BACK IN FULL SWING. The Provincial Government of Bulacan’s legislative branch is back in high gear as both newly and re-elected Provincial Board Members convene for the “Pasinayang Pagpupulong ng Ika-12 Sangguniang Panlalawigan at Paglalahad ng Kalagayan ng Lalawigan” last July 18, at Senador Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Session Hall in the Provincial Capitol Building, City of Malolos, Bulacan.
Khriz Zaragoza, the creator of Khrizclusive.com, has established himself as one of the most respected Pinterest managers in the Philippines. Known for turning what many still view as a mood board app into a reliable search traffic source, Khriz guides brands, bloggers, and service providers toward strategies that bring consistent visibility without the guesswork.
Through his blog Khrizclusive, he shares insights with business owners and freelancers on how to approach Pinterest as more than just a place for aesthetic inspiration. His strategies combine precise keyword planning, intentional content development, and his trademark honesty about what really works.
Undefined
Pinterest Managed Like Search, Not Social
Many marketers continue to treat Pinterest as another social media channel, but Khriz has long shown that it behaves more like a search engine. As a Pinterest manager, he crafts profiles and boards built around what people are already searching for — with pins designed to match that intent.
“People come to Pinterest looking for answers, not distractions,” he says. “They’re already searching for something specific. A good strategy knows how to meet them where they are.”
Over the years, Khriz has helped bloggers, e-commerce stores, and service-based businesses build traffic outside the usual Google reliance and create more stable, long-term visibility.
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Khrizclusive: Where Pinterest, SEO and Productivity Meet
Beyond his client work, Khriz runs Khrizclusive, his personal blog where he explains SEO and Pinterest strategies in a straightforward and often humorous way. He also writes about his own experiences juggling work, productivity, and burnout — a more candid take in a niche that often feels detached from reality.
“Most advice on productivity sounds like it’s written by someone who has never stared at the ceiling at 2 AM questioning their life choices,” he says. “I write for people who want results but don’t pretend to have it all together.”
Through his writing, he has encouraged many Filipino freelancers and marketers to include Pinterest in their strategies and recognize its potential as more than just an afterthought.
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Who is Khriz Zaragoza?
Recognized Pinterest manager and SEO strategist based in the Philippines
Creator of Khrizclusive.com, a blog about Pinterest SEO, search marketing, and the realities of staying productive
Helps brands develop Pinterest profiles built on search-driven strategies with lasting results
Advocate for sustainable and ethical approaches to growing online visibility
Mentor to freelancers and business owners aiming to master Pinterest marketing
Whether building a Pinterest account around high-intent searches or teaching clients how to turn boards into lead generators, Khriz brings structure and clarity to a platform many still misunderstand.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
SM City Baliwag has turned into a vivid canvas this month as the mall officially launched “Art for Everyone”, an art fair that boldly transforms retail space into a platform for Filipino creativity, spotlighting works that are not only meant to be admired but owned.
Running until July 31, Art for Everyone goes beyond the traditional gallery experience by offering a space where art is accessible, artists are celebrated, and the public becomes part of a cultural exchange. The exhibit is not just a visual feast but a creative opportunity, designed to showcase and sell the works of Bulacan’s finest and rising visual artists.
A collaborative effort with the Bulacan State University College of Architecture and Fine Arts Faculty and Alumni, and Ang Bagong Likha Art Group, the exhibit features a diverse collection of paintings, mixed media pieces, and digital art.
Timed with SM Supermalls’ 40th anniversary, the event reflects a broader commitment by SM to support local talent across the country by integrating culture and commerce in public spaces. The effort echoes the success of last year’s Art Market, which earned SM Supermalls a Gold Stevie® Award for Innovation in the Use of Events.
“Art for Everyone isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a platform,” said Mall Manager of SM City Baliwag, Rodora Tolentino. “We want our mall to be a place where art can thrive, where artists can turn their passion into opportunity, and where people from all walks of life can enjoy and own a piece of Filipino creativity.”
The exhibit at SM City Baliwag officially opened on July 19, drawing art lovers, collectors, students, and weekend shoppers into a multi-sensory experience. Beyond the brushstrokes and frames lie stories of heritage, modern identity, and the evolving Filipino spirit told by artists who call Bulacan home.
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There’s a certain kind of magic that only a grandma’s kitchen can bring—and at Grandma’s Sandwich in SM City Marilao, that magic lives on in every warm, toasty bite.
