Six universities in Cordillera among Top Innovative Universities in the world

Photo Courtesy || WURI

Cordillera - Six Higher Education Institutions in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) have achieved remarkable recognition on a global scale. The World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) Rankings have acknowledged the impressive performance of these institutions across six crucial criteria.

The areas in which these universities have excelled are Industrial Application, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Ethical Value, Student Mobility and Openness, Crisis Management, and Industrial Revolution. By attaining high rankings in these diverse categories, the universities have demonstrated their commitment to holistic education and impactful contributions to society.

WURI, a recently established international ranking system, was introduced by the Organizing Committee of the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU). Its objective is to move away from conventional rankings that primarily emphasize quantitative metrics associated with research and academic systems. Instead, WURI focuses on recognizing innovative programs that make a genuine difference in society.

This year's rankings were meticulously organized by the Policy and Strategy on National Competitiveness (IPSNC) of South Korea. The IPSNC received invaluable support from four prestigious organizations: the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), HLU, the Institute for Industrial Policy Studies (IPS) based in Seoul, South Korea, and the Taylor Institute of Franklin University Switzerland (FUS) from Switzerland.

𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀:

𝗦𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗶𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆(𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆): Rank 40 in Industrial Application, Rank 43 in Entrepreneurial Spirit, and Rank 29 in Industrial Revolutions

𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼(𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆):Rank 43 in Entrepreneurial Spirit

𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘀(𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆): Rank 45 in Industrial Application, Rank 28 in Industrial Revolution, and Rank 43 in Student Mobility and Openness

𝗜𝗳𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆(𝗟𝗮𝗺𝘂𝘁, 𝗜𝗳𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗼): Rank 42 in Ethical Value and Rank 35 in Industrial Revolution

𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲(𝗟𝗮 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗱𝗮𝗱, 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁):Rank 35 in Ethical Value

𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆(𝗟𝗮 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗱𝗮𝗱, 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁):Rank 38 Industrial Revolution

source || CHED-CAR

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Igorot arnisador from Benguet wins gold medal in Men's Anyo Non-traditional Arnis

Photo Courtesy || PSC

Cordillera - Cordilleran arnisador from Benguet Crisamuel Delfin from won gold medal during the 2023 Southeast Asian Games held in Cambodia. 

Delfin recorded another gold medal for the Philippine team in the Men's Individual Anyo event in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games at the Chroy Changvar Convention Center on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

Delfin wears the traditional Cordillera warrior attire during his performance. 

Arnis is considered to be the Philippine National sport and one of the most medal rich event in the SEA Games. 

This sport emphasizes weapon based fighting which is done using knives, bladed weapons, sticks and various improvised weapon. 

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Igorota athlete Islay Ericka Bomogao becomes first Filipina Muaythai World Champion

Photo Courtesy || Photo Eminency By Reza Goodary

Cordillera - Proud Igorota Islay Erika Bomogao has made history by becoming the first Filipina Muaythai World Champion during the 2023 International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IIFMA) Senior World Championship.

Bomogao won gold in the 45kg category during the IFMA 2023 World Senior Championship held in Bangkok, Thailand. 

The Muaythai Associations of the Philippines (MAP) sent a congratulatory message to Islay Bomogao that reads:

"Her dedication and hard work have paid off, and she has proven that Filipinas are a force to be reckoned with in the world of combat sports.

Islay Erika Bomogao has been an inspiration to all the young women who aspire to be champions in the sport of Muaythai. With her remarkable skills and unwavering determination, she has shattered the glass ceiling and made a name for herself on the world stage. She has truly set the bar high for female athletes everywhere, showing that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

The Philippine muaythai community could not be more prouder of Islay Erika Bomogao's incredible achievement. She has shown the world that the Philippines is a powerhouse when it comes to combat sports and that Filipino athletes are among the best in the world."

