LOOK: First 7-Eleven convenience store now open in Tabuk, Kalinga

Photo Courtesy || fujiyo sakai via Tabuk Life

Cordillera - Philippine biggest convenience store 7-Eleven has opened its first store in the city of Tabuk in Kalinga. 

The first ever branch of 7-Eleven convenience store is located along Quezon St. in Dagupan, Tabuk City. 

Kalinga Province Jocel Baac, Tabuk City Mayor Ferdinand Tubban, and Vice Mayor Darwin Estranero lead the grand opening on Saturday.

Photo Courtesy || fujiyo sakai via Tabuk Life

Photo Courtesy || fujiyo sakai via Tabuk Life

7-Eleven Inc. is a Japanese-owned American international chain of convenience stores. It sells different kind of foods ranging from snacks, hot and cold beverages, different beauty products, personal care products and so much more. 

7-Eleven is generally open 24 hours and 7 days a week. 

The 7-Eleven brand is known and loved around the world because it focuses in making life easier for customers. Almost anything people needs and wants can be bought in the store without going to big supermarkets and malls. 

In the Philippines, 7-Eleven is run by the Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC). Its first store was opened in 1984 in Quezon City. 

As of 2017, 7-Eleven stores has reached over 2,285 branches all over the Philippines. It has helped hundreds of Filipinos by providing them jobs as clerks, managers and store keepers. 

READ ALSO: Jollibee Foods Corporation to open its first store in Tabuk, Kalinga

It has also helped many Filipino entrepreneurs to own a business by offering them a franchise business where they provide world-class training and support to the franchisee. 

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Danny Kingad now officially part of ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix - ONE CEO announced

Photo Courtesy || Chatri Sidyothong FB

Cordillera - Cordilleran MMA fighter Danny "The King" Kingad is now officially part of the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix contest as ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodthong announced in his FB account the line-up fight for the said event. 

"BREAKING NEWS: The ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix kicks of at ONE: A New Era on March 31 in Tokyo, featuring all quarterfinal fights with some of the best flyweights on the planet together! BOOM!!!

Stay tuned for more big news"

That was the announcement of ONE CEO Chatri Sidyothong in his Facebook Page on Thursday (Feb. 21, 2019). 

It would be a 'wish came true' for the Cordilleran fighter as he was looking for this opportunity to be part of Grand Prix where he is going to showcase the best of himself to earn a title in the sport. 

In an interview from local media, Kingad said he was very excited to showcase his talent against the best in his division. 

READ ALSO: Forbes picks 2 Igorot Martial Artists as Pacquiao's Successor

Now that he is part of the event, he said he will be doubling his efforts and will train harder.

"I am very excited to showcase my talent against the best in my division. Expect me to double my efforts and to train harder now that I'm already part of the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix," Kingad said.

"I am looking forward to fighting the top talent and earning that world title. I think everybody has the right to earn their spot, and I'm here to earn my spot," he added. 

On March 31, Kingad will be facing Hawaii based fighter Andrew Leone. 

READ ALSO: Undefeated Ifugao boxer Carl Jammes dubbed the new Manny Pacquaio.

Andrew Leone was a former foe of Kingad's team mate Kevin Belingon. 

Leone suffered a brutal defeat in the hands of Belingon during their encounter last year via 2nd round TKO. 

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Mt. Amuyao: Barlig’s premium eco-hiking destination

Contributed By: Daniel's Eco-Travels

View of sunrise at Mt. Amuyao.// Photo by Wow Barlig via Daniel's Eco-Travel

Mt Amuyao is the premium ecotourism destination of Barlig. Soaring to more than 2, 702 MASL, it is the highest peak in Mountain Province and the fourth highest in Luzon. Some sources, however, suggest that Mt Amuyao is 2, 862 MASL. If verified, this will make it to the top ten highest mountains in the Philippines.

Regardless of conflicting measurements, Mt Amuyao remains among the most popular hiking destinations in the country. It is both a cultural and ecological pride of Barlig. During the annual Fortan Festival, legends and folklore depicting the mountain are portrayed through traditional dances and plays. The locals even boldly proclaim, “When we speak of Mt Amuyao, we also speak about Barlig.”

