Balibago News Oct-2012
31 Oct 2012 - Woman ‘held’ by Chinese national rescued
ANGELES CTIY -- A 20-year-old woman, allegedly detained illegally by a Chinese national inside an apartment in Barangay Balibago here, was rescued recently by authorities.Balibago chairman Rodelio Mamac said the suspect, Christopher Tan, reportedly locked the victim inside an apartment for several months.
31 Oct 2012 - ‘Longest’ All Souls’ Day rites start in Betis today
PAMPANGA -- While others would have been setting aside left-over candles after the November 1 occasion, folks of this district would continue honoring the dead, showering them with prayers in the company of family members continuously for nine days, starting from November 1 until November 9.As early as Monday, residents here have been busy cleaning grave sites.
31 Oct 2012 - Hardware store held-up by riders-in-tandem
PAMPANGA -- Four unidentified riders-in-tandem, one of them armed with an unknown gun, held up the JBJ Commercial and Construction Supply in Barangay San Juan, City of San Fernando last Tuesday.In a report, Pampanga Police Acting Provincial Director R’Win Pagkalinawan said two of the suspects posted in front of the establishment while the two others entered and one of them pointed a gun at Joseph De Jesus, 47, of Zone 2, Cabalantian, Bacolor.
31 Oct 2012 - Salisi Gang victimizes 2 Russians
PAMPANGA -- Two Russian diplomats fell victims to the Salisi Gang while taking their lunch at a McDonald’s chain at the Lakeshore Business Center in Barangay Panipuan, Mexico town last Tuesday.Andrey Sapzhikov, 51, and wife Elena, presently residing in Laguna Towers, Makati City, were reportedly taking their lunch at the food chain when two unidentified men approached the couple and asked them if they owned a Toyota Revo, the plate number of which was listed on a piece of paper and when they left they noticed a shoulder bag, which was placed in a chair next to her was already missing.
30 Oct 2012 - Mexico town acting mayor assumes office
PAMPANGA -- Acting Mayor Roy Manalastas buckled down to work early Tuesday morning starting the day by issuing his first memorandum to employees, signing pending documents, and listening to the needs of hundreds of Mexico folks.Manalastas worked at the Municipal Council session hall, as the Mayor’s Office was still locked and Municipal Government employees cleaning and securing the personal belongings of suspended Mayor Teddy Tumang.
30 Oct 2012 - BCDA Board finalist in Asia CEO Awards
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s (BCDA) Board clinched a spot as a finalist in the ongoing search of the Asia CEO Awards’ Most Admired Board of Directors.BCDA Chairman Felicito C. Payumo said the BCDA is the lone government representative in a group composed of the private individuals.
30 Oct 2012 - ‘Favoritism’ on Comelec registration process noted
PAMPANGA -- Disgruntled resident-registrants at the municipal office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in this town on Tuesday noted “favoritism” during the registration process.This came as hundreds of Candabenios came early at the Comelec office to be registered and be able to participate in the upcoming elections next year.
30 Oct 2012 - Police on 'full alert' during Undas
PAMPANGA -- The entire Central Luzon police force has been placed on full alert status Tuesday as part of observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in the region.Chief Superintendent Edgardo Ladao, Police Regional Office (PRO) director, said the “full alert status” is part of their security preparations for the annual "Oplan Kaluluwa" that aims to provide maximum security coverage and public safety service, to include security assistance along highways and major thoroughfares, and traffic management along routes leading to cemeteries and other places of convergence.
30 Oct 2012 - Taytay wins fireworks competition
CLARK FREEPORT -- The entry of Taytay town, Rizal (Number 7) emerged as winner in the Pyrofest Competition sponsored by SM City Clark the other night.SM City Clark officials estimated that some 20,000 people gathered at the mall to witness the spectacular exhibition of fireworks, the culminating activity of the Fiestang Kuliat celebration of Angeles City.
30 Oct 2012 - Women leaders slam Lazatin
ANGELES CITY -- Leaders of various women’s organizations criticized what they described as lack of coherent and clear program of government of Representative Carmelo Lazatin (1st district, Pampanga).“Is that all? You call that a program of government? That's not a program. That's a very, very, very shortlist of what he intends to do. But even as a list, the same pales in comparison to the program of government of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan as presented in the contract with Angeleños,” Meren Coronel of the Kapisanan ng mga Kababaihan para sa Kaunlaran ng Angeles (KKKA) said.
30 Oct 2012 - Bacolor town all set for ‘Makatapak’ Festival
PAMPANGA -- Bacolor is set to celebrate this year’s Makatapak Festival (Barefoot Festival) on Nov. 17, highlighting resiliency and religious fervor of its people in a myriad of street dancing and events.Mayor Jose Maria Hizon said the event is in cooperation with the San Guillermo Parish, Centro Catolico de Bacolor, and the Municipal Government of Bacolor.
30 Oct 2012 - Cybersex den raided
ANGELES CITY -- Seven minors including a 9-year-old boy were rescued from a cybersex den in Marisol Subdivision Monday evening.Three women and a man, believed to be operators of the cybersex den, were arrested after they were tipped off by various non-government organizations from the United States, United Kingdom and Australia.
29 Oct 2012 - Spanish envoy cites Kapampangans’ resiliency
PAMPANGA -- The Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq Monday cited the Kapampangans’ resiliency when it comes to calamities, which led to the success of the province of Pampanga.Domecq said the province started to rise and grow from its devastation following the Mt. Pinatubo eruption 17 years ago.
29 Oct 2012 - Mexico mayor suspended
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Pampanga ordered on October 25,2012 the suspension of Mexico City Mayor Teddy Tumang for three months without pay.The DILG order, which took effect last Thursday, stressed: “The order denied the motion for reconsideration filed in your behalf, thus imposing against you the three months suspension without pay as stated in the Ombudsman decision dated November 8, 2010.”
29 Oct 2012 - Manalastas vows to ‘make good’ of 3-month ‘mayor’
PAMPANGA -- Acting Mayor Roy Manalastas of Mexico vowed to make use of the three-month post at the Mayor’s office for the benefit of the people.Manalastas said he would immediately buckle down to work today, Tuesday, and start pushing for the delivery of basic services like health, infrastructure, and education.
29 Oct 2012 - Spanish flag flies again after 114 years
PAMPANGA -- THE Spanish flag known as “La Rojigualda” flew once again at the Pampanga Capitol Monday, marking the historic visit and friendship of Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq.The “La Rojigualda” flew side by side with the Philippine flag as the national anthems of the two countries played one after the other for the first time marking a revitalization of friendship between the countries.
29 Oct 2012 - Nepomuceno: Clark workers to get more jobs
ANGELES CITY -- Congressman-wannabe Francis Nepomuceno said he is in talks with union leaders of the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) in a bid to give more jobs to some 70,000 CFZ workers of the city.Nepomuceno said he will provide livelihood opportunities, which will come in the form of cooperatives, to the Clark workers through their respective unions such as the Samahang Manggagawa ng DMIA (SMD), Association of Concerned CDC Employees (ACCES), and Association of CDC Supervisory Personel (ACSP).
27 Oct 2012 - Roxas not in favor of arming village watchmen
CLARK FREEPORT -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas said he is not in favor of arming village watchmen or tanods in maintaining peace and order in the barangay, adding that the proposal might bring more problems and solve criminality.“One would need specialized training to be able to carry side arms. It would bring more problems that solve most,” Roxas said, adding that tanods and barangay officials should instead coordinate with the local police in implementing peace and order programs.
27 Oct 2012 - DILG names local governance performers
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently named and feted Pampanga towns and barangays for their excellence in the local governance performance management system (LGPMS) and other aspects of administration.According to DILG regional director Florida Dijan, for 2011, all of the 137 local government units in Central Luzon composed of seven provinces, 13 cities and 117 municipalities have been recipients of the Seal of Good Housekeeping.
27 Oct 2012 - Kapampangan ice cream out in market
PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan ice cream is now out in the market following its launching at the municipality of Sta. Rita town.The Provincial Government, Municipality of Sta. Rita, and Magnolia Ice Cream forged an agreement for the mass production of “Pampanga’s Pinipig” ice cream.
