Mission Statement of Balibago Info

Provide valuable information about Balibago, Angeles City and surrounding areas. With people in and around Angeles City / Balibago and no relation with any Bar or Hotel, we intend to provide fast, objective and accurate information for our visitors.

Why are we here?

Lots of websites exist about our town, but where do you find quality information that is up to date? Tired looking for a restaurant, going through pages of flash animations or gifs, we decided to make our own site in a simple and clean way where info pops up at the blink of an eye. Let us know what you think - good or bad, we can still take up the suggestion or decide to ignore it :)

Balibago News

23 May 2013 - Cops nab man wanted for rape, homicide

PAMPANGA -- Macabebe town’s number two most wanted person was recently arrested in his residence in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Macabebe town, reports said.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, Officer-In-Charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office, identified the suspect as Nikael Lagman, who has been charged with rape with homicide.

23 May 2013 - Japan’s UNIQLO opens Pampanga branch today

PAMPANGA -- Japan’s premier global fashion brand UNIQLO has arrived in Pampanga and will open its fourth store at SM City Pampanga today, with Governor Lilia Pineda expected to lead the ribbon-cutting and opening rites in the morning.

During the pre-opening press conference and VIP shoppers’ night, Katsumi Kubota, UNIQLO chief operating officer, said the store, located at the Ground Level of Annex 3 in SM City Pampanga, will provide access not only for Kapampangan “fashionistas” but to every shopper from North Luzon who has a “flair for quality apparel with a unique fashion sense.”

23 May 2013 - Oca to meet high expectations ‘head on’

PAMPANGA -- Third District Congressman-elect and outgoing Mayor Oscar Rodriguez disclosed yesterday that he will meet “head on” the high expectations and challenges ahead poised my Kapampangans, including political leaders and stalwarts.

Rodriguez is highly regarded by Kapampangan officials like Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor-elect Dennis Pineda, provincial lawmakers, and even mayors outside of the third district as the “vital link” of Pampanga to the House of Representatives and even Malacańang for very important programs and projects.

23 May 2013 - AC to boost historical, cultural attractions

ANGELES CITY -- The city's historical landmarks and cultural attractions will soon get a major boost as the City Government prepares for a better re-branding of the overall tourism program and marketing of this city.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said this is part of the overall development plan for the city's tourism attraction stressing that Angeles City is not all about bars and entertainment but also has its share of cultural and heritage landmarks that can attract local tourists.

23 May 2013 - SM City Clark holds fire, earthquake drills

ANGELES CITY -- The SM City Clark, in cooperation with the Angeles City Fire Department, conducted fire and earthquake drills Thursday.

Ana Datu, SM City Clark mall manager, said this is part of their disaster preparedness program.

23 May 2013 - Groups host meetings on Pampanga satisfaction surveys

PAMPANGA -- Groups led by the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) and the Universal Access to Competitiveness and Trade (UACT) held group meetings regarding the results of a series of focus group discussions and business satisfaction surveys on Real Property Rights and Access to Credit for Small Businesses conducted in Pampanga by UACT in 2011 & 2012.

PamCham was represented in the meetings the other day by Director Malou Garbes along with Regional Director lawyer Lorna S. Dee of the Land Registration Authority (LRA), Provincial Director Len Ordonio of the Department of Trade and Industry-Pampanga, National Economic Research and Business Action Center representative Don Mauro Gomez, Joseph Garcia from the City of San Fernando, Bank of Florida’s Jimmy Panganiban, and Cris Cura of the CSFP Bankers Association with Center for International Private Enterprises (CIPE) Senior Program Official Anna Nagrodkiewiczm, and UACT Executive Director Ryan Evangelista.

22 May 2013 - Eager Beaver Bar raided

ANGELES CITY -- local CIDG, DSWD and PNP officers from Manila conducted the raid about 21:30 last night.

Initial reports are that they detained the manager, the mamasan, and about twenty girls.

22 May 2013 - Austrian held for abusing minor

ANGELES City -- Agents of the Pampanga Criminal Investigation and Detection Team arrested recently an Austrian tourist for allegedly abusing and exploiting a 16-year-old girl.

In his report to 3rd Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit director Supt. Victor Valencia, Senior Insp. Ignacio Layugan Jr. identified the suspect as Francesco Reinprecht, 60, presently residing at 1337 Cordillera St., Bgy. Malabanias, this city.

22 May 2013 - Worker killed in bunker tank blast

PAMPANGA -- A worker was killed while another one is in serious condition when the bunker tank of an asphalt plant exploded in Barangay Paligui, Apalit town on Tuesday.

In a report, Superintendent Homer Penecilla, chief of police of Apalit, identified the fatality as Ernesto Alvares, 60, of Subic, Zambales.

22 May 2013 - Group asks EdPam for probe on watershed destruction

ANGELES CITY -- A group of environmentalists is urging Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan to conduct an investigation regarding the destruction of watershed areas in the city.

Sonny Dobles, head of the Alliance for the Development of Central Luzon, said the re-elected mayor ordered for an investigation to determine the cause of environmental problems like flooding, depletion of water supply, and others.

22 May 2013 - C. Luzon has 11 newbie lawmakers

PAMPANGA -- Central Luzon will have 11 first termers to the House of Representatives consisting of 21 during the 16th Congress, election results from Comelec show.

Leading the pack are outgoing governors Bellaflor Angara-Castillo and Enrique “Tet” Garcia Jr. who will return to their old seats as representatives of the lone district of Aurora and 2nd district of Bataan respectively.

22 May 2013 - Chinese, Malaysians nabbed in raid

CLARK FREEPORT -- Operatives of the Anti-Cybercrime Group arrested 78 persons, including Malaysians and Chinese nationals, during a raid at 17 villas of the Fontana Resort inside Clark Freeport, reports said.

In a text message to this reporter, Senior Superintendent Elmo Sorona, head of the Anti-Cybercrime Group, said that during the raid, his men arrested 45 Chinese nationals, 21 Malaysians, and 12 Filipinos.

22 May 2013 - Police to strengthen intel network in villages

PAMPANGA -- A high-ranking official from the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) the other day divulged his plan to strengthen "Barangay Intelligence Networks” or BINs.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Alabayalde, PPO officer-in-charge, said BINs could be a big help in protecting the interest of various communities in matters of peace and order.

22 May 2013 - AUF, SM City Clark to stage Flores de Mayo tilt

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles University Foundation (AUF), in cooperation with SM City Clark, will stage its annual Search for the Reyna Ning Flores de Mayo 2013 at the mall’s Event Centre on May 25.

AUF president lawyer Joseph Emmanuel Angeles said a total of 21 young ladies from different towns and cities of Pampanga will compete wearing original creations of local designers.

22 May 2013 - Schools share best practices in Career Guidance

PAMPANGA --Some institutions in Central Luzon have shared their best practices in guiding high school students towards the path to take after graduation.

Representatives from Bulacan Provincial Public Employment Service Office (Peso), University of the Assumption (UA), and Pampanga High School (PHS) gave tips to over 250 guidance counselors and coordinators from public and private high schools in Central Luzon that graced the inaugural Regional Career Guidance Advocacy Congress of Department of Labor and Employment (Dole).

21 May 2013 - Princess Refreshment Bar raided

PAMPANGA -- NBI operatives raided Princess Refreshment bar at Basa Airbase, Florida Blanca, Pampanga last Monday and rescued four girls, two of whom were sisters who asked the International Justice Mission (IJM) for help, according to NBI director Nonnatus Caesar Rojas.

Members of the NBI Central Luzon Regional Office also arrested the supposed pimp of the four girls whom Rojas identified as Herminigilda Hermosa Manalac, 49, of Habilan, Floridablanca, Pampanga.

21 May 2013 - ‘Brigada Eskwela’ kicks off in AC

ANGELES CITY -- A week after the elections, local officials here, together with the academe and several organizations from the different sectors of society, troop back together in the city’s schools to help in their clean-up for the opening of classes in June.

Brigada Eskwela 2013, the Department of Education’s (DepEd) program for cleaning up campuses in preparation for the new school year, was launched Monday in this city at the Francisco G. Nepomuceno Memorial High School (FGNMHS).

21 May 2013 - 2nd excess navy ship from US being tested

CLARK FREEPORT -- The second US military ship acquired by the government under the Excess Defense Article and Military Assistance Program with the US set sail last Monday off the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in North Charleston, South Carolina in the US for a three-day sea trial before finally journeying to the Philippines by next month.

In a statement emailed to Punto, Washington D.C.-based consul Elmer Cato, spokesperson of the Philippine embassy in the US, said the 378-foot long ship, now named BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) was refurbished at the South Carolina center at the cost of $15.15 million.

21 May 2013 - Gordon’s topping Pampanga polls gives rise to questions

PAMPANGA --Was the last elections payback time of Kapampangans for candidate Richard Gordon, or has Pampanga again resurrected its Marcos-era reputation as opposition country?

Official and complete provincial tally of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) indicated Gordon of the opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) topped senatorial candidates in Pampanga.

21 May 2013 - SMSF Downtown holds May Flower Festival

PAMPANGA -- Everyone is invited to watch the May Flower Festival to witnessFlores de Mayo this coming Saturday at 5PM at SM City San Fernando Downtown. This gleaming happening is spearheaded by the City Government of San Fernando and SM City San Fernando Downtown in time with the upcoming “Fiesta”.

The parade of stunning gals will pass through San Fernando Heritage District (V. Tiomico St./Consunji St.) to the Metropolitan Cathedral for flower offering. Then head back to SMSF for the Presentation of Sagalas, with Celebrity Guest Janine Tugonon, Ms. Universe 2012 1st Runner-up as the Reyna Elena.

20 May 2013 - Capitol braces for rainy months

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in Pampanga has started preparation and disaster risk management meetings to prepare the province for the coming rainy season.

PDRRMO chief Lulu Alingcastre said the province has started initial preparation works in time for the rainy months, asking the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on the status of engineering works on structures damaged by heavy rains and typhoons last year.

20 May 2013 - Pamintuan: Angeleńos are victors

ANGELES CITY -- A week after the elections, re-elected Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the real winners are the Angeleńos.

He said he will open his doors to his political adversaries, and even to those who placed distrust and questioned his administration.

20 May 2013 - International Candle Light Memorial on Aids observed

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando City Hall employees lit up symbolic candles and wore red ribbon pins during the International Candle Light Memorial on Aids at the flag ceremony held Monday at the City Hall grounds.

Dr. Renely Tungol, City of San Fernando rural health physician, said Fernandinos should be more cautious and responsible with their lifestyles, and be kept up to date on information about Aids or acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

20 May 2013 - Maglanque pays courtesy call on Pineda

PAMPANGA -- Candaba Mayor-elect Rene Maglanque paid a courtesy call on Governor Lilia Pineda, who successfully sealed her second term, after getting overwhelming support from the Kapampangans in the last elections.

Maglanque, who ran and won under the Liberal Party, joined the governor and other provincial officials in a flag-raising ceremony held at the Capitol grounds on Monday.

20 May 2013 - Mayor offers Arayat as another investment hub

PAMPANGA -- The newly elected mayor here is offering Arayat to would-be investors as a potential alternative investment hub, being the gateway to the province of Pampanga.

Mayor-elect Emmanuel Bonifacio Alejandrino said he is willing to provide tax incentives for a period of five years to any investor who is willing to establish a business within the locality which will open employment opportunities to the residents.

20 May 2013 - Fishermen see job loss in government tourism projects

PAMPANGA -- The tourism program of the National Government in coastal towns in several provinces, including Pampanga, is seen to affect the livelihood of fishermen all over the country.

The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) stated that more people will join the ranks of unemployed and underemployed once the Philippine government pursues its projects in tourism development areas across the country.

20 May 2013 - Bukas Kotse Gang strikes in NLEX

PAMPANGA -- Members of the so-called “Bukas Kotse” gang managed to cart away several personal belongings from a vehicle parked at the Mega Station along the North Luzon Expressway in Barangay San Felipe, City of San Fernando, over the weekend.

In a belated report here, victim Ephraim Bustos, 25, of Barangay Cacutud, Arayat town, parked his Honda Civic (RHN-158) in front of KFC at the Mega Station around 5:17 p.m. of Saturday and after returning from their snack discovered that their belongings were missing.

19 May 2013 - Ex-cop killed in ambush

MABALACAT CITY -- Senior Police Officer 2 Rodrigo Rodriguez, a retired cop formerly assigned at the Angeles City police office, died on the scene after sustaining three gunshot wounds on the head.

Rodriguez, his wife and teenage son were headed to Angeles City onboard their car when two armed men riding a motorcycle assaulted them around 10 a.m. Sunday.

19 May 2013 - Delta wants streamlining of provincial ordinances

PAMPANGA -- Vice Governor-elect Dennis "Delta" Pineda said he will be working for the streamlining of provincial ordinances to avoid redundancy of laws and policies and ensure effective local governance.

Pineda told Sun.Star Pampanga that the City Council will continue to work for local legislation that is responsive to the development and growth in the province and the region.

19 May 2013 - Lazatin, Nepomuceno out but old names linger in Angeles council

ANGELES CITY -- First district Representative Carmelo Lazatin and former mayor Francis Nepomuceno may be out in the local political scene this term but younger generations of their political families still hound the Angeles City council.

The Nepomuceno name is alive in councilor-elect Bryan Nepomuceno, who ranked second in the number of votes for the City Council with 63,856 or 8.53 percent of the voters who voted in this year's election here, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

19 May 2013 - Senior citizens ask mayor: Observe law on budget share

PAMPANGA -- Officials of the Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (Fescap) Arayat chapter expressed hope Sunday that the new administration in the Municipal Government will observe the law involving budgetary requirements to their group.

Hector Gamboa, Fescap president, said that for so long, they had been deprived of their right under law involving their one percent budget share from the internal revenue allotment of the municipality.

