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Freeport Insider Dishing out news and information from the Subic Bay Freeport and beyond

AI IN JOURNALISM, CYBERCRIME, MEDIA ETHICS TACKLED AT SBFZ FORUMBy Percy Roxas SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Journalists, informa...
01/10/2026

AI IN JOURNALISM, CYBERCRIME, MEDIA ETHICS TACKLED AT SBFZ FORUM

By Percy Roxas

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Journalists, information officers, and representatives of other concerned agencies gathered Sept 30 at the Terrace Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, for a timely seminar on "Cybercrime and the Role of AI in Media Practice."

The seminar tackled the growing impact of artificial intelligence on journalism at a time when cybercrime cases continue to rise across the country. Organized as part of the continuing media capacity-building efforts in Central Luzon, the seminar focused on both the opportunities and risks brought by AI to newsrooms.

Resource speakers, including NBI experts, Atty Jo Clemente and B**g Lacson, founder of the Central Luzon Media Association, presented updates on media laws and ethics, as well as cybercrime trends, including AI-powered phishing, deepfake videos, voice cloning, online libel, and misinformation campaigns targeting media practitioners and the public.

A key discussion centered on RA 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, ethical guidelines on the use of generative AI in writing and photo generation, and the responsibility of journalists to verify AI-generated content is expected in the daylong seminar.

"The media must lead in understanding AI — not just as users, but as gatekeepers against its abuse," Atty Clemente emphasized during the morning session.

Participants from Olongapo City, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and the Subic Bay Freeport Zone will shared bexperiences on online harassment, fake news, and digital security challenges faced by local press.

The seminar underscored the need for newsrooms to adopt clear AI-use policies, strengthen fact-checking protocols, and practice cyber hygiene — especially as Filipino families become more exposed to online scams and disinformation.

The seminar was hosted by the CLMA Olongapo-Zambales chapter and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, with several veteran journalists from around the region attending. (30)

SUNNIES FLASK OPENS NEW STORE AT SM CITY OLONGAPO CENTRALSunnies Flask, the popular customizable drinkware brand, offici...
29/09/2026

SUNNIES FLASK OPENS NEW STORE AT SM CITY OLONGAPO CENTRAL

Sunnies Flask, the popular customizable drinkware brand, officially opened its newest branch at the Ground Level of SM City Olongapo Central.

The new location features Sunnies Flask's signature interactive setup, where customers can mix and match vibrant colors for flask bodies, caps, and loops to create a personalized, insulated water bottle.
Drop by starting September 25 to October 1 to shop the best flask, plus enjoy:
Free Pebble Ice Tray* with every flask bundle purchase

Free sticker* with every purchase
Free engraving for every Sunnies Flask purchase.

From September 25 to October 1 or until supplies last. Terms and conditions apply.

Visit the Ground Level of SM City Olongapo Central to design your ultimate daily flask and claim these limited-time perks. (30)

BOC ORDERS FULL SCALE CLEANSING OF PORT OF SUBIC: Key Officials Replaced and Oversight TightenedCommissioner Ariel F. Ne...
25/09/2026

BOC ORDERS FULL SCALE CLEANSING OF PORT OF SUBIC: Key Officials Replaced and Oversight Tightened

Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno has ordered a full-scale cleansing of the Port of Subic, rolling out sweeping personnel changes, replacing key officials, tightening accreditation protocols, and imposing direct weekly supervision from the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) highest-ranking officials as part of an intensified drive to strengthen accountability and discipline within the agency.

“Wala nang panahon para sa mga dahilan at wala nang puwang para sa mga hindi sumusunod sa batas. I have directed a full-scale cleansing of the Port of Subic because the Filipino people deserve a Bureau of Customs that is disciplined, accountable, and worthy of their trust. Kung kinakailangan ang pagpapalit ng tao, gagawin natin. Kung kinakailangan ang pagsasampa ng kaso, gagawin natin. Kung kinakailangan ang agarang aksyon laban sa mga lumalabag, gagawin natin. My message is very clear: do your job, follow the law, and serve the public with integrity or face the consequences.” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.

The Bureau will issue a Customs Personnel Order implementing a reshuffling of personnel assigned to the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) and the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) at the Port of Subic. The reorganization includes the replacement of key officials, including the CIIS Chief, ESS Chief, Auction and Cargo Disposal Unit (ACDU) Chief, and Deputy Collector for Operations, to strengthen accountability and reinforce command responsibility within the port.