Congratulations, Islay Erika Bomogao, on making history and becoming the First Filipina Muaythai World Champion! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and you are an inspiration to us all! 

source || MAP

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First Kankanaey Festival Book on May 13, 2023

Photo Courtesy || Tin Dao-anis

Cordillera - The first-ever Kankanaey Festival is scheduled on May 13, 2023 with Kibungan town as the host.

With the theme "Ulnos di Kankanaey para sin Pansigdan di Ili," the relevant Kankanaey cultures, indigenous knowledge and practices will be highlighted.

"The purposes of the event are to showcase each municipality's culture, traditions, indigenous knowledge, skills and practices and for the officials and people of neighboring municipalities to have acquaintances," said Labio Nabe, Kibungan municipal councilor.

He added that a resolution has been passed for the Kankanaey Festival to be a yearly activity of the Kankanaey-dominated towns.

Kibungan Mayor Cesar Molitas invited all Kankanaeys and other Indigenous Peoples to take part in the said event.

"Umali kayo ta man Kanyaw tako ed munisipyo (Come that we will celebrate "Kanyaw" together in our [Kibungan] municipality), the mayor said as he invited all interested groups and individuals to the said celebration.

Meanwhile, Benguet Congressman Eric Go Yap, Benguet Governor Melchor D. Diclas and Benguet Vice Governor Ericson "Tagel" L. Felipe and other distinguished officials will be gracing the said festival.

"For the meantime, we have invited the four Kankanaey-dominated municipalities like Bakun, Buguias, Kapangan and Mankayan," added Nabe.

He further mentioned that aside from the trade and agri-fair, photo exhibit and free "tapey" (rice wine) tasting, the visitors will be introduced with Kankanaey cultures through the cultural presentations of every town.

Kibungan mayor believes that hosting the First Kankanaey Festival would boost further the town's tourism industry. 

By Tin Dao-anis

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Igorota beauty queen wins 2nd place in Miss Universe PH National Costume Competition

Photo Courtesy || MUPH

Cordillera - Igorot beauty queen Miss Joemay Leo of Benguet is among the three winners during the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 National Costume Competition.

Miss Universe Philippines Benguet bet, Miss Leo win Best in National Costume Competition held on Monday May 4, 2024 at the Leyte Normal University.

Miss Leo proudly demonstrated her Benguet roots with her costumes symbolizing the province as the salad bowl of the Philippines.

The costume is made possible thru the exerted effort by the creative team headed by Lhee Wel Tokia, artisans Rullan Joel, and Julian Del Sison.

Among the three winners are Kimberly Escatin of Southern Leyte in the third place and Airissh Ramos of Eastern Samar in the first place.

The three winners will be joining other candidates who will be strutting their best swimsuits and long gowns at the Preliminary competition set to take place on May 10 at the Grand Ballroom, Okada Manila.

Coronation night will be on May 13 at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City.

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Igorota cop from Mt. Province tops the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course RTC2 Batch 2021-06

Photo Courtesy || Ely E. Pidlao

Cordillera - Patrolwoman Ely E. Pidlao has set a shining example for women everywhere by graduating at the top of her class at the Regional Training Center 2 in Ilagan, Isabela. 

Pidlao who hails from Tadian, Mt. Province received medals and Certificates of Merit for being the first honor of the SIMBAGSIK class during their graduation ceremony on April 14, 2023.

Pidlao's achievement is all the more impressive given the obstacles she faced. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she had to work twice as hard to prove herself. But she did not let this discourage her. Inspired by her family, especially her son and husband, she persevered and worked tirelessly to achieve her goals.

She shared that her success is a testament to the fact that anyone can achieve their dreams through dedication and hard work. She hopes that her story will inspire other women to pursue their goals, no matter how challenging they may seem.

“Hindi ako babae lang, babae ako. Kahit anong pagsubok ang maranasan mo sa daan patungo sa pagtupad ng pangarap mo, huwag na huwag kang susuko. Ang tagumpay, pinaghihirapan yan, huwag mong hintayin na lalapit saýo. At huwag kalimutan na humingi ng patnubay sa Panginoon,” she said.

