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Balibago News Aug-2012

31 Aug 2012 - Lawmaker distributes vehicles in Magalang town

PAMPANGA -- As part of his continuing thrust to provide mobility to barangays, Pampanga Representative Carmelo Lazatin (1st District) continued the series of multi-cab distribution in seven barangays here on August 30.

Each of the P284,000 worth multicabs were delivered personally by Lazatin to barangays San Vicente, San Pablo, San Agustin, San Nicolas I, Bucanan, San Isidro and Santo Rosario.

31 Aug 2012 - Social welfare office invests P2.8-B in Pampanga 4Ps

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), has put in a total of P2,813,925,000 for the Programang Pantawid at Pantulong Pampamilya (4Ps).

This was said by Governor Lilia Pineda and PSWDO head Beth Baybayin to village chiefs in a meeting at the Executive House at Capitol, where the two officials also assured flood affected residents, especially victims of the recent calamity of cash assistance of up to P10,000 for rehabilitation.

31 Aug 2012 - Board member lauds San Fernando tourism thrusts

PAMPANGA -- First District Board Member Tarcicio DC Halili recently lauded the City Government of San Fernando led by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez for its strong thrusts in promoting tourism and preserving culture and heritage.

During the opening of the “War of Our Fathers” exhibit at the historic Philippine National Railways Station in Barangay Sto. Niño in this city on Wednesday, Halili, who chairs the Provincial Board’s Committee on Tourism, expressed appreciation on the programs of the City Tourism Office and Rodriguez’s advocacy embedded in the City Government’s eight-point agenda.

31 Aug 2012 - Strong offshore quake kills 1

PHILIPPINES -- A major earthquake east of Samar sent people scrambling toward higher ground, generated a small tsunami and killed at least one person Friday, authorities said. Tsunami waves ranging from 6 to 7 inches to a foot and a half were recorded in the province of Surigao del Norte, with waves of an inch reported near the cities of Davao and Legaspi, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said.

30 Aug 2012 - Committee: Angeles City projects ‘irregular’

ANGELES CITY -- The City Project Monitoring Committee (CPMC) has discovered that some infrastructure projects undertaken by the City Government under Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan are “overpriced, poorly planned, and poorly constructed”.

In its report dated July 31, 2012, the CPMC said there is perceived overpricing in some monitored projects, including the construction of the Legislative Building, which is not yet completed.

30 Aug 2012 - Mayor accuses congressman of ‘credit grabbing’

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan Thursday hit 1st District Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin for allegedly claiming credit over the P100-million West Circumferential Road (Friendship Highway) widening project, saying he was the one who proposed the road improvement to the Regional Development Council (RDC).

“I think my old friend is just confused, or a little desperate that he is now into credit grabbing,” Pamintuan said during a press conference at the City Hall on Thursday.

30 Aug 2012 - Travelling Second World War exhibit opens

PAMPANGA -- It was nostalgia for both the young and the old, especially veterans of World War II as the traveling "War of Our Fathers" exhibit opened Wednesday afternoon at the refurbished historic Philippine National Railways (PNR) Station in Barangay Sto. Niño, San Fernando.

With hundreds of photos, videos, and World War II memorabilia, the exhibit which will run until September 11 this year, was put together by the Philippine Veterans Bank, the City Government led by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, Veterans Federation of the Philippines, Department of Education, and the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council. It is part of the city's Twin Heritage 2012 celebration.

30 Aug 2012 - Power coop inks pact for technology, security upgrades

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga 1 Electric Cooperative (Pelco 1) on Wednesday signed agreements with two firms for the further enhancement of its customer service to member-consumers.

General Loliano Allas and director for Public Relations Oscar Manalo led executives of the top power cooperative in forging the pacts with Novatech LLC [NTA Energy Solutions]'s Paul Reyes and Ric Ariston for the installation of the new high technology Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (Scada) system; and security provision with Bantayan Security Agency's Dominador Aguilar, Jr. and Victoria Gentiles for its franchise areas in Mexico, Sta. Ana, Arayat, Magalang and San Luis.

29 Aug 2012 - 100 families still living in ‘tent city’

PAMPANGA -- Mayors’ League President and Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo said an estimated 100 families are still staying in tents and other temporary shelters established along a major dike in Barangay Balibago here.

Pelayo said these families have been there since early this month since the southwest monsoon generated a huge amount of rainfall that resulted in massive inundation not only here but also in other towns of the province.

29 Aug 2012 - Central Luzon farmers condemn harassment of journalist

ANGELES CITY -- The regional farmers' group Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (AMGL or Farmers' Alliance in Central Luzon) condemned the recent harassment and threat to veteran journalist Ding Cervantes.

Cervantes, a correspondent to the Philippine Star and columnist of Punto Central Luzon newspaper, received death threats through text messages. He also noticed suspicious armed men monitoring his movements in the recent days.

29 Aug 2012 - Guard slain by riding-in-tandem gunmen

PAMPANGA -- A security guard was gunned down by two riding-in-tandem gunmen at St. Dominic Corinthian Sudivision, Barangay Dolores, City of San Fernando last Saturday.

A belated report here said Hernando Cabanilla, 57, security guard of JMP Twin Eagle Security Agency assigned at said subdivision, was shot to death by unidentified armed men while he was inside the guard house.

29 Aug 2012 - Church to take over Cutcut cemetery operation

ANGELES CITY -- The Holy Rosary Parish here is set to take over the administration and management of the public cemetery in Barangay Cutcut.

Auxiliary Bishop Pablo Virgilio David bared this during a meeting with the stakeholders of La Pieta Memorial Park and Holy Mary Memorial Park, and officials of the City Government led by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan at the Holy Rosary Parish Office last Tuesday.

29 Aug 2012 - City distributes monetary pension to elderly

ANGELES CITY -- A total of 106 beneficiaries received financial assistance here on Wednesday as part of the city’s social pension program for senior citizens.

Heide Patio, head of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), said the distribution of the financial aid is a part of the city’s facilitation of the program initiated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) national office.

29 Aug 2012 - CineKabalen now accepting entries for film competition

ANGELES CITY -- A local film festival here is now accepting entries for its short film festival competition.

CineKabalen, formerly known as Sinukwan Film Festival, is a local film festival competition that features digital filmmaking “to promote Kapampangan culture and language.”

29 Aug 2012 - ‘Justice for Willem Geertman Movement’ to be launched

ANGELES CITY -- A movement named after Wilhelmus “Willem” Geertman will be launched, nearly two months since the killing of the Dutch missionary, development worker, human rights defender and environmental advocate.

The Justice for Willem Geertman Movement (J4WGM) will be launched on September 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Malcolm Theater, College of Law, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City.

28 Aug 2012 - P342M set for 2013 infra projects

ANGELES City -- Representative Carmelo Lazatin (third district, Pampanga) said his office and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will implement P342.9 million infrastructure projects for 2013.

The lawmaker made the announcement during the inauguration of the P40-million Leoncia Bridge at Villa Leoncia Subdivision, Barangay Santo Domingo here Tuesday.

28 Aug 2012 - P6M sewage project for hospital shelved

PAMPANGA -- The proposed P6 million sewage treatment plant (STP) for the Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital in Guagua has been temporarily shelved pending reassessment and further evaluation.

Provincial Administrator Andres Pangilinan Jr. made the statement during the Provincial Board en banc committee hearing at Capitol Tuesday after presiding officer, Vice Governor Joseller Guiao, questioned some alleged “flaws” and pinpointed concerns in the bidding process and related documents.

28 Aug 2012 - Vice mayor won’t pursue cityhood case at SC

MABALACAT City - Vice Mayor Noel Castro said he has abandoned his plan to file a petition before the Supreme Court to call for annulment of the referendum results in the recently-concluded cityhood plebiscite.

Castro said his lawyers advised him that the case he filed was weak, because Republic Act 10164, an act which converted Mabalacat into a component city is different from Republic Act 4413, a law creating the city of Rajah Buayan.

28 Aug 2012 - Board members extend P250K education grants

PAMPANGA -- Second District Board Members Olga Frances David-Dizon and Salvador Dimson Jr. distributed on Tuesday a total of P250,000 education financial assistance to 100 students from Porac, Lubao, Guagua, Sta. Rita and Floridablanca.

50 College Students were given P2,500 assistance per semester, extended courtesy of Governor Lilia Pineda, which is meant to augment expenses for school supplies and other miscellaneous fees.

28 Aug 2012 - Folk: Loans instead of relief goods

PAMPANGA -- Several concerned citizens suggested to local officials to discourage the provision of relief goods to flood-stricken communities, as these would not help improve the condition of the residents.

The residents stated that instead of relief goods, which would last only for two meals, they should be “empowered” by being given the opportunity to grow on their own through financial loans.