18 May 2013 - Gloria Arroyo thanks kabalens for another term

PAMPANGA -- Former President and now re-elected Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (second district, Pampanga) expressed gratitude to Kapampangans for another term.

Arroyo, who will serve the towns of Lubao, Floridablanca, Porac, Sta. Rita, Sasmuan and Guagua, was proclaimed winner by the Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC) on Thursday evening, after she garnered 168,718 votes against former Provincial Administrator Vivian Dabu with 18,547.

18 May 2013 - Re-elected, new BMs eye ‘greater Pampanga’

PAMPANGA -- Re-elected board members Ric Yabut, Nestor Tolentino, Salvador Dimson Jr., successful comebackers Dinan Labung and Rosve Henson, together with newcomers Cherry Manalo and outgoing Mexico Mayor Teddy Tumang recently professed to “move in unison for a greater Pampanga” and pass more beneficial legislative measures which will benefit Kapampangans.

The local legislators, who expressed excitement over their first session together with Vice Governor-elect Dennis Pineda, said they are optimistic that the “new complexion” of the august body will not, in any way, affect their objectives for the bigger development of the province of Pampanga.

18 May 2013 - Bondoc calls for unity

PAMPANGA -- Congressman-elect Juan Pablo Bondoc has called for political unity in his district following his win against congressional rivals here, adding there is much to do in terms of infrastructure, tourism and agricultural development of the district.

Bondoc was proclaimed winner of the congressional race for the fourth district of Pampanga after garnering 105,610 votes or 55.58 percent of the 207,749 of voters.

18 May 2013 - Butil still Central Luzon’s choice

PAMPANGA -- The Butil Farmers Party reigned as the top party-list choice in Central Luzon region after gaining 257,009 votes or 9.03 percent of the total voters who voted in the region, said the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Butil was followed by Citizens Battle Against Corruption (Cibac) with 162,470 or 5.71 percent at 2nd place in the regional ranking. Buhay Hayaang Yumabong (Buhay) followed close at third place and Binhi at 4th place.

18 May 2013 - Groups urge fast probe on Malampaya fund scam

PAMPANGA -- Members of the Masantol Eastern Coastal Communities (MECC) urged the Commission on Audit (COA) on Friday to speed up the investigation on the Malampaya fund scam involving multi-million pesos worth of "ghost project" intended for farmers here.

Former Vice Mayor Marcelo Lacap, a member of MECC, said their "innocence had been taken advantage by some individuals who successfully enrich themselves" by facilitating the release of some P89.2 million at the expense of the supposed beneficiaries in the localities.

17 May 2013 - New heritage sites unveiled

PAMPANGA -- Two houses were added to the heritage map of the City of San Fernando on Friday as the City Government led by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez and the San Fernando Heritage Foundation chaired by businessman Levy P. Laus unveiled the markers and signed the memorandum of agreement for their preservation.

The first site opened for viewing to visitors was the century-old Paras-Hizon house along V. Tiomico Street right along the city's main Heritage District.

17 May 2013 - Mayor-elect asks fishpond owners to get insurance

PAMPANGA -- The newly elected mayor in Masantol said he would ask fishpond operators to consider obtaining insurance policies for their businesses.

Dan Guintu of the Liberal Party got an overwhelming support from the electorate after he defeated Paul Flores, brother of incumbent mayor Peter Flores.

17 May 2013 - Masantol’s most wanted falls

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested Masantol's number one most wanted person in his residence in Barangay San Isidro here.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, Officer-In-Charge of Pampanga police provincial office, said Sonny Yabut, 31, was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by Judge Josephine Mercado of the Regional Trial Court Branch 55, Macabebe, Pampanga.

16 May 2013 - Pineda proclaimed as Pampanga guv

PAMPANGA -- Re-electionist Lilia "Nanay Baby" Pineda was officially been proclaimed governor of Pampanga on Thursday.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) approved the motion of the Pineda's lawyers to declare her winner in the recent polls on the basis of the number of official votes tallied from 16 municipalities and the City of San Fernando.

16 May 2013 - Village chief calls for 'politics of unity'

ANGELES CITY --- A village chieftain has called for "politics of unity", saying that the recent political exercise has divided the people.

Balibago chairman Rodelio "Tony" Mamac, who lost to incumbent Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting, said the city cannot afford a "politics of vengeance" and urged reelected Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan to lead the unification of the people and other officials and candidates who lost in the polls.

16 May 2013 - Kuliat Foundation to host Sabat Santacruzan

ANGELES CITY -- The Kuliat Foundation Inc., together with the Center for Kapampangan Studies, is organizing the Sabat Santacruzan on May 22, to create awareness among Filipinos of its inherent religious significance and its cultural value in our nation's history.

The foundation, in a statement, said the month of May is traditionally set for the Santacruzan which was originally intended as a method of evangelization but has become a Filipino heritage worth keeping.

16 May 2013 - New San Fernando councilors eye projects

PAMPANGA -- Newly elected city councilors Angie Hizon and BJ Lagman said recently that they are looking at legislating and implementing new programs and projects for Fernandinos.

After their official proclamation at City Hall on Tuesday, the two members of Team Fernandino -- with Hizon emerging as number one councilor -- will immediately submit their respective proposals to the City Council during the first session in July.

16 May 2013 - San Luis mayor retains post

PAMPANGA -- Re-elected Mayor Venancio "Asyong" S. Macapagal, his running-mate Vice Mayor Leonardo Salas and seven of his councilors,

Despite reports of alleged vote buying by rival candidates, it was an overwhelming victory for re-elected Mayor Venancio "Asyong" S. Macapagal, his runningmate Vice Mayor Leonardo Salas and seven of his councilors, Macapagal of the Kambilan party got 13,770 votes against his rival Rey Santos (LP) who got 11,040 votes. Salas (Kambilan), meanwhile, got 13,333 against Erwin Clarin (LP), with 10,432 votes.

16 May 2013 - Flores stages successful political comeback

PAMPANGA -- Former mayor Edgar Flores ofMinalin has made a successful political comeback after defeating incumbent Mayor Arturo Naguit in the May 13 midterm elections.

As this developed, Flores bared that first in his list of priorities after being sworn into office next month is to come up with a comprehensive initiative to address the flooding problem in the locality.

16 May 2013 - Wong warns politicians involved in harassment

PAMPANGA -- Re-elected Mayor Leonora Capule-Wong of San Simon recently warned losing candidates allegedly responsible for massive harassment during the campaign period of appropriate action to hold them accountable for their illegal activities.

The lady mayor shared that only 25,000 of the town's 30,000 registered voters were able to cast their votes, as others had been allegedly "threatened."

15 May 2013 - Coalition group sees no improvement in last polls

ANGELES CITY -- While many people seemed to be satisfied with how last Monday’s elections went, a coalition group called Kontra Daya says otherwise.

“This 2013 elections revealed no improvement in the process. With all these so-called modern, high-tech and expensive equipment funded by taxpayers’ money, voters in the region still suffered and inconvenienced,” said Kontra Daya regional coordinator Roman Polintan.

15 May 2013 - 4,000 jail inmates in CL also cast votes

PAMPANGA -- Some 4,000 jail inmates took part in last Monday’s elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) here reported.

Comelec regional director Rafael Olańo said the election in jails were done in two modes where the first was via a “special voting precinct inside the provincial, city or municipal jail for 50 or more voter-detainees and the second is for jails with less than 50 voter-detainees who were instead escorted by personnel of the Bureau of Jail and Management to their respective precincts.

15 May 2013 - GMA all the way

PAMPANGA -- Notwithstanding absence throughout the campaign period and her failure to vote, owing to her hospital arrest, former President and re-electionist 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo got 129,565 votes, virtually burying in a mountain-sized landslide Atty. Vivian Dabu who managed to get 14,278 votes.

Dabu, provincial administrator under Gov. Eddie T. Panlilio, made GMA’s incarceration as the main theme of her candidacy.

15 May 2013 - Pinedas solidify grip on Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Appeals by President Benigno Aquino III to Pampanga voters to elect Liberal Party (LP) candidates, articulated in rallies on Oct. 5, 2012, and March 1, 2013, went largely unheeded.

Election returns on Tuesday showed that the presidential endorsement appeared to have rubbed off only on Representative-elect Oscar Rodriguez of the third district and five mayoral bets in the towns of Arayat, Masantol, Guagua, Candaba and the City of San Fernando. Just one LP candidate made it to the provincial board.

14 May 2013 - New Candaba mayor proclaimed

PAMPANGA -- An official of the Commission on Elections led on Tuesday the proclamation of Rene Maglanque as the duly elected mayor of this town.

Maglanque was former assistant secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications.

14 May 2013 - Group: Elections in Central Luzon chaotic

MABALACAT CITY - Peoples' organizations in Central Luzon declared the elections in Central Luzon (CL) as chaotic and vulnerable to fraud.

The statement was issued by the Kontra Daya-CL, which is composed of Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan-Gitnang Luson (Makabayan-CL), Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Gitnang Luson (Bayan-GL), Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (Amgl), Central Luzon Ayta Association (Claa), Anakbayan-Central Luzon, League of Filipino Students (Lfs), Promotion of Church Peoples' Response-Central Luzon (Pcpr-CL), College Editors Guild of the Philippines-Central Luzon (Cegp-CL), party-lists under Makabayan coalition, support groups, networks and concerned citizens.

14 May 2013 - Magalang Mayor vows clean, honest public service

Reelected Mayor Romulo Pecson vowed Tuesday to continue a clean and honest public service for his constituents.

Pecson, who was proclaimed winner in the mayoralty race here, thanked the people for their trust.

14 May 2013 - Career advocacy congress held

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Office recently held its first Career Guidance Advocacy Congress at the Colegio De Sebastian in San Fernando.

The congress, themed "Follow the Guide. Tag a Career. Like the Future," aimed to address unemployment and jobs mismatch in Central Luzon.

14 May 2013 - Pineda leads unofficial count

PAMPANGA -- Reelectionist Governor Lilia Pineda was leading Tuesday morning against former governor Ed Panlilio in the partial unofficial canvass of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Pineda was leading in the count, as of 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, with 444,989 votes, over Panlilio who had 111,794 votes.

14 May 2013 - Pamintuan, Guiao win over veteran bets

ANGELES CITY -- Reelectionist Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and congressional candidate Joseller Guiao won over veteran politicians from known political families in the city.

Pamintuan, who ran under the Partido Abe Kapampangan, received 51,368 votes or 56.51 percent of the total 93,970 votes in the mayoral post, according to data gathered from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

14 May 2013 - Lawmaker to retire from politics

ANGELES CITY -- A lawmaker said on Tuesday he is planning to retire from politics following his defeat in the mayoral race here.

In a radio interview, he said he has accepted his loss to incumbent Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.

14 May 2013 - Gordon, Legarda lead in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Former senator Dick Gordon and reelectionist Senator Loren Legarda were Pampanga's top picks in the senatorial race on Monday.

Data obtained from the Commission of Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday showed Gordon of the United Nationalist Alliance at the number one spot with 345,321 or 6.53 percent of the total votes cast.

14 May 2013 - Naguit, Arceo set record

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Joselito Naguit and running mate Mark Louie Arceo set the record in Sto Thomas as the first ever three-term mayor and youngest vice mayor in the province, respectively.

The Commission on Elections proclaimed on Tuesday Naguit as elected mayor and Arceo as vice mayor in a ceremony led by municipal election officer Imelda Manalastas.

13 May 2013 - Angeles City Flying Club Manager shot

PAMPANGA -- Terry Hockehull survived an assassination attempt on his way to the club. A motorbike in front of him made him slow down while a gunman fired several shots through the side window.

13 May 2013 - Candidates shun 'VIP lane'

PAMPANGA -- A congressional candidate joined the long queue of voters for the midterm elections.

First district congressional candidate Vice Governor Joseller Guiao, along with his wife Jenny and uncle Pastor, waited in line at his precinct in San Miguel Elementary School in Barangay San Miguel, Magalang.

13 May 2013 - Mayor: Back to work after polls

PAMPANGA -- Following the vigorous campaign period, a mayor said they are buckling down in office until June 30.

"It will be business as usual. We will be back to work and continue serving our people because there is still much to do, as now we set aside politics in the name of service," third district congressional aspirant Mayor Oscar Rodriguez of San Fernando said.

13 May 2013 - Erroneous voters' list criticized

PAMPANGA -- Voters in Candaba criticized Monday the Commission on Elections for failure to provide electors a correct master list.

Some people failed to cast their vote, saying their names are not in the list.

13 May 2013 - Cleanup after polls urged

PAMPANGA -- A vice mayoral candidate called on his supporters and other politicians to clean up their campaign materials following the Monday polls.

"We all have a responsibility towards our community and its people. If we can spend for posters and paraphernalia; surely, we can also spend that much for cleaning up what we have put out on the streets," incumbent Councilor Jimmy Lazatin said.

13 May 2013 - PCOS glitches delay polls

PAMPANGA -- Technical problems in the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines caused delays and irked voters who were in long queues for the midterm elections.

The PCOS machine in precinct no. 70 at the Sta. Cruz Central School in Lubao town failed to read ballots.

12 May 2013 - Public urged to vote

PAMPANGA -- Various local groups and religious sectors called on the public to "go out and vote" as the midterm elections are set today, Monday.

"Go out and vote wisely. Your vote, our future. Today is when we all decide and participate in re-shaping Pampanga in the coming years. It all lies in the hands of the Kapampangan voters," said Rene Romero, Vice Chairman of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.

12 May 2013 - Bets hope for peaceful polls

PAMPANGA -- Two mayoralty bets in San Fernando expressed Sunday their hopes for peaceful and orderly elections today, Monday, amid issues of vote buying and harassment in the province.