Pidlao's achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for gender equality in the workplace. She has shown that women can excel in any profession and that gender should never be a barrier to success.

Pidlao's story is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination. She has proven that women are capable of achieving greatness and that nothing can hold them back. Her success is an inspiration to us all.

Having received accolades for her outstanding academic and subject proficiency ratings, Pidlao is now contemplating pursuing specialized and higher education in the future.

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Son of taxi driver from Baguio becomes Philippines' first blind bar exam passer

Photo Courtesy || Mark Emocling || Mr. Pablito Sanidad Sr.

Cordillera - Mark Anthony Dulawan Emocling, a son of a taxi driver in Baguio City, recently made headlines for defying the odds and passing the bar exam despite being visually impaired. 

Anthony Mark Emocling, a graduate of the University of Baguio Law School, was among the 3,992 passers of last year's bar exams. He is an inspiration to many who have faced similar challenges.

Mark lost his vision at a young age. Despite this setback, he remained determined to pursue his dreams and enrolled in the University of Baguio Law School. 

It was a difficult journey for Mark, who had to rely on especial software to read and study.

He said, he used regular computers with installed reading software to read the books for him. 

But Mark's perseverance paid off, and he was able to pass the bar exam. He is now an inspiration to many, showing that with hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset, anything is possible.

In an interview with the media, Mark expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, and mentors who supported him throughout his journey.

"They never gave up on me. They believed in my abilities that I can do it. I also have good friends that supported my dreams, and they are the ones who also helped me in reviews," Emocling said.

Mark's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and serves as a reminder that with determination, believing in yourself and hard work, anything is possible, no matter what challenges you may face.

“Believe that you can do the dreams that you put in your heart. Set a goal and make it happen. There will be failures along the way but use them as a guide to motivate you to reach your dream."

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Benguet beauty ranks 2 at Best in Swimsuit, Best in Photoshoot in Miss Charm PH

Photo Courtesy || Miss Universe PH

Cordillera - Benguet bet for Miss Universe Philippines secured a 2nd spot in the ongoing online voting for the Miss Charm Philippines. 

As of April 14, 2023, Miss Joemay Leo, MUPH candidate from Tuba, Benguet garnered a total of 36,000 points in the Best in Swimsuit category while a total of 32,000 points in the Best in Photoshoot category.

Who is Joemay Leo

A proud mom and proud Igorota from Benguet province is among the candidates vying for the prestigious Miss Universe Philippines 2023 title.

The empowered mom from Tuba, Benguet, Miss. Joemay Leo is grateful for the opportunity to represent the whole Igorot tribe in the national stage. 

"I never imagined joining pageants once again after becoming a mom. But who says mom can't slay the universe? With much pride and honor, I am beyond blessed to represent the whole Igorot tribe. This avenue holds an excellent opportunity to showcase a world-class Igorota beauty, Leo said in a post.

Miss Leo is a graduate of the University of Baguio (UB) with a degree in Bachelor of Arts Communication.

She won numerous beauty pageants awards including Miss Cordillera, Miss Tuba, Miss Benguet 1st runner up and Miss Baguio 3rd runner up. 

Joining her for the Miss Universe journey are fellow Cordillerans from Baguio City Miss Krishnah Marie Gravidez and from Kalinga Miss Kristeen Mae Boccang who will be representing the province of Apayao.

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7-year-old girl in Bontoc donates savings to fire victims

Photo Courtesy || Municipality of Bontoc

Cordillera - In a heartwarming display of generosity, Hazel Cassandra Lingbanan, affectionately known as "Gagsi," showed that age is just a number when it comes to helping others. 

On the occasion of her 7th birthday, the young girl from Samoki, Bontoc, decided to donate all her savings to victims of a recent fire in their community.

Gagsi's piggy bank had been filling up for months with her savings from various chores and tasks around the house. 

When she heard about the devastating fire that had destroyed many homes in her village, she knew she wanted to do something to help. 