On the Trail to Mt. Amuyao

Originally, there are two trails leading to Mt. Amuyao. However, the local government of Barlig closed the Batad-Mt. Amuyao trail for regeneration purposes. A new trail Mt. Amuyao to Ogo-og was also constructed. This now offers hikers the opportunity to explore the other barangays of Barlig especially those in Kadaclan cluster, known as the “Shangrila on the Edge.”.

Before hiking to Mt. Amuyao, tourists should register at the Municipal Tourism Office (MTO) of Barlig and pay 25 pesos each. A guide is also required for every five tourists. Fee per guide is 1,500 pesos for a day. If overnight is preferred, the guide fee is 2000 pesos. For every excess in the pack, 100 pesos is required each. Mt Amuyao is part of barangay Macalana. Thus, the it also collects an environmental fee of 50 pesos per person.

From Macalana, the trail will lead one along stone-walled terraces and pine forests. On the higher elevations, mossy forests dominate. The trail may be winding and steep on some parts, but the sights of orchids, mosses, and trees can relieve one’s exhaustion. Small, endemic birds are also usual sights. Moreover, there are two springs where hikers can stop for a drink. On a personal note, a slower pace would be preferable since you get to see and appreciate the natural wonders lining the trail.

All in all, the hike to Mt Amuyao can take three to five hours, depending on one’s pace.

When atop Mt Amuyao

View atop Mt. Amuyao on clear, sunny days.// Photo by Neo Jay Garcia via Daniel's Eco-Travel

The sights to see atop Mt Amuyao are every mountaineers dream. Foremost of which are the beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Stunning sea of clouds frequently appear. According to the locals, the best time to go to Mt Amuyao is just after the rains. They claim that the sea of cloud formations are at their best during these times.

On clear, sunny days, one can have a panoramic glimpse of the mountain ranges of Ifugao, Kalinga, Benguet and the distant plains of Isabela. Add to these the mountains of Barlig, carpeted in mossy and dipterocarp forests. Barlig, after all, is the last ecological frontier of Mountain Province.

During the summer months of March to April, the bonsai forest of Mt Amuyao comes in full bloom. Flowers of different colors spring in full display. Even white orchids can usually be spotted especially along the trails. Just like in Mt. Pulag, Mt. Amuyao has groves of mini-bamboos.

Because of the strategic location and height of Mt. Amuyao, both ABS-CBN and GMA established relay towers.

Extra-Sights to Visit Near Mt Amuyao

Visiting Mt. Amuyao may already be a fulfilling and rewarding hike. However, for those who want to try out other experiences, there are nearby spots in Barlig. These include the hot springs and waterfalls of sitios Allob and Mornang, Tomallan Falls, Wangcharlin Falls, the multi-layered Monkingub Falls, Rock of Ages, Lake Tufub, Siblaw Taraw Quicksand and others. Some of these, however, are only accessible along hunter’s trails. Thus, a guide is always recommended if one wishes to gaze on these.

For more information on the tourism spots in Barlig, you may read this article, Top Ten Places to Visit in Barlig.

How to Get to Barlig:

Bontoc, capital town of Mountain Province, is the jump-off point to Barlig. There are two regular jeep departures to Barlig central namely, 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. The jeepney station is located along the All Saints Cathedral. I advise tourists, however, to be at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure since the jeeps are usually filled to capacity.

Where to Stay/Eat in Barlig:

Travelers or visitors may stay at Halfway Inn and Restaurant (Rate: 200 per head/ night); Seaworld Inn (Rate: 200 per head/night); Cozy Nook and Cafe (Rate: 300 per head/night, with hot shower). There are several stores which sell basic commodities. Other dining in Barlig central are Hanjo Cafe and Loloped’s Eatery.

By the way, Globe is the only existing network in Barlig central.

Barlig Tourism Office Guidelines:

1. Register at the Tourism Office and PNP Station.
2. Pay the registration fee of 25 pesos individually at the Treasury Office on weekdays and at the Tourism Office on weekends.
3. Tourism office will assign a tour guide for the tourist.
4. Tour guide will accompany the tourist to the designated barangay (Macalana) to pay the environmental fee of 50 pesos individually.
5. The group will then proceed to their destination.

For your information needs:

If you need further information that may help in setting up your itinerary, simply ask them on the comment section below. You can also message us on our facebook page namely, Daniel’s Eco-Travels. I will be more than glad and willing to answer them whenever I can:)

You may also message the tourism office on their facebook page called, Barlig Tourism. Or contact Mr. Jess Valdez, Acting Tourism Officer, through his no: 0995 362 6488 or email him at jessa080969jr@gmail.com.