28 Aug 2012 - ‘Saup Ortilano’ leads relief delivery in Tarlac

ANGELES City -- The Saup Ortilano Network, Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Tarlac and Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) conducted a relief delivery operation to residents in the municipality of Paniqui in Tarlac.

In partnership with the Tulong Kabataan Volunteers and TUDLA Productions, they were able to harness the resources of Redemptorist-Manila and the donor office Accord and distributed relief packs.

28 Aug 2012 - Death threats, armed men hound Pampanga newsman

MABALACAT CITY - Death threats and suspicious armed men have been hounding veteran journalist Ding Cervantes these days, prompting him to report the case to the police here yesterday.

Cervantes told police investigators at the Dau station here that he first received a threatening text message on his phone late Friday night.

28 Aug 2012 - Clark golf course project threatens water supply

ANGELES CITY -- The water supply at the Metro Clark area is threatened by the on-going construction of a $400-million golf course on the top of a mountain at the Clark Freeport, a Pampanga-based environmentalist said on Tuesday.

Sonny Dobles, president of the Alliance for the Development of Central Luzon (ADCL), said “what is more disturbing about this is that water security for the area is now in clear and present danger” poised by the 36-hole golf course of the Donggwang Clark Corporation (DCC).

27 Aug 2012 - Mayor: No alliance between Lazatin, Nepomuceno yet

PAMPANGA -- There is no “formal alliance” between first district Representative Carmelo "Tarzan" Lazatin and former mayor and congressman-wannabe Francis Nepomuceno, said Irish Calaguas, Lazatin’s senior political adviser.

“There will be no political alliance. That’s for sure as of the moment. But we have our supporters in the Nepomuceno camp and theirs on our side,” she stressed.

27 Aug 2012 - Mayor: Japanese studes help build classrooms in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- Some 52 students from at least nine universities in Japan are enjoying as construction aides of Filipino workers in building four classrooms at the Pineda-Gutierrez Elementary School in Barangay Tabun here.

The Japanese students, who are mostly in their first year of college, are undergoing an immersion program in the Philippines as part of their school requirement.

27 Aug 2012 - Group to create indie film on Betis woodcraft industry

PAMPANGA -- The Film Academy of Pampanga is set to create an indie film about the vanishing wood carving tradition in Guagua’s Betis District this September, featuring sights and attractions of Betis and its wood craft industry.

Art mover Ruston Banal said the goal of the film is to show to the world the ingenuity of Betis woodcarvers, the traditions that are passed on from generation to generation, and the dilemma of holding on to the tradition in the age of mechanical reproduction and modern technology.

27 Aug 2012 - Mayor: Lawmaker leads Leoncia Bridge inauguration

ANGELES CITY -- First district Representative Carmelo Lazatin will lead the inauguration of the Leoncia Bridge at Villa Leoncia Subdivision, Barangay Santo Domingo here on August 28.

The construction of the P32-million, 36.80-linear-meter Leoncia Bridge was initiated by Lazatin and carried out with the help of the Angeles City Sub-Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

27 Aug 2012 - Mayor: Board member: ‘Education is key vs poverty’

PAMPANGA -- “Education is the key to fight poverty. So be a scholar now, study hard to become a leader tomorrow.”

This was said by fourth district Board Member Nestor Tolentino, as he encouraged recipients of the educational assistance from Sto. Tomas, Minalin, Macabebe, Masantol, San Simon, Apalit, Candaba, and San Luis over the weekend at the Executive House of the Provincial Capitol.

26 Aug 2012 - Mayor: ‘Angeleños should have choices’

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan emphasized over the weekend that voters in Angeles City must have choices and should not be limited to a popular few come 2013.

Pamintuan said on Friday the political arena and leadership in the city should not solely be for the Lazatins, Nepomuncenos and Pamintuans.

26 Aug 2012 - Flood-stricken barangays reduced to 98

PAMPANGA -- Flood-affected barangays in the province have been reduced to 98, said the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).

PDRRMC reported several communities in the towns of Sta. Ana, Apalit, Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Minalin, San Simon, Sto. Tomas, including this city remain inundated, even as the water level at the Pampanga River is going back to its normal level.

26 Aug 2012 - Fernandino is youngest PH karate member

PAMPANGA -- After kicking his way as a double gold medalist in the recent 2011-2012 National Karate Championship, Bryan Fontillas of the famed Fernandino Karate Kids is now the youngest member of the Philippine Karate Team or the Philippine “Typhoons.”

Bryan is the second in a brood of five siblings – Marimar, Christian Jonathan, Jasper and China-all national karatedo champions who have brought honor and glory to the city with their moves.

26 Aug 2012 - P14-M Pamintuan Mansion rehab ongoing

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that P14 million in rehabilitation works are now being done on the Pamintuan Mansion, as part of the long-term preparation to turn the heritage mansion into a tourism and historical attraction here.

Pamintuan said the mansion, once made accessible to the public, will add to the historical attractions of the city and may soon become the center of other cultural events and exhibitions aside from the city’s Museo Ning Angeles.

26 Aug 2012 - Lawmaker picks runningmates

ANGELES CITY -- Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin, who earlier announced his plan to run for city mayor here, has selected personalities who will join his ticket in the 2013 elections.

Irish Calaguas, Lazatin’s senior political affairs officer, said they are finalizing the slate.

26 Aug 2012 - PamCham donates kiddie packs to school children

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham), through its Corporate Social Responsibility committee, donated kiddie packs to San Miguel and Katutubo Village school children over the weekend.

PamCham’s CSR Committee Chair Leslie B. Mendiola led the distribution of kiddie packs and water bottles donated by PamCham members and partners to schoolchildren of the San Miguel Betis Elementary school.

25 Aug 2012 - Photos confirm IDs of suspects in killing of Dutch missionary

PAMPANGA -- Allies of slain Dutch missionary Willem Geertman said more photos have confirmed the identities of two major suspects in his killing in Barangay Telebastagan here last July 3.

More photos point to the same two suspects caught on closed circuit television camera as they fled on a motorcycle after Geertman was shot dead in L&S subdivision (in Barangay Telabastagan here).

24 Aug 2012 - Ex-mayor: Robredo died too soon for the country

PAMPANGA -- Former municipal and first city mayor of San Fernando Dr. Rey Aquino lamented over the untimely death of Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, saying he died too soon for the country.

Robredo died in a plane crash off Masbate last August 18.

24 Aug 2012 - Labor office issues pay rules holidays

PAMPANGA -- Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz urged private sector employers on Friday to observe the proper pay rules for their workers regarding this month’s holidays.

In a statement furnished to Sun.Star Pampanga, Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) regional labor communications officer Jerry Borja said Baldoz cited Monday, August 20; Tuesday, August 21; and Monday, August 27 2012, as the proclaimed holidays.

24 Aug 2012 - Threat from Guemasan dike remains: residents

PAMPANGA -- Local folk here clarified Friday that Guemasan and Cupang Dikes are no longer in critical condition as water level in Pampanga River is continuously receding.

However, they said the threat of the Guemasan dike remains.

24 Aug 2012 - Lazatin to lead opening of Leoncia Bridge on Aug. 28

ANGELES CITY -- First district Representative Carmelo Lazatin is set to lead the inauguration of the newly completed P32-million Leoncia Bridge project here on Tuesday.

The opening of the vital bridge is expected to benefit motorists and decongest traffic along the Clark circumferential road.

24 Aug 2012 - Central Luzon lawmaker slams oil price hike anew

ANGELES CITY -- Anakpawis Partylist Representative Rafael Mariano said the latest spate of oil price hikes have brought damaging effects to Filipinos already affected by the recent typhoons and torrential rains.

Mariano, born of peasant family from Nueva Ecija, said Typhoon “Igme,” which is already out of the country, is making a U-turn drawn by the winds of Typhoon “Julian,” which is fast approaching the country while many parts of Luzon are still submerged with floodwaters.

23 Aug 2012 - Cupang Dike ‘no longer a threat’

PAMPANGA -- First Engineering District officer-in-charge Engineer Rico Guilas assured on Thursday that the engineering interventions in the Cupang section of the Arayat-Apalit Setback Levee here are ongoing.

“So far it is no longer a threat. We are still doing engineering works so that we can protect the structure in the event of further rains,” Guilas told

23 Aug 2012 - Village chief faces raps before Ombud

MABALACAT CITY -- The village chief in Barangay San Francisco in Mabalacat City has recently been charged with perjury and malversation of public funds before the office of the Ombudsman.

Barangay secretary Edilberto Carrillo filed the charges against Manuel Dingal, current chairman of the said village.

23 Aug 2012 - Lawmaker distributes service vehicles in Mabalacat City

MABALACAT CITY -- Some 13 village chairmen here received on Thursday multi-cabs donated by Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin (First District) as part of his continuing thrust to provide quality basic services to his constituents.

The multicabs, each worth P284,000, were delivered to each barangay. Lazatin was accompanied by Mabalacat Mayor Marino Morales, Association of Barangay Council President Rogelio Yumul and the 13 village chiefs.