Without hesitation, she broke open her piggy bank and counted out her hard-earned savings, which came to a total of P3,155.

Her mom were touched by her selflessness and decided to accompany her to the local relief center to make the donation. 

Gagsi was beaming with pride as she handed over her savings to the officials, who were amazed by her kind gesture. 

Her mom said that they were proud of her and hoped that her act of kindness would inspire others to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Gagsi's act of kindness has reminded us that no matter how small we are, we can make a big difference in the lives of others. 

Indeed, Gagsi has shown us that the true meaning of birthday celebrations is not just about receiving gifts, but also about giving back to those who need it the most.

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Igorota athlete Islay Ericka Bomogao wins bronze medal in Cambodia

Photo Courtesy || PSC

Cordillera - Cordilleran athlete Islay Ericka Bomogao and other Filipino athletes has raised the Philippine flag in the world of combat sports as they took home medals from the 1st Kun Bokator SEA Championship held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

21-year-old Islay, won bronze medal in the  Combat Female 45kg category.

Meanwhile, fellow Filipino athlete Alyssa Kylie Mallari and Rhichien Yosorez won Gold medal in the Bokator Spirit Form category and Single Bare Hand Form category respectively.

Other Filipino athlete Johnden Aldana Jr. won silver medal in the Combat Male 55kg category while Jeilord Alvarez and Orlando Castillo took home bronze medals in the Combat male category.

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LOOK: 500KM Expressway Network That Connects Ilocos, Cordillera, Cagayan Valley

Cordillera - A new expressway network spanning over 500 kilometers will soon connect the Ilocos, Cordillera, and Cagayan Valley regions of the Philippines. The ISINCCIEXN, or Ilocos Sur-Ilocos Norte-Cordillera-Cagayan-Isabela Expressway Network, is a visionary project led by Prime Ilocos Norte Holdings Inc. through the Ilocos Urban Development Corporation.

The project aims to promote economic growth and connectivity in these regions by providing a faster and more convenient way of traveling between major cities and provinces. The expressway network will connect major economic hubs, tourist destinations, and agricultural areas in the regions, making it easier for people and goods to move around.

Photo Courtesy || Prime Ilocos Norte Holdings Inc.

Aside from improving connectivity and promoting economic growth, the project is also expected to create thousands of jobs during its construction and operation. Local residents will also benefit from improved road safety, reduced travel time, and increased accessibility to essential services and opportunities.

READ ALSO:  Multi-billion Balili Bypass Road to connect La Trinidad and Baguio Proposed

In conclusion, the ISINCCIEXN project is an ambitious undertaking that promises to bring positive changes to the Ilocos, Cordillera, and Cagayan Valley regions. It is a testament to the commitment of Prime Ilocos Norte Holdings Inc. and the Ilocos Urban Development Corporation to drive progress and development in the Philippines.

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Cordilleran Lieutenant is 1st Runner Up in National Obstacle Racing Course

Photo Courtesy || PNPA

Cordillera: Bontoc Mt. Province's Police Lieutenant Jem Henessy C. Fallong recently made history by placing in the National Women In Uniform Obstacle Course Racing, a competition participated by various branches of uniformed services. With her excellent physical conditioning and indomitable will, honed from her training at SAFCC and academy days at PNPA, Fallong was able to finish strong.

This achievement is not only a personal glory but also a historic first for the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) - Justice, Integrity, Service, as no other graduate has ever achieved this kind of recognition in this competition. It is a testament to the quality of officers that the PNPA is producing to serve and protect the Filipino people.

Fallong's achievement is a reminder that with hard work, discipline, and determination, anyone can achieve their goals. Her dedication to her training and her unwavering spirit are an inspiration to all those who aspire to serve in the uniformed services. She has shown that anything is possible with perseverance and commitment. Her success is a shining example of what can be achieved when one puts their mind to it.

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WATCH: Ifugao boxer knocks out Thai foe in 1st round

Cordillera - A talented young boxer from Ifugao province made a triumphant return to the ring after defeating a Thai fighter early in the 1st round in Bangkok, Thailand.