Read More Eco-Travel Destinations in Cordillera by visiting Daniel's Eco-Travel website here.

Photo Sources: Daniel's Eco-Travel Blog

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Undefeated Ifugao boxer Carl Jammes Martin knocks out Thai foe in 3rd round.

Photo Courtesy || Carljammeswonderboy Martin

Cordillera - Promising young boxer from Ifugao  proved once again that he has the power punch of a champion after defeating his Thai opponent just before the end of the 3rd round. 

The 19-year old Martin didn't give any chances for the veteran Thai champion to dominate the fight as he scored two knockdowns in the first round and in the third round before finally ending the fight with TKO near the end of the third round.

Martin has now improved his undefeated record with 12 wins with all 11 wins coming by way of TKO.

READ ALSO: Igorota MMA fighter Gina Iniong wins at ONE: Clash of Legends in Bangkok

The young boxer is a native of Lagawe, Ifugao and had been training under his new coach Gerry Penalosa who is giving him a push in his career after his brother Abel asked help from Gerry to allow him to train in his gym after the gym where Martin used to train were destroyed by Typhoon Rosita. 

Peñalosa  donated three pairs of boxing shoes and two heavy bags to Martin  for his training. 

According to Peñalosa, Martin's explosiveness and left-handed punch reminds him of Manny Pacquiao's power. 

"The kid has charisma. He's not hard to talk to. Carl is explosive and left-handed. He reminds me of Manny and has tremendous power. What he lacks is experience. We won't rush him. We'll test him and bring him up slowly. By next year, he could be ready for a world title shot." Peñalosa said. 

At a young age, Martin revealed that Manny, Penalosa, and Z Gorres are his idols. Since he was a kid, he loves boxing and he hopes that one day, he'll make a name for himself in the ring as a champion as well. 

READ ALSO: Forbes picks 2 Igorot Martial Artists as Pacquiao's Successor

Like his cousin Stephen Loman, who is now a famous MMA fighter under Brave Combat Federation and his town mate Kevin Belingon under ONE Championship, Martin will soon become a new Cordilleran champion. 

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Igorota MMA fighter Gina Iniong wins at ONE: Clash of Legends in Bangkok

Photo Courtesy || ONE Championship

Cordillera - Team Lakay's female MMA fighter Gina "The Conviction" Iniong proved herself to be the better fighter tonight as she defeated her Malaysian foe Jihin "Shadow Cat' Radzuan at the ONE: Clash of Legends held in Bangkok, Thailand. 

29-year old Iniong from Baguio City showed greater experience in the ring as she outpoints her younger opponent from Malaysia.

READ ALSO: Forbes picks 2 Igorot Martial Artists as Pacquiao's Successor

After three rounds in the cage, all three judges scored the fight via split decision declaring the Igorota from Cordillera the winner. 

Iniong has now improves her professional MMA record with eight (8) wins and four (4) losses. 

READ ALSO: Undefeated Ifugao boxer Carl Jammes Martin knocks out Thai foe in 3rd round.

ONE: Clash of Legends is the first ONE Championship bout to be held in Thailand this year featuring Muay Thai fights and Mixed Martial Bouts including Iniong VS. Radzuan in the women's atomweight division.

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Important guidelines for tourists visiting beautiful town of SAGADA

Photo Courtesy || Bftamp Guides

Cordillera - The beautiful town of Sagada and its humble people are welcoming tourists around the world to come and visit their place and experience the unique culture of their people.

But before you pack your things and go to their place, the local government wanted to remind you of these simple guidelines that you should keep in mind when in Sagada.

Sagada's town mayor Mr. James Pooten issued these guidelines for tourists via the Philippine News Agency website.

All visitors are required to register at the tourism office where they pay certain fees like the environmental fee and guide fee among other fees.

"Travel agencies, groups, and individuals must register for the tours at the Tourist Information Office (TIO)," Pooten said.

He reminded the tourists to bring their official receipt with them which will serve as their entrance pass to the tourism sites.

Visitors who would like to visit the Echo Valley, Lumiang and Sumaguing Cave don't need to bring their car with them because the place is near and only require short walks. They can leave their cars at the designated parking area.