23 Aug 2012 - Chinese-Filipinos distribute relief goods to flooded towns, city

PAMPANGA -- The Federation of Chinese-Filipino Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) spearheaded the recent distribution of 12,000 packs of relief goods to flood-affected families in the province.

Eddie Chua, president of the San Fernando Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SFFCCCI), said Wednesday the Filipino-Chinese Community has distributed relief goods to flood victims in the towns of Sto. Tomas, Minalin, Apalit, Macabebe, Masantol and the City of San Fernando.

23 Aug 2012 - Cop exec lauds buddy station system

MABALACAT CITY -- The chief of police here has lauded the buddy station system implemented by the Pampanga police in what he described as an effective way of preventing and solving crimes.

Superintendent Rodney Raymond Louie Baloyo IV, city police chief, said the police tied up with the police force in nearby Magalang town for the crime prevention program in line with the directive of Pampanga police director Senior Superintendent Edgardo Tinio.

23 Aug 2012 - Quota Int’l-Pampanga bares newest member

PAMPANGA -- Businesswoman Angelica Hizon was inducted as the newest member of Quota International Pampanga during Tuesday’s induction.

District Governor Emilie Simon presided the ceremonies at the City Heights Hotel in San Fernando.

23 Aug 2012 - The Governor’s visit: An affirmation of Quota plans for 2012

PAMPANGA -- THE recent visit of Quota International District 41 Gov. Emilie Simon at the City Heights Hotel in the City of San Fernando was attended by a strong membership of the beautiful and grand ladies from Quota International of Pampanga.

The visit, a regular pep talk , centered on the new trends and innovations that Quota International is going to implement for 2012 and 2013, with Quota members and clubs in the Philippines playing key roles in chartering new clubs and increasing club membership.

22 Aug 2012 - US vets petition for takeover of Clark cemetery by US gov’t

CLARK FREEPORT- Hundreds of American veterans of foreign wars (VFW) gathered recently in their 113th national convention in Reno, Nevada to sign a resolution urging the US Senate to take over the “operational control” of the US cemetery in this former US air force base.

Lt. Guy Hilbero, executive officer of the 26th US Cavalry and Philippine Scouts Memorial Regiment, a group revived for historical purposes here, said the VFW national security and foreign affairs and prisoners of war- missing in action committee unanimously passed Resolution No. 481, titled “Clark Veterans Cemetery a US Government Responsibility.”

22 Aug 2012 - Councilor urges kabalens to help blood banking program

PAMPANGA -- Councilor Jimmy Lazatin urged Kapampangans and Fernandinos to help in the blood banking programs for patients needing blood supply through the Philippine National Red Cross.

“The recent calamity that hit Central Luzon has also set in renewed demand for blood supply among indigent patients in medical emergencies. The only way the Red Cross can sustain its blood supply program is through the participation of willing donors in the blood program,” Lazatin said.

22 Aug 2012 - Elders feel renewed strength with Binay’s visit

PAMPANGA -- The elders in Candaba said on Wednesday their strength had been renewed with the recent visit of Vice President Jejomar Binay.

They said Binay’s recent visit is an indication that in the future, the town will be getting a just share from the national government’s program particularly in providing the immediate needs of residents during calamities.

21 Aug 2012 - Mayor, village chiefs support vice guv’s congressional bid

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan led other city officials and village chiefs here in airing support to the congressional bid of Pampanga vice governor Joseller Guiao.

During the birthday celebration of Pulung Maragul chairman Jojo Dimapilis, who is also the Liga ng mga Barangay president, Pamintuan, vice mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, some city councilors, and 28 village chiefs here vowed to support Guiao in next year’s polls.

21 Aug 2012 - Ex-mayor unfazed in 2013 congressional race

ANGELES CITY -- Former Mayor Francis Nepomuceno said on Monday he is unfazed by his would-be opponents in the 2013 election, as he once again would bid for the first district congressional post.

In an interview with Sun.Star Pampanga during the visit of Vice President Jejomar Binay at Pag-Ibig (City of San Fernando Branch), Nepomuceno confirmed he is gunning for the post he once held years ago and is ready to slug it out with other strong contenders like Vice Governor Joseller Guiao.

21 Aug 2012 - City of San Fernando mayor will not take DILG post

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Oscar Rodriguez dismissed rumors on Tuesday that he is the strongest choice to replace Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo who recently died in a plane crash.

During the commemoration of the 29th death anniversary of martyred Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino at Heroes Hall on Tuesday, Rodriguez said that at the very onset when some political friends and colleagues asked him about the possibility of him taking on the Cabinet post, he kept mum and never even gave it a thought.

21 Aug 2012 - Infra damages after rains reach P22.3M

PAMPANGA -- Because of the recent heavy rains and floods, the initial infrastructure damage in Pampanga province has already reached more than P22.3 million.

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC), in its latest report, noted that several dikes, provincial roads and other structures have collapsed due to strong water current.

21 Aug 2012 - Mountain bikers plant trees along megadike

ANGELES CITY -- Hundreds of mountain bike riders participated Tuesday in a tree planting initiated by the Kapampangan MTBikers Network in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Pampanga.

More than 500 seedlings of African Tulip and Banaba (Mitla) were planted at the eastern portion of the megadike in the City of San Fernando, Bacolor and Porac town.

21 Aug 2012 - Group calls for Pampanga lawmakers to support HB 6416

ANGELES CITY -- Bayan Muna party-list fifth nominee for House of Representatives Roman Polintan called on all members of the Congress from Pampanga to campaign on the plenary floors to legislate House Bill 6416 filed by Representative Teddy Casiño that seeks to reduce the value-added tax (VAT) on oil and other oil products by half.

“If the government cannot control the prices of oil and its products, then it should cut the value added tax levied on the product to spare the public from price shocks,” Polintan said in his interview by Sun.Star Pampanga on Tuesday.

21 Aug 2012 - Man arrested for illegal possession of guns

PAMPANGA -- The local police in Candaba recently arrested a man for illegal possession of firearms.

Superintendent Henry Flores, town’s chief of police, identified the suspect as Joselito Salaysay, 44, married and a resident of Sitio 3 Baranagay Mangga this town.

20 Aug 2012 - Binay to distribute relief goods in Pampanga today

PAMPANGA -- Vice President Jejomar Binay will lead the distribution of bags of food items for families affected by floods in Candaba and San Luis in Barangay Sta. Catalina here at 1 p.m. today, Monday.

The Vice President will also lead the relief operations in Mexico town at 1:50 p.m., at the town’s Municipal Hall.

20 Aug 2012 - 80 families move to Rotary Shelter Box Village

PAMPANGA -- Some 80 displaced families from various evacuation centers, particularly those relocated in schools, were move Sunday to the Shelter Box Village in Villa Del Sol 2, Barangay San Juan, San Fernando.

City Administrator Ferdinand Caylao said the relocatee-families have been properly screened and selected for the transfer to the Shelter Box Village cum evacuation center.

20 Aug 2012 - Red Cross distributes relief goods, items for flood victims

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) distributed relief goods to flood victims in Sto Thomas.

The distribution was led by PRC chairman Richard Gordon and Mayor Lito Naguit. It was done as part of the organization’s commitment to help flood victims.

20 Aug 2012 - Tech center hosts business matching

MABALACAT CITY -- The Technology Resource Center (TRC) hosted a business match-making opportunity between the “technopreneurs” of the University of the Philippines (Diliman) and the locators of the Mabalacat TechnoCenter.

Dubbed as “Techonology Business Incubators (TBI)-TechnoCenter Business Matching,” TRC Director General Dennis Cunanan said the event is aimed to open an avenue of engagement for both business communities to enhance their productivity and competitiveness.

20 Aug 2012 - Farmers’ group reiterates call for justice of slain missionary

ANGELES CITY -- The Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (AMGL) renewed its call for justice for the killing of Wilhelmus Geertman now that the people of Central Luzon are facing situations of calamitous proportion.

The group said Geertman was a common figure during calamities in many flood-prone barangays of the region, as he led Alay Bayan Luson Inc. (ABI Luson) in conducting relief and rehabilitation missions, and the training of most vulnerable folks to prepare their communities way ahead of disasters and to reduce its risks and impact.

19 Aug 2012 - Press group to mark Ampatuan massacre’s 33rd month

ANGELES CITY -- Pampanga press groups are again set to commemorate the 33rd month of the Ampatuan massacre on August 23.

At the same time, representatives of the local media group made representations to the vigil led by the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP) to mark the 1,000th day of the massacre last August 19 at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City.

19 Aug 2012 - Police rule out foul play on Korean’s death

CLARK FREEPORT -- Police investigators have ruled out a foul play angle on the death of a Korean , who fell from the fifth floor of Hotel Vida inside the Freeport at dawn on Friday.

