Skip to main content.
Home First Page Previous Page Next Page Last Page

Balibago News Sep-2014

30 Sep 2014 - MC Home Depot Pampanga opens

PAMPANGA -- The pioneer in the home depot business concept opened its first provincial branch here on Tuesday.

MC Home Depot, which started providing everything, homes and offices need 19 years ago, opened its branch at San Fernando.

30 Sep 2014 - AUF-CI celebrates 10th anniversary

ANGELES CITY -- Centered in promoting and teaching Chinese culture and language around the world, the Angeles University Foundation-Confucius Institute (AUF-CI) recently celebrated its 10th founding anniversary.

In line with the celebration, AUF-CI staged Confucius Day, which aims to "give a deeper view of the Chinese culture to the Filipino students," said AUF-CI Volunteer Chinese Teacher Yanyi Chen.

30 Sep 2014 - Abducted girl rescued

MABALACAT CITY -- A 12-year-old girl, reportedly abducted last Sunday in Madapdap Resettlement Center, was rescued in Porac town by policemen and social workers at dawn on Tuesday.

At the same time, police officers arrested the suspect Allen Gonzales, 21, who took her to the said town.

30 Sep 2014 - Abducted girl rescued

MABALACAT CITY -- A 12-year-old girl, reportedly abducted last Sunday in Madapdap Resettlement Center, was rescued in Porac town by policemen and social workers at dawn on Tuesday.

At the same time, police officers arrested the suspect Allen Gonzales, 21, who took her to the said town.

30 Sep 2014 - PNAT back in Luzon

PAMPANGA -- After more than 10 years of being held in the Visayas, the Philippines RC Congress, in cooperation with the Angeles City Flying Club (ACFC) and Petron staged the 28th Philippine National Aeromodeler's Tournament (PNAT) in Luzon recently.

Dubbed as "Tomorrow We Fly," the three-day event of PNAT was held at the ACFC facilities in Magalang town, which will help introduce Pampanga as the new center for RC tournaments in the country.

30 Sep 2014 - Luciano: No bullet train to Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Outgoing Clark International Airport Corporation president and Chief Executive Officer Victor Jose Luciano has clarified that there is no proposal about a bullet train to connect the airport here and Metro Manila.

The National Government is bent on pursuing a high-speed train, which will connect the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark, said Luciano.

30 Sep 2014 - Guv eyes local government academy

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda is eyeing the establishment of a local government development academy in Sto. Tomas town through the support of the University of Makati and other colleges and universities.

The newly and fully renovated two buildings vacated by the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) -- funded at an amount of P10-million by the Provincial Government -- will be used as facilities for the local development academy.

30 Sep 2014 - Renaming San Fernando requires study

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin said Tuesday that renaming the City of San Fernando to San Fernando City or what is applicable under the law requires a thorough study and coordinative work with the City Council's counterparts in the capital of La union province.

The proposal of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham), he noted, has already been taken up in the plenary for the proper resolution, and will be communicated to the House of Representatives where Representative Oscar Rodriguez will take it up in aid of legislation in Congress and clarification with lawmakers in San Fernando, La Union, for proper disposition.

29 Sep 2014 - 3rd district students get educational assistance

PAMPANGA -- Some 667 college students from the Third District towns of Bacolor, City of San Fernando, Mexico, Sta. Ana and Arayat yesterday received P6,000 each in educational assistance from Pampanga Representative Oscar Rodriguez at Heroes Hall in this city.

Even without the Priority Development Assistance Fund or PDAF, Rodriguez said he was able to source out the financial assistance for his “Tulong Dunong” program from government agencies like the Commission on Higher Education and Department of Social Welfare and Development, just so “the future of the students could be assured.”

29 Sep 2014 - Baby dolphin newest addition to Ocean Adventure family

SUBIC BAY -- A baby bottle nose dolphin is the newest addition to the Ocean Adventure family, after "Hali", a first time dolphin mother, gave birth to the calf recently, according to officials of the marine theme park here.

Gail Laule, executive vice president of Ocean Adventure, said that Hali’s baby dolphin was born on August 31, 2014 at the Ocean Adventure facility in Subic Bay.

29 Sep 2014 - Rodriguez ready to push for new San Fernando name

PAMPANGA -- Third District Representative Oscar Rodriguez said Monday that he is ready to help officials and stakeholders who are clamoring for the renaming of the City of San Fernando to solve the confusion with its La Union capital counterpart.

Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. president Jim Jimenez said the chamber wanted the City of San Fernando, Pampanga renamed to San Fernando City, to save time, energy, and resources.

29 Sep 2014 - PamCham lauds MNTC for strong commitment

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) has lauded high-ranking officials of the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) for their commitment to respond to the appeal of the public and private sectors to resolve the growing congestion problems particularly in the east portion of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa).

Last Friday, PamCham chairman Emeritus Levy Laus convened with MNTC president Rodrigo Franco, MNTC External Relations and Marketing Manager Robbie Tañada, Pampanga Third District Representative Oscar Rodriguez, San Fernando City Mayor Edwin Santiago, and Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Director Antonio Molano, Jr. to discuss various "short-term and long-term programs, which are expected to resolve the problematic traffic system in a portion of JASA near the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx)."

29 Sep 2014 - Families in Masantol prone to storm surge

PAMPANGA -- Some 15,000 families in six coastal barangays here are threatened by storm surges as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues to demolish the dikes of purportedly illegally built fishpens that serve as first line of defense of the Pampanga Delta Development Project Phase 1.