"Fetching of tourist is only allowed from Sumaguing cave back to the town center. There will be no designated parking space near the cave," Pooten added.

He said all tourist vehicles, whether private or government-owned, are required to park their vehicles during their stay in Sagada at their hotel parking or in pay parking areas.

"Only local transport shall be allowed to ferry tourist to identified sites. Registered municipal tourist shuttle will have one general line up stationed at the Tourist Information Center," he said, noting that this would assure that all tourists are accounted for and are safely back at their lodgings at night.

For accommodations, Pooten said that only LGU and Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited inns, hotels or home stays under the Sagada Inns and Hotels Association (SIHA) will be allowed to operate as accommodations.

These establishments must follow the standard pricing, he added.

Regarding waste management, Pooten said tourist are encouraged to bring their own refillable water tumblers and discourage from using plastic bottles.

Pooten also remind tourist to respect Sagada's culture especially when visiting sacred sites and participating in the local rituals.

"Please respect the culture. Keep a distance from rituals or any sacred sites. Do not touch or disturb coffins or burial sites. Do not attempt to join or film any rituals without direct permission from the presiding elders," he said.

"Do not disturb mass in the church or shoot videos/photos in or around the church during mass," Pooten added.

Sagada has so many places to spend time during the holidays and it's one of the most visited places in the Cordillera especially this coming months where a lot of festivals will be celebrated.

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9 Cordilleran policemen receive award for their hard work, cooperation and perseverance

Photo Courtesy || PIA - CAR

Cordillera - Nine Cordilleran police from different municipalities were awarded medals for their cooperation, hard work and perseverance.

Two different police medals were awarded to them. These are the Medalya ng Kalingan and Medalya ng Papuri.

The Medalya ng Kagalingan was awarded to Supt. Radino S. Belly, Senior Police Officer 2 Geofrey Langbayan, and SPO1 Benafin Dacuyong Jr. 

The cops received award after a successful anti-illegal drug operation that resulted in the confiscation of illegal drugs worth more than 3 million pesos in Kayapa, Bakun and Tacadang, Kibungan, Benguet last month.

TRENDING: NAPOLCOM says Cordilleran cops among most disciplined law enforcers in the country

Another Cordilleran cops who received the same award are Sr. Insp. Edwin Sergio, SPO1 Melvin Llanes, and SPO1 Arsenio Vidal, for serving a search warrant against Jomar Barbosa Puruggganan and the confiscation of 21 sachets valued at P102,690.20 during a drug bust on Feb. 1 in Sitio Pacpaco.

READ ALSO: 

Cordilleran Police Chief Supt. Empiso is the new head of PNP Special Action Force (SAF)

Ibaloi PNP-SAF presented exemplary award by President Duterte

Meanwhile, the Medalya ng Papuri was given to Insp. Nicasio Sacliwan, SPO3 Washington Kitongan and SPO2 Prudencio Tinong, for the arrest of Real Gold Boclongan Olsim, and Celso Bayongan Capuyan, who were arrested of illegal-drugs worth P17,043.52 in Purok Datu, Bulanao, Tabuk City Kalinga in January.

source || news.mb.com

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The Most Disciplined Cops in the Philippines - The Cordilleran Cops

Photo Courtesy || PNP

Cordillera - The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) listed cops from the Cordillera Administrative Region were among the country's most disciplined law enforcers.

The assessment report by NAPOLCOM which was released by the Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS) of the Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PRO-COR) stated that Cordillera policemen were included in the country's top three most discipline cops.

The reason according to RIAS-CAR director Senior Superintendent Jimmy Catanes is that only 1.6 percent from the 6,224-strong regional police force have been subjected to charges ranging from simple to grave offenses only. 

READ ALSO: Cordilleran Police S/Supt. Jesus Cambay to be promoted one star general

According to Catanes, this is so far the lowest ratios of policemen being charged among all the 17 regional police offices. 

"We are proud of our law enforcers from the Cordillera because of their professionalism in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities to serve and protect the people. We observed that law enforcers from the region are faring well compared to their counterparts from other regions, especially when it comes to discipline," Catanes said.

In order for this good reputation to continue, Catanes urged the public to help them in removing those so-called police "scalawags" who are  putting bad image to the police force by reporting them to the concerned authorities. 