Nicanor S. Targa, of the Public Safety Department of the Clark Development Corporation, said Kin Song Lee committed a suicide by jumping from the upper level of the hotel.

19 Aug 2012 - Students get $12,000 scholarship from international school

ANGELES CITY -- Two students from Porac were given S12,000 worth of scholarship grants by the Noblesse International School based in Angeles City.

The grant is part of the school’s commitment with the Municipal Government of Porac led by Mayor Condralito dela Cruz in helping local students here.

19 Aug 2012 - Ex-mayor to run in 2013 mayoralty race

PAMPANGA -- Former Magalang mayor Lyndon Cunanan is set to stage a comeback here in the 2013 mayoralty race against incumbent Mayor Romulo Pecson.

Cunanan saidthe move was prompted by calls from his former constituents to run again for public office and his personal desire to make Magalang in the forefront of tourism, investment, and agri-technological development in Pampanga.

18 Aug 2012 - Angeles City named 'Best Anti-Drug Abuse Council'

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government recently received an award from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for Best Practices for Local Government Unit category for the exemplary performance of the Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Acadac).

Acadac has been selected as having one of the best anti-drug abuse council among LGUs in the country due to its outstanding accomplishments and performance in combating the drug problem in the city through a prevention and control strategy.

18 Aug 2012 - DTI: C. Luzon has enough supply of basic goods

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, August 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-3) has given the assurance that Central Luzon has enough supply of basic commodities amid flooding due to heavy rain induced by southwest monsoon and typhoon “Helen.”

DTI personnel are continuously monitoring public markets to assure sufficient supply of basic commodities sold based on the suggested retail price (SRP), Central Luzon DTI Regional Director Blesila Lantayona said during a press briefing on Wednesday. There were no reports of panic buying or hoarding of basic commodities.

18 Aug 2012 - US citizen’s son rescued in Pampanga

MABALACAT CITY -- Police rescued on Friday a two-year old son of an American citizen, two days after he was kidnapped from his home in central Luzon’s Pampanga, a statement said.

The two-year old American boy, whose name was not released, but identified as the son of Jayvee Woo was rescued near San Lorenzo Church in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga on Friday morning, head of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Director-General Nicanor Bartolome said in a statement that quoted the report of Superintendent Renato Gumban, officer in charge of PNP’s Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG).

17 Aug 2012 - TRC launches project to create jobs

MABALACAT CITY -- To create job opportunities at the Mabalacat TechnoCenter (TC), the Technology Resource Center (TRC) launched Friday a business matching between the Technology Business Incubators and the TechnoCenter.

TRC Director General Dennis L. Cunanan said the TBI-TechnoCenter Business Matching 2012 is a business match-making opportunity designed to expedite adaption of innovative technologies by businesses within the technology center.

17 Aug 2012 - Korean woman falls to death from Clark hotel

CLARK FREEPORT -- A Korean woman died after falling from the fifth floor of the Hotel Vida inside the Freeport at dawn Friday.

Police identified the victim as Kin Song Lee, a Korean national who, together with her husband, visited Park Kyeong Man, a hotel guest billeted at Room 3502.

17 Aug 2012 - Army warns local officials on forced evacuation

PAMPANGA -- A top official of the Philippine Army’s (PA) 703rd Infantry Brigade stationed in this town has cautioned local leaders of the implication of forced evacuation of residents during flooding.

Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang, commander of the PA 703rd Infantry Brigade, said forcing residents to evacuate even if it is against their will is a violation of their human rights.

17 Aug 2012 - Guv underscores media’s role during calamity

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda has noted the role of media in saving the lives and properties during the recent calamity that hit the province.

At the height of the southwest monsoon, some 405 villages in 19 towns, including two cities, were inundated.

17 Aug 2012 - Cops nab notorious robber

MABALACAT CITY -- MAGALANG -- Joint elements of the town and Mabalacat City police apprehended a notorious robbery suspect during a hot pursuit Friday morning in Barangay Santo Rosario here.

Marpie “Benggoy” Viray Nuqui, 21, of Santa Lucia Resettlement Center, and his 18-year-old male companion were arrested around 9:30 a.m. after allegedly robbing a grocery store at the Madapdap Resettlement Center in Mabalacat City.

17 Aug 2012 - Trader's son abducted

PAMPANGA -- Two armed men forcibly abducted a two-year-old boy at a posh subdivision in Barangay Sindalan, City of San Fernando, on Wednesday.

Superintendent Luisito Magnaye, San Fernando chief of police, said the suspects armed with low caliber guns, took the businessman's son from their house around 1:30 p.m.

17 Aug 2012 - Farmers group launches relief drive in flood-hit areas

PAMPANGA -- The Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (Amgl) has distributed relief goods to flood victims in Pangasinan as part of the Oplan Sagip Kanayunan-Gitnang Luson on 200 barangays of some 18 towns along the Agno River.

AMGL chair Joseph Canlas said they decided to help residents in said towns that suffered severe flooding during the heavy monsoon rains on August 7 to 8 and water release at San Roque multi-purpose dam (SRMDP) located in San Manuel town and other barangays in Binmaley and Calasiao towns.

16 Aug 2012 - ‘Decongest, de-imperialize Manila’

ANGELES CITY -- Engineering interventions such as more flood control projects will not provide lasting, much less permanent, solutions to the massive inundation of Metro Manila as witnessed last week with the monsoon rains.

“The more we construct, the more we replace absorbent soil and trees with concrete pavement, the more the occurrence of flash floods,” said the Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement.

16 Aug 2012 - Mini dam’ in Porac mountains poses no immediate hazard

PAMPANGA -- “It’s a blessing in disguise.” Thus said Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda on Thursday after reviewing the video footages of landslides and erosions on top of the Porac mountains that reportedly affected the flow of water in a creek that drains into the town’s two rivers.

Pineda, in statements issued by the Provincial Information Office (PIO), said that a huge rock, “the size of a 40-footer container van,” had fallen from the mountain and blocked the Lamayian Creek at Sitio Bani, Barangay Sapang Uwak.

16 Aug 2012 - No food shortage in CL, but medicines running low

ANGELES CITY -- Despite being the most agriculturally damaged by the monsoon floods in Central Luzon, Pampanga has enough rice stocks to replenish any shortages in other provinces in the region.

Shortage of medicines, however, has been reported in the affected areas in the region where health services remained devolved under local government units, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

15 Aug 2012 - Public urged to be calm amid ‘virtual dam’ scare

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda urged the public on Wednesday to be calm, particularly those living in the province’s second district, on the alleged accumulation of water of a “mini dam” in Porac town.

Pineda said her directive on the evacuation of women and children is merely a “preventive measure” and there is no reason to panic.

15 Aug 2012 - 2nd district towns ‘on standby’ for floods, landslides

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga has ordered local officials in all towns of the second district to be “on standby” for possible risks of flashfloods and landslides, as it awaits the evaluation of proper government agencies on alleged “virtual dam” forming in the uphill river channels of the Porac Highlands.

Governor Lilia Pineda’s consultant Rolando G. Imperial said the governor has advised mayors here to keep their constituents on standby and “be always ready.”

15 Aug 2012 - ‘Virtual dam’ report sparks panic in Pampanga towns

ANGELES CITY -- A report claiming that a “virtual dam” along Sapang Uwak in Porac town that has accumulated a big volume of floodwater may trigger massive flooding in low-lying areas has caused panic among the town’s residents, as well as those in adjacent areas.

Councilor Mike Tapang said reports should be verified first from authorities.

15 Aug 2012 - Angeles City maintains top performing LGU status

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government was recently cited by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for its consistent delivery of high standard public service to its constituents.

According to a press release from the DILG, Angeles City has emerged as one of the consistent top performers in the local government state of performance report for the last three years in the country due to its staunch execution of basic services.

15 Aug 2012 - AUF conquers Philippine Culinary Cup ’12

ANGELES CITY -- The BS Hotel and Restaurant Management faculty and students of Angeles University Foundation (AUF) bagged 13 major awards in the recently concluded 2012 Philippine Culinary Cup (PCC) held at the SMX Convention Center.

AUF President Joseph Emmanuel L. Angeles identified the winning AUF faculty and students as Heinz Pelayo (Gold Medal, Pasta and Bronze Medal, Plated Desserts); Maria Cecilia C. Park (Bronze Medal, Pasta); Alexius Jason T. Del Rosario and Jaysen S. Venzon (Bronze Medal, Sous Vide); Alexius Jason T. Del Rosario, Howard D. Dizon and Harold Van A. Aquino (Bronze Medal, Dream Team Challenge); Howard D. Dizon, Angelica Alyssa S. Dizon and Francis Patrick L. Dimaranan (Bronze Medal, Filipino Cuisine Challenge); Christine Joy R. Buan (Bronze Medal, Local Fish or Seafood); John Michael D. Zamora (Bronze Medal, US Pork); Jean Marie G. Baluyut and Katrina R. Maglalang (Bronze Medal, US Poultry);Jemimah R. Vitug (Bronze Medal, Beef); Francis Raymond S. Dimaranan, Ariel Jansen N. Salanga, Kelvin R. Patawaran, and Danny Con M. Susi (Bronze Medal, Young Chefs Team Challenge).