27 Oct 2012 - City dad gets awards on good governance
ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan received six awards on transparency and good governance in ceremonies held Thursday at the Oxford Hotel, Clark Freeport.The awards, which were given by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Manuel Roxas III, include the Gawad Pamana ng Lahi Award - Highly-Urbanized City category, the Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS) Plaque of Recognition - Top 10 for two years in a row and the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) for 2nd straight year.
27 Oct 2012 - Dole issues pay rules for holidays
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) on Thursday issued the Labor Advisory No. 03, Series of 2012, promulgating the pay rules applicable for October 26 and November holidays.“Pursuant to Proclamation Nos. 295 and 488 issued by President Benigno Aquino III on November 24, 2011 and October 9, 2012, respectively, the following rules for pay on regular holidays on October 26 and November 30 and special days on November 1 and 2, 2012 shall apply,” Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, Dole secretary, said in issuing the labor advisory.
27 Oct 2012 - SM holds seminar for special customers
CLARK FREEPORT -- The SM City Clark conducted a series of seminars in a bid to train its employees and tenants on the proper handling of special customers or persons with disabilities (PWDs).Ana Datu, SM City Clark Mall manager, said the project was implemented in cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd) Special Education (Sped).
27 Oct 2012 - Petty cash issue vs EdPam is ‘petty’ - exec
ANGELES CITY -- City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan Friday called on the camp of Congressman Carmelo Lazatin to stop misinterpreting the Commission on Audit (COA) observations on city hall operations.“For lack of anything to say, Lazatin and his ilk are already nitpicking. The COA observations they are citing with regards to petty cash use are indeed very petty. We would not be winning awards from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) if there is any adverse report from COA,” he said.
27 Oct 2012 - Clark workers union to stage prayer rally
CLARK FREEPORT -- Employees unions of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) will stage a prayer rally and noise barrage on Monday in protest of the implementation collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).The workers will stage their protest actions during lunchtime in front of the CDC President's Office at the parade ground.
27 Oct 2012 - Health workers get PhilHealth cards
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government, through its Provincial Social Welfare Office (PWSDO), led the distribution of more Philippine Health (PhilHealth) Insurance cards to Barangay Health Workers (BHWs).PSWDO chief Elizabeth Baybayan disclosed that some 2,712 PhilHealth cards were distributed in various districts in the province.
25 Oct 2012 - Brit shot at the gate of his home
ANGELES CITY -- A British National identified only as Ian was shot as he was about to enter his gate at his home in Josefaville 1. The assailant snuck up behind him at about 1230 am and shot him in the back of the head but the round did not penetrate the skull.25 Oct 2012 - ‘Righteous’ Roxas shames Gov Panlilio given ‘place of honor’ in LGU-police meet
CLARK FREEPORT -- So what was former Pampanga Gov. Eddie T. Panlilio doing at the presidential table in Wednesday’s Regional Peace and Order Council meeting at the Oxford Hotel here?“I am one of those who believe in the leadership of Among Ed,” came the reply of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas who asked Panlilio to join him at the place of honor, a seat away from him.
25 Oct 2012 - AC stages 20th ‘Tigtigan Terakan King Dalan’
ANGELES CITY- The region’s biggest and most anticipated two-day annual street party, the Tigtigan Terakan King Dalan (TTKD), is set to welcome visitors from all over the country celebrating the two decades of Angeleños’ ‘triumph over tragedy’.“More than a night of food, dance, and music, TTKD is a celebration that takes pride to the indomitable spirit of each Angeleños to rise from the destruction wrought by Mount Pinatubo,” said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan who is also the chairman for this year’s Fiestang Kuliat committee.
25 Oct 2012 - Petty cash use charge vs EdPam is petty
ANGELES CITY -- City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan yesterday called on the camp of Congressman Tarzan Lazatin to stop misreading and misinterpreting the Commission on Audit (COA) observations on city hall operations.“For lack of anything to say, Lazatin and his ilk are already nitpicking. The COA observations they are citing with regards to petty cash use are indeed very petty. We would not be winning awards from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) if there is any adverse report from COA,” he said.
25 Oct 2012 - COA report shows city gov’t violating spending rules
ANGELES CITY -- The camp of Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin on October 25 hit the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for using the City’s petty cash funds on non-petty expenses in violation of Commission on Audit (COA) Rules and Regulations.For the year 2011, the City Government spent a total of P9,666,543.19 from their petty cash funds to pay for various expenses, including P111,700 for Publication, P164,793.63 for Spare Parts, P92,304.70 for Honoraria, and P1,804,493.13 for Miscellaneous Expenses, the COA Audit Report shows.
25 Oct 2012 - Rxas says bulk purchase saves gov’t some P30,000 per firearm
CLARK FREEPORT -- Interior and Local Governments Sec. Mar Roxas said here that the government is saving about P30,000 per firearm in its purchase of at least 66,000 pistols for the country’s police force.In press conference Wednesday, Roxas said the bulk purchase lowered the cost of the pistol which otherwise would cost from P45,000 to P50,000.
25 Oct 2012 - Subic Bay area ready for ‘Undas’
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- Travelers planning to pass through or stay in this free port for the All Saints Day break can expect a comfortable and convenient ride along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and the Subic-Clark- Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx).This was the assurance given by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia after the management of NLEx and SCTEx announced new innovations at the said expressways to make travel safe and expedient for thousands of commuters expected to go home to their respective hometowns.
25 Oct 2012 - Real time traffic updates for NLEx, SCTEx now available online
PAMPANGA -- The Tollways Management Corporations (TMC) is now implementing a real time travel advisory for the expressways north of Manila, saying it’s the first of its kind in the country.The travel advisory is available online on www.tollways.net.ph and can be viewed on desktop computers or mobile gadgets like smartphones and ad IPads.
25 Oct 2012 - Yap, 2 Tarlac LGUs awarded Gawad Pamana ng Lahi
CLARK FREEPORT -- Gov. Victor Areno Yap and two town mayors received the Gawad Pamana ng Lahi award from Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas in a program held at the Oxford Hotel here Wednesday morning.The two municipalities cited were Anao and Gerona while Camiling, Paniqui and Moncada towns received their Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) checks.
25 Oct 2012 - Subic posts P95.34M in revenue surplus
SUBIC FREEPORT -- The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) here posted a P760.14 million collection in September or a combined 14.34 percent surplus over the total collection target of P664.8 million.Periodic reports indicated that the BOC and BIR gained a combined surplus of P95.34 million last month when the two agencies collected P677.18 million and P82.96 million respectively.
25 Oct 2012 - Employee returns cheque worth P164,250
Subic Freeport -- Just when we thought honesty was becoming a fading virtue, an employee of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) surrendered to the bank a cheque worth P164,250 that he found in a parking lot here.“I live a Christian life and as a Christian, it is the right thing to do. And one Christian practice I value is ‘do not take what is not yours’,” said Tristan Madi, a supply officer at the SBMA Tourism Department.
23 Oct 2012 - Arroyo, son file medical parole bill
PAMPANGA -- Ailing former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who is once again in detention this time for plunder, is seeking a medical parole for prisoners suffering from an incapacitating physical condition, like herself.Arroyo, now a Pampanga representative, has coauthored House Bill No. 6608, which lays the guidelines that would allow the Board of Pardons and Parole to grant liberty to inmates who are considered very ill.
23 Oct 2012 - Central Luzon crime rate plunges by 40.88%
PAMPANGA -- Crime rate in Central Luzon has plunged by 40.88 percent, with Bulacan recording the highest crime rate, the regional police based at Camp Olivas here said.“Records bear out 40.88 percent decrease in crime rate in Central Luzon from January to September this year compared to the same period last year,” Camp Olivas reported yesterday.
23 Oct 2012 - Wide fishing ban seen in ‘dubious’ USAID project
ANGELES CITY -- The Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries (Ecofish) Project, jointly launched last week by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) would soon lead to fishing ban in eight major “biodiversity areas” to adversely affect millions of fishers in the country.While the objective of Ecofish Project “to replenish fish and ensure good catches for fishermen” appears worthwhile, fisherfolk alliance Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) warned of a “hidden agenda” in it.