"It has been a long, arduous campaign and a fierce race. But I am expecting that the election day in the city will be peaceful with God's intervention, that our people will remain vigilant because we still have reports of rampant vote buying," Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, who is seeking re-election, said.

12 May 2013 - Ex-lawmaker: ‘Withdrawal’ reports ‘bogus’

PAMPANGA -- A former lawmaker who is seeking re-election branded as "black propaganda" and "bogus" the text messages saying he has withdrawn his candidacy in favor of his political opponent.

Former lawmaker Juan Pablo Bondoc (4th district, Pampanga) denied reports of his withdrawal, saying these are the "dirty tactics" of his rival camp to confuse voters.

12 May 2013 - DOE assures power supply on election day

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Energy (DOE) formed a task force to ensure sufficient power supply during the conduct of the midterm elections today, Monday.

DOE Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla said the Election Power Task Force (EPTF) is ready with its contingency plans to ensure power supply in the country for successful automated elections.

12 May 2013 - Public warned vs vote buying

ANGELES CITY -- A prelate called on the parishioners Sunday to help prevent cases of vote buying by reporting these to the authorities.

"I would like to call on our people in the parish to be vigilant against vote buying incidents," Auxiliary Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said after a Mass at the Holy Rosary Parish Sunday morning.

12 May 2013 - Iglesia to launch medical services

The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) in the Ecclesiastical District of Pampanga will be launching "Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko" project offering free medical, dental, and relief services to Kampangans.

This will be held at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center, San Fernando.

11 May 2013 - Police ready for elections

PAMPANGA -- Candaba's police chief said Sunday that they are ready for the opening of the polling precincts for the midterm elections today, Monday.

Superintendent Benjamin Medina said their mandate is to ensure the safe conduct of elections by preventing interested individuals and groups from interfering with the regular conduct of the polls.

11 May 2013 - Arrested mayoral bet supporter released

PAMPANGA -- A political supporter of Candaba mayoralty bet Reynaldo “Busog” Sagum, who was arrested Friday for alleged vote-buying was ordered released Saturday by the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Pampanga.

Apolinario Dela Cruz, a supporter of Sagum, was charged with violation of Article XXII of Section 261 of BP 881 for alleged vote buying, said lawyer Jeph Deliva.

11 May 2013 - Bets end campaign with motorcades, ‘miting de avance’

PAMPANGA -- Candidates from various local parties in Pampanga yesterday punctuated the last day of campaigning with long motorcades and by holding their respective “miting de avance.”

Although the campaign period officially ended at midnight Saturday, most of the candidates for gubernatorial and vice-gubernatorial posts, mayors, vice-mayors, councilors, board members and district representatives -- alone or with their teams -- took to the streets and meeting points with their supporters.

11 May 2013 - PNP Chief expects Monday polls to be peaceful

PAMPANGA -- Philippine National Police (PNP) Director Alan Purisima, in an interview at the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) office, said he expects the midterm elections on Monday, May 13, 2013, to be peaceful and orderly.

Purisima is visiting all Police Regional Offices in the Philippines to see the preparations of all Police Regional Directors for tomorrow’s national and local elections.

11 May 2013 - Legarda gets pastor’s endorsement

PAMPANA -- International televangelist Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy endorsed Thursday Senator Loren Legarda’s senate bid with hundreds of sect’s membership in Pampanga and the Philippines.

Quiboloy, founding leader and head pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, said that Legarda’s performance as senator and a leading environmentalist have made an impact on people’s lives.

11 May 2013 - Mayoralty bet supporter nabbed for vote buying

PAMPANGA -- A political supporter of a mayoralty candidate here was arrested by the local police Thursday for alleged "vote buying" in Barangay Mangga this town.

Superintendent Benjamin Medina, town's chief of police, identified the suspect as Apolinario Dela Cruz, 51, married and resident of Barangay Dulong Ilog.

11 May 2013 - INC celebrates founder's 127th birthday

PAMPANGA -- Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) in the Ecclesiastical District of Pampanga commemorated Thursday the 127th birth anniversary of Brother Felix Manalo.

Manalo was born on May 10, 1886 in Barrio Calzada, Tipas, Taguig, Rizal. His parents were Mariano Ysagun and Bonifacia Manalo.

11 May 2013 - Peace and order summit held

PAMPANGA -- The provincial police office recently conducted a peace and order summit in preparation for Monday's elections.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, officer-in-charge of Pampanga police provincial office, said that at least 600 members of Bantay Bayan Group in the second district of Pampanga joined the peace summit.

11 May 2013 - Councilmen declare support for Lazatin

Majority of the Councilmen’s League of Angeles City (CLAC) members have declared full support to the mayoral bid of Representative Carmelo Lazatin (first district, Pampanga).

Ogurida said that with several controversies incumbent Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, several barangay officials have jumped ship and joined Lazatin.

10 May 2013 - Biz group: Money ban bears burden

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) has branded as "an undue burden to business and the economy" the money ban imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Under the Comelec Resolution 6988, money ban intends to stop vote buying as the Election Day nears.

10 May 2013 - Honasan raps gov’t for stalling full dev’t of CIA

CLARK FREEPORT -- Sen. Gregorio Honasan said yesterday that the propensity of the Aquino government to blame the past Arroyo administration has stalled the full development of the Clark International Airport (CIA) here into the country’s premiere international airport.

In a meeting with the local media here, Honasan lamented the failure of the Aquino administration to pursue the north railways project that was supposed to link Clark and Metro Manila.

10 May 2013 - Lazatin appeals for peaceful polls

ANGELES CITY -- First District Representative and City mayoralty Candidate Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin on May 9 appealed to Angelenos for a peaceful election, especially to his opponent, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, and his men.

Lazatin made the appeal following several cases of reported harassment of his supporters and damage to Team Lazatin property by men identified as Pamintuan’s lackeys.

10 May 2013 - Cops nab gun-toting ex-town exec, 4 others

PAMPANGA -- Five supporters of the rival faction re-electionist Mayor Lito Naguit here are now in jail after they were arrested by the police for various election offenses Tuesday night.

Rodelio Garcia, former municipal administrator and now a staunch supporter of mayoralty candidate Romeo “Ninong” Ronquillo, was arrested for illegal possession of firearms together with four others.

9 May 2013 - Pelco I: No power outage on May 13

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga I Electric Cooperative (Pelco I) has assured the public stable power supply in May 13 and no blackouts on the eve and during Election Day.

According to Pelco I General Manager Loliano Allas, electric power will remain stable and reliable on May 12 and during Election Day for Arayat, Candaba, Magalang, Mexico, San Luis, and Sta. Ana towns.

9 May 2013 - Flores asked to explain part in 'fertilizer scam'

PAMPANGA -- Incumbent Mayor Arturo Naguit asked Thursday former Mayor Edgar Flores to explain to the people his alleged involvement in a "fertilizer scam" involving at least P10 million.

Naguit said his political rival, during his stint as the municipal mayor, was able to implement a questionable project involving the purchase of fertilizer and other farm equipments.

9 May 2013 - Suspect in Intal killing identified

PAMPANGA -- Police have identified the suspect behind the murder of former Dela Paz, San Simon barangay chairman Marciano Intal.

In a text message, Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde said a special investigation task group already determined the identity of the suspect behind the killing of Intal.

9 May 2013 - Lazatin vows changes in City Hall if elected

ANGELES CITY -- Mayoralty bet Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin said Thursday he will rectify many aspects of the City Government if elected as mayor.

He said he will also extend a hand of friendship to his political rival here.

8 May 2013 - CDC sets sports-tourism events

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has lined up sports tourism events during the summer season.

To guarantee the success of each event, the CDC has partnered with several groups like the Department of Tourism (DoT), Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), Junior Chambers International (JCI) Magalang, Clark Jets Rugby Sports, Do it Yourself (DIY), Cherifer, and the Korean Community Association of Central Luzon.

8 May 2013 - Subic workforce gets patrol van

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- Redondo Peninsula Energy, Inc. (RP Energy) recently turned over a security patrol van and other equipment to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s Law Enforcement Department (SBMA-LED).

The donation is part of RP Energy’s “Kasangga Mo” corporate social responsibility initiative that aims to assist in the peace and order situation of surrounding communities including that of the SBFZ.

8 May 2013 - Liberal Party bet bares priority programs

PAMPANGA -- Liberal Party’s (LP) mayoralty bet Dan Guintu of Masantol bared Thursday his priority programs should he get elected in the upcoming 2013 midterm elections.

He said among his top priorities include the establishment of flood control projects that are within the capacity of the local government unit (LGU).

7 May 2013 - Primo Hosto Bar burned down

ANGELES CITY -- Around 3 pm the Primo Hosto Bar along Perimeter Road caught fire.

Arriving Firetrucks were unable to save the building but nobody got hurt as it was cloesed at that time.

7 May 2013 - Group reports massive vote-buying in Candaba

PAMPANGA -- A group of concerned citizens, who identified themselves as members of the "Ako Ang Simula Movement", condemned the massive vote-buying allegedly undertaken by some politicians in their respective communities.

More than 50 women-members of the movement had sought the assistance of the local police to put into record their complaint about the ongoing vote-buying activity which according to them started late last week in Barangay Bahay Pare.

7 May 2013 - Bounty up for suspects in Intal slay

PAMPANGA -- A P200,000 bounty is now being offered for the arrest of the suspects behind the killing of a former village chief in San Simon.

Re-electionist Mayor Leonora Capule-Wong, in a Peace and Order meeting at Bren Z. Guiao on Monday, said that she is offering a reward for any information that will lead to the arrest of the gunman and his cohort in the killing of former Barangay Dela Paz chief Marciano Intal.

7 May 2013 - Lazatin: ‘Choose wisely; go out and vote’

PAMPANGA -- Vice-mayoral candidate Councilor Jimmy Lazatin on Tuesday urged Fernandinos to “choose wisely among the field of candidates and to go out and vote on election day for the future of the city.”

During a fellowship lunch with some members of the media, Lazatin, who is reportedly leading the race for the vice mayoralty post against lawyer Rolly Macalino and fellow councilor Ato Agustin, also stressed he is praying for peaceful, honest, and orderly elections.

7 May 2013 - Tarlac mayoralty bet shot dead

PAMPANGA -- An unidentified gunman shot dead a mayoralty candidate in San Jose, Tarlac, on Monday afternoon, police said.

Rudy Abella had just delivered a speech at a meeting when he was shot dead around 5:10 pm at Sitio Sta. Cruz in Iba village, provincial police chief Senior Supt. Alfred Corpuz said.

7 May 2013 - Butil endorses 7 senatoriables to farmers

PAMPANGA -- The Butil Farmers Party on Tuesday resolved to endorse the candidacy of seven senatoriables from the Liberal Party (LP) and United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) to its various supporters, farmer groups, cooperatives and leaders in the countryside in the entire country, particularly in Central Luzon.

Butil Rep. Agapito said they are endorsing the candidacies of Cynthia Villar, Jack Enrile, Nancy Binay, Joseph Victor Ejercito Estrada, Milagros Magsaysay and Juan Miguel Zubiri who are all under the UNA. The group is also endorsing, for its seventh senatoriable, LP’s Edgardo “Sonny” Angara.

7 May 2013 - Rightist group warns mayor

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Jerry Pelayo of Candaba has received a stern warning last Monday from a rightist group who falsely accused the former as a supporter of a candidate and party-list groups being backed by the New People's Army (NPA).

Pelayo received a letter dated May 6 from the Global Action for Development Foundation (GADF) with office address at 339, Unit C, F Cruz Street, San Joaquin, Pasig City asking him severe his connections and stop campaigning for them.

6 May 2013 - Province honors late Jose Abad Santos

PAMPANGA -- GOVERNOR Lilia Pineda and senatorial bet Jamby Madrigal led the wreath laying rites before the monument of Chief Justice Jose Abad Santos in commemoration of his 71st death anniversary.

The event honoring the Kapampangan martyr and patriot was held at the Capitol grounds and attended by employees and second district Board Member Fritzie David-Dizon.

6 May 2013 - Bam to back Clark expansion

CLARK FREEPORT -- Benigno “Bam” Aquino announced on Monday that he will strongly push and support the expansion of Clark Freeport and the proposed “airport twinning” when he gets to the Upper House.

In his 36th birthday celebration, Aquino met with officials and businessmen from the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated over lunch and delivered a brief pep talk before the officers of the Laus Group of Companies at the Carworld headquarters in his second visit to Pampanga.

6 May 2013 - CDC clarifies CBA issues with employees

CLARK FREEPORT -- Following reports of Clark Development Corporation (CDC)’s alleged refusal to implement a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) of the Association of CDC Supervisory Personnel (ACSP), Bonifacio Tarenio Jr., CDC Human Resources department manager issued clarification on the issues surrounding the CBA standoff.

Tarenio denied that he was instructed by CDC President Arthur Tugade “to exert all legal remedies to prevent the implementation of the (ACSP) CBA.” He clarified that CDC, being a government corporation, is bound by government accounting and auditing rules to exhaust all legal remedies to protect government assets.

6 May 2013 - Mayoral candidate: ‘We’re not buying votes’

PAMPANGA -- The camp of mayoral candidate and incumbent Vice Mayor Edwin Santiago denied accusations of former congressman Rey Aquino that the former and his Magsilbi Team are buying votes.

Aquino said he has witnessed one incident in Havana Subdivision last Saturday afternoon. “I was shocked at the brazenness of it all,” he said.

6 May 2013 - CDC management hits back at workers

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) said the move to unite the employees to strike because of alleged refusal by management to bargain is “unjustified, unwarranted, unreasonable, and very selfish.”

CDC employees earlier threatened to stage a massive labor strike because of alleged unfair labor practices by the CDC management.

5 May 2013 - Kidnappers grab wrong target

PAMPANGA -- A 39-year-old carpenter from Barangay Cambasie, Masantol who was abducted by still unidentified men was later released after the kidnappers realized they took the wrong man.