15 Aug 2012 - Councilor warns people of dengue, leptospirosis

MABALACAT CITY -- A councilor here has warned the people of possible spread of the dreaded dengue virus and leptospirosis amid the flooding problem in Pampanga and other parts of Central Luzon brought about by continuous rains.

Councilor Oscar Aurelio, a medical doctor who is also the chairman of the Provincial Board committee on health and sanitation, urged the people to be extra careful following the reported increase in the number of dengue patients and victim of leptospirosis.

15 Aug 2012 - BIR: Calamity won’t affect collection target

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said Wednesday that it is confident to meet collection targets despite the recent calamity that hit Central Luzon.

It also said that it was able to register a collection of P1,275,630,893 for June alone, marking a 11.37 percent growth in their collection.

14 Aug 2012 - Biz group gives relief packs to flood victims

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Search & Rescue Committee gave food packs and drinking water to flood victims here and other affected towns in the province.

PamCham president Jim Jimenez said the distributions were held at Barangay Dalayap and San Esteban in Macabebe town, and Barangays Malusac and Sinubli, Sasmuan town.

14 Aug 2012 - Guv turns district hospitals into action centers for health

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda designated all 11 district hospitals in the province to serve as action centers for the health needs of flood-hit Kapampangans.

This came as incidents of water-borne diseases have apparently been increasing in communities still under floodwater due to incessant rains.

14 Aug 2012 - Mayor welcomes evacuees in Mabalacat City

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino Morales said the City Government is preparing staging areas and evacuation centers that could be used if the water level in several coastal towns and other flood-prone municipalities rise due to Tropical Storm “Helen.”

“We are very much willing to accommodate everybody. Mabalacat was not seriously affected, kaya gusto natin tumulong,” Morales said.

14 Aug 2012 - PamCham wary of Arayat dikes’ condition

PAMPANGA -- A “disaster waiting to happen” was how the leadership of the Pampanga Chamber of the Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) described the current condition of Guemasan and Cupang dikes in Arayat town.

PamCham chairman Emeritus Levy P. Laus observed that part of the Guemasan dike has already collapsed after failing to withstand the strong water current from upstream.

14 Aug 2012 - Revival of Save Pampanga Movement mulled

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda and the private sector, through the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) agreed Tuesday on the revival of the Save Pampanga Movement (SPM).

SPM was conceived during the aftermath of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption some 21 years ago.

14 Aug 2012 - Celebrity, UN Food program pour aid to San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- Actress KC Concepcion and officials of the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) distributed Tuesday hundreds of ready-to-eat, nutrient-filled food packages, including infant formula, to flood-affected residents of this city.

Concepcion, who has Kapampangan roots in mother Sharon Cuneta as well as influence from Senator Francis Pangilinan, arrived around 10 a.m. with UNWFP Representative and Country Director Stephen Anderson and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) officials at Heroes Hall for a briefing on the current situation of the city from Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, City Administrator Ferdinand Caylao and members of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office.

13 Aug 2012 - Korean pastor drowns in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- A Korean pastor drowned when he was carried away by strong water current while crossing a river in Barangay Labney, Mayantoc, Tarlac.

In a belated report, Tarlac police provincial director Alfredo Corpus identified the fatality as Wonjun Cho, a pastor of Minister of Kingsway Fellowship International Philippines Inc.

13 Aug 2012 - Office of ex-congresswoman robbed

PAMPANGA -- Unidentified men robbed the Notary Public Office of former second district representative Zeny Ducut located in Barangay San Nicolas 1st, Lubao town.

A belated report here said that the suspects forcibly entered the office of Ducut by detaching the door’s steel doorknob and its lock.

13 Aug 2012 - Subic chamber to host maritime conference

SUBIC FREEPORT -- The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce will host a two-day maritime conference on August 23 and 24.

Danny Piano, president of the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce, said they invited presidents of other local chambers in North and Central Luzon to the upcoming Subic Bay Maritime Conference.

13 Aug 2012 - Senator: Comply with solid waste management act

PAMPANGA -- Amid devastation wrought by massive flooding due to extreme weather disturbances during the past two weeks, Senator Loren Legarda has stressed the need for full compliance with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

“There is an overwhelming need for a comprehensive recovery and rehabilitation plan that will reduce the susceptibility of all sectors to the floods that threaten people’s health, homes, and livelihoods. Solid waste management is central to such a plan,” she said.

13 Aug 2012 - American murdered

PAMPANGA -- The bloodied body of Glen Allan Loudon, 59, from Missouri, was found by his wife in the master bedroom on the second floor of their home in Town and Country Homes Subdivision in Barangay Telabastagan, San Fernando with his skull was cracked open.

His wife, Nympha Loudon, said she left their house at 5 a.m. on Aug. 9, while her husband was still asleep and returned at 9 a.m., when she found him dead and the house in disarray

13 Aug 2012 - ‘Lahar flow’ rumors send panic

PAMPANGA -- Rumors of lahar flow to this city sent people to panic Sunday morning, forcing some to move out of stores and shops.

News that lahar will reportedly flow from Guagua to Bacolor and down to bury the City of San Fernando -- just as floodwaters in many barangays have subsided amid fair weather -- spread like wildfire after the 10 a.m. mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral.

13 Aug 2012 - Pampanga tops list of crop damages

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Bureau of Agricultural Statistics reported that Pampanga tops the list of provinces with most crop damages, with damages in Central Luzon reaching P583,563,206.

The DA said some 16,079.01 metric tons of supposed harvest in Central Luzon was hit by floodwaters from the recent rains brought by the southwest monsoon.

12 Aug 2012 - Aquino visits flood victims in Pampanga, 3 provinces

PAMPANGA -- President Benigno Aquino Jr. visited on Sunday Barangay Sto. Niño here to check on flood victims, after his visit in Tarlac and Bataan.

Aquino was welcomed by City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, 3rd district Representative Aurelio Gonzales, Butil Representative Agapito Guanlao and Govenor Lilia Pineda at the Barangay Sto. Nino Elementary School here.

12 Aug 2012 - Residents return home as floodwaters recede

PAMPANGA -- Hundreds of families in this city have started returning to their homes as floodwaters in their barangays receded.

Transportation has normalized as road networks in San Fernando are now passable to all vehicles and businesses have resumed operations.

12 Aug 2012 - Monsoon death toll in Pampanga rises to 16

PAMPANGA -- The death toll in the province has increased to 16 as 17 municipalities and one city remain flooded due to the heavy downpour brought by the recent southwest monsoon.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) identified the casualties as Angel Ignacio Ocampo, 6, of Barangay Alauli, Masantol; Tracy Nunag Estrella, 11, of Sto. Tomas, Lubao; Stephanie Ballon Marquez, 3, of San Agustin, Candaba; Darrel Macaspac Flores, 9, of Apalit, Floridablanca; Renato Sibal Fan, 30, from Marcos Village Mabalacat City; Jayvy Lingat Cunanan, 20, of Quebiawan, City of San Fernando (CSFP ); Joey Camposanto Tolentino, 33, of Baruya, Lubao, Michael Bryan Francisco Gatdula, 12, of Sto. Niño CSFP; Lloyd Navarro, 30, of San Pedro, CSFP; Jeffrey Mercado, 17, from Pio, Porac; Eller Hipolito Terrado, 38, of San Nicolas, Arayat; and Renato Poris Padilla, 32, of Sucat, Parañaque.

12 Aug 2012 - Mayor orders sandbagging to protect villages

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Romulo Pecson of Magalang has ordered for the sandbagging of creeks, which lateral portions were eroded during the heavy rains brought about by southwest monsoon.

Pecson said the Municipal Government purchased sacks for the ongoing sandbagging of the Magalang creek to protect Barangays Santo Niño, Sta Lucia, Turu, Escaler, San Roque and other adjacent villages.

12 Aug 2012 - Supporters still cry for environmentalist’s death

ANGELES CITY -- A candle-lighted shout for justice is what environment groups and other supporters offered in front of the Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City Saturday night to cap a whole day of observation of the 40th day of the death of the Dutch environment champion Wilhelmus “Willem” Geertman.

A hundred supporters from the ranks of cause oriented groups, professionals, church sector, urban poor and youth and students came in solidarity with Alay Bayan Luson Inc. (ABI Luzon) and the newly constituted Willem Geertman Brigade (WGB) for a candle-lighting program and a mass in his honor.