23 Oct 2012 - ‘Corrupting voters is Lazatin poll strategy’ – Partido ABE
ANGELES CITY -- This early Lazatin is already reducing the 2013 local elections into a bidding exercise by fielding his leaders not to organize but simply to list people whom they promise to pay come election day, according to Partido Abe Kapampangan.The party also earlier said Lazatin do not have a clear and concrete platform other than criticizing the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.
23 Oct 2012 - NGO speaks up about report on ‘overpriced’ city projects
ANGELES CITY -- Noel Sibal, spokesperson for Curia Sancti Rosarii Incorporated (CSRI), on October 19 spoke up regarding the controversial report by the City Project Monitoring Committee (CPMC) which cited several infrastructure projects of the City Government, under the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, as “overpriced, poorly planned and poorly constructed”.Sibal, during his guest appearance on the radio show of veteran media personalities Med David and Fred Cortez, confirmed that the said report was a collective output of the entire CPMC presented at the meeting of the Local Development Council.
23 Oct 2012 - Posh memorial park sets space for poor in Angeles
ANGELES CITY -- Just in time for All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1, this city’s poor are assured of cemetery for their dead in a posh memorial park after Catholic church authorities announced the pending closure of the already overcrowded Catholic cemetery in Barangay Cutcut here.Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the local government has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the privately owned Holy Mary Memorial Park here for the provision of 200 concrete apartment-type niches for this city’s poor.
23 Oct 2012 - BM Halili at ICU
ANGELES CITY -- Pampanga 1st District Board Member Tarcicio “Tars” Halili suffered a cardiac arrest Monday night and is in critical condition at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Angeles University Foundation Medical Center.This was learned from his fellow first district board member, Cris Garbo who accompanied Gov. Lilia Pineda when she visited Halili on Tuesday and spoke with the patient’s cardiologist Dr. Norberto Yumul.
22 Oct 2012 - Travel agency owner shot dead by vendor in Angeles
ANGELES CITY- An owner of a travel agency was shot dead by a vendor from Marawi City after an argument over space along Fields Avenue here at about 9:30 a.m. last Sunday.Senior Inspector Luisito Tan, chief of the police station 4 in the tourist district near Clark Freeport, identified the victim as Edwin Pinyad, 42, owner of Northwest Travel Agency. He died from a bullet wound in the back.
22 Oct 2012 - Philippines’ AirAsia re-aligns flights from Clark airport
ANGELES CITY -- In a move to rationalize and consolidate operations brought about by volatile oil prices and the growing demand for foreign tourism, Philippines’ AirAsia today announced that it is re-aligning flights from Clark International Airport with two new flights to Singapore and Taipei on December and rationalizing flight frequencies to its domestic destinations.“With our two new international routes, we would like to draw in-bound tourist to the country and help contribute to tourism dollar revenues,” AirAsia Inc. CEO Maan Hontiveros said.An owner of a travel agency was shot dead by a vendor from Marawi City after an argument over space along Fields Avenue here at about 9:30 a.m. last Sunday.
22 Oct 2012 - Market groups support EdPam
ANGELES CITY -- Leaders of various associations of stall owners and vendors at the Pampang and San Nicolas Public Markets today came out in the open to support the re-election bid of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, even as they criticized what they called as the dirty tactics of Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin’s camp particularly Irish “IC” Calaguas, the congressman’s chief of staff.Leticia Lobo, chairwoman of the San Nicolas Market Multipurpose Cooperative, said that the administration of Mayor Pamintuan restored discipline and orderliness in the public markets of Angeles City while respecting the rights of stall owners and vendors.
22 Oct 2012 - Lazatin camp hits EdPam for lack of platform claims
ANGELES CITY -- “Mayor Lazatin will rebound Angeles City from bankruptcy.”Thus said IC Calaguas, Chief of Staff of Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin, reacting to the claim of the camp of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan that Lazatin has no platform.
22 Oct 2012 - GROUP DARES Racamora reveal names of hired personnel in NAPC
ANGELES CITY- A militant group challenged yesterday National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) chairman Jose Eliseo Racamora to provide details on some P27.97 million he allegedly used for the services of 81 contractual personnel and 19 consultants last year.The fisherfolk alliance Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) vice chair Fernando Hicap said Racamora should render a detailed report, particularly names of hired personnel, to the Commission on Audit (COA).
21 Oct 2012 - Austrian found dead in Angeles City
ANGELES CITY -- The decomposing body of an Austrian national was discovered inside his home in Angeles City.The foul smell coming from the home of Karl Horner Hedwig at No. 101 Dawes Street, Sunset Valley Homes, prompted Rosalina Carbonel to report it to authorities who found no sign of foul play and believe that the foreigner died a natural death.
21 Oct 2012 - Clark airport expects 1 millionth passenger
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport is expecting its one millionth passenger for 2012 this week, said airport corporation (CIAC) president and CEO Victor Jose Luciano on Sunday.“This is another milestone for the Clark International Airport as we have achieved for the first time an unprecedented one million passengers in one year. In fact, with the arrival of the millionth passenger, the figure is achieved in just 10 months, even before the year ends,” said Luciano.
21 Oct 2012 - Lawmaker’s aide thanks mayor
ANGELES CITY -- A close aide of first district Representative Carmelo Lazatin expressed gratitude last Friday to Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for accepting their guarantee letters for financial assistance of indigent patients at the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC).“On behalf of Congressman Lazatin, I would like to thank Mayor Pamintuan for accepting the guarantee letters from Congressman Lazatin’s office,” said IC Calaguas, Lazatin’s chief of staff.
21 Oct 2012 - Guv bares P1.2-B infra projects in Pampanga
CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda said at least P1.2 billion has been spent by the Provincial Government for various infrastructure projects in Pampanga.This was gleaned during the oath-taking of officers of the Provincial Federation of Barangay Health Workers dubbed “Bayanihan Para Sa Kalusugan Ng Mga Kapampangan” held at Stotsenberg Hotel here.
21 Oct 2012 - Students get P2.2-M scholarship grant from Capitol
PAMPANGA -- Some 200 students from Visualcom College in this city got P2.2 million in scholarship grants from the Pampanga Provincial Government.Vice Governor Joseller Guiao led the awarding of scholarship grants to identified beneficiaries in a ceremony held Saturday at the covered court of Barangay San Jose Panlumacan, this city.
21 Oct 2012 - Mayor to start woodcarving competition as yearly activity
Mayor of Guagua Ricardo Rivera is set to host a yearly competition for woodcarvers and sculptors in a bid to promote and encourage the younger generation here to keep the woodcarving industry alive.This came after the success of the recent on-the-spot woodcarving event at Betis District here, hosted by the Woodcarvers Guild of Sta. Ursula and the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines-Pampanga Chapter.
21 Oct 2012 - Most Outstanding Kapampangans search reels off
PAMPANGA -- The search for most outstanding Kapampangans is on, with provincial tourism officer Arwin Lingat saying it is the highlight of the Pampanga Day celebration on December 11.Lingat said the Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (Moka) 2012 will recognize Kapampangans excelling in the fields of agriculture, arts, business and entrepreneurship, culture, mass media, education, government service, judicial service, law enforcement, parenthood, religion, science and technology, social service, sports, and youth service.
21 Oct 2012 - High-powered guns seized in Tarlac
PAMPANGA -- Several high-powered firearms, explosives and hundreds of bullets were confiscated by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Field (CIDF), Tarlac Police and the Sta. Ignacia police during a raid in Barangay Sta. Ines Centro, Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac, over the weekend.Senior Superintendent Elmo Sorona, regional officer of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit-Central Luzon, said the raiding team, armed with a search warrant issued by Executive Judge Ramon Pamuler of the Regional Trial Court Branch 32 in Guimba, Nueva Ecija swooped down on the house of a certain Edward Carillo of the said barangay.
20 Oct 2012 - City Hall employee hailed for exemplary deed
PAMPANGA -- An employee of the City Government of San Fernando was recently recognized for preventing a robbery attempt.Ronillo Gloria, who is assigned at the City Treasurer’s Office, was cited by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, local officials, co-employees, and police after he chased three suspected thieves aboard a motorcycle.
20 Oct 2012 - Village hosts first wood carving contest
PAMPANGA -- The Wood Carvers Guild of Sta. Ursula Betis held Saturday the first-ever on-the-spot wood carving competition at the Sta. Ursula Gym.The event is in cooperation with the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines-Pampanga Chapter with the support of Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd District, Pampanga).