25-year old KJ "The Ipugo" Natuplag who hails from Lagawe, Ifugao dominates the first round by delivering powerful shots to the body of Nakharin Hangyu of Thailand before finishing him with a right hook to the chin. The referee stopped the contest after Hangyu was not able to stand up at the count of eight. 

Natuplag improved his record record to 12 wins with eleven TKOs and 4 losses.

His recent lost was to Wen Song Liu of China via first round technical knockout. 

In June 2022, The Ifugao fighter was crowned the New Featherweight King of Asia by the WBC Asian Boxing Council when he defeated Attanon Kunlawong of Thailand.

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Baguio's Igorot Stone Kingdom to Open Soon

Photo Courtesy || Igorot Stone Kingdom

Cordillera - The famous the Igorot Stone Kingdom in Baguio city is likely to be opening soon after the city prosecutor's office junked the charges filed against the owner of the said tourist spot.

It can be recalled that last year, the city mayor's office has ordered the closure of the newest tourist destination over permit and safety issues.

However, the city prosecutor's office has said the owners of Igorot Stone Kingdom were able to complete all the building requirements imposed by the local government for the issuance of the building permits.

"Going over the issues, it appears that the respondents were able to comply with the requirements as prescribed under Presidential Decree 1096 regarding the structure complained of," read in the 2-page resolution penned by Prosecuting Attorney Oliver Isabelo Prudencio and approved by City Prosecutor Conrado Catral Jr.

The Igorot Stone Kingdom is a man-made attraction located along Longlong Road in Pinsao Proper. The park showcases the ingenuity, skills and knowledge of the Igorots in stone laying which their ancestors passed to them.

Among the main attractions at the stone kingdom is a tower that depicts the fantasy story of Gatan and Bangan, an Igorot man and woman who survived the great holocaust, a fertility stone tower, and a Kabunyan (Igorot God) tower.

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8 Cordilleran soldiers graduated from Philippine Air Force (PAF's) Most Elite Flying school

Photo Courtesy || PAF

Cordillera - Eight sons and daughters of Cordillera had participated in the Philippine Air Force Military Pilot Training Class  2023A that was held on 27 March 2023, at the Philippine Air Force Flying School in Fernando Air Base, Lipa City, Batangas.

The new military pilots who hail from Cordilleran region were identified as

1LT CLAYDE THOR N. AGNAYA PAF - Tabuk City, Kalinga

2LT JEPESON A. DAPPAY PAF - Tinglayan, Kalinga

2LT EMERSON D. BANGGUIYAC PAF - Tanudan, Kalinga

2LT GIMALYN W GOLWINGON PAF - Tanudan, Kalinga

1LT JAINYTHE T. LAYONG PAF - Sabangan, Mt. Province

1LT JOVIN CLINE V DICANG PAF - La Trinidad, Benguet

2LT EDMAR N RUMILAN PAF - Itogon, Benguet

2LT JEB B BAY-AN PAF - Kabayan, Benguet

The Philippine Air Force Flying School of the Air Education, Training and Doctrine Command (AETDC) held the Graduation Ceremony for the Military Pilot Training "Wings of Tenacity" Class 2023A at Fernando Air Base, Lipa City, Batangas on March 27, 2023. The ceremony was graced by LTGEN STEPHEN P PARREÑO PAF, Commanding General, PAF as the Guest of Honor.

After over two (2) years of rigorous training, the 60 strong members of the MPT Class 2023A can now proudly call themselves certified military pilots. This addition to the long line of military aviators, will undoubtedly bolster the PAF's impressive fleet of highly skilled and honed pilots.

In his remarks, the CG, PAF expressed his profound gratitude and congratulations to the new graduates and reminded them that more than being a pilot, they should be Aviation Leaders who know their purpose, excel, and care for others.

source || PAF

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Cordilleran Taekwondo champ wins 2 Gold Medals in 16th ASEAN Taekwondo Championship

Photo Courtesy || Juliana Candelaria

Cordillera - Proud Cordilleran Taekwondo champ Miss Juliana Mykahil Candelaria has once again brought pride to the region after she won two Gold Medals is the just concluded 16th ASEAN Taekwondo Championship in Paranaque City.