11 Aug 2012 - Aquino, government officials visit flood-hit areas

PAMPANGA -- President Benigno Aquino III, along with some Liberal Party stalwarts, trooped to Barangay Sto. Nino in this city to distribute relief goods to thousands of flood victims and to assess the southwest monsoon’s damages in the province.

Aquino arrived from Tarlac and Bataan with Joel Villanueva of the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (Tesda), and Aurora Representative Juan Edgardo Angara, Energy Secretary Jose Almendras, Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman and Akbayan spokesperson Risa Hontiveros.

11 Aug 2012 - Clark firm to distribute relief goods to flood-stricken areas

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to distribute an initial 5,000 packs of assorted relief goods to families affected by recent monsoon floods in low-lying areas of Pampanga.

The CDC has initially distributed relief goods to affected residents of Barangay Dau (113 families) and Sapang Biabas (30) in nearby Mabalacat City and Angeles City (290).

11 Aug 2012 - Relief delivery marks 40th day of Geertman’s death

ANGELES CITY -- The Alay Bayan Luson Inc. (ABI Luson) commemorates the 40th day of the killing of executive director Wilhelmus “Willem” Geertman with a relief delivery operation.

The relief operation was conducted in Barangay San Joaqion, in the municipality of Sta. Ana, instead of the usual candle lighting and mass, said Ranilo Margallo, campaign and advocacy officer of ABI Luson on Saturday.

11 Aug 2012 - Guv: Rehab will follow after flood

PAMPANGA -- Sleepless and mustering her strength for her round-the-clock rounds of the province, Governor Lilia Pineda said Friday that after the massive relief operations by the Provincial Government, immediate rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure and crops would follow.

“What we are doing now is prioritizing everything from relief operations to assessment of damaged infrastructure. It was good that we were ready for this kind of a big calamity,” she said.

10 Aug 2012 - Pampanga braces vs future flooding

PAMPANGA -- A multi-sectoral group here has adopted a resolution proposing for a long term solution on the flooding problem in this city and other towns in the province.

The City Government of San Fernando, Provincial Government, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (Pamcham) met the other day at the Heroes Hall and drafted immediate plans of actions to resolve the waterways problem affecting the province.

10 Aug 2012 - Construction worker drowns in flood

PAMPANGA -- A construction worker drowned in the flood during the heavy rains brought about by the southwest monsoon.

Eller Terado, 27, married, resident from Barangay San Nicolas, Arayat remained missing for several days.

10 Aug 2012 - Farmers group gives relief goods for flood victims

MABALACAT CITY -- The Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (AMGL) launched a relief drive operation for farmers, indigenous peoples, and fisher folks who were affected by continuous rain and heavy flooding in the region.

AMGL chairperson Joseph Canlas said their group has been closely monitoring the effect of the calamity on its provincial chapters and member organizations in the region since Typhoon Gener hit the region.

10 Aug 2012 - Bizman vows aid for flood victims, infra repair

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan top businessman Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) on Friday vowed to send more aid to flood victims in the province, as well as seek the National Government’s swift repair of damaged infrastructure like the breached San Fernando-Santo Tomas-Minalin tail dike.

Pangilinan was briefed by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez on the extent of flood damages in the city Friday morning at Heroes Hall, before proceeding to Barangay San Nicolas in this city, then to Sto. Tomas, Minalin, San Simon and Apalit where he similarly met with mayors of the towns to assess the damage and immediate needs of cabalens in the hard areas.

10 Aug 2012 - Binay’s team recues flood victims

PAMPANGA -- The rescue team of Vice President Jejomar C. Binay has rescued 139 persons trapped by floods in this town and in Marikina City.

Chief Inspector Paul Gamido chief of police of San Simon, Pampanga informed Binay that the team, together with members of the Philippine National Police-San Simon, rescued Thursday 60 persons in La Paz, in addition to the 79 that were rescued earlier in Marikina.

10 Aug 2012 - Calamity response team formed in honor of slain missionary

PAMPANGA -- The Alay Bayan Luson Inc. (ABI Luson) has formed the Willem Geertman Brigade (WGB) to serve in times of calamity.

The WGB is named after the ABI Luson’s late executive director Wilhelmus Geertman, a Dutch national killed last July 3.

9 Aug 2012 - P419M crops damaged, 1 million evacuated in Central Luzon floods

PAMPANGA -- The three days of incessant rains brought about by the southwest monsoon still prevailing over Luzon Thursday has registered a whooping P419,574,374 damages to palay (rice) crops in Central Luzon (CL) with 1,535,751 families in 190 evacuation centers across the region.

The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Bureau of Agricultural Statistics, in its partial damage report, said 39,925.28 hectares of palay crops have been affected by the flooding. Out of this number, some 29,536.08 are classified as partially damaged while a remaining 10,389.20are classified as “totally damaged.”

9 Aug 2012 - Floods in San Fernando slow to recede

PAMPANGA -- Floodwaters in most barangays of the City of San Fernando are slow to recede, continuously paralyzing businesses and transportation even as rescue and relief operations in critical areas are going on 24/7 since Tuesday.

In rounds of the city Thursday, residents said only a few groceries and supermarkets, including SM City San Fernando, were open to customers but with enough staple stocks for those securing provisions. Public market vendors have relocated themselves near the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Hospital along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Dolores.

9 Aug 2012 - DTI: Price freeze takes effect in Pampanga, 3 provinces

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Central Luzon said a freeze in the prices of basic goods is now in effect in Pampanga, Bataan, Bulacan, and Zambales.

The DTI said that under a state of calamity, an automatic price control is implemented as contained in Section 6 of Republic Act 7581 otherwise known as the Price Act as a preventive measure to avoid chaos that may result from overpricing of basic goods during times of calamities.

9 Aug 2012 - 50,000 to get relief goods

PAMPANGA -- Some 50,000 flood-affected Kapampangans are set to receive relief goods from the provincial government, as Governor Lilia Pineda directed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) to prepare for the distribution of relief goods to at least 329 flood hit villages from 19 municipalities and two cities of the province.

PDRRMC personnel and other volunteers had been tasked to supervise the round-the-clock packing of relief goods to provide the immediate needs of concerned residents.

9 Aug 2012 - Villages in Candaba remain isolated

PAMPANGA -- Several villages remain isolated as the floodwaters continuously rise due to intermittent heavy rains.

The Malisik and Maasim dikes have been weakened by the volume of water hitting its walls, reports said.

9 Aug 2012 - Mayor asks village leaders to activate disaster councils

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Thursday asked village chiefs to activate their respective disaster councils in order to respond effectively to the needs of their constituents during emergency situations.

In a meeting Thursday, Pamintuan asked the village officials to beef up their disaster councils particularly those affected by flooding and lateral erosions along the Abacan River.

9 Aug 2012 - Mayor asks village leaders to activate disaster councils

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Thursday asked village chiefs to activate their respective disaster councils in order to respond effectively to the needs of their constituents during emergency situations.

In a meeting Thursday, Pamintuan asked the village officials to beef up their disaster councils particularly those affected by flooding and lateral erosions along the Abacan River.

9 Aug 2012 - Residents told to stay alert

PAMPANGA -- Municipal disaster officials of this town Thursday told residents here, particularly those in Barangay San Vicente, to stay alert, be vigil and cooperate in ongoing evacuation and rescue operations.

This, as floodwaters continue to rise from Wednesday’s level of three meters, following the widened breached portion of the San Fernando-Sto. Tomas-Minalin tail dike to more than 120 meters.

9 Aug 2012 - Group blames government for massive flooding

MABALACAT CITY -- An environmentalist group, Save the Trees Coalition, has blamed the government, particularly the Public Works and Environment departments, for the massive flooding in several parts of Pampanga and Angeles City.

Cecile Yumul, convenor and spokesperson of Save the Trees Coalition, said the absence of big and full grown trees is causing floodwaters to stagnate along the national highway.

9 Aug 2012 - Mabalacat cops recover stolen delivery truck

MABALACAT CITY -- The city police recently recovered a stolen delivery truck in Cabanatuan City.

The closed van that contained grocery items and other food products was carnapped last week in Barangay Sapang Biabas here.

9 Aug 2012 - Rescue, sandbagging conducted at Mabalacat City

MABALACAT CITY -- Local government officials here had to roll up their sleeves, and wade flood waters wearing raincoats and rain boots to conduct rescue, relief and sandbagging operations to aid their constituents and reduce the damage caused by the torrential rains pouring for close to two weeks now in Central Luzon and many other parts of the country.

Mayor Marino Morales, in an interview over the phone, said they had been making the rounds of the communities of the new city to ensure the protection of Mabalaqueños.

9 Aug 2012 - 6 families rescued from raging waters in creek

ANGELES CITY -- At least six families were rescued from the Hadrian Creek in Barangay Balibago here because of strong water current due to heavy rains at dawn Thursday.

Balibago chairman Rodelio Mamac said the barangay team rescued a total of 21 individuals, including 12 children, who are now staying at the barangay hall.