20 Oct 2012 - Guv wants better ties with Koreans in Pampanga
PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda said she is batting for a renewed relation with the Korean communities in the province during his talk with South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Hyuk Lee.The governor welcomed Lee over the weekend along with Korean community officials in Pampanga and Angeles City.
20 Oct 2012 - Driver dies, 8 hurt in accident
PAMPANGA -- A van driver died while his passengers sustained wounds after his vehicle rammed the concrete railing of the Gugu Bridge in Bacolor town Friday.Acting Provincial Police Director R’Win Pagkalinawan identified the driver of the Toyota Lite Ace as Orlando Lugtu, 59, a resident of Barangay San Pedro, Floridablanca town.
20 Oct 2012 - 4,120 residents receive PhilHealth cards
ANGELES CITY -- A total of 4,120 indigent residents here recently received PhilHealth cards from the City Government and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Phic).“Our beneficiaries were identified by the National Government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR),” PHIC branch manager Arsenia Torres said.
20 Oct 2012 - Dole boosting FWP in Central Luzon
PAMPANGA -- The Labor Department of Central Luzon has started boosting its Family Welfare Program or FWP designed to strengthen family ties of workers in Central Luzon, a Dole official said.Labor communications officer Jerry Borja said Dole regional director Raymundo Agravante over the weekend instructed all provincial field offices to intensify the program to further sustain industrial peace in the region.
19 Oct 2012 - 20 women nabbed in Pampanga bar raid
PAMPANGA -- More than 20 female workers were arrested during a raid by the NBI at the Sphynks Bar along Barangay Dolores in San Fernando.The apprehended women were brought to the Immigration Academy in Clark, Pampanga to be investigated. Authorities will likewise determine if any of those arrested were minors.
19 Oct 2012 - ABE bares intrigues, bribing of its leaders
ANGELES CITY -- The Partido Abe Kapampangan has warned its leaders and members of attempts by its political opponents to sow intrigue and discord and destroy the unity of the party, under which incumbent Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan is running against Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin.In a memorandum to its organizers, officers and members, Danilo de Austria Consumido, Abe secretary general, said there are reports that political operators identified with Lazatin are spreading rumors that the party is giving out money to some of its leaders, causing others to ask why they have not received theirs.
19 Oct 2012 - Child abuse raps vs. city college president ‘Revenge’ for libel case
ANGELES CITY -- The president of the first-ever public college here was charged before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on October 12 for violation of the law on the abuse, exploitation and discrimination of children involving a 16-year-old female college student here in 2006.Averell Laquindanum, president of the nearly completed City College of Angeles (CCA) which started operating early this year in a temporary campus, was accused of violation of Sec. 3 of Republic Act 7610, otherwise known as the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.”
19 Oct 2012 - City gov’t uses petty cash for gas
ANGELES CITY -- The camp of Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin hit at the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for repeatedly using petty cash for their gasoline expenses even in the year 2011, which is a violation of Commission on Audit (COA) Corcular No. 97-002.The COA Annual Audit Report for the year 2011, dated June 18, 2012, show that for the year 2011, the administration of Pamintuan reimbursed a total of P1,417,740.77 in gasoline expenses.
19 Oct 2012 - Pampango sculptors to do centrepiece mural for UNESCO conference in Vigan
Pampanga -- Nine Kapampangan sculptors, including Presidential Merit Awardee for Ecclesiastical Art Willy Layug, are to create Vigan City’s centerpiece mural in time for its hosting of UNESCO’s International Council on Monuments and Sites Conference on Cultural Tourism next month.“Our wooden mural, which is 3.8 meters high and 6.8 meters wide, will encapsulize Vigan’s rich culture and history.
19 Oct 2012 - Oca: CSF programs to continue with Santiago
PAMPANGA -- Mayor Oscar Rodriguez of San Fernando expressed optimism that Vice Mayor Edwin Santiago would be able to continue the programs started by his administration on education, employment, livelihood and solid waste management, among others, if the latter is given a chance to serve as city mayor.The mayor said Santiago had a wealth of management experience in the private sector and has been a long-time public servant, making him one of the most qualified mayoralty candidates in the city.
18 Oct 2012 - City owes P2.5M in fuel products
ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City owes more than P2.5 million in gasoline and fuel products from Magtoto Petron Station, the reason why some city owned vehicles are disallowed from getting fuel from the gas station.IC Calaguas, chief of staff of Representative Carmelo Lazatin (1st district, Pampanga) claimed the City Government is stuck in debt.
17 Oct 2012 - P34M out for livelihood program
PAMPANGA -- The chief of the Provincial Cooperative and Entrepreneurial Development Office (PCEDO) bared Wednesday that more than P34-million has been released by the Provincial Government to qualify beneficiaries in various livelihood projects particularly under the Negosyo King Panyulung Program (NPP).PCED)chief Mamerto Gatus said they were providing economic opportunities to the marginalized sector in all towns in the province.
17 Oct 2012 - Peso shares award to stakeholders
PAMPANGA -- An official from the Pampanga Public Employment Services Office (Peso) has shared her recent award to Governor Lilia Pineda, municipal and barangay coordinators.Luningning Vergara, head of Peso Pampanga, stated Wednesday that they have successfully implemented public employment services because of the full cooperation of all the stakeholders.
17 Oct 2012 - Santiago lauds Fil-Chi groups for support to CSF
PAMPANGA -- Vice Mayor and Rotarian Edwin Santiago has lauded the support of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the San Fernando Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (SFFCCII) for their continuing support to the education sector here through their “Barrio Schools” project.The group recently donated three two-classroom buildings amounting to P2.5 million. Another two-classroom building facility was donated for Barangay Cut-Cut I in Capas, Tarlac.
16 Oct 2012 - Arroyo not after immunity from suits - lawyer
PAMPANGA -- The lawyer of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said her re-election bid as representative of the second district of Pampanga despite her frail condition is not meant to block any law suits.Lawyer Raul Lambino said Arroyo will continue to serve her people even if it means her life.
16 Oct 2012 - Apu Ceto backs Vatican dispensation
PAMPANGA -- It’s a move that not only allows gubernatorial candidate Fr. Eddie “Among Ed” Panlilio to fully delve into politics, but also open for him the possibility of marriage.The Most Rev. Paciano Aniceto, archbishop of San Fernando, has decided to seek Pope Benedict XVI’s full dispensation for Liberal Party (LP) gubernatorial candidate Panlilio, a measure that will not only suspend but also strip him of his priestly powers.
16 Oct 2012 - P15-B Tarlac dam deferred
ANGELES CITY- The P15-billion upgrading of the Balog-Balog Dam has been deferred pending a study on whether smaller cascading dams or a high dam should be built, Pres. Aquino said.During his recent visit to Moncada, Tarlac, the President said the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board deferred approval of the project expected to irrigate an additional 21,935 hectares of farmlands in Tarlac, on top of the 34,430 hectares irrigated by existing dam structures.
16 Oct 2012 - Stop issuing ECCs to reclamation projects
ANGELES CITY- The country’s biggest fisherfolk alliance forwarded yesterday to Environments and Natural Resources Sec. Ramon Paje an “omnibus demand” for him to “cease and desist from issuing environmental clearance certificates (ECCs) to large-scale land reclamation projects.”The letter-demand of Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), a national federation of small fisherfolk organizations in 43 provinces all over the country, cited reclamation projects in the Manila Bay and “other areas covered by the National Reclamation Plan (NRP) of the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).
15 Oct 2012 - Lazatin aide a black propagandist - Aguilar
ANGELES CITY -- The Partido Abe Kapampangan scored the aide of Congressman Carmelo Lazatin for “spreading lies and black propaganda” against Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.“She is a black propagandist,” said Party Deputy Secretary General William Aguilar, referring to Irish Calaguas.
15 Oct 2012 - Pineda conferred ‘most outstanding gov’ in Philippines
PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda bagged the “Most Outstanding Governor” award during the 12th National Peso Congress held at the Baguio Country Club, Baguio City last October 11.Luningning Vergara, Pampanga’s Public Employment Service Office (Peso) manager, disclosed that Pineda is now included in the roster of “Hall of Fame Awardees” as far as provision of employment services in the country is concerned.