Channeling the comfort of a home-cooked snack, Grandma’s Sandwich is winning over mallgoers with its honest-to-goodness lineup of grilled wheat sandwiches made from whole, wholesome ingredients. Think of it as the kind of food your Lola might lovingly whip up—simple, healthy, and full of heart.
Starting at just ₱99, the menu gives your usual sandwich a delicious upgrade. There’s the Triple Grilled Cheese, oozing with melty goodness; the ever-reliable Ham-Lettuce-Tomato; and the umami-loaded Grilled Tuna Cheese Melt. The Chicken Teriyaki is also a standout—zesty, filling, and flavorful.
But where things get really interesting is the bold Pinoy-fusion twist. The Grandma’s Tapa Sandwich and Grilled Cali Maki feel like your favorite rice meals cleverly reimagined between slices of toasted wheat bread.
Got a sweet tooth or a curious palate? You’ll find joy in surprising combos like Banana Chocnut, Pineapple Peanut Butter, and Banapple sandwiches—the kind of “wait… this actually works?” creations that truly do.
There are also wheat pizza sandwiches such as Pepperoni with Honey, and a Creamy Water Spinach variant that’s both comforting and unique. Pair them with their air-fried fries—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside—for that perfect crunch.
Not in a sandwich mood? That’s okay—Grandma’s also serves up a comforting Beef & Mushroom Truffle Pasta that’s creamy, earthy, and a quiet crowd favorite.
It’s the kind of place you wander into after errands, or when you just want something light yet satisfying. Pair your sandwich with one of their refreshing, healthy beverages, and you’ve got yourself a guilt-free mini escape.
Grandma’s Sandwich at SM City Marilao is a gentle reminder that sometimes, the simplest things really do taste the best.
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By Maria Asumpta Estefanie C. Reyes
NEW CLARK CITY, Tarlac (PIA) — Affordable housing units are set to rise in New Clark City as part of the national government’s efforts to address the country’s housing backlog through the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) program.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), recently launched the New Clark City Affordable Housing Project, to be developed by the consortium of Sta. Clara International Corporation and South Korea-based Saekyung Unitless Co.
Located in Capas, Tarlac, the initial phase of the project will deliver 840 housing units.
These will form part of a master planned 5.84-hectare community that is expected to offer over 3,400 residential units, including mid-rise buildings for affordable housing.
According to BCDA, the project supports the Marcos administration’s target of building one million housing units annually.
It also aligns with BCDA’s mandate to build smart, sustainable cities that generate long-term social and economic value.
“This housing project is a testament to the bold vision of President Marcos Jr., brought to life through 4PH. It tells every Filipino family: you deserve more than shelter. You deserve a home—a place of dignity, stability, and hope,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang said.
The development will also integrate green parks, community spaces, retail zones, and sports and recreation facilities.
It is designed to provide future residents with access to nearby national institutions and job hubs.
Notably, the community will also serve as a potential housing site for uniformed personnel, allowing them to live closer to their place of duty.
“This is a real and tangible step forward in our collective pursuit of a new Philippines–Bagong Pilipinas–where housing is a right, not a privilege; where communities are safe, sustainable and inclusive; and where every Filipino can dream of owning a home and actually be able to achieve ownership,” DHSUD Undersecretary for Freeport Economic Zones Emmanuel Pineda stated.
The project is strategically located within New Clark City and benefits from major infrastructure developments such as the New Clark City–MacArthur Highway Connector Road and Connecting Road Package 2.
These roads link the area to key government facilities, including the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas complex, and the National Academy of Sports.
BCDA noted that New Clark City has already attracted P274.53 billion in pledged investments from locators, including Filinvest Land, Hann Development, and the StB Giga Factory.
These are expected to generate more than 150,000 jobs.
Consistent with the vision of New Clark City as a climate-resilient and people-first metropolis, the housing complex will feature modern utilities, stormwater drainage systems, fire protection infrastructure, and open green spaces.
Employment during both construction and operations will prioritize local hires from Capas and neighboring towns.
“This groundbreaking ceremony marks the first step towards the change needed to bring the Filipino dream to life. With this project, we are building hope, we are empowering Filipinos, and we are bringing a lasting impact that will ripple for generations to come,” BCDA Chairperson Larry Paredes emphasized.
The New Clark City Affordable Housing Project is set to begin vertical construction by late 2025, with the first units expected to be turned over within two years. (CLJD/MAECR, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
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By Maria Asumpta Estefanie C. Reyes
TARLAC CITY (PIA) — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with public and private sector stakeholders, is planning to expand the road interchange connecting Luisita Access Road in Tarlac City to the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).