This was the statement of Village Chief Romano Aguinaldo of Sapang Cawayan, this town, as he disclosed that at present, at least 4 kilometers with a width of seven meters of the left bank of the Pampanga Delta Development Project Phase 1 was destroyed by the storm surge spawned by Typhoon Glenda recently.

29 Sep 2014 - San Fernando salutes outstanding employees

PAMPANGA -- The City Government has recognized the dedicated service rendered by its employees and officials by giving awards during the culmination of the civil service month held Monday at the City Hall.

Through its Programs on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (Praise), the City Human Resource Management Office (CHRMO) identified eight employees and 12 offices that rendered exemplary service to the City Government and for Fernandinos.

29 Sep 2014 - 2 nabbed for drugs in Floridablanca

PAMPANGA -- alang, 46, and Willie Manalang, 42, who are both residents of Barangay Lambac, Guagua, were recently arrested here following a drug buy-bust operation conducted by the Floridablanca police at Barangay Valdez, this town.

Rosales said that the arrest of Lopez was due to a P500 marked money, four big sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu, and an improvised gun pen, which were recovered from the suspect’s possession.

28 Sep 2014 - Fiestang Kuliat to highlight religious events

ANGELES CITY - A month-long celebration of the Fiestang Kuliat will highlight Catholic practices along with socio-civic and cultural events.

The religious events this year include the Triduum, Fiestang Angel and La Naval Enthronement; the Fiestang Fiestang La Naval Concelebrated Mass and Grand Procession; Traslacion of Apu and Fiestang Apu Holy Mass and Procession.

28 Sep 2014 - Macapagal’s 104th birthday commemorated

PAMPANGA -- The Lubao local government here, together with the National Historical Commission, led the commemoration on Sunday of the 104th birth anniversary of the late President Diosdado "Apung Dadong" Macapagal.

The celebration was held at the Macapagal Ancestral House here.

28 Sep 2014 - 242 complete Porac skills training

PAMPANGA -- Some 242 individuals graduated from the training programs of the Porac Manpower Training Center and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) over the weekend in Barangay Cangatba here.

The event was attended by Mayor Condralito dela Cruz, Vice Mayor Dexter David, Porac officials and newly minted Tesda Belinda Labutong.

28 Sep 2014 - Angeles students to join World Robot Olympiad

ANGELES CITY -- A group of students at the Living Stone International School (LSIS) in Barangay Balibago is set to participate in the World Robot Olympiad in Sochi, Russia this coming November.

Balibago Chairman Rodelio "Tony" Mamac said the LSIS students will represent the Philippine Robotics Team in the international robotics competition.

27 Sep 2014 - 3 Angeles village chiefs lead anti-drugs rally

ANGELES CITY -- Officials of three villages here led by Salapungan barangay captain Reynaldo “Rey” Malig expressed their indignation against illegal drugs during a rally and program on Friday.

The anti-drugs rally was attended by Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Vice- Chairman and permanent Board Member Dr. Rommel Garcia, Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, Station 6 Commander Chief Insp. Dederick Relativo, Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council head Anna Liza Suller, Order of Knights Rizal regional head Fr. Sonny Pahed, Drug Enforcement Unit head Insp. Marlon Ventus, Sta. Teresita Barangay Captain Marino Banola, Claro M. Recto Barangay Captain Mario Bognot and others groups, including Tau Gamma Phi, Phi Beta Rho, Tropang Crime Watch and ABE Kapampangan.

27 Sep 2014 - Bishop tells LGUs, DPWH: ‘Maintain trees along highway’

ANGELES CITY -- A Catholic bishop has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units to maintain trees along the national highway to prevent accidents.

San Fernando Auxiliary Bishop Pablo David, priest of the Holy Rosary Parish Church, issued the statement during a dinner for a cause at the SM City Clark on Friday, which was spearheaded by the Sibul Ning Aeta Foundation (Sibul), in cooperation with other civic and environment organizations.

27 Sep 2014 - PamCham wants San Fernando renamed

PAMPANGA -- Several officials of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) are pushing to rename the City of San Fernando, Pampanga to San Fernando City, Pampanga in order to avoid confusing it with the capital city of the province of La Union.

In his speech during a disaster prevention and mitigation forum held at Max’s Restaurant in Villa Del Sol, this city last Thursday, PamCham president Jim Jimenez shared the renaming will help in saving time, energy, and resources of the city.

27 Sep 2014 - San Fernando bares traffic management plan

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando has a plan, which it says will help ease the traffic congestion and reduce pollution in the city.

The Traffic and Transport Management Plan (TTMP) stipulates a plan of action, which is aimed at “reducing traffic congestion, quickening road trips, reducing the number of road accidents, and reducing air and noise pollution.”

27 Sep 2014 - ‘Katutubu’ art exhibit set October 7

ANGELES CITY -- The art exhibit “Katutubu” is set to open on October 7 at the Student Center of the Holy Angel University.

Katutubu: An Exhibit in Celebration of the Indigenous Peoples’ Month aims to promote indigenous culture, and also create awareness among the people about cultural rights.

27 Sep 2014 - PDEA fetes PRO3 for drugs haul

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) recently gave a plaque of appreciation to Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO) director.

Petrasanta personally received the said award from Undersecretary Deputy Director General Arturo Cacdac.