Emmanuel Bonifacio said he is lucky to be alive, after unknown individuals abducted him on April 30 around 7:30 p.m. at Bebe Anac.

5 May 2013 - Sampaguita festival highlights Lubao's 441st year of Christianity

PAMPANGA -- Colorful costumes and electrifying dance moves wowed thousands of Lubaeńos during Sunday’s much-awaited 2nd Sampaguita Festival.

The festival coincided with the town’s 441st year of Christianity. Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab said the historic value of the town dates back to 1572 when the Spaniards came and brought Christianity to the people.

5 May 2013 - San Luis District Hospital anti-poor?

PAMPANGA -- Several patients of the San Luis District Hospital (SLDH) said the health facility is “anti-poor” for failing to implement the directive of Governor Lilia Pineda to prioritize indigent Kapampangans.

A certain “Wilson” from Candaba town, who was an accident victim, was taken to the SLDH around 5 a.m. last Saturday for treatment due to multiple injuries.

5 May 2013 - Town hosts photography, art appreciation seminar

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Government of Sta. Rita, in celebration of its “Aldo ning Balen Sta. Rita,” will be hosting a three-day art appreciation and basic photography seminar on May 17 to 19 at the Municipal Hall’s Conference Hall here.

The seminar will feature talks from award-winning visual artist and photographer Ruston Banal.

5 May 2013 - Residents alarmed over bike drag race

PAMPANGA -- Alarmed residents here had called the attention of the local police to monitor the drag racing of motorcycles along the portion of the Sta. Ana-Baliuag road in Pansol, Candaba.

According to residents, the race compromises the safety of the people, mostly employees, who are on their way home.

5 May 2013 - Meat shop held up

PAMPANGA -- Three unidentified men held up a Fresh Options branch in Barangay Sindalan, City of San Fernando, carting away the day’s collection.

In a report here, Superintendent Ricardo David, city chief of police, said the suspects, pretending to be customers, pulled out a .45 caliber pistol, pointed it at the cashier and declared a hold-up.

5 May 2013 - Cops nab suspect in apartment rob

PAMPANGA --Police arrested one of the suspects behind the robbery of three tenants in an apartment in Barangay San Pedro Cutud, City of San Fernando the other day.

Superintendent Ricardo David, city chief of police, identified the arrested suspect as Russel Cunanan, 28, of Barangay San Isidro of said city.

4 May 2013 - Ex-village chief slain

PAMPANGA -- A former village chief of Barangay Dela Paz in San Simon town was shot and killed Saturday by two unidentified motorcycle-riding armed men along Barangay Dela Paz of the said town.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, officer-in-charge of the Pampanga provincial police office, identified the victim as Marciano Intal, 63, an alleged supporter of reelectionist San Simon Mayor Leonora Capule-Wong.

4 May 2013 - Velasco: Case vs me is ‘politically motivated’

PAMPANGA -- Former Mayor Nardo M. Velasco of Sasmuan branded as "politically motivated" the case filed against him by known allies of his political opponent.

Velasco, who is running again for the mayoralty seat of this town, told Saturday that the said "falsification of public documents" case was filed in 2006 by an employee of his political rival.

4 May 2013 - Comelec to hold dry run of PCOS machines Monday

PAMPANGA -- The Commission on Elections will be holding a dry run of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines in polling precincts all over the province tomorrow, a day after the machines arrived in Pampanga.

The dry run, according to lawyer Fernando Cot-om, Comelec provincial chairman, will be held for “fine tuning and familiarization.”

4 May 2013 - Guv eyes P100 million for livelihood programs

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda said the other day that she would ask the Provincial Board to allocate another P100 million for livelihood and employment programs if she is given a fresh mandate after the elections.

She said there is a need to strengthen the job generating mechanism of the province, including the provision of employment opportunities to Kapampangans.

4 May 2013 - Cabigting to move for livelihoods, development programs

ANGELES CITY -- Reelectionist Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting said Saturday she will move for more livelihood and development programs if reelected.

Cabigting said she is set to finish the home stretch of her campaign with visiting constituents and capping the whole campaign with a prayer.

4 May 2013 - Foundation hosts seminar for livelihood

PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) has conducted a seminar on “Organic Swine and Quail Egg Raising” at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) covered court in Barangay Maimpis.

The event is part of the seminar series being hosted by KDF to benefit locals who are looking for affordable livelihood options.

3 May 2013 - Zubiri to push development of Clark

CLARK FREEPPORT -- Senatoriable Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri has vowed to push for the further development of Clark Freeport and to make Clark International Airport the country's premier air hub.

During a meeting with officials of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham), Zubiri said it was his way of "reciprocating" the support accorded to him by Kapampangans in the last elections.

3 May 2013 - Court orders arrest of ex-Sasmuan mayor

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Trial Court (MTC) Third Judicial Region in Sasmuan recently issued a warrant of arrest against former mayor Nardo Velasco.

Judge Jerry Perico, presiding judge of the MTC Third Judicial Region, issued the warrant of arrest against Velasco, who is charged with "falsification of public documents."

3 May 2013 - Lawyer wounded in ambush

PAMPANGA -- A lawyer was seriously wounded when two men assaulted him along Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa), formerly Olongapo-Gapan-road (GSO), in Barangay Parian, Mexico town, Thursday night.

Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, Pampanga Police Provincial Office officer-in-charge, identified the victim as Ryann Rueda, 31, a resident of Blue Diamond Subdivision, Barangay San Vicente, Sto. Tomas, Pampanga.

3 May 2013 - San Fernando fetes governance council with marker

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando honored Thursday the men and women of the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC) by unveiling and installing a marker at Heroes Hall.

City Planning Officer Engr. Fernando Limbitco said the marker is "dedicated to the men and women of the city of San Fernando whose direct and active participation in governance propelled the city to greater heights and closer to its vision of becoming a habitat of human excellence in 2013."

2 May 2013 - Comelec asks troops to ‘protect people'

PAMPANGA -- Provincial election supervisor Fernando Cot-Om said Friday during the send-off ceremonies of augmentation troops that "protection of the people" is the most important mission in the upcoming elections."

Cot-Om said the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines, ballots and election paraphernalia are just secondary. "But it doesn't mean that they should be taken for granted."

2 May 2013 - Troops told: Duty first before self

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga police officer-in-charge Oscar Albayalde told police and military personnel who will be deployed in the upcoming polls to prioritize their "duties as vanguards of democracy over self interest and concerns."

"It must be duty first," he stressed during a send-off ceremony for hundreds of police personnel, who will be deployed in various towns and cities in the province.

2 May 2013 - Farmers call for government-rebels talks

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (AMGL) and Anakpawis Party-list-Central Luzon called for the resumption of peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF).

The groups said they are concerned about the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) that was signed by both the NDF and government in 1998, as well as the present socio-economic reforms, particularly on land reform and nationalist industrialization.

2 May 2013 - Police, military personnel sent to Candaba town

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Police Office (PPPO) said a large augmentation force composed of personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army were deployed to Candaba on Friday.

During the send-off ceremonies at Bale Katimawan at the PPPO, Superintendent Jhoanna Rosales said the deployment of troops is not related to criminality but rather to strengthen the town's police force.

2 May 2013 - Pelayo vows to minimize flooding

PAMPANGA -- Fourth district congressional candidate Mayor Jerry Pelayo vowed to minimize the flooding problem in Pampanga through proper spending of government funds on flood control projects.

Pelayo said more than P100 million has been used and wasted in various rehabilitation efforts on some section of the Pampanga River.

1 May 2013 - PamCham supports Cayetano’s re-election bid

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) expressed its support on Wednesday to the re-election of Senator Allan Cayetano in the Senate.

In a letter signed by PamCham president Marco Antonio Jimenez and Chairman Levy Laus, the chamber stated: “Cayetano’s commitment to people empowerment for poverty alleviation and resolve to cascade the benefits of an improving economy to all Filipinos through affordable prices of commodities, increased job opportunities and sizeable income for a decent standard of living is aligned with PamCham’s mission in catalyzing growth and development.”

1 May 2013 - Angeleńos told to choose a dedicated public servant

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia G. Pineda appealed to Angeleńos on Tuesday to "choose a leader who is a dedicated public servant".

She made the announcement before some 1,000 Kambilan members of Angeles City during a meeting with first district congressional bet Joseller "Yeng" Guiao held at the Oxford Hotel.

1 May 2013 - Task Group formed to probe Penulliar slay

PAMPANGA -- The police has created a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to identify and arrest the killer of Barangay San Agustin councilor Gaudencio Penulliar.

Penulliar, 65, was shot in front of his house in San Agustin Sur here.

1 May 2013 - Loren underscores development of Clark airport

ANGELES CITY -- Re-electionist Senator Loren Legarda cited on Wednesday the need to develop Clark International Airport to boost the rapid development of Central Luzon region.

Legarda issued the statement during her visit Wednesday at the camp of her political ally, Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin, a mayoralty candidate here.

1 May 2013 - Albayalde is new Pampanga police director

PAMPANGA -- Police Senior Superintendent Oscar Albayalde replaced Senior Superintendent R’Win Pagkalinawan as Pampanga Police Provincial director in simple turn over ceremonies here on Wednesday.

The Change of Command ceremonies were held at the Office of the Regional Director officiated by Police Chief Supt. Edgardo Ladao and witnessed by Deputy Regional Director for Operations Police Senior Supt. Virgilio Lazo along with other officers of the Police Regional Office 3.

1 May 2013 - Gonzales wants new generation to learn something good

PAMPANGA -- Third district re-electionist Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. has emphasized his goal of “leaving a mark” if given a chance for a last term in office.

In his interview at Talakayan Ngayon on RW 95.1 FM, he emphasized his aim to strengthen the educational system in the district, by giving scholarships with no grade requirements.

30 Apr, 2013 - Village official shot dead

PAMPANGA -- A barangay kagawad and retired police officer was shot dead in front of his house by two unidentified suspects on Tuesday.

Police Superintendent Arnold Palomo said the victim Gaudencio Penulliar, 65, was shot in front of his house in San Agustin Sur.

30 Apr, 2013 - Water district opens P7M pumping station

PAMPANGA -- THE City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) inaugurated Tuesday a P7-million central business district pumping station in Barangay Dolores to cope up with the water needs of the booming industry in the city.

General manager Jorge Gumba said the facility is in compliance with the call of the business sector in the city, particularly the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham), to answer the needs of businesses for more stable and reliable water supply.

30 Apr, 2013 - Legarda reiterates key priorities for next term

PAMPANGA -- SENATORIAL candidate Loren Legarda of the Nationalist People's Coalition discussed her priorities should she win another term in the Senate.

"Healthcare is number one. I will finish the Universal Healthcare Bill. I will make sure it is enacted into law and it will be implemented for the 25 million poorest Filipinos," Legarda said.

30 Apr, 2013 - Mayoral bet to rivals: ‘Stop harassment’

PAMPANGA -- Liberal Party mayoral candidate Dan Guintu and runningmate Marcelo Lacap appealed to their detractors on Tuesday to "stop harassing and intimidating" their leaders and supporters.

During a press conference at their headquarters in fourth district town, the candidates and one of their leaders, former councilor Lawrence Viray, noted two alleged incidents last Friday and Saturday where armed men in bonnets and tandem riders stormed into the house of one Elly Macalino, an ardent supporter of Guintu and his camp.

30 Apr, 2013 - Central Luzon farmers oppose JBL hospital privatization

PAMPANGA -- FARMERS and members of other organizations belonging to Anakpawis Party-list Central Luzon strongly opposed the plan to privatize the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital (JBL) in the City of San Fernando.

The group said JBL is among the 26 public hospitals in the country that is being targeted to be "corporatized," through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program of the Aquino administration.

30 Apr, 2013 - Local campaigning adds up to traffic woes

PAMPANGA -- The intense street campaign efforts of local candidates in Sta Ana further worsened the traffic situation along the corner of the public market and parish church in the town proper.

According to residents, the traffic problem exists even before the start of the local campaign period and it is only during rush hour where employees in major establishments in the neighboring places are rushing to report for work.

30 Apr, 2013 - Laborers and employees modern day heroes

PAMPANGA -- In commemoration of Labor Day tomorrow, The Association of Laborers and Employees (ALE) Party-list pays tribute to Filipino laborers and employees they call as "modern day heroes and partners in nation building."

Representative Catalina Bagasina, first nominee of ALE Partylist, said it is but fitting to give due recognition and tribute to laborers and employees who have sacrificed and contributed to the valued resources of our country.

29 Apr, 2013 - Pagkalinawan relieved from his post

PAMPANGA -- With 13 days to go before the mid-term elections, a provincial police director was relieved from his post on Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Moro Virgilio Lazo, deputy regional director for operations, said the relief order of Senior Superintendent R'Win Pagkalinawan of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office came from National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

29 Apr, 2013 - Guagua folk go GMA again

PAMPANGA -- Majority of the residents in Guagua, particularly of Bgy. Sta Ines, Betis area, will go for former President and now re-electionist Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

This is the fearless forecast of Sta. Ines Punong Barangay Joaquin “Jack” Manalac, in an interview following the campaign of Kambilan local bets in his barangay.

29 Apr, 2013 - 11 ‘NPA rebels’ arrested

PAMPANGA -- Eleven armed alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were arrested over the weekend in a joint army and police operation in Barangay Kabayunan, Dońa Remedios Trinidad (DRT) in Bulacan, but sources from Camp Olivas here said the armed men belonged to a private army of a politician running in the local elections.

Army 7th Infantry Division (7ID) public affairs officer Capt. Mark Anthony Ruelos said in a report the men were arrested by troops from the 56th Infantry Battalion (56IB) headed by Lt. Col. Bernardo Ońa and the DRT police.