The move is intended to strengthen command responsibility and ensure that the officials entrusted with safeguarding customs operations are fully accountable for their performance and actions.

The Customs Chief will also require the re-accreditation of all condemnators operating at the Port of Subic. The review will assess compliance with existing requirements and regulations to ensure that only qualified and legitimate entities are allowed to participate in condemnation and disposal activities.

To further strengthen oversight, the BOC will institute weekly rotational supervision by the Deputy Commissioner for the Enforcement Group, the Deputy Commissioner for the Intelligence Group, and the Commissioner of Customs himself. This measure will ensure that concerns are addressed promptly, directives are implemented effectively, and accountability remains firmly in place.

“Simple lang ang gusto natin at ‘yun ay ang maibalik at mapagtibay ang tiwala ng bawat Pilipino sa Bureau of Customs. Hindi tayo naglilinis para lang magpalit ng tao. Ginagawa natin ‘to para masigurong maayos ang sistema, napoprotektahan ang pondo ng bayan, at napagsisilbihan nang tama ang taumbayan,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.

25/09/2026

BSKE RESET TO 2028: MARCOS SIGNS LAW FIXING BARANGAY, SK TERMS TO 5 YEARS*

By Percy Roxas

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed a new law postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to November 2028 and fixing the term of office of barangay and SK officials to five years.

Republic Act No. 12326, approved on September 24, 2026, amends RA No. 12232 which previously set the elections for 2026.

*Key Details of RA 12326:*
1. *New Election Date:* The next regular BSKE will be held on the second Monday of November 2028, with succeeding elections every five years thereafter.
2. *Term Fix:* The term of office for both barangay officials and SK members is now officially five (5) years, up from the previous four-year term.
3. *Holdover Capacity:* Incumbents elected in October 2023 will continue serving until their successors are elected and qualified in 2028.

According to Malacañang, the President considered the crucial role of barangay officials in crime prevention and flood mitigation programs.

> “Nakita po ng mga mambabatas natin; nakita rin po ng Pangulo kung gaano ba kahalaga sa ngayon ang papel ng mga barangay officials... Kailangan po natin sila ngayon,” said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

President Marcos said the extension is not just additional time in position but additional time for accountability:

> “Hindi ito dagdag na panahon sa puwesto. Dagdag itong panahon ng pananagutan sa taumbayan,” Marcos said.

This is the fifth postponement of the synchronized BSKE since 2016. The elections originally scheduled for October 2016 were moved to 2017, then to May 2018, then to December 2022, and then to October 2023.

The law also directs the DILG, in coordination with TESDA, COMELEC, and other agencies, to institutionalize continuing training and capacity-building programs for barangay officials and SK members.

PRES. MARCOS SIGNS RA 12326, FIXING TERM OF BARANGAY, SK OFFICE AND POSTPONEMENT OF 2026 BSKEPinirmahan na ni Pangulong ...
25/09/2026

PRES. MARCOS SIGNS RA 12326, FIXING TERM OF BARANGAY, SK OFFICE AND POSTPONEMENT OF 2026 BSKE

Pinirmahan na ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ang Republic Act No. 12326, na nagtatakda ng limang taong termino ng panunungkulan ng mga opisyal ng barangay at mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Kabataan.

Kasabay nito, hinikayat ng Pangulo ang mga kasalukuyang opisyal na gamitin ang karagdagang panahon upang higit na mapabuti ang serbisyo, tapusin ang mga nasimulang programa, at tugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga komunidad, pamilya at kabataan.

Ang dagdag na panahon sa panunungkulan ay dagdag na panahon para maglingkod at gampanan ang pananagutan sa taumbayan.

READ: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2026/09sep/20260924-RA-12326-FRM-1.pdf?fbclid=IwRlRTSAUi1JhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mBWZkaWQWUPGwbuN9-N3sjWPXjZpjAy_9GxcJK3NydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR69Exj9ObocZKWP7o3QVByeU44vs1PD6XhmOFXr5QP-2L-gnZUXNbhIxQH14w_aem_pcx9G1500-95tkb1uK7nlg

📸 PCO

SM SUPERMALLS BETS BIG ON THE NEXT GENERATION OF FILIPINO LEISUREFresh lifestyle brands, new flagship destinations, and ...
12/09/2026