26 Sep 2014 - Rodriguez: DAP funds went to projects

Pampanga third district Representative Oscar Rodriguez said Friday that the alleged Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) funds he supposedly got from Malacañang when he was still mayor of this city went to various projects "but were definitely not coursed through non-government organizations."

Recently, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) secretary general Renato Reyes Jr. said that the data released by the Department Budget and Management (DBM) showed a pattern in the release of DAP funds to local government units from 2011 to 2013 where most of the recipients are partymates of President Benigno Aquino III. The Computer Professionals Union's list shows Rodriguez allegedly having received P154 million.

26 Sep 2014 - Lizardo highlights social media in communicating disasters

PAMPANGA -- From volcanic eruptions to super typhoons to earthquakes, the Philippines is no stranger to some of the strongest, deadliest, and costliest natural disasters to ever hit the world.

Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) Chief Science Research Specialist Oscardo Victor Lizardo emphasized these during a forum on disaster prevention and mitigation spearheaded by the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. held at Max's Restaurant in Villa Del Sol, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, on Thursday.

26 Sep 2014 - 2 bodies found in Bacolor garbage dump

PAMPANGA -- Two male bodies believed to be victims of summary execution were found at a garbage dump in Barangay San Isidro, Bacolor, Pampanga, on Thursday.

Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, Pampanga police provincial director, said that around 7:30 a.m. on that day, Barangay San Isidro chairman Jaime Hernandez reported to police the two bodies found at the garbage site.

26 Sep 2014 - Officials express support to beleaguered MCC head

MABALACAT CITY -- Members of the City Council here expressed support to the newly installed head of the Mabalacat Community College, who earned criticism from different groups.

Carmelita Pangan Sotto, who was appointed recently by Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales, is more than qualified for the position, according to the council members led by Vice-Mayor Christian Halili.

26 Sep 2014 - 2 gunned down by motorcycle-riding suspects

Two persons were gunned down by motorcycle riding criminals (MRCs) in separate shooting incidents in Candaba, Pampanga, police said Thursday.

Tirso Santos, 42, a resident of Pulong Gubat, Candaba town was shot dead by MRCs in front of Candaba Coliseum in Barangay Pulong Palazan, Sunday around 3:30 a.m and around 7:30 a.m. Sunday, John Paul Amatus Galang, 15, of Barangay Mandasig, Candaba, was shot twice by unidentified armed men at Ms. Earth Park of the said barangay.

26 Sep 2014 - Yokohama embarks on feeding program

CLARK FREEPORT -- Yokohama Tire Philippines, Inc. (YTPI) launched another feeding program recently at the San Joaquin Elementary School in Mabalacat.

Through the help of the Mabalacat City Nutrition Action Office, 50 schoolchildren from different grade levels that were identified as "severely wasted" (low-weight) will be provided with hot meals, milk, and food supplements five days per week, Monday to Friday for 60 days.

26 Sep 2014 - Minors rescued in videoke bar

PAMPANGA -- Four girls who were allegedly being exploited to perform sexual services were rescued in a videoke bar in Barangay Sindalan, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, while four persons were arrested, including the owner of the bar in an entrapment operation Wednesday night.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, identified those arrested as Gloria de Guzman, 52, owner of Zeigel Videoke Bar; Robert Sibug, 31, bar manager, both residents of Madapdap, Mabalacat, Pampanga; Christian Gatso, 18, waiter, a resident of Barangay Sindalan; and, Melchor Puntahe, 20, waiter, a resident of Barangay San Nicolas, City of San Fernando.

25 Sep 2014 - Alviera to create new economic hub in Central Luzon

ANGELES CITY -- Top officials of Ayala Corporation (AC) graced on Thursday the launching here of the P75 billion Alviera in Porac, Pampanga, and the developers described the township project as the next economic hub in Central Luzon.

AC Chairman and CEO Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala and Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala joined other Ayala officials and representatives of the Leonio family's Leonio Land Holdings Inc. in the grand launch of the 1,100-hectare Alviera at MarQuee Mall here.

25 Sep 2014 - Capitol dishes out P65-M for education

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga headed by Governor Lilia Pineda has released more P65 million in financial grants under its Educational Financial Assistance Program (EFAP) from 2011 to September 2014.

The EFAP, which aims to give equal opportunities for poor and indigent but deserving Kapampangan students, has so far covered 4,060 students from the provinces four districts enrolled in college and honor students in high school who get around P5,000 to P10,000 per semester.

25 Sep 2014 - Solar power field to rise in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- As the use of renewable energy has grown considerably over the past years, this Freeport is set to benefit from this development through a solar field, which will be constructed starting October this year.

Benito Aquino Gonzales Jr., a well-known renewable energy advocate, disclosed in an interview that an international energy company has leased a 25-hectare land inside this Freeport for the construction of a solar field encompassing 220,000 solar panels, which can produce 15 to 18 megawatts of electricity.

25 Sep 2014 - Sta. Rita dengue cases rise to 104 in 9 months

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Yolanda "Yolly" Pineda is exhausting all means to prevent the spread of dengue as the mosquito-borne disease reportedly affected 104 people in first nine months of 2014, a municipal health official said on Wednesday.

Municipal Health Office (MHO) head Dr. Lennard De Vera said Pineda had asked his office and school officials to check on thousands of students daily for symptoms of dengue, notably fever.