29 Apr, 2013 - Marian exhibit highlights Hilaga fest

PAMPANGA -- A Marian exhibit is slated to be held at the Hilaga (formerly Paskuhan Village) here starting May 1 to 5.

The exhibit, which is part of a series of Maytime activities of the Hataw, Hirit sa Hilaga or H3 2013, will feature nine canonical apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary, five traditional apparitions and one that is considered a dogma of the Catholic Church.

28 Apr, 2013 - Congressman faces disqualification from public office

ANGELES CITY -- Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin is now facing dismissal and perpetual disqualification from public office as another case, the 3rd this year, has been filed against him before the Office of the Ombudsman.

The criminal case against the 78-year old congressman stemmed from the alleged illegal grant of funds to the Republic Central Colleges (RCC) in the amount of Php171,826.05 released on March 26, 2004 and Php331,541.52 released on March 29, 2004.

28 Apr, 2013 - Suspected carnap gang leader nabbed

PAMPANGA -- A suspected leader of a carnapping syndicate in the province was arrested in a raid in his safehouse in Barangay San Nicolas, Sta. Ana, Pampanga recently, police report said .

In his report to Chief Supt. Arrazad Subong, director of Highway Patrol Group (HPG) in Camp Crame, Senior Supt. Amador Corpus, regional officer of Highway Patrol Unit (HPU-3), said that Albert Buan, 38, of Purok 3, Barangay San Nicolas was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Judge Mary Anne Pardon-Rivera, presiding judge of Regional Trial Court branch 46, City of San Fernando.

28 Apr, 2013 - SC orders village chief to leave post

MABALACAT CITY -- The Supreme Court sitting en banc has ordered the barangay captain of Sta. Maria to vacate his post in favor of his rival “effective immediately.”

In a resolution dated April 2, the High Tribunal affirmed the decision on May 24, 2011 of the 6thMunicipal Circuit Trial Court of Mabalacat and Magalang and a subsequent Special Order by the same court on June 3, 2011 in which Barangay Captain Ernesto Miranda was ordered to “vacate his seat and to cease and desist from further discharging the duties and functions officially vested in the Office of the Punong Barangay…”

27 Apr, 2013 - EdPam vows to crush ‘Korean mafia’

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan vowed here yesterday to dismantle a ”Korean mafia” which allegedly wants to control local Korean expatriates for various reasons, after a South Korean national was shot dead and another wounded last April 15 amid another unsolved killing of yet another Korean last March in cases linked by probers to the mafia.

Pamintuan also urged the police to investigate how Koreans could get commemorative plates, after noting that the Korean victims were using a van with plate marked “Prosecutor”, while their still unknown assailant fled in another van with a plate marked “PNPA” which stands for Philippine National Police Academy.

27 Apr, 2013 - Security aide shot

PAMPANGA -- A security aide of a mayor bet in Floridablanca, Pampanga, was shot and seriously wounded during a political rally last Wednesday, police said.

The victim, Bonifacio Muldong, 59, stay-in security aide and driver of lawyer Anselmo Carlos, who is pitted against re-electionist Mayor Eduardo Guerrero, sustained bullet wounds in the chest and abdomen.

26 Apr, 2013 - Suspect in Balmer case arrested

ANGELES CITY -- Almost two years after a retired British police officer and his live-in girlfriend were shot to death as they slept in the Philippines, New York State Police said Friday they arrested one of the men accused of doing it.

Troopers worked with the FBI and Interpol for several months to track down 35-year-old Timothy Noah Kaufman, state police Capt. Timothy Munro said Friday. They arrested him without incident Wednesday in Clifton Park, a bedroom community north of Albany.

26 Apr, 2013 - Nanay, Delta back Oca, Magsilbi Team

The Kambilan Party led by Governor Lilia “Nanay Baby” Pineda and vice gubernatorial aspirant Dennis “Delta” Pineda strongly endorsed on Wednesday the candidacy of Mayor Oscar Rodriguez and the candidates of the Magsilbi Team.

Rodiguez is running for Pampanga’s Third District congressional seat.

26 Apr, 2013 - Blueboy lashes back at Yeng

ANGELES CITY -- Former Congressman Francis “Blueboy” Nepomuceno on Thursday described as “ignorant” his rival in the congressional race, Pampanga Vice Governor Joseller “Yeng” Guiao.

Nepomuceno was reacting to Guiao’s statement branding the former as non performer in the House of Representative.

26 Apr, 2013 - Abeka party dares Lazatin on state of health

ANGELES CITY -- The Partido Abe Kapampangan (AbeKa) dared Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin the other day to bare his true state of health and if he is physically fit to run the City Hall should he win in the upcoming polls.

Abeka secretary general William Aquilar said in statement that Lazatin’s alleged failing health has been manifested during several occasions in the campaign trail like reportedly dropping a microphone, nearly falling during a barangay caucus, allegedly forgetting where he was, and “wrongly” introducing his allies.

26 Apr, 2013 - Clark airport expansion starts May 15

CLARK FREEPORT -- President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Jose I. Luciano of the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) announced that the construction of the airport terminal expansion will start on May 15.

The government decided to set construction works at the passenger terminal two days after the mid-term polls to avoid the election ban.

26 Apr, 2013 - Mayoralty bet’ aide shot, in critical condition

PAMPANGA -- A security aide of mayoralty candidate Atty. Anselmo “Sato” Carlos was seriously injured when shot point blank by an unidentified gunman along the corner of San Jose and Sundiam streets in Barangay Poblacion here Wednesday night.

Superintendent Rodney Baloyo, town's police chief, identified the victim as Bonifacio Punzalan Muldong, 59, of Capas, Tarlac and stay-in security driver of Carlos, one of the rivals of incumbent town Mayor Eddie Guerrero.

25 Apr, 2013 - Candaba mayor shares dream for 4th District

PAMPANGA -- Fourth District congressional candidiate Mayor Jerry Pelayo, standard bearer of Kapanalig at Kambilan neng Memalen Pampanga (Kambilan) on Thursday shared his dreams for the district.

For almost a year, he was able to visit all the barangays in eight municipalities in the district which helped him identify problems affecting the localities.

25 Apr, 2013 - Rebel returnee slain in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- A rebel returnee was killed by his former comrades in Barangay Labney, Mayantoc, Tarlac last Tuesday.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Alfred Corpus, Tarlac police provincial director, identified the victim as Romeo Luzano, 50, a resident of said barangay.

25 Apr, 2013 - SM City Clark Joins Labor Day Job Fair

CLARK FREEPORT -- Quick-start your career at SM City Clark as it hosts a Labor Day Job Fair on Wednesday, May 1, 2013.

Held in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), and local government units, the job fair aims to salute the new graduates and the Pinoy Working Force, and to help as many people as possible find employment.

25 Apr, 2013 - Candaba officials renew support to Nanay, Delta

PAMPANGA -- Local officials here from the municipal and barangay level recently renewed their support to the re-election bid of Governor Lilia Pineda and candidacy of Dennis "Delta" Pineda for vice governor.

The Kapanalig at Kambilan neng Memalen Pampanga (Kambilan) the other day conducted a caucus in a private farm in Barangay Lanang here to consult with party members from the local level on several issues, involving their official candidates in various positions.

24 Apr, 2013 - CSF starts ‘mudball’ project to save river

PAMPANGA -- The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) of San Fernando kicked-off Tuesday its River Mudball Project as part of the celebration of Earth Day at Heroes Hall.

Hundreds of volunteers, students, village council members and village chiefs started molding thousands of baseball-sized mudballs from Sto. Tomas-sourced clay treated with EM-1 or "effective microorganisms" designed to revive stale or contaminated dirty rivers.

24 Apr, 2013 - Bizmen laud bets in PamCham forum for ‘maturity’

PAMPANGA -- Businessmen, who attended the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (PamCham) candidates’ forum here, lauded mayoralty bets Rey Aquino and Vice Mayor Edwin Santiago for their good display of political maturity in presenting their plans for the city.

The first-ever candidates’ forum is part of PamCham’s corporate social responsibility of ferreting out the programs of the candidates that are in line with the business development of the city

24 Apr, 2013 - CDC junks CBA with employees

CLARK FREEPORT -- The supervisors’ union of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to stage a labor strike after the CDC’s management allegedly refused to implement their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Lawyer Bonifacio Tarenio, representative of CDC, said during a recent meeting at the regional office of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) that the management will not implement the Court of Appeal (CA) decision in favor of the employees.

23 Apr, 2013 - San Francisco villagers support Panlilio

MABALACAT CITY -- Hundreds of residents in Barangay San Francisco here expressed their support to former Governor Eddie Panlilio’s gubernatorial bid during a visit over the weekend.

Former Pampanga tourism officer Ian Mejia, Panlilio’s running mate for Board Member, said the constituents in the city displayed warm welcome during the team’s campaign sortie.

23 Apr, 2013 - Woodcarvers to form coop

PAMPANGA -- Beneficiaries of the wood carving training recently gathered to form a cooperative in a bid to provide members a wider knowledge about traditional carving methods.

Guagua Councilor Anthony Torres, during a caucus in Barangay Lambac, Guagua last Tuesday, revealed the formation of the cooperative.

23 Apr, 2013 - Butil, DA lead opening of agri-depot

PAMPANGA -- The Butil Farmers Party and the Department of Agriculture (DA) led the opening of the Bagsakan Center here over the weekend at Barangay Sto. Domingo in bid to cater to the needs of the farmers.

Butil Farmers Party Representative Agapito Guanlao said the area lies at the crossroads of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue and the roads leading to San Luis, Candaba and San Simon, making it accessible for farmers to bring in their produce and cut off on transport expenses.

23 Apr, 2013 - Mamac: Published ARO survey erroneous

ANGELES CITY -- Vice mayoralty bet Rodelio Mamac described as “erroneous” a survey conducted by the Asia Research Organization (ARO) indicating that Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting topped the city’s second top post.

The purported survey, which was published in several local newspapers, indicated that Cabigting led all four other vice mayoralty candidates at 44 percent, followed by Mamac at 33 percent. Alfie Bonifacio got 16 percent, Jesus Sangil at six percent and Mark Allen Sison at one percent.

23 Apr, 2013 - Voters told: Do not rely on surveys

PAMPANGA -- A group of political observers here are advising voters not to give much weight on survey results, as the same are commissioned to serve the interest of a particular candidate.

The observers said that local survey results, when publicized, influence the public's voting preference to some extent.

22 Apr, 2013 - Patients warned of ‘fake’ health workers

PAMPANGA -- Relatives of patients confined in Pampanga district hospitals and the Jose B. Lingad Regional Memorial Hospital (JBLRMH) are warned by officials against individuals posing as Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) “fixing” referrals and transactions for a fee.

In a forum with chief of hospitals and other rural health unit workers on Monday at the Capitol’s Benigno Aquino Hall, the federation of volunteer BHWs decried the “modus operandi” of the poseurs which recently led to the reported banning of legitimate health workers assisting indigents in government hospitals, particularly at the JBLRMH.

22 Apr, 2013 - Pamintuan leads in ARO poll survey

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan topped a recent survey in the mayoralty race conducted by the Asia Research Organization (ARO).

“If the elections were held today, who would you vote for?” the ARO asked 400 Angeleńos from March 15 to 27, 2013.

22 Apr, 2013 - CDC celebrates 20th anniversary

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is celebrating its 20th anniversary, highlighting the awarding ceremony for the most outstanding employee set on Friday, April 26, 2013.

Several activities were lined up including the CDC Job Fair event at the SM City Clark last week and the opening of the "Memorabilia" photo exhibit Monday.

22 Apr, 2013 - Angeles university to honor bishop

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles University Foundation (AUF) is set to confer the distinguished University Medal of Honor upon Pampanga Auxiliary Bishop Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David during AU’s graduation rites today.

Bishop Ambo is cited for his fine example of hard work and commitment to education having completed his bachelor’s degree in Pre-Divinity at the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) in 1978, and master’s degree in Theology at the Loyola School of Theology in 1984.

22 Apr, 2013 - Capitol provides patient referral system

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government is stepping up efforts to streamline the referral system of indigent patients in the 11 district hospitals in Pampanga.

Elizabeth Baybayan, acting Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) officer, said the flow of referrals from social workers “should be the one to guide the patients who have health access cards and how to use them at the hospitals.”

22 Apr, 2013 - Air Force official adopted as son of Floridablanca

PAMPANGA -- Floridablanca Mayor Eduardo Guerrero on Monday conferred to Air Force General Arturo Orticio the recognition as adopted son of the town for his service in the Basa Air Base here.

Orticio received the recognition during the flag ceremony at the new Sports Center in Floridablanca.

22 Apr, 2013 - PNP-AFP action centers activated

PAMPANGA -- An official from the Pampanga Police Provincial Office has said that they already activated the PNP-AFP action centers (PAACs) within the territorial boundaries of the province.

Senior Superintendent R’win Pagkalinawan, Pampanga provincial police director, said the activation of the centers is intended to secure entry and exit points to make sure that there will be honest and peaceful midterm elections.

22 Apr, 2013 - Sangil: Governance is serious business

ANGELES CITY -- Former Councilor Max Sangil said governance is a serious business and more than just good looks to be effective.

Sangil, who is running for councilor under the slate of Congressman Carmelo Lazatin, said this as he addressed a crowd of supporters during the Team Lazatin caucus in Barangay Santa Teresita in this city recently.

22 Apr, 2013 - Bets double efforts as polls get closer

PAMPANGA -- Local candidates running for different positions had doubled their campaign efforts to reach out to voters, with only 21 days remaining before May 13 elections.

The candidates particularly in the 4th district are currently rushing their campaigns, as they solicit support from locals in various villages.