This initiative seeks to ease traffic congestion, improve regional mobility, and unlock new investment and employment opportunities in Central Luzon.
During a recent joint site inspection, BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang, Tarlac Governor Christian Tell Yap, Vice Governor Lita Aquino, and other key stakeholders assessed the proposed location for the construction of additional entry and exit ramps.
Currently, the SCTEX Luisita Interchange only allows passage to and from the south.
The planned expansion will complete its connectivity, enabling access for motorists traveling to and from the north.
Bingcang emphasized the importance of the project in enhancing regional growth.
“The Luisita Interchange Expansion is a vital step toward unlocking Tarlac’s full economic potential. By improving regional mobility and access to key industrial zones and new townships, we are not only easing travel for motorists but also paving the way for greater investments, jobs, and inclusive growth in Central Luzon,” he said.
The proposed expansion is expected to ease travel to and from the northern part of Luzon and reduce congestion along MacArthur Highway and adjacent roads in Tarlac.
It will also enhance access to industrial hubs and township developments in the province, including the Luisita Industrial Park, Central Techno Park, Cresendo Estates, and TARI Estate.
According to BCDA, the project is a strategic upgrade to SCTEX, reinforcing its role as a key corridor in Central Luzon.
It is aligned with the Marcos administration’s “Build Better More” program and the push for seamless multimodal transport across Luzon.
Moreover, it supports government efforts to boost connectivity along the Luzon Economic Corridor, which aims to position the region as a strategic hub for manufacturing and electronics. (CLJD/MAECR, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
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Scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) have developed a new semiconductor structure that could lead to more affordable and reliable terahertz (THz) technology—used in applications ranging from medical imaging to high-speed wireless communication.
One of the goals in THz research is to make THz-Time Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS) widely usable; this invention addresses key technical and economic barriers to its adoption.
Dr. Cyril Salang of the UPD-CS Materials Science and Engineering Program (MSEP), together with Dr. Arnel Salvador, Dr. Armando Somintac, and Dr. Elmer Estacio of the UPD-CS National Institute of Physics (NIP), and Dr. Joselito Muldera of RIKEN—a national scientific research institute in Japan—have introduced a new design for semiconductor components. It features a substrate, a buffer layer, and an epitaxial layer— a thin crystal layer grown on top.
What makes their design unique is the use of a mismatched buffer layer—a material whose atomic structure (called lattice constant) differs significantly from both the substrate below and the epitaxial layer above. While such mismatches typically lead to defects or poor performance, the scientists’ invention surprisingly results in high-quality layers that perform just as well as, or even better than, traditional materials used in THz emitters.
The team added a growth-interrupted region and a superlattice—a structure made of alternating thin layers—to strengthen the adhesion between components despite the lattice mismatch. The p-type indium arsenide (p-InAs) layer was grown on top of a superlattice which was deposited on top of a main buffer layer over a growth-interrupted region over a more affordable gallium antimonide (n-GaSb) substrate. When tested, the invention delivered impressive results.
Its performance was comparable to traditional bulk materials when using a 0.80 μm laser, and even better with a 1.55 μm fiber laser—which is cheaper and more practical for mainstream use—making this invention a potential game-changer for THz-TDS systems.
Dr. Salang shared that it took 11 years from the initial idea in 2013 to the patent approval in 2024. “My paper was published in 2015, followed by an invention disclosure later that year. With support from the UP Diliman Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Development (OVCRD), the patent application was filed in February 2016 and was officially granted in 2024,” she said.
With their newly granted patent, Dr. Salang and her team are in a much stronger position to contribute to the growing terahertz industry. “Receiving a national patent means that the originality of our work is recognized. It encourages me to do further innovation,” she added.
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By Vinson F. Concepcion
MALOLOS CITY (PIA) — About 500 residents of Pandi, Bulacan benefited from the Cash-for-Training and Cash-for-Work of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under the Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) at BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished).
The beneficiaries, who each received P10,000, underwent a 20-day comprehensive training covering disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation, alongside practical skills such as rainwater harvesting, gardening, vermicomposting, and hydroponics.
Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office Project LAWA at BINHI focal person Reneil Agustin said the initiative symbolizes the government’s commitment to nurturing and sustaining efforts that ensure long-term solutions to reduce hunger and poverty in vulnerable communities.
“This is designed to address water and food challenges in communities that were affected by El Niño and other climatic disasters,” Agustin added.
The project provided temporary employment and reliable source of food for the town.
