations to the learners and teachers in Baguio and CAR for their outstanding performance in the recent international assessments. There's a lot to learn from them to improve the performance of students in all parts of the country when it comes to English proficiency...," Senator Gatchalian said.

CAR stands out as one of the top-performing regions in the 2022 edition of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). 

Alongside the National Capital Region (NCR) and Region 4A, CAR boasts one of the highest proportions of students meeting the minimum proficiency in reading. 

The 2022 PISA outcomes indicate that two out of five students in CAR have attained at least the minimum proficiency level in reading.

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Monday, December 18, 2023

WATCH: Igorot fighter Carl James Martin knocks out Thai foe in 6th round, captures WBO Global Super Bantamweight Title

Photo Courtesy || Carl James Martin

Cordillera - Cordilleran boxing sensation Carl James "The Wonder Boy" Martin won via TKO against Thai fighter Chaiwat Butkrathok in the 6th round at the Elorde Sports Complex in ParaƱaque City on December 18, 2023.

Winning the bout made the 24-year-old undefeated Cordilleran fighter from Lagawe, Ifugao the World Boxing Organization Global Superbantamweight Champion.

Martin is one of the country's rising boxing stars and believed by many boxing experts and fans to be the next Manny Pacquiao. 

He now hold the record of 23 wins, with 17 knockouts and no defeat. 

Meanwhile, Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquaio has revealed the news that Martin has been included in his MP Promotion.

"Welcome to the MP Promotions. We are happy and proud to announce the signing of Carl Jammes Martin to the MP Promotions", Pacquaio said.

Martin will now included to Pacquaio stable of fighters like super bantamweight champion Marlon Tapales, Jerwin Ancajas, Eumir Felix Marcial, Mark Magsayo, and among others.

For Martin's part, joining MP Promotion will definitely boost his career to be a world champion someday.

“This newest chapter in my career will truly boost my aim of becoming a future world champion that PBC in partnership with MP Promotions will be very proud of,” Martin said. 

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Friday, December 15, 2023

Cordilleran Teacher from Apayao Tops Philippine Army CSC Class 761 - 2023

Photo Courtesy || Philippine Army

Cordillera - Pvt. Carmencita Alberto, a native of Conner, Apayao, emerged as the leader of Philippine Army Class 761-2023 during their graduation ceremony at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Upi, Gamu, Isabela. 

With an impressive rating of 92.78, Alberto excelled in her class, showcasing unwavering focus and determination throughout the challenging six-month military training.

Despite entering a predominantly male-dominated domain, she distinguished herself through her passion for serving and defending the nation. 

In an interview, Alberto shared the difficulties she faced as a female participant but emphasized the importance of adaptability, cooperation, and empathy in overcoming challenges. 

She recounted moments when she contemplated giving up but drew strength from her commitment, family, and the support she received. "There were tough times, but I always reminded myself of the reasons to persevere—never give up, just keep fighting," reflected Alberto.

Furthermore, the education graduate expressed her desire for her achievement to inspire more women to join the military. "I hope this accomplishment inspires other women to step forward and become our allies in defending our country," she added. 

Alberto extended her gratitude to her constant sources of inspiration—her family, friends, relatives, and the Provincial Government of Apayao, which provided unwavering support to fulfill their dreams of public service.

"When you dream of becoming a soldier, you must prepare for it—not just physically and mentally, but in every aspect because the training is not easy. My parents are my inspiration to overcome all the challenges in the training school," concluded Alberto.

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Thursday, December 14, 2023

Baguio City is Fastest Growing Economy in Cordillera, Followed by Kalinga

Photo Courtesy || Csharp Production

Cordillera - In a remarkable economic surge, Baguio City has emerged as the frontrunner in the Cordillera Administrative Region's (CAR) thriving economy. 

The latest data reveals that in 2022, all provinces and Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) in CAR experienced growth, with Baguio City leading the pack with an impressive 11.3 percent growth rate. 

Following closely were Kalinga and Abra, boasting growth rates of 9.3 percent and 9.2 percent, respectively.

The economic landscape of CAR, with a total value of PHP 337.66 billion, witnessed Baguio City dominating with a substantial 45.9 percent share. 

Benguet and Kalinga secured the second and third spots with 23.3 percent and 8.0 percent shares, respectively.

Breaking down the economic sectors, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector in CAR reached PHP 28.12 billion, with Benguet leading with a substantial 44.5 percent share. 

In terms of industry, the region reported PHP 83.90 billion, and Baguio City emerged as a juggernaut, contributing 49.1 percent to the region's industrial output. 

The service sector, totaling PHP 225.64 billion, also saw Baguio City taking the lead with a commanding 50.0 percent share.

Looking ahead to 2023, the Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) compilation is set to encompass 82 provinces and 17 HUCs across 16 regions in the Philippines. 

These promising economic indicators highlight Baguio City's pivotal role in steering CAR's economic growth and position it as a key player in the national economic landscape.

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Thursday, December 7, 2023

2 Cordillerans are topnotchers in the September 2023 Licensure Examination for Teachers

Photo Courtesy || Febie Gel Laquiao Dagson & Vivian Balong-angey Posayen

Cordillera - In the recently concluded September 2023 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (L.E.P.T.), the Cordillera region proudly produced two outstanding students who secured coveted spots in the Top 10. 

Febie Gel Laquiao Dagson, an alumna of Kalinga State University, demonstrated exceptional knowledge and skills, earning the 8th spot among the Top Performing Examinees in the Elementary Level with an impressive rating of 93%. 

Similarly, Vivian Balong-angey Posayen, a graduate of Benguet State University, secured the 10th spot with a commendable rating of 92.60%.

The Professional Regulation Commission and the Board for Professional Teachers revealed that out of 23,782 elementary teacher passers, 16,716 were first-time takers, showcasing the success of new talents entering the teaching profession. 

For secondary teachers, 39,979 first-time passers highlighted the commitment of aspiring educators to contribute to the nation's educational landscape.

Benguet State University further distinguished itself as one of the Top Performing Schools, securing the 5th spot in the elementary level with an outstanding passing percentage of 96.08%. 

Additionally, Saint Louis University earned the 10th position in the secondary level, boasting a commendable passing percentage of 91.49%.

The accomplishments of Febie Gel Laquiao Dagson and Vivian Balong-angey Posayen, alongside the recognition of their alma maters, underscore the excellence and dedication of Cordilleran educators, contributing significantly to the advancement of education in the Philippines.


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