25 Sep 2014 - RCCP, Mirai Ni Kibou teach Haven folk treasure box craft

PAMPANGA -- The Rotary Club of Central Pampanga (RCCP) and Japanese Mirai Ni Kibou Foundation recently trained women and girls at the Haven, a women's facility in Magalang, the art of making treasure boxes.

Board Member Ricardo Yabut, RCCP secretary, said 89 girls and women were trained by the groups, with the assistance of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

24 Sep 2014 - San Luis declared in state of calamity due to floods

PAMPANGA -- The San Luis Municipal Council here has placed this town under a state of calamity after several barangays have been flooded due to the effects of Typhoon "Luis" and Tropical Storm "Mario".

The council led by Vice Mayor Leonardo Salas declared the state of calamity over the municipality following a request from Mayor Venancio "Asyong" Macapagal, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Council (MDRRC) chairperson.

24 Sep 2014 - Bizman: Rise in bank deposits indicates strong economy

PAMPANGA -- "It's a strong indication that money is freely flowing and economic growth is sustained in Central Luzon, especially in Angeles City and the City of San Fernando.”

Thus said businessman Renato "Abong" Tayag, former president and now director of the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MACCI), when asked to comment about the 19.7 percent increase in bank deposits in the region last year.

24 Sep 2014 - Guv lauds Tesda for scholarship program

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda recently lauded the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) for giving some P6.6-million to schools and private firms intended for the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) and employment of the youth in Pampanga.

“We are happy that Tesda is one of our partners in making the Kapampangan youth productive and progressive. Thank you, Tesda,” the governor said.

24 Sep 2014 - DILG okays village revenue ordinance

MABALACAT CITY -- The revenue ordinance of Barangay Balibago, which was disapproved by the city council for four times, received the nod of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently.

In her reply letter to Balibago chairman Rodelio Mamac, DILG Central Luzon Director Florida Dijan said, "the Balibago Ordinance Number 02 Series of 2014 is sufficient in form and substance and could have been valid if not for the denial of the Sangguniang Panlungsod."

24 Sep 2014 - 3 arrested in buy-bust operation

PAMPANGA -- Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Central Luzon arrested three suspected shabu pushers in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Lagundi, Mexico, Pampanga, last Tuesday.

PDEA regional director Jeoffrey Tacio identified the arrested suspects as Encar Sulangi, a resident of West Bajac-Bajac, Olongapo City; Michael Mercado of Barangay San Vicente and Ronald Lingat, residents of Barangay San Matias, Sto. Tomas, Pampanga.

24 Sep 2014 - Village chief: Public service with humility

MABALACAT CITY -- A village chief in this town said that he is aiming for public service with humility.

Councilor Oscar Aurelio, chairman of Barangay Dau, said he is teaching government employees to satisfy people who visit the barangay hall with quality services.

23 Sep 2014 - BSP: Bank deposits in Central Luzon grew by 19.7%

PAMPANGA -- The bank deposits in Central Luzon grew by 19.7 percent in 2013 and the growth was the fastest in Luzon, a member of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board (MB) said on Tuesday.

MB member Alfredo Antonio, who was the keynote speaker of the 2014 awards ceremony and appreciation lunch for BSP stakeholders in Region III, said, "banking indicators likewise point to a sound financial system supportive of sustained economic growth in the region."

23 Sep 2014 - Guv briefs village execs on government projects

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda recently led the orientation on the different programs of the National Government agencies and the Provincial Government attended by 159 barangay captains from the six municipalities of the second district held at Oxford Hotel inside this Freeport zone.

The two-day seminar themed "Magandang Ugnayan at Pagkakaisa Tungo sa mas Maunlad na Pamayanan," is aimed at equipping the barangay chief executives with enough knowledge and awareness on the on-going projects and programs of the Capitol and the line agencies of the government.

23 Sep 2014 - 1 dead, 27 injured in bus-truck mishap

PAMPANGA -- A bus conductor died while 27 people were injured after a Victory Liner bus collided with a 14-wheeler Isuzu dump truck along the southbound lane of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) near Mexico.

Police Inspector Roldan Mañulit, Deputy for Operations of the Mexico Municipal Police Station (MPS) identified the Victory Liner bus conductor as Benedict Dipan who died on the spot.

23 Sep 2014 - Clark among Koreans’ popular retirement, investment haven

CLARK FREEPORT -- Officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday that Clark and its contiguous areas is among the popular retirement and investment haven of Koreans in the Philippines.

This came after officials from the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) met with Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Raul Hernandez to apprise the Philippine Embassy of the Philippines of PRA’s successful participation in the Korea Emigration and Investment Fair last September 10 to 14 held at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center and the COEX Convention Center in Gangnam, Seoul.

23 Sep 2014 - SM City Clark celebrates ‘Mabini Para Sa Kabataan’

ANGELES CITY -- The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) in partnership with the Department of Education and SM Supermalls recently celebrated the birth anniversary of “profound thinker and political philosopher, Apolinario Mabini here.

The celebration dubbed “Mabini Para saKabataan” featured a series of activities at SM City Clark with multi-arts learning for elementary school students from grades 5 to 6.

23 Sep 2014 - BIR adopts mega dike area for tree planting

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 here has adopted some 5,000 square meters of the Fidel V. Ramos Mega Dike here for its tree planting initiative in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

OIC Regional Director Conrado Lee led some 65 personnel and officials of Revenue Region 4 and Revenue District 21 B-South Pampanga in the tree planting activity over the weekend along the mega dportion in Barangay Del Rosario.