8 Aug 2012 - Monsoon claims 5 lives

PAMPANGA -- The death toll in Pampanga due to the southwest monsoon rose to five, as major river systems and tributaries here spilled over to the towns last Tuesday.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) identified the casualties from drowning as Angel Ignacio Ocampo, 6, of Barangay Alauli, in Masantol; Tracy Nunag Estrella, 11, of Barangay Sto. Tomas, Lubao; Stephanie Ballon Marquez, 3, of San Agustin, Candaba; Darel Flores, 9, from Barangay Apalit in Floridablanca town; and Renato Fan, 30, of Marcos Village, Mabalacat City.

8 Aug 2012 - Towns remain underwater

PAMPANGA -- All of Guagua town’s 31 barangays are still inundated in floodwaters as of Wednesday, as waters from neighboring towns are still flowing into this catch basin.

Guagua municipal administrator Jun Panganiban said the whole town is still underwater, with water rising at least 5.5 feet in some villages, and 1.5 feet in most barangays. Hardest hit include Barangays Lambac, Natividad, San Jose and San Vicente.

8 Aug 2012 - Lawmaker starts distribution of relief goods

PAMPANGA -- Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. (3rd district, Pampanga) ordered on Wednesday the release of P1-million worth of relief goods to flood victims in different parts of the district following an aerial inspection.

Gonzales said the amount would be followed up with additional relief assistance as consolidated and verified reports of flood victims from different government agencies come in.

8 Aug 2012 - 7 flights diverted to Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- At least seven domestic flights of Airphil Express were diverted Wednesday at the Clark International Airport due to air traffic congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Metro Manila.

Operations at the Clark airport have remained normal with no cancellation of international and domestic flights, said Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President and CEO Victor Jose Luciano.

8 Aug 2012 - Veeps aide visits AMA scholars in Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- Vice President Jejomar Binay's political officer Mark Allen Sison visited scholars at the AMA Computer University here to check on the status of the scholars as part of their support for indigent students.

Sison’s visit to the AMA Computer University-Angeles Campus in Nepo Subdivision here was aimed at boosting the morale of the students and to check on the progress of their school.

8 Aug 2012 - Mayors league official leads rescue operations

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga Mayors’ League (PML) president and Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo spearheaded rescue operations in this town after Mayor Joselito Naguit sought his assistance.

Naguit asked Pelayo’s help in rescuing residents here who were trapped in their houses after the quick rise of floodwaters.

8 Aug 2012 - Guv calls for pre-emptive evacuation

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda called for a pre-emptive evacuation among residents living in the coastal villages in the 4th district of the province on Tuesday.

“‘Yung kababayan natin na nakatira sa coastal towns sana po ay mag-voluntary evacuate na sila. Huwag na nilang hintayin pa na abutin sila ng mataas na tubig (I hope people living in coastal towns will voluntary evacuate. Please do not wait until the water rises),” Pineda said.

8 Aug 2012 - Mayor orders forced evacuation of residents

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan ordered on Tuesday forced evacuation among residents near the Abacan River following lateral erosions due to heavy rains that destroyed and washed out several houses.

Pamintuan asked the city disaster office to evacuate residents in five barangays including Sapang Bato, Anunas, Malabanias, Ninoy Aquino and Balibago.

8 Aug 2012 - Pampanga under state of calamity

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Board (PB), in a special emergency session Tuesday morning, declared Pampanga in a state of calamity due to massive flooding in most barangays and towns, including two cities in the province.

The PB passed Resolution No. 2703, “A Resolution Declaring the Province of Pampanga Under a State of Calamity,” enabling the province, through Governor Lilia Pineda, to utilize five percent of the calamity fund of the province for the needs of those affected by the incident.

8 Aug 2012 - Mayors ordered to implement disaster response plans Ian Ocampo Flora

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda ordered mayors here to implement their respective disaster response plans, a day before majority of the province’s barangays have been hit by floodwater.

Pineda, in a meeting with the Pampanga Mayors League at the Capitol’s Executive House, reminded the mayors of the importance of disaster response plans.

7 Aug 2012 - Rains flood second district towns, destroy crops

PAMPANGA -- Torrential rains brought about by the southwest monsoon flooded most barangays here particularly along Guagua, Lubao, Sasmuan, Floridablanca and several other villages in the mountain town of Porac.

In Sta. Rita town, most of the ten barangays have been flooded early Tuesday morning. Officials have stared sandbagging operations in different portions of the Sapang Balen dike to protect the town from further flooding.

7 Aug 2012 - No cancellation of flights at Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport management (CIAC) said on Tuesday that no local and international flights were cancelled and that the operation in the airport is normal.

This, despite heavy rains due to southwest monsoon that triggered massive flooding, lateral erosions on river banks and landslides in Pampanga and many parts of Central Luzon.

7 Aug 2012 - Quake jolts Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the province and some parts of Metro Manila were struck by an earthquake Tuesday afternoon.

The earthquake, which was tectonic in origin, was felt at Intensity 2 in Clark and Pasay City.

7 Aug 2012 - Thousands in Arayat affected by flooding

ANGELES CITY -- At least 20 of the total 30 barangays of the province’s northeast municipality of Arayat were already inundated in one of the worst floodings in the town.

This was the information passed on to the Alay Bayan Luson (ABI-Luson) by Municipal Social Work and Development Officer Rosselle Miranda around 2 p.m. Tuesday.

7 Aug 2012 - Guv alarmed over rise of dengue patients

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda expressed alarm over the increasing number of dengue patients confined in various hospitals in the province.

Pineda noted that Jose B. Lingad General Memorial Hospital (JBL) is now crowded with dengue patients.

6 Aug 2012 - Villages on ‘flood watch list’ identified

PAMPANGA -- Board Member Nestor Tolentino of the fourth district of Pampanga identified on Monday villages in the area that he branded as flood-prone and on the Capitol’s rescue watchlist.

While he said the current situation merits no alarm, Tolentino said that residents in the villages on the watchlist have been warned and should stay alert as evacuation centers like schools on high ground have been prepared in case of eventualities.

6 Aug 2012 - Capitol conducts inventory of flood-affected households

PAMPANGA -- Capitol is conducting an immediate inventory of households, particularly in the fourth district towns of Macabebe, Masantol, and San Simon that were affected by flooding brought about by continuous downpours.

Board Member Ricardo Yabut announced this Monday after met with barangay captains from the towns and Governor Lilia Pineda at the Executive House to assess the situation and prepare the necessary assistance for affected residents there.

6 Aug 2012 - Special school module during flooding season sought

PAMPANGA -- Several parents of students in the coastal communities in the fourth district urged the Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday to come up with a special academic module during the flooding season.

They said classes were suspended for an indefinite period as school compounds have remained submerged in floodwaters.

6 Aug 2012 - Mayor vows excellent governance

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino Morales has vowed to espouse a better system of governance following the conversion of Mabalacat into a component city.

Morales said the City Government will hire consultants from the corporate world to improve the level of governance and service to the people.

6 Aug 2012 - Carpenter killed in hit-and-run

MABALACAT CITY -- A 44-year-old carpenter died after he was hit by an unknown vehicle at dawn Sunday.

Superintendent Rodney Raymond Louie Baloyo IV, city police chief, identified the victim as Romeo Gamboa Supan, of Pandan, Anupul, Bamban town in Tarlac province.

5 Aug 2012 - Mayor on cash advances: Everything accounted for

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Joselito Naguit said over the weekend that the P9.5 million in cash advances he allegedly made for the months of May to November 2011 were all returned, accounted for to the last centavo and deposited in the municipal fund of Sto. Tomas.

This, Naguit said, is contrary to the accusations of former municipal administrator Rodelio Garcia that the amount was used by the local chief executive for his “personal gains.”

5 Aug 2012 - Porac mayor orders closure of Manuali transfer facility

PAMPANGA -- Porac Mayor Condralito dela Cruz said over the weekend that he has ordered the closure of the Manuali transfer facility here, as the town is now implementing a strict “no segregation, no collection” policy among all its barangays to reduce the total generated garbage here.

“The facility is now totally closed,” Dela Cruz said.

5 Aug 2012 - Health office probes sexual assault on bar girl

ANGELES CITY -- The City Health Office is now conducting an inquiry regarding the reported sexual assault incident involving two government employees assigned at the licensing division of the city’s social hygiene office.

The unidentified City Government staff reportedly assaulted a bar girl at the Lacem (League of City Entertainers and Managers) office near the social hygiene office on June 25, 2012.

5 Aug 2012 - Computerization of quarry operations pushed

PAMPANGA -- Vice Governor and 1st district congressional aspirant Joseller Guiao said over the weekend that he is bent on having quarry operations in the province computerized since collections have stabilized.

This came after the quarry collection in July this year was posted at P22,120,000, bringing revenues for the past seven months of 2012 to P177,497,500.