15 Oct 2012 - Canadian official offers assistance to Kapampangans
PAMPANGA -- Canadian member of Parliament for Winnipeg North Kevin Lamoureux said he could offer assistance to Kapampangans during his courtesy call to Governor Lilia Pineda over the weekend.Accompanied by Butil Party List Representative Agapito Guanlao, Lamoureux disclosed in a luncheon meeting with the governor, Capitol officials, and Pampanga mayors that he could be of help in terms of jobs and employment for skilled workers in Canada, family migration, and agricultural technology exchange.
15 Oct 2012 - P3.8M out for Dong’s college scholars in 3rd district
PAMPANGA -- Some 1,275 college students received cash assistances from the “Iskolar ng Dong” program of Representative Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales (3rd district) Sunday.Gonzales distributed cheques at his Sindalan District office amounting to P3,000 each to the beneficiaries enrolled under Bachelor Science and Vocational courses. These include some 933 Bachelor Science students from Arayat, Sta. Ana, Mexico, Bacolor; 179 beneficiaries enrolled in vocational courses in San Fernando City; and 163 students enrolled at the Visualcom College.
15 Oct 2012 - Residents thank PNoy, Lapid for road project
ANGELES CITY -- Residents of Barangay Balibago thanked President Benigno Aquino III and Senator Lito Lapid for approving the implementation of a vital road project amounting to P2.5 million.Balibago Chairman Rodelio Mamac said the President, through Lapid, ordered the release of funds, special allotment release order (Saro), to cover the implementation of a 200-meter road along Laguna Street in said village.
15 Oct 2012 - Resort facility snubs SP
MABALACAT CITY -- A resort facility here has repeatedly snubbed invitations from the City Council to attend en banc committee hearings to address issues bearing on the said facility.Paradise Ranch, through its spokesperson and administrative head, Roman Goce, in his letter dated October 9, 2012, countered that the topic of discussion in the hearings “are (sic) too broad to resolve in one sitting.”
15 Oct 2012 - Carnapper slain in Porac
PAMPANGA -- An alleged carnapper was gunned down after he traded shots with policemen manning a check point along the Porac-Dinalupihan road in Barangay Jaling, Porac town over the weekend.In a belated report, Senior Superintendent R’Win Pagkalinawan, acting provincial police of the Pampanga Police, said the Porac police flagged down a motorized tricycle during a check point at said vicinity.
14 Oct 2012 - PamCham leads talks on Jasa road updates, concerns
PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham), through its Infrastructure Directorate headed Bong D. Mah, led the panel discussion on the status of rehabilitation works along the section of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa) in this capital city.Mah told the meeting is in anticipation of the coming holiday season when shoppers will most likely converge at the two big malls in Pampanga where road constructions have yet to be finished.
14 Oct 2012 - Lawmaker’s generosity reaches Guagua
PAMPANGA -- Third district Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr.’s generosity has reached students of a high school in Guagua.Although not part of his district, Gonzales on Friday responded to the need of some 50 students and their parents for educational assistance at Betis High School.
14 Oct 2012 - P1M available for entrepreneurs under lawmaker’s livelihood program
PAMPANGA -- Representative Aurelio Gonzales announced Saturday his appropriation of a P1-million loan and livelihood fund for indigents and people engaged in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the third district.The fund will be made available in the form of loans and/or livelihood carts under the “Sulong Trabaho nang Dong Gonzales” (STRA-DG).
13 Oct 2012 - 1,200 farmers get aid
PAMPANGA -- Some 1,200 farmers in this town benefited from the financial assistance of the Provincial Government, an official said.Maria David, newly designated officer-in-charge of the provincial agriculture office, said Governor Lilia Pineda on Thursday visited the farmers at the Kapampangan and Tagalog regions and town proper.
13 Oct 2012 - Cops: Candaba town peaceful
PAMPANGA -- A top official of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) recently revealed that Candaba town is among the peaceful communities in the province.Pampanga Police Director R’win Pagkalinawan said he is happy with the recent achievement of Candaba on peace and order.
13 Oct 2012 - Halili to continue lawmaking in City Council
PAMPANGA -- Three-termer Board Member Tarcicio Halili recently revealed he wants to continue lawmaking in the City Council of Mabalacat, if given the mandate by the Mabalaqueños.Halili, incumbent chairman of the Provincial Board Members League of the Philippines (PBMLP) and chairman of the Provincial Board’s Committee on Human Resource, said he will seek the council seat as an independent candidate.
13 Oct 2012 - San Fernando Peso bags hall of fame award
PAMPANGA -- The Public Employment Services Office (Peso) of this city bagged the hall of fame award during the 12th National Peso Congress at the Baguio Country Club in Baguio City.The award came after Mayor Oscar Rodriguez was named as the Lingkod Bayan awardee and Peso manager; and Community Affairs Division head Donny Sayre was named as the PagAsa awardee by the Civil Service Commission of the Philippines (CSC) recently.
12 Oct 2012 - Betis sculptor off to Rome to set up altar
PAMPANGA -- Willy Layug has flown to Rome Thursday to set up the first ever Filipiniana altar dedicated to Filipino St. Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod at the prestigious Pontificio Collegio Filippino.The altar is dominated by sawali and bamboo designs to show the unique Filipino character of the altar and will be set up in time for the declaration of Calungsod as second Filipino saint this month.
12 Oct 2012 - Clark workers dismayed over CBA delay
CLARK FREEPORT -- Employees of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) are dismayed over a directive issued to the union to defer talks on collective bargaining agreement.Governance Commission on Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GCG) chairman Cesar Villanueva in a letter to CDC officer in charge Eduardo Oban Jr. stated "the Commission formally informs CDC that with the Issuance of EO7 and pursuant to the enactment of Republic Act 10149, CBAs between employees and GOCC employers may no longer be negotiated.”
12 Oct 2012 - Angeles denies holding village shares of real property tax
ANGELES CITY -- City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan Thursday said there is no truth to the report that the barangays did not receive their real property tax (RPT) shares.In fact, he said, several barangays received their RPT shares for the month of July and August since Tuesday.
12 Oct 2012 - Lazatin claims EdPam no chance in 2013
ANGELES CITY -- “Ala yang panyambut (he has no chances of winning), Angeles City mayoralty candidate Carmelo Lazatin said when asked about his chances against Mayor Ed Pamintuan in the 2013 polls.Lazatin said he has the support of the business sector, 75 percent of the City Hall employees, transport groups, senior citizens, youth, and the members of the grassroots level.
12 Oct 2012 - Zubiri lauds Pineda for projects
PAMPANGA -- Comebacking Senator Migs Zubiri recently lauded Governo Lilia Pineda for fulfilling her promises to Kapampangans and turning into reality her projects especially health programs.Zubiri graced the inauguration of the birthing clinic and the Gov. Bren Z. Guiao Dialysis Center at the Andres Luciano District Hospital in this town last Tuesday, where he also donated a P1-million dormitory for nurses and medical staff.
12 Oct 2012 - Pampanga continues to accept nominees for Kapampangan Awards
PAMPANGA -- The provincial government continues to accept nominations for the 2012 Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA).MOKA aims to recognize individuals who have excelled in their respective endeavors or professions and have brought pride to the Kapampangan race, the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (Actop) said.
12 Oct 2012 - Gloria at risk of heart Attack
PAMPANGA -- Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was transferred to the intensive care unit of the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City following test results showing a block in her heart artery, a condition that could lead to a heart attack.Asked what could have happened between February and now, Nona Legaspi, VMMC director, said "stress" is typically the main factor in any heart illness.
12 Oct 2012 - PE teacher accused of molesting students
PAMPANGA -- A PE teacher of Sindalan Elementary School has gone missing after being accused of molesting his students.Police said the teacher has not returned to the school since he was accused of molestation.
11 Oct 2012 - AC gets awards for good governance
ANGELES CITY -- The Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS) Certificate for being in the Top 10 for two years in a row. The Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) for the second straight year.Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan’s administration stands to receive the three coveted awards from the Department of the Interior and Local Government with no less than Secretary Mar Roxas handing over the honors in the first week of November at the Holiday Inn, Clark Freeport Zone.