READ ALSO: Cordilleran Police Chief Supt. Empiso is the new head of PNP Special Action Force (SAF)

Last year Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Oscar Albayalde urged the police to never slow down in their works which requires deep commitment, dedication to duties in order to keep the community safe and peaceful.

"As Chief PNP, I want to underscore the fact that under my term, we will not leave no stones unturned in addressing the nation's peace and order problems particularly on illegals drugs and crime, as well as police scalawags," Albayalde said.

LATEST STORY: 9 Cordilleran police receives medals for their hard work, cooperation and perseverance

He repeatedly emphasized the importance of discipline in the ranks of the police as he sent the message to all commanders that they are responsible for disciplining their personnel.

WATCH: Cordillera Singing Cops

source || heraldexpress.com

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Forbes picks 2 Igorot Martial Artists as Pacquiao's Successor

Cordillera - Two Igorot martial artists are among the list of famous Filipino world champions in the Philippine combat sports that international business magazine Forbes picked as Pacquiao's successor once he hangs up his gloves for good. 

According to Forbes, it listed Eduard "The Landslide" Folayang and Kevin "The Silencer" Belingon among the possible fighters that could be in a position to succeed Pacquiao as the new face of Filipino combat sports. 

Photo Courtesy || One Championship

Folayang has all the reasons to be in the list as Forbes says:

"He's currently in this second run as champion and he has been tabbed to main event his promotion's biggest show of the year on March 31 in Japan. Folayang will face Japanese legend Shinya Aoki in a high-profile rematch..."

READ ALSO: Cordilera's Team Lakay Champions recognized at the Senate

"If he can reaffirm his dominance over Aoki and bring the ONE title back to the Philippines, his already sizable popularity in his country will grow even more. Folayang has long been compared to Pacquiao by many, including ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong. Folayang has also said Pacquaio's career, success and way of life are part of what motivates him," Forbes added.

Another Igorot in the list is Belingon who currently holds ONE world bantamweight title. Belingon popularity in the world of combat sports is evident in his past fight where he defeated legendary Bibiano Fernandes via split decision during their second fight.

Photo Courtesy || Kevin Belingon

His speed and explosiveness are also comparable to Manny Pacquiao's style which he is known for. 

Belingon will be part of the ONE: NEW ERA card set for March where he is going to face Fernandes for the 3rd time. This fight will be a test for Belingon and a stepping stone for him to be in the Filipino MMA scene. 

READ ALSO: The igorot warriors that bring Philippine MMA to the world's spotlight

"In March, the two men will have their rubber match. At 32, Belingon is younger than Folayang, but he needs a second win over Fernandes to entrench himself in the Filipino MMA scene and to be further established as one of the truly elite in his promotion and across the entire MMA scene." Forbes said.

The other three Filipino fighters included in the Forbes' list are Erwin Ancajas, Jhack Tepora and Michael Dasmarinas. 

source || Forbes

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) eyes to serve flights to-and-from Baguio

Cordillera - Visitors who want to visit the summer capital of the Philippines for a vacation may soon have the option to go by plane as soon as the Loakan airport re-opens for airlines. 

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) has expressed its willingness to open flight to-and-from Baguio once the Loakan airport is going to be rehabilitated and reopened.

According to a report from Inquirer, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia relayed what the Civil Aviation of the Philippines (CAAP) said that the Loakan airport "needs improvements for safety purposes" before it can be used for commercial flights. 

READ ALSO:  SLU nursing grad praised for delivering baby girl in Philippine Airline flight

Pernia said that PAL is willing to open it's flights to the country's summer capital once the Loakan airport reopens and when CAAP gives the go signal to operate. 

The opening of the Loakan airport could reduce the travel time going to Baguio from Manila and vice versa. 

Currently, the travel time from Manila to Baguio by land is five to to eight hours considering traffic on the road compared to around 45 minutes if by plane.

The Loakan Airport is classified as class 2 principal airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and has been closed to commercial flights since 2009. The airport only serves chartered and military flights as of this moment.

With the plan of improving the airport to be able to accommodate commercial flights  presents considerable benefits for both businesses in the region as well as increase tourist arrivals in the Cordillera. 

The initial study conducted by RDC in 2013 had shown that the airport would not need  redesigning aside from the widening work to be made on its tarmac from the current 40 meters to 60 meters.

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