SM SUPERMALLS BETS BIG ON THE NEXT GENERATION OF FILIPINO LEISURE
Fresh lifestyle brands, new flagship destinations, and interactive spaces signal a shift from traditional shopping to shared experiences
Malls are no longer just places to shop—they are spaces where Filipinos spend full days exploring new hobbies, dining, and embarking on weekend "side quests." To meet this shifting lifestyle, SM Supermalls is actively expanding its footprint and transforming its spaces into ultimate community hubs.
New Flagships and Interactive Spaces Following the recent launch of its 90th mall, SM City Zamboanga, the mall operator is preparing for another major milestone this November: the opening of SM Nuvali. Designed as a flagship eat-and-play destination along the fast-growing South Luzon corridor, SM Nuvali will feature the country’s first LED cinema screen experience of its kind.
Farther south, the newly opened 25,000-seat SM Seaside Cebu Arena gives the Visayas a world-class venue for major live concerts and entertainment, bringing a fresh boost to regional tourism.
Community Culture, Active Living, and "My SM" Today’s mallgoers are also looking for more ways to stay active, social, and connected:
● Active & Wellness Lifestyles: Over 40,000 runners participated in the Galaxy Manila Marathon and SM2SM Cebu events this year. Meanwhile, pickleball has taken off across SM properties, with 102 courts now open in 32 malls nationwide.
● Culture for Everyone: Initiatives like Museo del Galeon, Art for Everyone, and AweSM Festivals continue to make local arts and heritage accessible during regular weekend visits.
● Experiential Campaigns: Recent initiatives like Gala to the Max showcase how ordinary mall visits can turn into interactive, shared moments.
All of these touchpoints feed into My SM—an overarching movement centered on evolving the mall experience around how Filipinos actually want to gather, play, and live today, creating a home for every tribe, whether it be Fandoms, Furparents, Geeks, or Active Living.
Curating Fresh Concepts With spaces shifting toward lifestyle and leisure, new local and international brands continue to join the roster. SM’s tenant footprint expanded by 4% in the first half of 2026, reaching over 23,000 tenants nationwide.
“Food, leisure, and lifestyle concepts are leading the demand right now,” said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing at SM Supermalls. “We’re actively curating a mix that keeps shoppers staying longer, discovering new brands, and coming back more often.”
The SM SuperMakers To further tell the stories of My SM in the online space, SM Supermalls launched SM SuperMakers, its always-on creator community on TikTok () for creators who want to discover, experience and share what’s happening across SM. Creators can join by creating SM-related content, posting it on TikTok, and collaborating with the SuperMakers account. Creators can look forward to exclusive SM experiences, creator perks and rewards, features, community events, and opportunities for future campaigns and briefs.
Growing with Purpose Beyond leisure, SM continues to support local communities by partnering with roughly 900 small businesses daily, hosting trade fairs for nearly 3,000 local entrepreneurs, and driving ongoing sustainability programs such as nationwide plastic collection and solar power integration.

“All of these efforts aren’t just about building better malls—they’re about creating real, lasting opportunities for every Filipino,” said Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

“Our goal is to keep evolving alongside our shoppers, making sure SM remains a space where communities can connect, celebrate, and create memories together, showing our purpose in every experience we deliver.”

THE BEST GRANDPARENTS’ DAY FOOD DATE at SM Grandparents’ Day is the perfect excuse to slow down. Head out to SM Olongapo...
06/09/2026

THE BEST GRANDPARENTS’ DAY FOOD DATE at SM

Grandparents’ Day is the perfect excuse to slow down. Head out to SM Olongapo Downtown and SM Olongapo Central and treat your Lola and Lola to a day focused entirely on them. Grandkids can skip the predictable dinners and take their Lolos and Lolas on a fun flavor adventure.

If you're planning a special food date to spoil your favorite seniors, here is a cozy, multi-stop itinerary that perfectly balances modern trends with heartwarming comfort, as SM celebrates FoodTok this month, let your Lolo and Lola try these fun food choices:
al
INFINITEA: A sweet start by introducing them to a premium milk tea or a creamy dessert frappe. It’s a fun, refreshing twist to their usual afternoon drink that will put an instant smile on their faces.

MOMOYO: Nothing brings out pure, childlike joy quite like a massive swirl of rich soft-serve ice cream. Share a towering cone or a cold fruit sundae, a sweet reminder that you're never too old for dessert.

HEALTHY THOUGHTS: Show them a little extra love with a nutrient-dense, fresh-pressed fruit juice or smoothie. This colorful, refreshing pick-me-up will keep their energy high and shows you care about their wellness.