23 Sep 2014 - Tandem riders shoot man in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- Joselito Perez, a resident of Barangay Lagundi, Mexico, was shot dead recently by two motorcycle-riding men in Barangay Maimpis, the city police said.

Based on the investigation of the San Fernando police, the victim was working at a glass and aluminum shop when two men riding-in-tandem shot Perez. The witnesses said that the suspects rode a gray motorcycle.

22 Sep 2014 - DPWH to rehabilitate Arnedo dike by 2015

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Central Luzon Office reassured Monday the worried residents of this town that the rehabilitation of the breached Arnedo dike is set to commence on the first quarter of 2015.

Earlier, the 52.5 meters portion of the Arnedo dike gradually fell apart despite the recent efforts of the project contractor to strengthen it through a series of sand dumping operations.

22 Sep 2014 - 11 Candaba villages remain underwater

PAMPANGA -- Eleven villages in this town are still under floodwater with floodwaters reaching two to eight feet deep in some areas due to the recent onslaught of Tropical Storm "Mario".

The major road from Calumpit to Candaba is still not passable as of press time due to 15 feet of floodwater as of Monday.

22 Sep 2014 - Youth officials take over city hall

PAMPANGA -- Some 32 young student leaders of the city will get the opportunity to work for their fellow Fernandinos as Mayor Edwin Santiago, together with the officials of the Rotary Club of San Fernando, opened the Youth Week celebration yesterday.

The presentation of the youth officials was held during Monday’s flag raising ceremony at the City Hall.

21 Sep 2014 - Lawmaker wants ‘dike’ removed to avert flooding

PAMPANGA -- Fourth District Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc has appealed to the local government unit here to remove the newly-built transverse dike being used as access road by quarry trucks.

Bondoc said the "road-dike" is reportedly hampering the flow of water at the Sto. Tomas-Minalin tail dike.

21 Sep 2014 - Parish conducts waste handling seminar

ANGELES CITY -- The Ministry on Service of the Holy Rosary Parish Church recently conducted a seminar on waste segregation and conversion to compost.

Former City Councilor Louie Reyes, head of the Green Youth Brigade, said residents of Hensonville Plaza subdivision attended the seminar facilitated by ministry head Sister Maria May Cano.

21 Sep 2014 - Hacienda Dolores residents complete skills training

PAMPANGA -- Scores of residents in Porac Barangay Hacienda Dolores completed the livelihood and skills training program conducted by I-Serve Inc. in partnership with the Porac Manpower Training Center.

Porac Mayor Condralito dela Cruz said the beneficiaries learned skills needed for peanut processing as a means of livelihood.

21 Sep 2014 - Kapampangan FB group to continue mission for poor

PAMPANGA -- Officers of the Kapampangan Ku, Pagmaragul Ku (KKPK), an organization of Kapampangan on Facebook, vowed to continue its mission of helping the indigents and sick people.

During the group’s third anniversary celebration at the Paskuhan Village here on Sunday, KKPK Founder Jetlee Tiongco said that they will continue to provide social services to the Kapampangan.

21 Sep 2014 - Angeles vice mayor speaks up on political plans

ANGELES CITY – “I am open to all options except running for city councilor in 2016.”

Thus said last-termer Vice Mayor Ma. Vicenta “Vicky” Vega-Cabigting when asked about her political plans.

21 Sep 2014 - 4 'most wanted' suspects arrested

PAMPANGA -- Four men in the "most wanted" list were arrested by members of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB3) over the weekend.

The arrested personalities were identified as Ariel Rivera, 19, a resident of Barangay Sta. Monica, Lubao, Pampanga; Rodel Mangalino, 37, a resident of Barangay Mambangnan, San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija; Alfredo De Leon, a resident of Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan; and Bodarick Hilario, a resident of Barangay San Jose, Floridablanca, Pampanga.

21 Sep 2014 - Man arrested for illegal drugs

PAMPANGA -- The police in Sto Thomas arrested a male suspect over the weekend in a buy bust operation at Barangay Poblacion.

Chief Inspector John Clark explained that suspect Ely Canlas, 32, was arrested in the operation after handing to a police poseur buyer a heat-sealed plastic sachet containing suspected shabu.

20 Sep 2014 - Pamintuan thanks CDC for projects

CLARK FREEPORT -- Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has expressed his gratitude to the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) for the infrastructure projects being undertaken in the city to be completed before the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) ministerial meeting next year inside this Freeport.

During his regular monthly Kapihan with the members of the Pampanga Media at the Bel Posto Ristorante of Imerex Plaza Hotel in Angeles City, Pamintuan announced that the construction of the Bayanihan Rotunda has already commenced and is expected to be finished before November 30 this year.

20 Sep 2014 - Central Luzon sustains P659M palay damages from ‘Luis’

PAMPANGA -- While still compiling damages to crops in Central Luzon (CL) from Tropical Storm "Mario", various provincial governments in the region have submitted their list of damages on palay crops from the recent Typhoon "Luis" amounting to P659,771,099, Department of Agriculture (DA) said.

DA regional director Andrew Villacorta said that the DA is still compiling reports on palay damages in heavily flooded areas in Central Luzon. This, as the DA has yet to verify the damages from recent Typhoon "Luis".

20 Sep 2014 - Metrobank fetes Kapampangan artist

ANGELES CITY -- Kapampangan visual artist Arnel Garcia received a special citation at the 2014 National Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) held at the Le Pavilion in Pasay City over the weekend.