11 Oct 2012 - Clark, Cebu ideal to decongest NCR of BPO, IT firms
CLARK FREEPORT -- Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Sec. Mario Montejo on Wednesday named this Freeport as “ideal” site for the growing business process outsourcing (BPO) and information technology (IT) industries in the country with the national government aiming to decongest Metro Manila of the same businesses.Montejo, who was among the guests at the Clark ConEx 2012 International ICT Conference and Expo from October 10 to 11, said at least 75 percent of the total BPO and IT firms are in the National Capital Region (NCR). The 25 percent, he added, are mostly in Cebu and Clark.
11 Oct 2012 - Farmers urged to plant high-yielding rice varieties
ANGELES CITY- The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has enjoined Luzon farmers to plant four high-yielding rice varieties to maximize productivity in low-land areas.In a message during the recent Lakbay-Palay or Farmers’ Field Day, PhilRice executive director Eufemio Rasco Jr. urged farmers to plant rice varieties Tubigan 22 (NSIC Rc240), Malagkit 5 (NSIC Rc21SR), Mestiso 29 (NSIC Rc244H), and Mestiso 38 (NSIC Rc262H).
11 Oct 2012 - City gov’t fails to give barangays’ RPT share
ANGELES CITY -- More claims of failure in fiscal management are thrown at the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan by the camp of his opponent, 1st District Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin.Yesterday, “Team Lazatin” alleged that the city’s barangays have not received their shares of the real property tax (RPT) for the months of August and September.
10 Oct 2012 - Exec: Angeles City is ‘stable, not bankrupt’
ANGELES CITY -- The city administrator here debunked Wednesday reports that the City Government is bankrupt, saying it is able to pay its debts, “including the P1.3 billion incurred by the two previous administrations.”“The good news is it will pay the bonuses of its employees on time this Christmas, unlike the previous administrations,” said lawyer Dennis Albert Pamintuan.
10 Oct 2012 - Lazatin filing charade ‘aims to fool Angeleños’
ANGELES CITY -- The brouhaha over the “photo ops” filing of the certificate of candidacy (COC) last week by a mayoralty candidate in this city continues.Alexander Cauguiran, president of the Partido Abe Kapampangan, thanked on Wednesday Irish Calaguas, chief of staff of Representative Carmelo Lazatin, for admitting that the lawmaker’s filing of his COC last Friday was all for show.
10 Oct 2012 - Filipino-Chinese groups donate 3 school buildings
PAMPANGA -- The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the San Fernando Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (SFFCCII) donated three two-classroom buildings amounting to P2.5 million on Wednesday.Another two-classroom building facility was also donated for Barangay Cut-Cut I in Capas, Tarlac.
10 Oct 2012 - P1M in jewelry taken by robbers
PAMPANGA -- Robbers have struck again in Pampanga as they carted away assorted jewelry worth P1 million and $10,000 from the residence of an Arab national in Tibag, Barangay San Pedro, Magalang town last Tuesday.A belated report identified the victims as Saleh Faerooz, 39, an Arabian national, and Reybi Baltazar, 52, who left their house secured last Friday afternoon.
10 Oct 2012 - Lawmaker awards P105,000 for ICT scholars
PAMPANGA -- Third district Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. led Wednesday the awarding of some P105,000 in assistance to students of the Information and Communications Technology High School (ICTHS) here.Gonzales said the awarding forms part of the total coverage of all students of the ICTHS.
10 Oct 2012 - Lawmaker’s ‘most trusted’ man runs for councilor
PAMPANGA -- One of third district Representative Aurelio Gonzales’s most trusted supporters is eying a City Council seat here, hoping to bring in renewed educational programs and poverty alleviation programs for the city.Raymond Guevarra, son of former San Fernando mayor Paterno Guevarra, filed his certificate of candidacy last week along with dozens of supporters.
10 Oct 2012 - Zubiri bares ‘One Town One Project’
PAMPANGA -- Former senator Juan Miguel Zubiri said Tuesday that he has implemented a “One Town One Project” in the province of Pampanga.Zubiri said he funded at least one project in every municipality in the province as requested by concerned local chief executives.
10 Oct 2012 - Locals alarmed by bike race in national road
PAMPANGA -- A portion of the Baliuag-Candaba-Sta. Ana road along Pansol section in Candaba has been converted into a race track by some adventurous young motorcycle riders, who have alarmed residents.Residents and other motorists called the attention of local police to monitor the area in order to prevent riders from exposing the public to harm.
9 Oct 2012 - 13 NAIA-bound flights diverted to Clark
CLARK FREEPORT -- Thirteen flights bound for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila were diverted to Clark International Airport in Pampanga on Tuesday due to an equipment problem.Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) spokesperson Connie Bungag said NAIA's very high frequency omni-range (VOR), which aids airplanes in landing, failed at around 11 a.m.
9 Oct 2012 - Mayor hits back: No corruption in Angeles City
ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has dismissed allegations of corruption at the City Hall by Representative Carmelo Lazatin, describing it as a “product of desperation and bankruptcy of issues.”“For the first time in his long political career, he is facing a formidable challenge and he is so desperate he is clinging to straws and has resorted to lying even to himself and his own people,” Pamintuan said.
9 Oct 2012 - Guard, resident killed in Mexico village heist
PAMPANGA -- A security guard and the brother-in-law of a British national residing at Beverly Place in Mexico town were killed by still unidentified suspects Sunday evening.Investigators and Scene of the Crime Operatives said that at 10 p.m., five suspected robbers wearing bonnets robbed the home of Roy Thompson where the lone unnamed security guard at Phase 8 of the village was shot dead, along with the brother of Thompson’s Filipina wife.
9 Oct 2012 - Monuments of Bacolor local heroes inaugurated
PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda and other officials led Monday the inauguration of the newly restored monuments of local heroes in Bacolor.It is part of the 250 years celebration of the town’s declaration as the seat of the Spanish colonial government during the British Occupation of the Philippines in 1762.
9 Oct 2012 - Sangil vows genuine public service
ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Jesus Sangil filed his certificate of candidacy for the city vice mayoralty post at the Comelec office here last Friday.Sangil vowed to deliver genuine public service to the people as vice mayor of the city.
8 Oct 2012 - ‘Green’ and ‘Red’ battle in Angeles City heating up
ANGELES CITY -- The battle of the “green” and “red” groups over the mayoralty of Angeles City continues to heat up as both incumbent Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and Representative Carmelo Lazatin continue to throw brickbats at each other.In a mighty show of force over the weekend, both camps nearly crossed paths as they filled City Hall in filing their certificates of candidacy at the local Commission on Elections.
8 Oct 2012 - Capitol allocates P5.2M for agriculture program
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government has allocated some P5.2 million for the implementation of the Farmers’ Enhancement Program in the province.Governor Lilia Pineda said at least 8,000 farmers in the province are expected to benefit from the said program.
8 Oct 2012 - 3 vie for Mabalacat City mayoralty post
MABALACAT CITY -- It’s a three-cornered fight in the mayoralty race here as incumbent Mabalacat Mayor Marino Morales will be opposed by Vice Mayor Noel Castro (Independent) and Noli Castro Jr. of Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP) in the upcoming elections.Supporters of Morales, who is seeking reelection for his last term, said the mayor is seen to regain his seat based on his good performance, one of which is the conversion of the former Mabalacat town into a component city.
8 Oct 2012 - PamCham donates used tires for kids’ playground
PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham), through its Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, went to the GK Enchanted Farm in Barangay Encanto, Angat Bulacan over the weekend and donated 120 used tires for its playground.The donation was led by chairperson Leslie B. Mendiola along with members Aisa Laus-Manalili, Jhun Manalili and Darell Garbes.
8 Oct 2012 - War veterans conduct med mission in Candaba
PAMPANGA -- group of surviving Chinese guerillas and their descendants conducted a medical mission at the Ms. Earth Park in Barangay Mandasig this town last Sunday.These Chinese veterans are members of the Wha Chi 48th Squadron, which established base in Barangay Mandili here during World War II.
7 Oct 2012 - Lawmaker vows to end corruption in Angeles City
ANGELES CITY -- Pampanga first district Representative Carmelo Lazatin Sr. vowed to end corruption in the City Government and bring back the glory of Angeles City when he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) last Friday.Lazatin led his line-up, consisting of four candidates for councilor - Councilor Brian Nepomuceno, Carmelo Lazatin Jr., veteran newsman Maximo Sangil, and Lawyer Nino Enriquez.