“Participants can use the skills they gain to not only enhance their livelihood but also to improve their agricultural practices,” Agustin pressed.
Meanwhile, Mayor Enrico Roque expressed his heartfelt gratitude to DSWD and Secretary Rex Gatchalian for their steadfast support and care for the citizens of Pandi.
“We will continue to unite and take action against the effects of climate change—for the environment and livelihood,” he stated. (CLJD/VFC, PIA Region 3-Bulacan)
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MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Eastern Communications upholds its support for the Philippine government’s digital-first agenda, rolling out initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and expand access to quality education. From supporting the May 2025 electoral count and bringing internet access to remote schools to expanding its regional footprint, Eastern Communications is exceeding expectations in strengthening the country’s digital foundations.
“As a trusted technology partner, Eastern Communications is proud to stand alongside the government and like-minded private organizations in advancing digital transformation across the country,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications. “Through our efforts in connectivity, digital education, and regional expansion, we remain focused on enabling progress and inclusive growth for Filipinos everywhere.”
With a strong commitment to nation-building, Eastern Communications reinforces its mission of making technology more accessible for every Filipino by empowering institutions, communities, and individuals in today’s increasingly digital society.
Reliable connection for 2025 elections and remote classrooms
Eastern Communications played a vital role in supporting the May 2025 electoral process by providing stable and secure connectivity during the official vote count held at The Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila. The telco provider’s reliable services enabled seamless real-time reporting and operations throughout the high-stakes national event.
“[Eastern’s] provision of reliable and high-quality connectivity services played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted transmission of data and communications throughout the entire electoral process,” said Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, expressed his gratitude in a formal letter for Eastern Communications’ support during the official vote count.
“In moments when precision, efficiency, and transparency were paramount, [Eastern’s] commitment to service excellence significantly contributed to the integrity and success of this important national event,” Lina added.
Eastern Communications also strengthened its advocacy for inclusive digital access through its reaffirmed partnership with global non-profit Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd) to connect remote and underserved schools across the country. The initiative aims to bring internet connectivity to learners and educators in far-flung areas, providing them with the tools and opportunities to thrive in an evolving digital world.
Under this partnership, Eastern Communications has begun delivering internet connectivity to several schools this year, including Panicuason Elementary School in Naga on July 15, San Jose Elementary School in Dipolog on July 22, and Namabbalan Integrated School in Tuguegarao on July 24.
Additional schools slated for turnover in August are Paopao High School in General Santos, Capisan Elementary School in Zamboanga, Patrocino A. Lachica Integrated School in Aklan, and Alambre Elementary School in Davao. These schools represent a significant step in the initial phase of the program, with three more schools to follow in the coming months.
Growing presence in Mindanao, educating local IT talent
Eastern Communications is accelerating its regional expansion, with a particular focus on Mindanao. The telco provider is set to officially launch its services in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on July 22, 2025, followed by General Santos City in the third quarter. These launches are part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen its presence in emerging business centers and help stimulate local economies through improved digital infrastructure.
To provide a secure and robust infrastructure, Eastern expands its reach through an ultra high capacity backbone transmission Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (DWDM) Network. This cutting-edge technology delivers Terabits per second (TBPS) bandwidth, ensuring highly reliable and scalable connectivity across the country. Its capacity can also be replicated or expanded based on the demand, with spare fibers connecting various islands.
Alongside its connectivity rollouts, Eastern Communications continues to drive awareness and skills-building through its educational campaigns. Programs like “Access Eastern” and “Brown Bag Sessions” offer hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and learning opportunities for local IT professionals and community leaders, arming them with essential tools to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
“These initiatives are about more than connectivity, they’re about empowerment,” said Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista. “We believe that every Filipino deserves a seat at the digital table, and we’re doing our part to ensure that nobody is left behind.”
With over 145 years of service, Eastern Communications remains committed to its “High Tech” and “High Touch” promise, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized service that builds trust and drives impact. By working hand in hand with public and private stakeholders, Eastern Communications continues to be a trusted partner in driving forward vital initiatives to build a digitally empowered Philippines.
To learn more about Eastern Communications and its initiatives, contact (02) 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.
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Teacher training in the Philippines needs to align with the realities and demands of modern classrooms, according to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).
Despite the presence of professional development programs and needs assessments, PIDS found that most training remains overly generic, compliance-driven, and disconnected from teachers’ actual challenges—ranging from managing student behavior to integrating digital tools.
The findings were discussed during a live podcast on July 3, co-organized by PIDS and the Centro Escolar University (CEU), where education experts urged a shift toward localized, classroom-focused teacher development.