His work, "Facets of Faces" can be viewed together with the rest of the visual art and architecture exhibit at the said venue.

20 Sep 2014 - RCCP calls for partners in community project

PAMPANGA -- The Rotary Club of Central Pampanga (RCCP) is now calling on partners and other non-government groups to help in their project of providing women in target communities here with free courses on dressmaking and sewing.

RCCP president Lourdes David disclosed that they are calling on people who are willing to partner with RCCP on the project.

19 Sep 2014 - Guv urges gov’t agencies, LGUs: ‘Converge, work together'

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda urged line agencies of the government to work together and converge their resources with the local government units (LGUs) to effectively serve the people and meet performance targets every year.

This was disclosed by Pineda, chair of social development committee of the Regional Development Council (RDC) during the First full council meeting of the Regional Development Council (RDC) Sectoral Committee on Social Development on Wednesday.

19 Sep 2014 - Construction of P12-M Candaba community hospital kicks-off

PAMPANGA -- The Candaba Community Hospital will rise in a 6.7 hectare land owned by the municipality along Pansol road in Barangay Pasig, this town, said Maglanque.

The Municipal Council, in a resolution sponsored by Councilor Linda “Donya” Salac, seconded by Councilor Thelma Macapagal and concurred by all the members has initially approved and funded the project with the amount of P5.5- million for the Phase 1, then, an additional budget of more than P6-million will be allotted for the second phase of the project.

19 Sep 2014 - 2 persons in Pampanga slain by MRCs

PAMPANGA -- Ruperto Guese, 54, a resident of Bebe Anac, Masantol was on his way home on board a Rusi Motorcycle (5709XO) together with Marilyn Yumang, 48, when shot by MRCs along the road of Barangay Sto. Nino, Masantol town.

In Arayat, Nestor Cruz, 51, a resident of Barangay San Agustin Norte was walking along Barangay Lacquiros when two gunmen on board a motorcycle shot him.

19 Sep 2014 - Motor pool manager killed in Olongapo

SUBIC BAY -- Angelito Pineda, 34, a resident of Purok 4, Olongapo City was shot to death by unidentified gunman in Barangay Barreto, Olongapo City, recently.

The victim was driving his black Chevrolet without plate number together with his wife, Emily Pineda, 31, when he was waylaid by the suspect.

19 Sep 2014 - Man nabbed in buy-bust in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- Reynaldo Lopez, 37, was arrested in a drug buy-bust operation conducted by the city police the other night in Barangay Sto. Nino.

The arrest, the city police said, is part of their local campaign against illegal drugs trade.

19 Sep 2014 - Tricycle driver arrested in a drug buy-bust in Lubao

PAMPANGA -- A tricycle driver, Robert Regala, 40, here was arrested in a drug buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) last night in Barangay Concepcion, Lubao, Pampanga.

The arrest, Lubao PNP anti-illegal drugs unit said, is part of their local campaign against illegal drugs trade.

19 Sep 2014 - Aquino kin as CIAC head not yet final?

CLARK FREEPORT -- The much-publicized "take over" of the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) by a relative of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is not yet a "final and executory".

This was according to a source at the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), who said that newly appointed CIAC Board of Director Emigdio Tanjuatco Jr. needs to be voted first before he could assume the post of president and chief operations officer of CIAC.

19 Sep 2014 - Smart protects subscribers against text message scams

CLARK FREEPORT -- Officials of Smart Communications Incorporated (Smart) has instituted measures to protect its consumers against text message scams.

Jose Felicisimo "Wo" Rosete, Smart External Relations senior manager, said they implemented a campaign to educate consumers about bogus schemes.

18 Sep 2014 - 2 Angeles officials want 1 traffic office

ANGELES CITY -- Rivera said that the ACTIDO will merge the Public Transport and Regulatory Office (PTRO) and the Angeles City Traffic Enforcement and Management Office (ACTEMO). Both offices under ACTIDO will be under "one roof" and headed by one official, added Rivera. Councilor Edgardo "Edu" Pamintuan is the co-sponsor of the proposed ordinance.

Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, member of the minority bloc of the city council, expressed alarm over the proposed ordinance, stressing, "check and balance may disappear" in the creation of the ACTIDO.

18 Sep 2014 - DOH declares dengue outbreak in Sta. Rita

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon Office declared on Wednesday a dengue outbreak in this town but said that the dengue cases in the region have generally declined.

The dengue outbreak in Sta. Rita Pampanga was due to the 91 percent increase in the number of dengue cases this year.

18 Sep 2014 - Luciano: Incoming Clark airport head qualified

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Jose Luciano said that his successor, Lawyer Emigdio "Dino" Tanjuatco Jr. has the qualification to head and run the corporation.

Luciano said CIAC needs a lawyer like Tanjuatco, now that the state-owned corporation encounters legal issues including the dispute at the Global Gateway Logistics City (GGLC).

18 Sep 2014 - Angeles City village hosts forum on illegal drugs, rally

ANGELES CITY -- A village near one of the largest universities in Central Luzon in terms of population is hosting a forum on illegal drugs on September 18 and 19.

Reynaldo “Rey” Malig, barangay captain of Salapungan, here, said that the first forum was held at the Nazarene Academy on Thursday. The second forum will be held at 9 a.m. on September 19 at the Salapungan Elementary School.