21 Apr, 2013 - Mayor challenges vice mayor to debate

PAMPANGA -- City of San Fernando Mayoralty candidate Rey Aquino has challenged Vice Mayor Edwin Santiago to a televised public debate on the alleged anomalies in the City Government.

Aquino issued the challenge after his recent exposé that a number of anomalies were uncovered in the City Government including ghost employees, conflict of interest, and use of false receipts.

21 Apr, 2013 - Capitol marks P733 million quarry fees

PAMPANGA -- At least P733 million was collected from the quarry industry in the 33 months since Governor Lilia Pineda assumed office.

The collection surpassed the P616-million collected during the time of former governor Eddie Panlilio in his 36 months in office from 2007 to 2010.

21 Apr, 2013 - Mayor to revisit Local Government Code

PAMPANGA -- City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez said over the weekend that he plans to revisit the Local Government Code and will push for essential projects when he gets to the House of Representatives.

Rodriguez said essential legislation seen to benefit not only the Third District but the whole country must be given attention, aside from prioritizing Pampanga’s needs and development.

21 Apr, 2013 - Housing beneficiary thanks Lazatin

ANGELES CITY -- A resident of Northville resettlement expressed gratitude for the land title he received from Congressman Carmelo Lazatin, through the Local Urban Poor Affairs and Housing Office (Lupaho).

Anna Luna Valencia said the grant of the land title in Barangay Cutud is something that she and her family will always be thankful for.

21 Apr, 2013 - Arayat residents show support for Gonzales

PAMPANGA -- Barangay peacekeepers, supporters, and leaders expressed their support Sunday for Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. (3rd district, Pampanga) during a lightning sortie.

Gonzales, who is aiming for a third term, led the campaign sortie with Vice Mayoralty candidate Ramon Changcoco, with song numbers and fairly simple speeches met with cheers and applauses from the people who attended the event.

21 Apr, 2013 - Lazatin renders community service

PAMPANGA -- Vice mayoralty bet Councilor Jimmy Lazatin rendered community service instead of his usual sorties and house-to-house campaigning.

Lazatin and his team of volunteer doctors and medical practitioners conducted an “Operation Tuli” (Operation Circumcision) which benefitted more than 100 boys in Barangay Maimpis in this city.

21 Apr, 2013 - Nepomuceno eyes citizen empowerment

ANGELES CITY -- Re-electionist Councilor Bryan Nepomuceno vowed to push for the empowerment of Angeleńos through the implementation of livelihood projects for residents of the city, especially the urban poor.

If he gets reelected, Nepomuceno said he will push for the establishment of a micro-financing system in the city to aid small entrepreneurs.

20 Apr, 2013 - Vice guv's CDA plan for Clark gets support

CLARK FREEPORT -- Vice Governor Joseller Guiao’s plan to transform the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) into the Clark Development Authority (CDA) is gaining considerable support from the business sector.

The CDA plan, which will give the new entity more legroom for development, management and exploitation of the full potential of the Clark Freeport as an engine of national development, has gotten the support of businessman Rene Romero.

20 Apr, 2013 - Hagedorn vows to push for term extension

ANGELES CITY -- Former Puerto Princesa City Mayor Edward Hagedorn said he would push for the extension of national and local officials’ terms of office if gets elected Senator.

During a meeting with various groups in this city, Hagedorn said the three-year term limit of an elected official is short to implement programs properly and completely.

20 Apr, 2013 - PamCham council to review ordinance

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) recently requested the 4th City Council of San Fernando City to evaluate and consider the group’s suggestion regarding ordinance no. 2003-18.

Ordinance No. 2003-18 supposedly covers the prohibition on hanging streamers and installation of advertisements at the newly constructed Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa) pedestrian overpass.

20 Apr, 2013 - SM to host job fair on May 1

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) together with the Municipal Public Employment Service Office (Peso) will hold “Labor Day Job Fair” in May 1 at the SM City San Fernando Downtown.

SM City San Fernando Downtown will participate for the first time in the nationwide activity to help unemployed Filipinos to find jobs.

19 Apr, 2013 - After ‘Big Brother’ comes ‘Big Utol’

PAMPANGA -- Councilor Alex "Big Brother" F. Patio now looks ahead to Congress as Append Party-List representative, after making a mark at the fourth City Council as majority floor leader and passing important legislative measures.

But the Big Brother's legacy will not be left forlorn as another "AFP" -- Allan "Big Utol" F. Patio -- steps up his bid to create his own mark in the City Council.

19 Apr, 2013 - Yabut: Stop political bickering

ANGELES CITY -- Former councilor Ares Yabut said Friday that candidates should avoid political bickering for the sake of their constituents.

Yabut, a three-term city councilor from 2001 to 2010, said this during his campaign rally at his bailiwick in Barangay Santa Trinidad here.

19 Apr, 2013 - ‘Shabu queen’ nabbed in Candaba

PAMPANGA -- A suspected drug pusher known in the locality as “shabu queen” was arrested on Thursday in a buy-bust operation conducted by the town police.

Superintendent Benjamin Medina, town's chief of police, identified the suspect as Daisylyn Leano Enriquez, 38, married, and a resident of Pulong Gubat here.

18 Apr, 2013 - Bishop to voters: Pick eco-conscious bets

ANGELES CITY -- Auxiliary Bishop Pablo “Ambo” David of the Holy Rosary Parish Church urged the people to elect candidates who care for the environment.

David issued the statement during a press conference set by the Subli Taya in Upaya, Bie, at Leguan ning Indung Yatu (Subli) which highlighted the launching of infomercial on environmental consciousness at the Kamalig restaurant here Thursday.

18 Apr, 2013 - Dong storms downtown with supporters

PAMPANGA -- Re-electionist Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. (third district) visited barangays in downtown San Fernando on Thursday with hundreds of supporters drumbeating his programs for the various sectors of the district.

Gonzales visited Barangays Del Pilar and Sto. Rosario here, making pit stops at the City Hall, various public terminals and City of San Fernando Public Market where Gonzales was welcomed eagerly by cheering supporters and market vendors.

18 Apr, 2013 - Guiao’s arithmetic adds up to victory

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Governor Joseller “Yeng” Guiao remained unperturbed despite surveys showing him trailing behind his rival for Pampanga’s first congressional district.

In his own analysis, Guiao said he projects to win by as much as 30,000 votes over his rival, comebacking congressman and former mayor of this city Francis “Blueboy” Nepomuceno.

18 Apr, 2013 - GMA thanked for water system

PAMPANGA -- Mikey Arroyo, together with Mayor Yolly Pineda, Vice-Mayor Homobono Guanlao and Former Mayor and Board Member Art Salalila visited Barangay San Basilio, Sta Rita, on April 16 and 17 doing house to house campaign.

During the house visits, San Basilio resident Rowel Guevarra profusely thanked Mayor Yolly Pineda and Former President Gloria Arroyo, through her son, Rep. Mikey Arroyo, for the water system given to Brgy. San Basilio.

18 Apr, 2013 - 322,622 CL households still in poverty

PAMPANGA -- A total of 322,622 households in Central Luzon are considered poor, according to a recent study of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here.

About 26.22 percent of school-aged children from such households do not attend school, while 57 percent of the household members aged 15 years old and above are unemployed while 26.07 percent are laborers and unskilled workers, the study also showed.

17 Apr, 2013 - Shipbuilding firm delivers 2 bulk carriers to UK

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd. – Philippines (HHIC-Phil Inc.) has reached yet another milestone when it held the simultaneous unveiling of two newly-built bulk carriers in its modern 30-hectare shipyard in Redondo Peninsula on Tuesday.

The vessels, named after famous explorers Christopher Columbus and Abel Tasman, were the seventh and eighth ships purchased by leading international mining group Rio Tinto Shipping Limited.

17 Apr, 2013 - Teens defy call not to swim in Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- Teenagers in Barangay Sta. Catalina, San Luis have been seen swimming in the Pampanga River on Tuesday disregarding the call of local authorities not to swim in the river following the deaths of seven individuals there recently.

In Barangay Buas, Candaba town, three individuals have also been spotted in the river, along near the suspension bridge.

17 Apr, 2013 - AUF to honor Dominican leader

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles University Foundation (AUF) will confer the distinguished University Medal of Honor upon University of Santo Tomas Central Seminary Rector Rev. Fr. Quirico T. Pedregosa Jr., OP during its college commencement exercises at the school’s Sports and Cultural Center today.

Father Pedgregosa, who also sits in the AUF Board of Trustees, is being cited in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of Catholic education having served in various capacities the Dominican educational institutions in the country namely, the University of Santo Tomas, Aquinas University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Angelicum College, Our Lady of Manaoag College and Angelicum College.

17 Apr, 2013 - Out-of-school youth laud Capitol's scholarship program

PAMPANGA -- Several out-of-school youth who passed the recent Non-Formal Education Accreditation and Equivalency Test under the Alternative Learning System (ALS) of the Department of Education lauded the Provincial Government for its scholarship program.

The Provincial Government through Governor Lilia Pineda earlier disclosed that application for scholarship grants is also open to ALS graduates who want to pursue college education.

15 Apr, 2013 - South Korean killen, another injured

ANGELES CITY -- A 34 year old South Korean citizen residing in the Philippines identified as Im Chang Yun was shot and killed Monday and another identified as Nam Jong Cheol was injured when gunmen opened fired outside a restaurant in the city of Angeles outside a Chinese Restaurant in the area known as Korea Town.

A third South Korean fainted from shock at the scene and later testified about the incident after recovering at a local hospital.

15 Apr, 2013 - Customs execs find ‘sludge, not diesel’ in drums

PAMPANGA -- Bureau of Customs (BoC) officials were surprised when they discovered water and sludge inside 94 drums supposed to be containing diesel fuel.

The 94 drums form part of the 165 drums seized by authorities from 2009 to 2012 for non-payment of tax and other duties, according to Atty. Ronnie Silvestre, District Collector of the Port of Clark.

15 Apr, 2013 - ‘Presidio’ to have own social workers

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Jail or “Presidio” will soon have its own social workers who will look into the needs and rights of the more than 600 inmates there.

Governor Lilia Pineda made the announcement, saying that she will assign social workers in the refurbished “Presidio” not only to supervise the delivery of basic services to the inmates but also to look after the concerns of their families.

15 Apr, 2013 - Guv to promote local products

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government is bent on promoting local products distinct in every municipality in the province to promote its maximum economic potential.

Governor Lilia Pineda said there is more to achieve in Pampanga as it is rich in variety of resources from vegetables, eggs, fish, ducks, chicken, meat and rice, among others.

15 Apr, 2013 - Hizon cries foul over campaign posters removal

PAMPANGA -- Councilor aspirant Angie Hizon on Monday lashed out on supporters of her rivals for removing some of her campaign posters.

Hizon, who personally saw the incidents, said the removal of her posters was done by supporters of candidates of the opposing party.

14 Apr, 2013 - Clark union to stage strike

CLARK FREEPORT -- The supervisors’ union of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to stage a strike for the alleged “culpable violation of workers’ rights and unfair labor practices” by the corporation’s management.

The Association of CDC Supervisory Personnel (ACSP) recently filed a Notice of Strike (NOS) at the regional office of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) at the City of San Fernando.

14 Apr, 2013 - No more swimming in Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- Officials from the Pampanga Provincial Police Office has instructed chiefs of police from municipalities adjacent to the Pampanga River to prohibit residents from swimming or even going into the said river.

The directive came following seven deaths due to drowning at the Pampanga River last week.

14 Apr, 2013 - Lawmaker aims 1 college grad per Filipino family

PAMPANGA -- THE state programs for education should transcend “the tragedy of timid expectations” and aim for one that targets one college graduate per family, including those living in dire poverty, Team PNoy senatorial candidate Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara said Sunday.

The P40-billion a year conditional cash transfer (CCT) program, said Angara, should be reformatted to include the funding of one college scholarship per family of the families enrolled in the CCT program.

14 Apr, 2013 - Yeng: ‘We’ll fight for 1st District’

ANGELES CITY -- First District congressional aspirant Vice Governor Joseller “Yeng” Guiao said over the weekend that he “will fight for the rights and welfare of constituents from Angeles City, Mabalacat City and Magalang just like what he does with his basketball teams.”

Guiao answered the observations of some critics that “he seems to be always angry” especially during games of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

14 Apr, 2013 - Delta to continue tapping Kapampangan athletes

PAMPANGA -- Vice-gubernatorial candidate Dennis “Delta” Pineda said recently that he will double his efforts in harnessing the potentials of budding Kapampangan athletes, particularly those aspiring to join big league basketball.

Pineda is a known manager cum talent scout of now national and international hoopsters in the likes of Arwind Santos and Ian Sangalang.

14 Apr, 2013 - Aeta ‘campaign leader’ shot dead

PAMPANGA -- An Aeta, who is said to be a campaign leader of a vice mayoralty candidate here, was killed by a still unidentified gunman inside his nipa hut in Sitio Dueg, Barangay Maasin, San Clemente, Tarlac recently.

In a report, Senior Superintendent Alfred Corpus, Tarlac provincial director, identified the victim as Anastacio Pelacio, a resident of Barangay Maasin of the said town.

14 Apr, 2013 - Suspected drug pusher nabbed

PAMPANGA -- Elements of the Masantol police arrested the other day a suspected drug pusher in Barangay Sta. Lucia Anac here, who handed over “merchandise” to a client in a narrow alley in the area.

Police identified the suspect as Said Unte, who is reportedly selling illegal drugs, particularly methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” in the said barangay.

14 Apr, 2013 - ‘Team Tapang’ to bat for sectoral empowerment

PAMPANGA -- If given a chance to serve in the town council here, members of Team Tapang said they are all set on pushing for programs and legislation that will empower marginalized sectors of this town from the rural poor to the indigenous Aeta villages.