5 Aug 2012 - Heavy rains damage bridge’s approach

PAMPANGA -- The approach of the Bomba Bridge in Barangay San Agustin in Candaba town was damaged by strong water current brought about by heavy rains.

This bridge is part of the Sta. Ana-Candaba-Baliuag road that crosses the swamp on the southeast portion of the said municipality.

5 Aug 2012 - Binay’s politic officer wants sisterhood pact with Makati

ANGELES CITY -- Vice President Jejomar Binay's political officer Mark Allen Sison is hoping to seal a sisterhood pact with Makati City if elected vice mayor of this city in 2013.

Sison, in an e-mail, said a sisterhood agreement with Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay of Makati City is beneficial to both the cascading of best government practices between the two cities.

4 Aug 2012 - Gloria Arroyo chokes on melon, goes back to hospital

PAMPANGA -- Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was rushed to Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) late Thursday night, casting doubts on her capability to participate in the chamber’s crucial vote next week on whether or not to close the period of interpellation on the reproductive health (RH) bill.

Arroyo, 65, was in pain after choking on a piece of melon and had to be admitted to VMMC where she had been on hospital arrest in connection with an electoral sabotage case for almost eight months.

3 Aug 2012 - 12 Pampanga towns still submerged in floods

PAMPANGA -- Twelve towns in Pampanga on Friday remain submerged in floodwaters caused by heavy rains from Typhoon Gener and the southwest monsoon.

Barangays Bebeanac and Bebe-Matua in Masantol town are the worst-hit by floods, with floodwaters reaching 3 to 4-feet-high.

3 Aug 2012 - Experts eye 20% BPO growth in next 5 years

CLARK FREEPORT -- Experts expressed here yesterday confidence that the country’s business process outsourcing (BPO) industry will grow at 20 percent yearly.

This, as the Clark Development Corp. (CDC), local investors and BPO experts bared yesterday this freeport will host the 4th International Outsourcing Summit from Oct. 7 to 9.

3 Aug 2012 - Search is on for GMA challenger

PAMPANGA -- Confirmation that former President, now Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo would seek reelection next year in this province’s second district has fueled anew a search for her opponent.

Architect Adonis Simpao, who was the official candidate of the Liberal Party (LP) against Arroyo in the 2010 congressional race in the district, said he would not run again, but stressed he would help search for a worthy opponent to Arroyo.

3 Aug 2012 - Champion solon needed to push Clark as int’l gateway

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Gov. Joseller “Yeng” Guiao on Monday stressed the need for a “champion congressman” from Pampanga who will aggressively push for the full development of the Clark International Airport (CIA) as the country’s major gateway.

“The international airport should be transferred from Manila to Clark,” said Guiao, who was interviewed at the opening of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) office at the Ayala-owned Marquee Mall here.

3 Aug 2012 - Charges vs. mayor not politically-motivated

PAMPANGA -- Former Sto. Tomas municipal administrator Rodelio Garcia clarified on Friday that the charge of malversation and other cases he filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against Mayor Joselito Naguit and two other officials in his administration “is not politically-motivated nor a form of political harassment.”

During a press conference in a restaurant in this city, Garcia said “no other politician or Sto. Tomas official was behind” his appearance and accusations.

3 Aug 2012 - Communist group leader out on bail

PAMPANGA -- Emmanuel Bon Alejandrino, the Supremo of Hukbong Mapagpalaya ng Bayan (HMB), who was arrested on Monday has posted bail amounting to P240,000 and was released from the Provincial Jail Friday.

Superintendent Jhoan Ponseca-Rosales, chief of Pampanga police operation branch, said Alejandrino's bail was approved by Executive Judge Edgar Chua of the Regional Trial Court branch 47.

3 Aug 2012 - Vice President taps LGUs in anti-squatting drive

MABALACAT -- Vice President Jejomar C. Binay has tapped local government units (LGUs) in a drive against squatting syndicates and professional squatters.

In a press statement sent to Sun.Star Pampanga on Friday, the Vice President said the active participation of LGUs is crucial in the national government’s anti-squatting campaign.

3 Aug 2012 - Guv gives financial aid to farmers

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda recently started the distribution of financial assistance to identified farmer-beneficiaries from different towns in Pampanga province.

“We want to know the condition of our marginalized farmers for possible additional programs and services for them,” she stated.

3 Aug 2012 - Rob suspects nabbed

ANGELES CITY -- Two suspected robbers were reportedly arrested by bystanders with the help of Bantay Bayan members after a holdup incident at the Bayanihan Park at dawn on Tuesday.

Balibago village chief Rodelio Mamac said the city police filed Robbery with Intimidation against Persons case against the suspects identified as Lloyd Morales David, 19, of Roxas Street, Dau, Mabalacat City and his companion who is a minor.

3 Aug 2012 - Robbers cart away P1-M cash

PAMPANGA -- Two robbers riding-in-tandem a motorcycle carted away almost P1 million in cash after they held up a mother and her son along the MacArthur Highway in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Lubao town last Tuesday.

Police identified the victims as 51-year-old Edna de Vera and her son Jayson, 24, an overseas Filipino worker, both of M. Roxas, Sta. Cruz, Lubao town.

2 Aug 2012 - Lawmaker hopes to see Freedom of Info bill passed by December

ANGELES CITY -- Deputy Speaker Lorenzo “Erin” Tañada III said on Thursday he is optimistic to see the controversial Freedom of Information (FOI) bill passed by December this year.

Tañada, who led the FOI open forum at the Balibago Barangay Hall here, said the bill is now under the House committee on public information chaired by Eastern Samar Representative Ben Evardone.

2 Aug 2012 - Balibago Vermi Garden project lauded

ANGELES CITY -- Deputy Speaker Lorenzo Tañada III lauded the Vermi Garden Project of Barangay Balibago on Thursday, saying the project is a model for environment friendly programs.

“This project is something that could be replicated in other highly urbanized cities whose problems in garbage disposal is a particular concern,” said Tañada, who visited the garden before his open forum on the Freedom of Information Bill at the Balibago Barangay Hall.

2 Aug 2012 - Clark ranked 3rd airport freezone

CLARK FREEPORT -- DMIA was ranked third best airport freezone in the world according to a survey conducted by a magazine published by the Financial Times Business Group of London.

FDi Magazine, a bi-monthly news and foreign direct investment publication, recently published its "Global Free Zones of the Future 2012/13" report.

2 Aug 2012 - Develop Clark airport now - Romero

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) vice chairman Rene Romero urged the administration of President Benigno Aquino III to start the full development of the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) after it was named by London-based Financial Times Business Group as third best among airport zones in the world.

“It is high time that should give full attention to CIAC and name it as one of the main gateways of the country. Full development funding and a long term development plan to open the airport to bigger flights and investment,” Romero said.

2 Aug 2012 - Guv leads opening of roads in Sta. Ana

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda led the inauguration of the newly constructed roads in various barangays here on Tuesday.

The roads were constructed in the barangays of San Pedro, Sta. Lucia, San Nicolas, and San Joaquin to provide convenience to residents.

2 Aug 2012 - EdPam welcomes opening of DFA Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded the efforts made by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for opening a consular office at a shopping mall here.

Pamintuan was among the officials invited during Monday’s inauguration of the new DFA consular office at the 3rd level of Marquee Mall in this city.

1 Aug 2012 - Binay’s aide gives computers to Angeles City schools

ANGELES CITY -- An aide and project manager of Vice President Jejomar Binay led the distribution of computer units in several schools in this city.

Mark Allen Sision, chief of staff of former Mayor Francis Nepomuceno, turned over the computer sets to elementary schools in Sapang Bato, Gueco, and Santa Maria.

1 Aug 2012 - No damage to properties, casualties amid ‘Gener’

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government reported no serious damage to properties or loss of lives amid the onslaught of Typhoon Gener (international codename: Saola) and accompanying heavy downpour.

General Services Office chief Royce Pring and Environment and Natural Resources Office head Art Punsalan, who have been tasked by Governor Lilia Pineda to assist in monitoring possible flooding in high risk areas in Pampanga, said as of 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, the situation in the province was normal and that various municipal disaster action offices reported of no untoward incidents.

1 Aug 2012 - Vice mayor delivers “Ulat sa Paglilingkod”

ANGELES CITY – Few days after Mayor Edgardo D. Pamintuan had his State of The City Address (Soca), Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting also gave her report to village officials with her “Ulat sa Paglilingkod” on Monday at the Grand Palazzo Royale, Barangay Cutcut, this city.

Vega-Cabigting stated her accomplishments as Angeles City’s Vice Mayor and as Presiding Officer of the City Council that includes programs on health, education, environment, women and barangay empowerment.

1 Aug 2012 - Golden Nile Bar closed

ANGELGES CITY -- City Hall issued a temporary closing order on the Golden Nile Bar.

It was the Fire Department found some issues during a routine inspection.