18 Sep 2014 - Angeles jail, fire officers asked to submit docs for subsidy

ANGELES CITY -- Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting asked officers of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) assigned in the city to produce additional documents to justify the subsidy given to them by the city government.

The City Government suspended the release of its financial assistance to every personnel of Philippine National Police (PNP), BJMP, and BFP following an observation issued by the Commission on Audit during the first quarter of 2014.

18 Sep 2014 - Police: PAC bomb threat a hoax

PAMPANGA -- Magalang Police here said on Thursday that the reported bomb threat last Tuesday at the Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC) was a hoax and seemed to have been perpetuated by a prankster.

Classes at PAC were suspended last Tuesday following the "bomb threat."

18 Sep 2014 - Software app to help farmers in rice production

PAMPANGA -- A new computer and Smartphone application will soon be able to help farmers in preparation for the upcoming dry season as the Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Luzon and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) conducted the Regional Crop Manager (RCM) meeting yesterday.

More than 60 agricultural extension officers attended the said meeting.

18 Sep 2014 - 6 members of robbery, carnap group arrested

PAMPANGA -- Six members of a notorious robbery and carnapping group were apprehended during a police operation in Barangay Sindalan, San Fernando, Wednesday.

Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, Pampanga police acting provincial director, identified the suspects as Norman Delfin, 35, the alleged leader, and resident of Barangay Malino, Mexico town; Joseph Hermogenes, 42, and Cecilio Curato, 36, both residents of Barangay Quebiawan, City of San Fernando; Rodel Damian, 30, of CM Recto, Sta. Cruz, Manila; Albert Prietos, 31, native of Negros Occidental; and Dennis Cenvantes, 31, of Barangay Amsic, Angeles City.

17 Sep 2014 - Pamintuan on improving Angeles: ‘Break down the walls’

ANGELES CITY – "We will continue breaking down the walls of apathy, regress, dirt and indifference."

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Wednesday as he noted of the City Government’s efforts to continuously improve facilities, infrastructure and prime the highly urbanized city for the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in January next year.

17 Sep 2014 - Trader:Luciano`s removal from CIAC ‘not best decision’

ANGELES CITY --- “It is not the best decision.”

This was how businessman Rene Romero described the removal of Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president and chief executive officer Victor Jose Luciano from his office as airport head by President Benigno Aquino III and Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya.

17 Sep 2014 - Villar reminds rice traders: Don’t cheat consumers

CLARK FREEPORT -- Mill owners and rice traders should remain truthful to the consumers amid the growing public discontent over the rising prices of agricultural products in the country.

This was the key message of Senator Cynthia Villar, chairperson of the Senate committee on agriculture and food, on her keynote speech for the Luzon Island Congress of the Confederation of Grains Retailers Associations of the Philippines Inc. (Grecon) held last September 13 at the Stotsenberg Hotel in this Freeport.

17 Sep 2014 - Santiago leads citywide greening in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago led Wednesday the simultaneous planting of squash and malunggay plants in the city's 35 barangays as a way of promoting communal garnering and in a bid to battle the adverse effects of climate change.

"This is like hitting two birds with one stone. While we are teaching our constituents to plant trees, we are promoting the consumption of nutritious food" said Santiago during his speech at the launching of the program held along the riverside behind the city hall building in Barangay Sto. Rosario.

17 Sep 2014 - SM City Clark’s to hold great weekend sale

CLARK FREEPORT -- Get ready as SM City Clark’s 3-day great weekend sale slated on September 19, 20, 21, will feature great shopping finds and best deals for shoppers with longer shopping hours, from 9:00 AM up to 10:00 PM on the first day and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday!

Enjoy the biggest discounts up to 70 percent up for grabs from accessories, wellness products electronic gadgets, baby needs, sporting goods, home furnishing, to home appliances from SM Department Store, SM Hypermarket, local and international apparel shops mall wide.

17 Sep 2014 - Lawmaker lauds San Fernando for plastic-free move

PAMPANGA -- Provincial Board committee on environment and natural resources chairman Nestor “Bay” Tolentino lauded Wednesday and recognized the City of San Fernando's move to make the component city “plastic free” at least by June 2015.

The City Council, after consultation with stakeholders, has set every Friday, starting September 19 this year as “plastic regulation day” under Ordinance 2014-008, which bans the use of plastics and Styrofoam as food packaging materials and handing this out for free to consumers.

17 Sep 2014 - 1st Kulinarya Cup held in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- The First Kulinarya Cup aiming to boost tourism here was held recently at the Event Place of the Tarlac Convention and Visitors Bureau in Tarlac City.

In line with the celebration of tourism month this September, 20 students taking up culinary arts and hotel and restaurant management from different schools in Tarlac participated in the said competition.

16 Sep 2014 - BIR regional office exceeds August collection by 15%

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 has registered a P270,780, 538.27 excess collection for the month of August registering a 15.25 percent increase as against its target goal where they were able to collect some P2,046,628,538.27 for the said period.

This was bared by Revenue Region 4 (RR-4) OIC Regional Director Conrado Lee, who said that the BIR is very lucky to have exceeded its target and has high hopes that the agency would continue on the said course. The RR4's target for August is P1,775,848,000. The BIR here was also able surpass their 2013 collection for the same period by 38.93 percent or P573,458,671.51.

16 Sep 2014 - Luciano to continue fighting for Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president and Chief Executive Officer Victor Jose Luciano has vowed to continue fighting for the full development of Clark International Airport (CRK).