Re-electionist Councilor Mike Tapang and councilor aspirants Larry Antido, Regin Clarete, Rommel Gopez and Caloy Sese along with dozens of supporters trooped to Barangay Hacienda Dolores here Sunday. Team Tapang hopes to come strong in the polls under the banner of the Nationalist People's Coalition-Kambilan.

13 Apr, 2013 - Lazatin vows to continue ‘quality’ public service

ANGELES CITY -- First District Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin and Angeles City Mayoralty candidate vows to carry on with his 25-year long record of providing quality public service.

If he gets re-elected as City Mayor, first on Lazatin’s agenda is the eradication of corruption in the City Government through the promotion of transparency in all transactions, especially in procurements and biddings

13 Apr, 2013 - Kapampangan traders win IdeaSpace competition

CLARK FREEPORT -- A team of Kapampangan businessmen was selected as one of the Top 10 winners of the IdeaSpace Foundation Incorporated national technology competition.

Reinell Cunanan, Alvin Layva, and Moises Guevarra, who represents Armtech, received a P500,000 fun

13 Apr, 2013 - Lazatin’s son vows support to home-grown athletes

ANGELES CITY -- Team Lazatin Councilor bet Carmelo Lazatin Jr., son of Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo Lazatin, has expressed full support to home-grown athletes.

One of Lazatin’s “4-Point Agenda” is Youth Empowerment, which, according to Lazatin, will be done through the development of a comprehensive Youth and Sports Development Program for Angeles City.

12 Apr, 2013 - EdPam faces libel charges

ANGELES CITY -- Barangay officials have denied the libel charges filed against them by the camp of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.

Appearing before the Office of the City Prosecutor in April 11, barangay officials Roy Ogurida, William David,

12 Apr, 2013 - 2 suspected drug pushers arrested

PAMPANGA -- Two suspected drug pushers were arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by the city police and Pampanga Police in Barangay Calulut, City of San Fernando, Thursday.

Superintendent Ricardo David, city chief of police, identified the suspects as Alvin David, 28, resident of 1st Dolores Crossing, Barangay Dolores; and Francis David, 30, alias Kiko, a resident of Lourdes Heights, Barangay Del Carmen.

11 Apr, 2013 - Sison looking at elder, woman reps in council

ANGELES CITY -- This city’s vice-mayoralty bet Mark Allen Sison, Vice President Jejomar Binay’s “anointed one” on the United Nationalist Alliance list, said Thursday that once Angeleńos give him the mandate to become the “working vice mayor” he intends to be, he will see to it that senior citizens and women are well represented in the City Council.

While doing his rounds of various senior citizens’ and women’s groups listening to their needs and concerns, he said the plan is “well within the spirit of Senate Bill 1418.”

11 Apr, 2013 - 2 more kids drown at Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- Two more children on Wednesday drowned at the Pampanga River in Barangay Sulipan, Apalit town.

Both the bodies of Lolita Mandap, 13, of Barangay Cansinala and Khaela Rufino, 12, of Barangay Sulipan, both in Apalit town, were recovered Thursday, Superintendent Jhoana Ponseca-Rosales, chief of the Pampanga police operations branch, said..

11 Apr, 2013 - Jose S. Lapid District Hospital inaugurated

PAMPANGA -- A district hospital named after the father of Senator Lito Lapid was inaugurated Thursday by officials from the provincial and municipal government in Porac.

The inauguration of the Jose S. Lapid District Hospital (JSLDH) was led by Governor Lilia Pineda and Mayor Condralito Dela Cruz along with other local elected officials.

11 Apr, 2013 - Pimentel: Develop Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Re-electionist Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said that Clark International Airport (CIA) should be developed as another gateway to the world.

This, he said, would decongest Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which already “overshot its physical capacity.”

11 Apr, 2013 - No probe on Oban’s involvement in fuel smuggling

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Arthur P. Tugade said there is no investigation linking his predecessor, General Edgardo Oban, to the alleged fuel smuggling inside the Freeport.

Media reports cited that Oban, the former officer-in-charge of CDC, was allegedly linked to fuel smuggling during his time as CDC top honcho.

11 Apr, 2013 - 332 students complete courses in Mabalacat College

MABALACAT CITY -- Some 332 students recently completed Basic Education, Information Technology and Hotel and Restaurant Management courses at the Mabalacat City College for the school year 2012-2013.

MCC President Leonardo Canlas said 134 students finished Basic Education; 142 students, IT; and 56 students, HRM this year.

11 Apr, 2013 - Central. Luzon forest to expand in 10 years

PAMPANGA -- The forest cover of Central Luzon region is expected to increase from 589,495 to 728,995 hectares in 10 years because of the implementation of the twin policy on National Greening Program (NGP) and a total logging ban on natural and residual forests, environment officials in the region announced recently.

Maximo Dichoso, executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Luzon said the 80 percent projected increase in forest areas within the decade is by far unprecedented.

10 Apr, 2013 - C'Italian burned down

ANGELES CITY -- The very popular Restaurant in Balibago C'Italian, went up in flames yesterday afternoon.

It will be closed until furhter notice, reason could not immediately be determined.

10 Apr, 2013 - 5 drown in Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- Five people, including three children, drowned in the Pampanga River after the boat they were in capsized during a sudden, heavy downpour last Tuesday afternoon, reports said.

Pampanga police director Senior Superintendent R'Win Pagkalinawan identified the fatalities as Alvin Guevarra, 32; wife Rhea, 33; and their children Aldrea, 6; Jovilyn 8; and Nigel, 9.

10 Apr, 2013 - P25-M prison facility for inmates inaugurated

PAMPANGA -- Provincial officials led on Wednesday the inauguration of the P25-million dormitory-type prison facility that now houses 700 inmates at the Pampanga Provincial Jail.

Governor Lilia Pineda, accompanied by Provincial Board members Trina Dizon, Monina Laus and Fritzie David-Dizon, said the construction of the facility -- built beside the older prison here -- came as the older building could no longer accommodate the current number of inmates.

10 Apr, 2013 - Mayor laments election ban on giving aid

PAMPANGA -- San Luis Municipal Mayor Venancio Macapagal said that various prohibitions during the campaign period are preventing them from helping people in extreme situations.

Macapagal said that incumbent officials, following strict laws governing the conduct of midterm elections, could not readily extend assistance to residents particularly to those in dire need.

9 Apr, 2013 - City of San Fernando pays tribute to war veterans

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando paid tribute on Tuesday to some 25 survivors of the War World II, particularly the infamous Death March of 1942.

The rites commemorating the 71st "Araw ng Kagitingan" started with a "salubong" between city officials headed by City Administrator Ferdinand Caylao and the "modern day marchers" SAFER Run, Inc. Club at the San Guillermo Parish Church in Bacolor.

9 Apr, 2013 - Ex-guv's statements branded as 'reckless'

PAMPANGA -- A Capitol official has branded the statements of former governor Eddie Panlilio as "reckless" after the latter said that Governor Lilia Pineda’s administration has "forgotten and neglected" the agriculture and education sectors.

In his statements, Panlilio said he had released during his term some P94.06 million for agricultural development and millions more for education and scholarship grants.

9 Apr, 2013 - LP bet denies involvement in kidnapping

PAMPANGA -- Liberal Party (LP) bet for Municipal Council denied Tuesday his involvement on an alleged kidnap-for-ransom activity, as reported in various media entities.

Randy Turla, who is running for councilor under the administration party, branded the inclusion of his name in the said illegal activity as "purely politically motivated" and intended to ruin his popularity to deny him of the opportunity to get a seat in the Municipal Council.

9 Apr, 2013 - Angara: 'No Work, No vote vs absenteeism in Congress'

PAMPANGA -- Edgardo Angara, instead of the proposed “no work, no pay”, advocated Tuesday a "no work, no vote" policy as a better solution to the chronic absenteeism of lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

The three-term congressman from the lone district of Aurora urged voters to junk candidates with a record of repeated absences in legislative sessions "thereby neglecting their sworn duties and responsibilities to the people."

9 Apr, 2013 - Lazatin eyes payroll system

ANGELES CITY -- Representative Carmelo Lazatin said he will implement full computerization of employees' payroll if he gets elected again as mayor in this city.

Lazatin said the electronic payroll will also include hand recognition for employees, which is expected to prevent the prevalence of so-called ‘ghost employees.’

8 Apr, 2013 - Oca's survey not credible -- Dong

The camp of reelectionist Congressman Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. said the recent survey results released last week by the camp of Mayor Oscar “Oca” Rodriguez was “far from credible.”

“In the first place, the firm that conducted the survey, Asian Professional Enterprises and Consultancy Services (Apecs), appears to be non-existent, or if ever, is not duly registered and has no credible track record,” said Ramon Navarra Jr., Gonzales's chief of staff.

8 Apr, 2013 - Emotional farewell for Board member

PAMPANGA -- It was an emotional farewell for Board Member Olga Frances “Fritzie” David-Dizon (second district), who decided not to seek re-election to concentrate on being a mother of two.

David-Dizon, who was described as a sure winner had she filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) for the May 13 elections, cried after she asked Governor Lilia Pineda and her fellow officials to take care of her scholars in a meeting at the Lubao Gym on Saturday.

8 Apr, 2013 - Angeles City receives P3M

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government here received a P3-million check from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as incentive from the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) for being a recipient of a Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH).

City treasurer Juliet Quinsaat received the check on Monday in behalf of the City Government from DILG regional director Florida Dijan.

8 Apr, 2013 - Folks offer houses as 'poster sites' for Pinedas

PAMPANGA -- Residents had volunteered their houses and other properties in Candaba where campaign posters of Governor Lilia Pineda and vice gubernatorial candidate Dennis Pineda may be installed.

Candabeńos pledged full support to the re-election bid of Lilia, after having been satisfied with her accomplishments involving health, infrastructure, education, livelihood and tourism, including delivery of basic services.

7 Apr, 2013 - Nepomuceno vows jobs for Angeleńos

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno has vowed to work for the creation of jobs for Angeleńos if he gets re-elected.

Nepomuceno, a re-electionist candidate under the Team Lazatin of mayoralty candidate Congressman Carmelo Lazatin, said that first on his agenda is the enactment of an ordinance that will grant non-fiscal incentives to businesses whose employees are residents of the city.

7 Apr, 2013 - Lawmaker reiterates support for PAC university conversion

PAMPANGA -- Senatorial candidate Edgardo "Sonny" Angara assured over the weekend that he will push for the conversion of the Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC) into a state university, and bring the matter before President Benigno Aquino III.

The House of Representatives has been waiting for the Senate counterpart of the bill for ratification. The House version was authored by Representative Carmelo Lazatin (1st district, Pampanga) and co-authored by Representative Angara (lone district, Aurora).

7 Apr, 2013 - Folks offer properties as ‘poster sites’ for Pinedas

Residents had volunteered their houses and other properties where campaign posters of Governor Lilia Pineda and vice gubernatorial candidate Dennis Pineda may be installed.

This came as Candabeńos pledged full support to the re-election bid of Governor Pineda, after having been satisfied with her accomplishments involving health, infrastructure, education, livelihood and tourism, including delivery of basic services.

7 Apr, 2013 - Guv favors work than campaigning

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda over the weekend said she would rather work, for "there is more to be done," rather than campaign for her re-election.

Pineda said she will focus on her priority projects on health, education, livelihood, infrastructure, peace and order and agriculture in the remaining days of her first term as governor.

7 Apr, 2013 - Angara wants P33,000 wage for public school teachers

PAMPANGA -- Liberal Party senatorial candidate Edgardo "Sonny" Angara said Saturday that he is pushing for a bill seeking a minimum monthly salary of P33,859 for public school teachers in the country.

Angara, during a press conference with the Pampanga media over the weekend, said the current basic pay for teachers is set at P17,225 a month.

6 Apr, 2013 - Angara vows support for CIA expansion

CLARK FREEPORT -- Senatoriable Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said on Saturday that he is supporting the expansion of the Clark International Aiport (CIA).

“Definitely, I will push for the expansion and further development of the Clark Airport. At its current status kasi, it looks like may anak kang genius pero hindi mo pinapag-aaral. Clark Airport can stand on its own and is already a premier airport with its facilities,” he said.

6 Apr, 2013 - Notorious pushers caught

PAMPANGA -- Suspected notorious pushers, including a father and son tandem, fell into the hands of the City of San Fernando Police recently.

Police Senior Inspector Protom Guevarra identified the father and son tandem as Herminio Antido Bie, 61, and son Jayvren Nieva Bie, 34, residents of Purok 2, Barangay Quebiawan and Phase 6, Holy Angel Village, Telabastagan, respectively.

6 Apr, 2013 - Suspected drug pusher slain in AC

ANGELES CITY -- An alleged drug pusher was shot to death by an unidentified gunman inside his house in Barangay Lourdes North West, Angeles City the other day.

Senior Superintendent Jose Hidalgo, Angeles City police director, identified the victim as Joel Estabillo, aka Pitok, 33, a resident of the said barangay.

6 Apr, 2013 - BIR reminds taxpayers of April 15 deadline

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reminded Saturday the taxpayers of the April 15 deadline in the filing income tax returns (ITRs) to avoid penalties.

BIR regional director Araceli Francisco said as per the unnumbered memorandum from the Assistant Commissioner Lucita G. Rodriguez of the Taxpayer Assistance Service, dated February 2, 2013, penalties shall be imposed for income tax returns filed after office hours on the last filing day.

6 Apr, 2013 - Akyat Bahay Gang strikes in Olongapo

PAMPANGA -- The so-called “Akyat Bahay Gang” has struck in Olongapo City, victimizing the house of a government employee located along Natividad Street, Barangay Pag-asa the other day.

Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono, Olongapo City police director, said the house of Jun Andy Martinez, 24, an administrative aide, was ransacked by unidentified robbers.