The 14-year old Juliana won gold medals in the Freestyle and Team Poomsae division.

Considered one of the best in USA Taekwondo, Juliana trains under Apex Tigers  Martial Arts in New Jersey, under the Guidance of Master Giduk Kwon. She is also trains the freestyle Taekwondo of Coach Jeordan Dominguez from La Trinidad, Benguet.

Juliana's parents are from Baguio City, Mr. Dennis Candelaria and Mrs. Janie Candelaria. She is the great grand daughter of former Baguio city mayor Jaime Bugnosen. They are now based in Chicago.

According to Dennis, Juliana has long dreamed of becoming a member of the Phil Taekwondo Team.

"Yung pagiging patriotic nya kase, yung upbringing nya as Filipino mahal nya kase ang culture nya at gusto nya mairepresent nya ang county of origin nya. After 3 years of being team USA she realized that she needs to serve her country", Dennis said in local radio interview.

"Being born and raised sa USA she has a true Filipino heart. It’s not about the benefits of USA anymore, it is how proud she is being a cordilleran and true Filipino", Dennis added. 

Juliana started taekwondo when she was 7 years old and won gold in several major competitions both in national and international competitions.

She has been a US National athlete in both poomsae and sparring.

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Mt. Province invites everyone to "Lang-ay on the Street" on Sunday, April 2, 2023

Photo Courtesy || Provincial Government of Mt. PRovince

Cordillera - The Office of the Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr. together with the Provincial Government of Mountain Province proudly invite everyone to one of the most anticipated event, the "LANG-AY ON THE STREET" scheduled on Sunday, April 2, 2023.

This year's Lang-ay on the Street calls you to indulge in native snack delicacies unique to Mountain Province capping it at dinner with tapey, lang-ay wine and “Watwat",  slice or slices of boiled meat that is usually distributed or shared as part of the meal during an Igorot feast.

The program will start from 2:00 in the afternoon until 10:00 in the evening. Cultural presentations and a concert featuring local talents will highlight the event.

Sponsored by the Office of the Congressman together with TIEZA, BOMORVA, Bontoc Business Circle now Bontoc Ug-Ugfo, DPWH-MPFDEO, MPSPC, PNP, MOPRECO, Philippine Red Cross, Mental Health Team, DTI, PIA, GAWIS for Mountain Province Inc., and the Local Youth Development Council.

Source || Provincial Government of Mt. Province

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Igorota elite PAF pilot operates the A-29B "Super Tucano" attack aircraft

Photo Courtesy || Bert Alangui

Cordillera - 2nd Lieutenant Lei Vannete Alangui, a proud Igorota from the Applai tribe of Sagada, Mt. Province is among the elite Philippine Air Force pilot that operates the A-29B "Super Tucano" attack aircraft. 

2Lt. Alangui, a registered nurse was a certified military pilot of the elite branch of the Philippine army after finishing rigorous 15-months of training in 2019.

The A-29B “Super Tucano” turboprop attack aircraft is built for the 15th Strike Wing mission “To conduct counterinsurgency and special warfare operations.”The A-29B Super Tucano’s global track record is clear; and equally clear was the fact that it was the right tool for the 15th Strike Wing of the Philippine Air Force and get into the hands to empower their ground operations against the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Abu Sayyaf Group.

This practical and affordable young attack aircraft is perfect for fighting enemy ground forces, with its durability, lightness, and long loiter time allowing it to remain close to the fight. With a "Too little for too much" reputation and a Cost Per Flight Hour (CPFH) of $1000, it is a cost-effective solution for the 15th Strike Wing.

The Super Tucano is highly interoperable with ground operations, maneuvering deftly in high temperatures and rugged terrain. Its ability to operate in close collaboration with ground forces makes it an ideal choice for the 15th Strike Wing's mission.