FAMOUS BELGIAN WAFFLES: Follow the sweet aroma of freshly baked, golden waffles. Treating them to a warm, crispy waffle loaded with classic fillings like chocolate or cream cheese is an easy way to make their day extra cozy.

THE SHAWARMA SHACK: Add a flavorful twist to the date with a warm, tightly wrapped shawarma. They will absolutely enjoy this quick, delicious, and deeply satisfying comfort snack.

CHIZMOZZA: Bring them to the ultimate cheesy delight with fresh, golden-fried mozzarella sticks. Watching Lolo or Lola pull the warm, gooey cheese for the first time that will definitely create a hilarious and unforgettable moment.

MUHLACH BAKERY & CAFÉ: Wrap up the day in the coziest way possible. Bond together over a hot cup of coffee and a warm, cheesy ensaymada that literally melts in your mouth.

Food has always been our favorite love language. This weekend, take the time to sit, talk, and share a meal that bridges their timeless favorites with the trends of today.

FOODTOK AT SM brings everything you’ve been craving from online to IRL. Come taste what’s trending, discover your next fave, and gala to the max at SM.

GAPO UNDER WATCH AS RAINS PERSIST, FLOOD LEVELS RISE IN KEY BRIDGES by Percy Roxas OLONGAPO CITY — Residents remain on a...
29/08/2026

GAPO UNDER WATCH AS RAINS PERSIST, FLOOD LEVELS RISE IN KEY BRIDGES

by Percy Roxas

OLONGAPO CITY — Residents remain on alert as continuous rains and the southwest monsoon bring renewed flooding threats to Olongapo City, with water levels rising again in major bridges and a red rainfall warning still hoisted over the entire Zambales area.

Monitoring data from the city government since Tuesday morning said Sta. Rita Bridge reached 2.5 meters, classified at its critical level. Del Rosario Bridge recorded 2.3 meters and Kalaklan Bridge 2.2 meters, both under warning level. Levels have since dropped but rose again due to persistent rains and changing tide conditions in the following days.

By Friday, August 28, flood waters rose again reaching knee-, waist-high, or higher levels in places like the Ulo ng Apo rotunda and low-lying areas of Barangay Sta Rita.

Some roads became impassable as flood water swells along the main thoroughfare Rizal Avenue and other streets.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), forecasted 100 to 200 mm of rain over Zambales, including Olongapo, from Thursday noon to Friday noon.

As of this news update, Zambales and Olongapo remain under red rainfall warning.

Impact on Communities
During the recent onslaught of rains caused by "habagat" and high tide, 16 out of 17 barangays in Olongapo experienced flooding. City records as of Thursday showed 661 families or 2,088 individuals sought refuge in 20 evacuation centers, with floodwaters reaching neck-deep in some areas.

Heavily affected barangays include Sta. Rita, East and West Bajac-Bajac, Kalaklan, Mabayuan, Old Cabalan, New Ilalim, and New Banicain. Major roads such in front of the Olongapo Public Market became impassable to light vehicles, while the Tipo Road-Maritan Highway junction reported stalled vehicles.

Government Response
Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. announced daily suspension of classes at all levels since Tuesday afternoon, August 25, citing safety concerns. Gordon College also shifted to online synchronous classes until Thursday, August 27.

Last night, the city government dispatched vehicles to help transport stranded individuals to their destinations. Some barangays, like New Kalalake, also sent their own vehicles to help in the same effort.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office continues to monitor bridges and flood-prone areas 24/7.

Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Kaye Ann Legaspi urged the City Council to conduct a drainage audit and push for the creation of a Flood Task Force to address recurring flooding.

Authorities also warned the public of a Low Pressure Area inside PAR with a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression within 24 hours.

Advisory
Residents in low-lying areas are advised to prepare emergency bags and heed evacuation orders early. For emergencies, contact Olongapo CDRRMO at 0922-864-1123 or 0948-239-1123.

The city government assured the public that rescue teams and equipment remain on standby as rains continue. (30)

PHOTOS
Residents wade in deep flood along Santa Rita Road. Water have risen to levels not seen since 2013.
Garbage were seen floating on chocolate-colored flood.

SM PUBLIC SERVICE ADVISORY:To our customers and nearby residents affected by the Southwest Monsoon, our mall can provide...
28/08/2026

SM PUBLIC SERVICE ADVISORY:

To our customers and nearby residents affected by the Southwest Monsoon, our mall can provide you shelter.
Free WiFi, charging stations and a help desk are ready to serve everyone.

Overnight Parking Charges are waived in SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown.

27/08/2026

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