Fixing a system where teaching is sometimes a last resort
According to PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. John Paolo Rivera, the study “Quality Education Starting with Teacher Education” revealed that some students pursue education degrees not out of passion but as a fallback option due to limited alternatives or institutional practices.
The study found that many teacher education institutions (TEIs) admit students who are not primarily motivated to pursue teaching or are shiftees from other programs—weakening the overall academic aptitude and sense of mission among aspiring educators.
For some, teacher education is not their first choice. “It’s no longer driven by motivation. [This lack of intrinsic motivation] may affect the quality of education in the end,” Rivera explained.
Despite this, research affirms that teacher quality is the most critical driver of student achievement and overall school effectiveness.
The issue is worsened by some TEIs, with 77 offering Bachelor of Elementary Education and 105 offering Bachelor of Secondary Education programs posting 0% passing rates in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) between 2012 to 2022—yet still allowed to operate.
Rivera emphasized the importance of refining admission criteria and developing programs that demonstrate the value of teaching, not just financially, but in terms of its greater purpose and public service.
Burdened by quality assurance
Rivera also raised concerns about how Quality Assurance (QA) is implemented in higher education institutions. While intended to uphold standards, QA processes overwhelm faculty with rigorous documentation.
“Based on our findings, teachers said they were willing to undergo QA, but they’re already burdened with so much work—teaching, even research,” Rivera said.
He noted that the implementation of quality indicators remains inconsistent across TEIs, weakening the standardization of teacher preparation.
Rivera called for streamlined reforms to make QA procedures more relevant and less bureaucratic.
Mismatched training and classroom realities
Rivera’s second study, “Revitalizing the Philippine Education System: Facilitating Access and Participation to In-Service Training (INSET) and Teacher Professional Development (TPD),” revealed a persistent gap between training offerings and teachers’ actual needs.
“A well-designed teacher professional development program comes from assessing whether the training they are taking is suitable for a real classroom setting… It can’t be one-size-fits-all,” Rivera said, arguing that training must be aligned with classroom realities and adapted to regional contexts.
PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. Michael Ralph Abrigo also noted that teachers seek practical, everyday skills.
“Many of the trainings they want are about the everyday challenges they face. For instance, how to handle unruly students or how to use ICT tools,” he said.
Only 17.6% of public school teachers participated in relevant training during School Year 2023-2024, with non-participation rates in Metro Manila reaching 88%.
Teachers also expressed frustration with training dominated by structural topics like curriculum rollout and school-based management, while critical areas such as differentiated instruction, inclusive education, and digital literacy are underrepresented.
Responsible use of technology
Digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) are playing a larger role in classrooms—but educators say guidance is lacking.
Rivera underscored that AI should support—not replace—teachers.
“Education still requires a personal touch,” he explained, highlighting that learning outcomes are a product of the teacher’s role in applying technology meaningfully.
Abrigo also cautioned against relying too heavily on AI, citing risks of misinformation or “hallucinations.” He advocated for the need to train students to understand the boundaries of AI and how to use it responsibly.
But many struggled with limited access to personal devices, unreliable internet connections, and low familiarity with advanced tools.
Better support for learners, teachers
The podcast also emphasized the need for inclusive education.
Rivera stressed the need for teacher training to support neurodivergent learners, who make up an estimated 15 to 20% of the global population.
He called for a whole-of-society effort involving schools, families, communities, faith-based groups, the private sector, and policymakers.
The studies also flagged rising behavioral and mental health issues among students, particularly anxiety, attention issues, and a lack of socialization, which the current teacher training programs rarely address.
This has fueled calls for more support in mental health and classroom behavior management.
Beyond training, the experts emphasized the need to restore the high regard once given to teachers.
“This cannot be addressed by just one stakeholder alone. Maybe we need to go back to placing greater value on our teachers,” Rivera said, referencing countries like Japan, where educators are highly respected.
Watch the dialogue’s playback at https://bit.ly/pidslive070325, or read full studies at https://bit.ly/pidsdp2025-04 and https://bit.ly/pidsdp2025-14. – MAEC
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NEWSCORE is a weekly newspaper published and circulated in the province of Bulacan. It was founded in October 2006 by Carmela Reyes-Estrope, Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent in Bulacan and had its maiden issue on October 10-16 that year. It is now running on its 11th year. The paper uses a bilingual medium. It carries all sorts of news stories mostly political, crime, environmental, social and economic issues including occasional sports event happening in the province's 21 towns and three cities.
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