With a combat radius of 300 nautical miles, a top speed of 367 mph, and a range of up to 720 nautical miles, the A-29 turboprop attack aircraft is ideal for effective attacks in urban environments and other condensed combat situations.

In counterinsurgency operations, the A-29 can make a significant difference in a number of ways. By providing overhead fire support, the aircraft can identify and engage pockets of enemy fighters, reducing the need for ground troops to enter into direct combat. Additionally, the A-29 can serve as an intelligent node, providing targeted information and data regarding troop movements.

The A-29 has also been recommended by the USAF for use in the Afghan war due to the high cost of operating the A-10. Why spend resources on a costly aircraft when the A-29 can perform the same mission at a fraction of the cost?

With 12 years of service and thousands of combat flight hours, the A-29 has a proven record of success with 15 air forces around the world and counting. It is the go-to choice for close air support operations worldwide.

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Cordilleran fighter Joshua Pacio to train in the United States under Jackson Wink MMA

Photo Courtesy || Joshua Pacio || Jackson Wink MMA

Cordillera - After parting ways with Cordillera-based MMA gym Team Lakay, former ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua Pacio is set to train in the United States next month.

In an interview with Sparring Session, Pacio told his reason of going out from his former team and heading to the U.S.A.

"I want to level up in all aspects of my game. This was not a sudden decision. Speaking of leveling up, we plan to train in the USA next month," Pacio said.

Pacio also revealed the name of the gym where he will be training.

"We also going to try Jackson Wink MMA. Not only that we will also do gym hopping to add to our mixed martial arts knowledge," Pacio added via Sparring Session YT.

Jackson Wink MMA is a World renowned mixed martial arts gym based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The gym has been featured in several sports documentaries and has been called one of the best MMA gyms in the world by various MMA magazines.

It can be recalled that Eduard Folayang also trained at Jackson Wink MMA gym during his reign as ONE lightweight world champion.

The gym has produced several UFC world champions like UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon “Bones” Jones, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Rashad Evans, UFC Welterweight Champion George “Rush” St. Pierre, UFC Female Bantamweight Champion and 18x Boxing World Champion Holly Holm.

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INSPIRING: Former Ice Candy Vendor/Palamig Seller becomes a Judge of Atok-Tublay, Benguet

Photo Courtesy || James Abalos Fernandez

Cordillera - Here is a true inspiring story of Attorney James Abalos Fernandez who didn't give up on his dream of becoming a lawyer despite the financial hardship he experienced during his school days. 

Read Atty. Fernandez's inspiring story as he recounts his journey from being an ice candy vendor to becoming a municipal court judge in Tublay and Atok, Benguet.

"I was born to a poor family in our province, Kalinga. My father is a carpenter and my mother is an ambulant vendor. My father died when I was 10 years old. After his burial, I started selling ice candy in the neighborhood. This is so to help my mother in our daily expenses. From elementary to high school, I used to sell banana cue, barbeque, palamig, halu halu, lumpia and hot cake. I help my mama cook the food she sells in the neighborhood and other places near Bulanao to barter for rice or vegetables. My mother was a very industrious woman!

In college, I was also a working student. I was a grantee of Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) during summer and became student assistant in our school library during school days in order for me to have money to use for my daily need.

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I enrolled in law school while working as an employee of Baguio LGU particularly with the accounting office.

I passed the bar in 2014 and became a Public Attorney in 2016. Yesterday, March 20, 2023, we, the newly appointed MTC Judges, had our meet and greet with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin. This is the beginning of my new journey!

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I am very grateful to all the people who have helped me to be in this position right now especially to my Mom, my family and relatives, my bosses and colleagues in my work, acquaintances and to all my friends. I dedicate my success to my parents, who are now both in heaven. I hope I made you proud up there, Mama and Papa!

Of course I am very thankful to our Lord God who is always there keeping His promises to help, strengthen and uphold me."

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