6 Apr, 2013 - 18 projects for Central Luzon approved

PAMPANGA -- Some 18 projects for Central Luzon were approved at the Regional Development Council (RDC) during its recent meeting on April 3 here.

Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, RDC chairman, formalized the approval of the projects during the RDC meeting that was attended by 70 delegates.

6 Apr, 2013 - Guiao gains support on Clark Authority plan

CLARK FREEPORT -- Congressional aspirant and Vice Governor Joseller Guiao has gained support for his plan to convert the freeport into Clark Freeport Authority if he gets elected in Pampanga’s first district this May.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tugade agreed with Guiao's idea, saying converting Clark from Freeport to Authority will address the tenure issue for future CDC presidents.

6 Apr, 2013 - New Era University holds seminar for ALS manager

PAMPANGA -- Officials from the New Era University (NEU) held a seminar on Thursday intended for Alternative Learning System (ALS) managers in this city.

The seminar involved proper way of handling special cases of learners under the ALS program being implemented by the Iglesia Ni Cristo, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd).

6 Apr, 2013 - PSWD bares opportunities in social work program

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Social Welfare Development (PSWD) has bared employment opportunities to social work graduates compared to the other fields.

PSWD Officer Elizabeth Baybayan said a social work graduate is in demand both in public and private institutions.

5 Apr, 2013 - Blue Rock Resort Manager killed

SUBIC FREEPORT -- A well known Expat manager, idetified as Paul Davy was killed around 7:00pm last night at the Blue Rock restaurant. A gunmen wearing a blue cap and glasses, about 30 to 35 years old, entered the premise, shot Paul in the head and and left before anybody was able to take action.

5 Apr, 2013 - 18 projects for Central Luzon approved

PAMPANGA -- Some 18 projects for Central Luzon were approved at the Regional Development Council (RDC) during its recent meeting on April 3 here.

Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, RDC chairman, formalized the approval of the projects during the RDC meeting that was attended by 70 delegates.

5 Apr, 2013 - Guiao gains support on Clark Authority plan

CLARK FREEPORT -- Congressional aspirant and Vice Governor Joseller Guiao has gained support for his plan to convert the freeport into Clark Freeport Authority if he gets elected in Pampanga’s first district this May.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tugade agreed with Guiao's idea, saying converting Clark from Freeport to Authority will address the tenure issue for future CDC presidents.

5 Apr, 2013 - Meat processing seminar held in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) hosted on Friday a meat processing seminar at the Social Action Center of Pampanga (Sacop) in bid to provide livelihood skills to locals.

KDF president Benigno Ricafort said the event was participated by KDF beneficiaries, non-government groups and walk-in participants.

5 Apr, 2013 - New Era University holds seminar for ALS manager

PAMPANGA -- Officials from the New Era University (NEU) held a seminar on Thursday intended for Alternative Learning System (ALS) managers in this city.

The seminar involved proper way of handling special cases of learners under the ALS program being implemented by the Iglesia Ni Cristo, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd).

4 Apr, 2013 - Court issues TRO vs Globe Asiatique

MABALACAT CITY -- The Court of Appeals (CA) stopped a Makati City judge from implementing its earlier rulings favoring Globe Asiatique Realty Holdings Corp. (GA) president Delfin Lee.

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay said the CA issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 28 Judge Eugene Paras, who granted the civil suit of Lee against Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund).

4 Apr, 2013 - Mom accuses seaman of rape

PAMPANGA -- A 30-year-old mother of four accused a seaman of raping her in her own home.

The victim Janice (not her real name) identified the suspect as Dennis Manuel, 29, of Barangay Palmayo in Floridablanca town.

4 Apr, 2013 - Lawyer vows support to Lazatin

ANGELES CITY -- Human rights lawyer Francisco Buan Jr. has expressed support to the mayoralty bid of Representative Carmelo Lazatin.

“Congressman Lazatin is the best person to serve as mayor of Angeles City,” said Buan, who ran against the former in the 1987 congressional election.

3 Apr, 2013 - Guagua College to offer BS Accountancy course

PAMPANGA -- The Guagua Community College will be offering Bachelor of Science (BS) Accountancy for school year 2013-2014 in a bid to expand its course offerings for indigent students from all over this highly urbanized town.

Guagua Community College administrator Isaias Panganiban Jr. said the new course offering is expected to boost the population of the college, which opened in the first semester of school year 2012-2013 with 100 students.

3 Apr, 2013 - Dad protecting son shot dead

PAMPANGA -- A 54-year-old man was killed after he tried to protect his son from a gunman at St. Jude Village, Barangay Dolores, City of San Fernando, on Tuesday.

The fatality was identified as Nerio Sarzuela, 54, of St. Jude Village, who suffered gunshot wounds in the body. He died while undergoing treatment at the San Fernandino Hospital.

3 Apr, 2013 - Riding-in-tandem gunmen shoot guard

PAMPANGA -- A security guard of an armored van was shot dead by three armed men on board a motorcycle in Barangay Bitas, Arayat town last Tuesday.

In a belated report here, Senior Superintendent R’Win Pagkalinawan, Pampanga police provincial director, identified the fatality as Jeffrey Gatungan, 29, a resident of Barangay Pag-asa, Bamban, Tarlac.

3 Apr, 2013 - Austrian hurt when hit by van

MABALACAT CITY -- An Austrian national was injured when he was accidentally hit by a van along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat City, on April Fool’s Day.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent R’Win Pagkalinawan, Pampanga police provincial director, identified the victim as Christian Na Keplinger, 49, an Austrian tourist who temporary resides at said barangay.

2 Apr, 2013 - Graft case filed vs Angeles officials anew

ANGELES CITY -- Another graft case was filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against four city officials in connection with alleged irregular acquisition of laptop and other gadgets issued to Councilor Alfie Bonifacio, a candidate for vice mayor here under the Nacionalista Party.

Bonifacio, Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting, City Administrator Dennis Pamintuan, and General Services Officer Menandro Dizon were charged by Balibago chairman Rodelio Mamac, Claro Rector chairman Val Lagman and Broadcaster Medardo David.

2 Apr, 2013 - Pampanga biz group endorses Gordon's Senate bid

PAMPANGA -- TheChamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham), a 25,000-strong organization of businessmen and professionals in the province, has endorsed the senatorial bid of former senator Richard Gordon in the coming May 13 polls.

In a statement, PamCham's top officials, led by Vice Chairman Rene Romero and President Jim Jimenez, credited Gordon for being instrumental in the conversion of the then Clark Special Economic Zone into what is now a Freeport Zone in 2007.

2 Apr, 2013 - TRC turns over Heroes Hall land to City of San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- The Technology Resource Center (TRC) has handed over the two transfer certificates of title to the City Government, effectively transferring the rights to the land where the Heroes Hall now stands.

The formal turnover ceremony was held at the City Hall on Monday, April 1, according to the City Information Office (CIO).

2 Apr, 2013 - P2 million in guns, jewelry stolen

ANGELES CITY -- Several high-powered firearms, assorted jewelry and cash, all amounting to P2 million, were stolen by Akyat Bahay Gang members after robbing a house at Villa Teresa, Barangay Cacutud, Angeles City, Saturday.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Jose Hidalgo, Angeles City police director, said the house of one Anson Ong, 37, a resident of Villa Teresa was robbed by unidentified men while she was in Santiago City, Isabela for a Holy Week family vacation.

2 Apr, 2013 - CDC team wins Fire Olympics

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Fire and Rescue Unit of the Clark Development Corporation emerged as over-all champion in the recently-concluded Third Central Luzon Fire Olympics of the Bureau of Fire Protection or BFP.

CDC President Arthur P. Tugade lauded the Public Safety Department and volunteers for bagging the championship award in the Industrial Fire Brigade category during the competition.

2 Apr, 2013 - Panlilio woos former bailiwicks, supporters

PAMPANGA -- Former Governor Ed Panlilio started his campaign for the province’s top post by visiting his supporters in this town.

Panlilio, together with his running in the vice gubernatorial race Maria Amalia Tiglao-Cayanan, officially started his tour around Pampanga by offering a mass at the Saint Bartolomew Parish Church here Sunday morning before proceeding to Barangay Bucanan later in the afternoon.

2 Apr, 2013 - Akyat Bahay Gang carts away P.5M in cash, jewels

PAMPANGA -- Members of the so-called Akyat Bahay Gang carted away some P.5 million worth of jewelry and cash after robbing a house in Barangay Mangga-Cacutud, Arayat town, over the weekend.

Police said the house of one Saturmina Tungol, 56, of said barangay, was robbed by three unidentified suspects believed to be members of the Akyat Bahay Gang.

2 Apr, 2013 - AUF radio station bags 3rd international award

ANGELES CITY -- The community radio station DWAU FM 104.1 of Angeles University Foundation (AUF) has bagged the Silver Microphone Award from the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System.

Radio station director Ron Nethercutt said they won the award for three straight years.

1 Apr, 2013 - Gonzales in latest survey

PAMPANGA -- A Manila-based pollster revealed Monday that incumbent Representative Aurelio Gonzales (3rd district, Pampanga) topped the latest poll results involving 2,500 respondents from the five towns and one city of the district.

Ramon Navarra Jr., chief of staff of Gonzales, said the Gonzales topped over City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez.

1 Apr, 2013 - Party holds biggest political rally in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- The Agyu Tamu team of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan gathered the biggest political rally in the history in this city during the opening salvo of their campaign for reelection, said an official of the Partido Abe Kapampangan (AbeKa).

AbeKa deputy secretary general William Aguilar said, "This is the largest political gathering in the history of the City of Angeles. People from all walks of life marched from various assembly points to show their support to the reelection bid of Mayor Pamintuan, his vice mayor, Vicky Vega, and the 10 councilors -- Edu Pamintuan, Maricel Morales, Jericho Aguas, Alex Indiongco, Arvin Suller, Danica Lacson, Amos Rivera, Ruben Maniago, Romeo Taruc and Lito Ganzon, and Vice Gov. Yeng Guiao's campaign as representative of the first district of Pampanga."

1 Apr, 2013 - Newsman hurt in 'intentional sideswiping'

ANGELES CITY -- A newsman was injured in what he described as an attempt on his life after a white van sideswiped him in two separate occasions along the MacArthur Highway in barangays Claro M. Recto and Salapunganin this city.

Robledo Sanchez, of Bandera tabloid newspaper, claimed that this is a case of attempted murder considering that the vehicle license plates NIB-303 deliberately "cut his way," while travelling along the said road on board his motorcycle Saturday night.

1 Apr, 2013 - Police beef up measures as campaigning starts

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga police has boosted security measures for candidates in the entire province as local campaigning kicked-off last Saturday.

Police Provincial Director R'Win Pagkalinawan said Monday that the Philippine National Police (PNP), in cooperation with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), has strengthened checkpoints and gun ban operations.

1 Apr, 2013 - 2 men arrested for drugs

PAMPANGA -- Elements of the Macabebe Police Station nabbed two suspects in a checkpoint here after they were found carrying suspected illegal substances over the weekend.

Police reports identified the suspects as Sherwin Cunanan and Ramil Guinto, both residents of San Nicolas, Masantol town.

1 Apr, 2013 - Lazatin: My biggest mistake was helping Pamintuan in polls

ANGELES CITY - Congressman Carmelo Lazatin said that his biggest mistake was helping Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan in the last local elections.

Lazatin, during Team Lazatin's political caucus in Barangay Virgen De Los Remedios in this city, said several controversies are hounding the present administration, which includes issues of alleged misuse of public funds leading to the city's bankruptcy, the City Government's controversial job order employees, which led to a graft and corruption case being filed against Pamintuan, and complaints from the business sector due to the high assessment of business taxes.

1 Apr, 2013 - Mayor: Campaign will not affect city hall operations

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Oscar Rodriguez of San Fernando said on Sunday that the campaign period will not in any way affect the operations of the City Government even if he and other officials will hit the streets for their sorties.

Rodriguez is aspiring to return to Congress after a full term as city mayor, while Vice Mayor Edwin Santiago is eyeing the mayoralty and some incumbent councilors are seeking re-election. On Sunday, San Fernando's Magsilbi Team conducted their opening salvo with a thousand-vehicle motorcade around the city.

1 Apr, 2013 - Pelayo eyes establishment of 'bagsakan center'

PAMPANGA -- Congressional candidate Mayor Jerry Pelayo claimed he is planning to establish a "bagsakan center" in Candaba to market agricultural produce from the eight municipalities in the 4th district of Pampanga.

He explained that there is enough supply of rice in Candaba town, which could even cater to the needs of the people in coastal communities.

Upcoming events in Balibago

Live Rock'n Roll at Midnight Rock

Every Thursday night 8pm onwards with Rockin' Dave.

Manic Monday

Mar 18 2013 Lollipop
Mar 25 2013 Alaska
Apr 01 2013 Rhapsody
Apr 08 2013 Trasure Island
Apr 15 2013 One Eyed Wench
Apr 22 2013 LaBamba
Apr 29 2013 Lollipop
May 06 2013 Alaska

Tuesday Bash

Now 06 2012 Emotions
Nov 13 2012 Bodyshop
Nov 20 2012 Stampede
Nov 27 2012 Eruption

WOW Wednesday

Mar 20 2013 Alaska
Mar 27 2013 Trasure Island
Apr 03 2013 One Eyed Wench
Apr 10 2013 LaBamba
Apr 17 2013 Rhapsody
Apr 24 2013 Lollipop
May 08 2013 Alaska

Thursday Madness

Nov 01 2012 Bodyshop
Nov 08 2012 Stampede
Nov 15 2012 Eruption
Nov 22 2012 Emotions
Nov 29 2012 Bodyshop

Doghouse

Nov 04 2012 Ponytails
Nov 11 2012 Tropix
Nov 18 2012 Crystal Palace
Nov 25 2012 Dollhouse