7 Oct 2012 - Archbishop sad but respects Panlilio's decision to run
ANGELES CITY -- San Fernando Archbishop Paciano “Apung Ceto” Aniceto said he is saddened by the decision of priest-turned-politician Eddie “Among Ed” Panlilio to run as governor in the 2013 political race here against incumbent Governor Lilia Pineda.Aniceto said Panlilio has made a very difficult decision.
7 Oct 2012 - Aquino pledges support for Pampanga
PAMPANGA -- President Benigno Aquino III has vowed to support development programs for Pampanga and help the province rebound from the recent calamity brought about by the southwest monsoon.“I am committed to the continued support for Pampanga and the region from which my parents came,” said Aquino, speaking before Liberal Party (LP) bets and multisectoral groups at Heroes Hall last Friday.
7 Oct 2012 - Kapampangan-made mural now part of Unesco heritage city
PAMPANGA -- A Kapampangan-made mural is now part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) heritage city of Vigan bringing with it Kapampangan artistry at its best.The 3.8-meter tall and 6.8-meter wide mural was made by Presidential Merit Awardee for Ecclesiastical Art Wilfred “Willy” Layug with a team of eight highly skilled sculptors from the Betis district in Guagua town.
7 Oct 2012 - Militant groups condemn eviction of Tarlac residents
MABALACAT CITY -- The Anakpawis Partylist-Gitnang Luson has condemned the recent attack of 20 security guards to residents of Block 7, Brgy. San Roque, Tarlac City who are still mourning John Cali Lagrimas' death, the 15-year-old shooting victim during the demolition operation last October 2.Anakpawis Partylist-Tarlak chapter said that on October 6, about 10am, security guards hired Dennis Junio, a claimant of the lot, attempted to occupy the lot but faced questioning from residents who are at Lagrimas’ wake.
7 Oct 2012 - SBMA defers Subic airport conversion plan
SUBIC FREEPORT -- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) had deferred its plan to convert the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) into a recreational theme park.Some long-term programs adopted by the agency earlier this year are being modified in view of the current economic changes affecting the Freeport, SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia said.
7 Oct 2012 - 4 men survive ambush
PAMPANGA -- Four persons, including a policeman, survived an alleged ambush perpetrated by unidentified armed men riding-in-tandem along the Porac-Angeles road in Barangay Dolores, Porac town.In a report, Senior Superintendent R’Win Pagkalinawan, acting provincial director, identified the victims as Emilio Sarmiento, 44; Rodrigo Lumanlan, 52; Aliza Ocampo, 41, all of Barangay Hacienda, Porac; and Police Officer 1 Jesus Tiglao, a member of the Porac police force.
7 Oct 2012 - Capitol spends P176.4M for classroom construction
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga has spent some P176.4 million for the construction of 182 new classrooms and six covered courts in various public schools in the province.Records from the Provincial engineering Office (PEO) show that in 2011, the Provincial Government released P50,083,216 for the construction of 45 new rooms, repair and improvement of 32 classrooms and the building of five covered courts.
7 Oct 2012 - US submarines dock in Subic
SUBIC FREEPORT -- The USS Olympia (SSN 717), a submarine of the Los Angeles class design, arrived in Subic Bay last Friday for a routine port call, according to the US Embassy.The USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship of the United States, also docked here, in time for the Philblex 13 which will formally open on Monday.
7 Oct 2012 - Board member puts family first before politics
PAMPANGA -- Incumbent second district Board Member Olga Frances David-Dizon has opted not to run for re-election next year, citing family reasons for her decision.“People should not make decisions they will regret someday. It doesn’t mean, though, that the decision I will make is the one I want. I am not running for board member in the second district of Pampanga,” David-Dizon said.
6 Oct 2012 - 5 people hurt in violent demolition in Tarlac
PAMPANGA -- At least five people were injured during a violent demolition at Block 7, San Roque in Tarlac City before noon.A certain Ariel Valdez and four other residents were hit tangentially with gun bullets in the area.
6 Oct 2012 - Aquino fields Panlilio vs Pineda
PAMPANGA -- Saying he could not allow Pampanga to be left behind in the Philippines’ advance toward progress, President Benigno Aquino III on Friday fielded Catholic priest Eddie Panlilio as his administration’s candidate for governor in the province controlled by the followers of his predecessor, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.The President also endorsed Panlilio’s running mate, lawyer Ma. Amalia Tiglao-Cayanan, Mayor Oscar Rodriguez and lawyer Vivian Dabu as the Liberal Party’s official candidates in Pampanga’s third and second districts.
6 Oct 2012 - Find Peace of min in Sta Rita
PAMPANGA -- It’s not expensive to have peace of mind and happiness said Mayor Yolanda “Yolly” Pineda, as she toured a potential tourism destination just around the megadike that saved most of Pampanga from lahar that an erupting Mount Pinatubo released several years ago.“Where on earth can you find the very beautiful view of the sun combining with the rustic ambiance of the place?” said the two-term mayor in Capampangan.
5 Oct 2012 - Clark airport reduces terminal fee to P450
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has announced the reduction of the terminal fee from P600 to P450 for international passengers effective October 2012.CIAC president Victor Jose Luciano said the price is the lowest in all airports in the country today.
5 Oct 2012 - Guv appeals: No mudslinging
PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda asked contending candidates, parties and groups on Friday to refrain from mudslinging, black propaganda and dirty politicking as the 2013 political season begins.The governor, together with Kambilan bets, filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) around 10 a.m. Friday before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office here.
5 Oct 2012 - Rodriguez to Congress, Panlilio to Capitol
PAMPANGA -- No less than President Benigno Aquino III proclaimed Friday at Heroes Hall Mayor Oscar Rodriguez and former governor Ed Panlilio as the Liberal Party’s bets for the third district congressional post and gubernatorial seat, respectively.The official announcement was confirmed as Rodriguez, accompanied by supporters and the Magsilbi Tamu Team led by mayoralty candidate Edwin Santiago, filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) at 12:05 p.m.
5 Oct 2012 - Mayors support guv’s reelection bid
PAMPANGA -- Some 99 percent or 19 out of the 20 Pampanga mayors pledged support to the reelection bid of Governor Lilia Pineda.Pineda was joined by the mayors when she filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) before the provincial office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday.
5 Oct 2012 - Pamintuan joins Teacher’s Day celebration
ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan joins the 2,055 public teaching and non-teaching personnel in celebration of World Teacher's Day.In a simple yet memorable assembly held at Adventure Beach Resort in Subic last Thursday, Pamintuan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the “unsung” heroes of the society.
5 Oct 2012 - Sto. Tomas mayor to prioritize safety of residents
Mayor Joselito Naguit of Sto. Thomas said on Friday that he will prioritize the safety of his constituents if he will be given fresh mandate.Naguit, who is seeking reelection in the 2013 elections, said the Municipal Government has learned his lesson from San Fernando-Sto.Tomas-Minalin Tail Dike breaching, which claimed the lives of several residents.
5 Oct 2012 - Mayor’s league president files candidacy for Congress
PAMPANGA -- Mayors’ League (PML) president and Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo filed Friday his certificate of candidacy (COC) for congressman in the fourth district of the province.Pelayo said he decided to run for Congress to duplicate his achievements and accomplishments in Candaba to other towns within the stretch of Pampanga River.
4 Oct 2012 - Subic chamber of commerce welcomes SyCipLaw
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) welcomed SyCip Salazar Hernandez and Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) into its roster last July 24.Founded in 1995 to serve and represent the interests of its members, SBFCC's advocacies include helping eliminate graft and corruption, opening communication and collaboration with private and government agencies, streamlining bureaucratic procedures, and promoting tourism while protecting the environment.
4 Oct 2012 - US submarine to dock in Subic Friday
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- USS Olympia (SSN 717), a submarine of the Los Angeles class design, will arrive in Subic Bay today, Friday, for a routine port call, the US Embassy said in a statement.The port visit highlights the strong historic, community, and military connections between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines, the embassy added.
3 Oct 2012 - Son files candidacy papers for Gloria Arroyo
PAMPANGA -- Second district Representative and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) through her son Juan Miguel “Mikey” Arroyo at the provincial Commission on Elections office around 3 p.m. Tuesday.“She is not feeling well at the moment and you can ask her doctors about that. I came here not for myself, but for my mother to file her COC as she seeks another term as representative of the second district of Pampanga,” Mikey told reporters.
3 Oct 2012 - Bugs destroy 30,000 hectares of rice
PAMPANGA -- Rice black bugs (RBB) recently damaged some 30,000 hectares of standing rice (palay) in the towns of Magalang and Arayat.According to Crispin Guinto, provincial agriculturist, the presence of the rice black bugs has been noted in the rice plants along irrigated areas of said towns.
3 Oct 2012 - LP designates village chief as party’s city chair
ANGELES CITY -- The national headquarters of the Liberal Party has designated Balibago chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac as local chairman of the administration party.On September 28, LP President Manuel “Mar” Roxas issued a certification designating Mamac as city chair with authority to nominate and issue certificates of nomination for local candidates.
3 Oct 2012 - Ex-lawmaker vows to improve basic services delivery
ANGELES CITY -- Former Pampanga first district representative Francis “Blueboy” Nepomuceno has vowed to further improve the delivery of basic services in Angeles City, Mabalacat, and Magalang towns.Supporters of the first congressional district of Pampanga benefitted greatly during Nepomuceno’s term as representative to the Lower House.
3 Oct 2012 - Folks laud board member’s sacrificial act
PAMPANGA -- Locals in Candaba expressed admiration on Tuesday for Board Member Ricardo Yabut for sacrificing his congressional ambition in favor of fellow Candabenios.Yabut confirmed to mediamen his decision to finish his third term as board member rather than going for a three-cornered fight on the congressional seat with his friend Mayor Jerry Pelayo and former representative Rimpy Bondoc.
3 Oct 2012 - Red Cross trains 245 health workers in Subic
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Zambales Chapter trained 245 Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), midwives and volunteers on basic mother and child care, disease control and first aid treatment, through a four-day workshop supported by Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. (RP Energy).The series of lectures, dubbed "KliniKaBarangay Health and Wellness Training," is in line with RP Energy’s thrust to improve health care services within the 16 barangays of Subic and Pastolan Village, an Aeta community in Zambales.
3 Oct 2012 - 111th police service anniversary celebrated
PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office (PRO) in Central Luzon joined the Philippine National Police (PNP) in commemorating the 111th Police Service Anniversary held at the PRO Parade Grounds here last Monday.The simple rites coincided with the traditional Monday Flag Raising Ceremony and the natal day of Chief Superintendent Edgardo Ladao, PRO director.
2 Oct 2012 - AirAsia to start daily Clark-Singapore flights
CLARK FREEPORT -- Philippines’ AirAsia, the country’s newest low cost carrier, will begin its daily Clark-Singapore flights on December 15 with booking period which will last until October 7.To celebrate the new route, the Filipino carrier offers an all-in, one way promo fare from only P999 from Clark International Airport to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1 starting October 1 until 7 October 2012 via airasia.com.
2 Oct 2012 - Green group supports ‘Meatless Mondays’
ANGELES CITY -- An environmentalist group has vowed to support the “Meatless Mondays” campaign in the country by promoting tofu sisig, which it claims is as good as the real pork sisig.In fact, a tofu sisig cooking event was held at the Verman Car Park along Miranda Street here last Monday, according to former Councilor Louie Reyes who heads the Green Youth Brigade.
2 Oct 2012 - Hizon matriarch won’t support Panlilio
PAMPANGA -- Lolita Hizon filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) for vice mayor of this town and disclosed she will not support former governor Eddie Panlilio who is set to stage a comeback in the gubernatorial race.Her son, incumbent Mayor Jose Maria “Jomar” Hizon who also filed his COC Tuesday, is seeking for a re-election.
2 Oct 2012 - Doctor-lawyer wants to be guv
PAMPANGA -- A 50-year-old medical doctor and lawyer is running for the gubernatorial post of Pampanga.Jose Cabrera Montemayor Jr. of Purok Magsaysay, Barangay Sto. Tomas in Sasmuan town filed his certificate of candidacy at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Monday at exactly 5 p.m.
2 Oct 2012 - For unity’s sake, Yabut sets aside congressional bid
PAMPANGA -- Board Member Ricardo Yabut said Tuesday for “unity’s sake and the welfare of his constituents” in Sto. Tomas, San Luis, Candaba, San Simon , Minalin, Macabebe and Masantol he is setting aside bid for a seat in the Lower House, as he gives way to Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo.Yabut said he instead will aspire to finish his term as a provincial lawmaker where he is bound to become a senior board member if re-elected to the august body in 2013.
2 Oct 2012 - Mayor faces criminal, admin raps
PAMPANGA -- Criminal and administrative cases have been filed against Mayor Joselito Naguit of Sto Thomas before the offices of the Provincial Prosecutor and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Monday.Zoilo T. Briones, 83, of Barangay Sto. Niño Sapa here filed the said cases against the mayor.
2 Oct 2012 - EdPam: ‘No politics in Fiestang Kuliat’
ANGELES CITY -- While branding the grand Fiestang Kuliat 2012 as a venue for the city to soar higher much that it is themed “Fiestang Kuliat 2012: Sulagpo Angeles!”, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan emphasized that the 20th twin feasts is apolitical and a pure celebration of Angeleños’ spiritual customs and cultural traditions.After the press preview and official launch of Fiestang Kuliat 2012 at SM City Clark yesterday, Pamintuan said that in keeping with the salute to the resiliency of Angeleños as it rose from the ashes of Mt. Pinatubo 20 years ago, the committee he chairs decided to shoo away from politicking during the month long celebration of Fiestang Kuliat this October.
2 Oct 2012 - Lazatin condemns attempt on Agnew’s life
ANGELES CITY -- Congressman Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin has condemned the shooting of businessman Richard Agnew stating that the city police “should get to the bottom of it.”Gunmen reportedly missed their intended target Agnew, who was inside his car near his residence the other day.
1 Oct 2012 - New Pampanga flyover gives better access to Bataan, Zambales, Subic
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the city government of San Fernando on Friday opened to traffic the P373.1-million Lazatin flyover in this Pampanga capital, providing better access to Pampanga, Bataan, Olongapo City, Zambales and the Subic Bay Freeport, said Public Works Undersecretary Rafael Yabut.Yabut apologized for the delay, citing floods in August. “This is expected to ease traffic congestion in the [Jose Abad Santos Avenue-Lazatin intersection]. We hope this would boost trade and tourism in Pampanga and adjoining areas,” he said.
1 Oct 2012 - Group pushes for Clark airport
ANGELES CITY -- The Partido Abe Kapampangan on Saturday denounced an official of the International Air Transport Association (Iata), saying a foreigner has no right to dictate on the government’s airport policy and strategy.Tony Tyler, Iata chief executive officer, “lacked expertise to speak on airport development as he is primarily a representative of profit-oriented commercial airlines,” said Alex Cauguiran, Abe Kapampangan president and former executive vice president of the state-owned Clark International Airport Corp.
1 Oct 2012 - October month of the rosary, also marks long Angeles fiesta
ANGELES CITY -- October is the month of the rosary for Catholics, and for tourists, regardless of religious affiliation, it’s the month to troop to this city loaded for a month-long fiesta marking the feast of its patron, fittingly Our Lady of the Holy Rosary.“A wide array of what Angeles City’s culture, tradition and religion will be featured during this year’s “Fiestang Kuliat or Feast of the City during the whole month of October,” said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.
1 Oct 2012 - IATA chief under fire for ‘undermining’ Clark airport
CLARK FREEPORT -- The president of the International Air Transport Asso-ciation (IATA) came under fire from local leaders for allegedly under-mining the potential of the Clark International Airport (CIA), formerly the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA), here as the country’s main gateway.Alexander Cauguiran, former CIAC executive vice president and now president of the local political party ABE Kapampangan, said that IATA president Tony Tyler Tyler’s statements “contradict the educated findings of a list of formal studies that have identified DMIA as the most ‘viable and practical’ option for a new major airport hub in the country.”