Luciano issued the statement shortly after he revealed in a press briefing here on Monday that he was designated as director of the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) by Transportation and Communication Secretary Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya.

16 Sep 2014 - ‘Local leaders support crucial for mass immunization’

CLARK FREEPORT -- Representatives of the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) said on Monday that "political commitments" are crucial and important to ensure the success of the ongoing nationwide immunization drive against measles and polio.

Dr. Robert Kezaala, Unicef’s senior health advisor on immunization, said that the success of the Department of Health’s (DOH) measles rubella and oral polio vaccine mass immunization campaign is dependent on the support of local government units (LGUs) and DOH officials.

16 Sep 2014 - San Fernando to implement plastic-free law

The use and sale of all non-biodegradable packaging materials will be regulated in this city starting September 19.

All residents, transients, and business operators in the city are expected to observe a "Plastic Regulation Day" every Friday, which will disallow the stores to "utilize or provide free plastic bags as primary and secondary packaging materials on dry goods to consumers except those pre-packed goods by the manufacturers."

16 Sep 2014 - Dengue cases on the rise, but no outbreak expected

PAMPANGA -- Porac Authorities recently noted that heavy rains this month seem to have increased the risk of dengue in the province as 50 more cases were recorded at the Barangay Planas and Barangay Pulung Santol in this town.

Last week, the Department of Health (DOH) said people from the neighboring town of Sta. Rita were alarmed with the simultaneous death of two girls who were affected by the worst strain of dengue.

16 Sep 2014 - SM Cinema sets Korean Film Festival

ANGELES CITY -- Seven blockbuster and critically-acclaimed films will highlight the Korean Film Festival at the SM Cinema from September 17 to October 12.

A joint partnership between the Korean Embassy’s Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines and SM Cinema, the film festival will begin at SM City Clark from Sept 17 to 21, followed by screenings at SM Lanang Premier in Davao from September 24 to 28, and at SM City Cebu from October 1 to 5. The film festival's culminating event will be on October 8 to 12 at SM Megamall.

16 Sep 2014 - Pampanga Press Club set to hold journalism seminar

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pampanga Press Club (PPC) is set to conduct a one-day journalism workshop on September 25 at the San Miguel Corp. Brewery Complex, City of San Fernando.

PPC President Eric Jimenez said the seminar is aimed at enhancing the journalistic skills of public information officers and public relations practitioners of corporate entities and government agencies.

15 Sep 2014 - People’s Park rising in ‘dirty’ rail station

ANGELES CITY -- A People's Park is rising at the old railway of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) in Angeles City and it stretches to four villages.

Alexander Cauguiran, the City Government's point person for the People's Park, said the transformation of the two-kilometer PNR railway and its area from a "very dirty place" to a park filled with ornamental plants, vegetables, sports and recreational activities "is happening fast with the help of believers from the private sector."

15 Sep 2014 - PDRRMO: No casualty in ‘Luis’ onslaught

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office or PDRRMO said Monday that there was no casualty as Typhoon Luis ripped through Northern and Central Luzon Monday and Sunday.

Although Pampanga was under Public Storm Signal Number 1 during Typhoon Luis’ onslaught, only classes in preschool, elementary and high school across the province were suspended.

14 Sep 2014 - 17th Sinukwan Festival launched

PAMPANGA -- Officials of the Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) and Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan Inc. (FLKI) on Saturday launched the Pampanga Festival aimed at promoting the province's cultures, arts and traditions.

The 17th Sinukwan Festival, which was launched almost two decades ago to lift the morale and spirit of residents affected by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, will be held from November 28 to December 8.

14 Sep 2014 - Aetas insulted by news anchor

SUBIC BAY -- A video posted on social media last September 10 showed a news anchor allegedly insulting Aetas, collectively referring them to as "exotic".

Tommy Abile, a news anchor of Bigwas, reportedly started by saying that he wanted to taste something exotic, at first referring to food. He added that his friend wanted to taste something exotic, although in a sexual manner. He then blurted out "Aeta", referring to the indigenous tribe in Central Luzon.

14 Sep 2014 - DOTC appoints 2 CIAC directors

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) recently appointed two directors in Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC).

The new CIAC officials are Al Fernandez, a former mayor of Dagupan City and former commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and Lawyer Emigdio Tanjuatco Jr, a former member of the Rizal Provincial Board.

14 Sep 2014 - National government lauded for Clark projects

CLARK FREEPORT -- Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Central Luzon president Angeles City Councilor Maricel “Marang” Morales has lauded the national government for implementing and funding several projects including the Clark Green City and the Low-Cost Carrier Terminal at the Clark International Airport (CRK).

Morales said the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) has allocated an initial P5 billion for the Clark Green City.

14 Sep 2014 - CDC sends Aeta kids to vaccination post

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has sent three vehicles and a coaster to transport parents and schoolchildren from the upland Aeta village to the designated vaccination post in Barangay Calumpang, Mabalacat City during an immunization recently.

Rommel Narciso, CDC Community Affairs assistant manager and External Affairs Department (EAD) officer-in-charge said the vehicles have been utilized by parents and children from Barangays Marcos, Macapagal and Calumpang, all in Mabalacat City.

14 Sep 2014 - Illegal loggers arrested in Floridablanca

PAMPANGA -- Three persons, who were suspected to be illegal loggers, were arrested by operatives of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB3) in the mountain ranges of Macapagal Village in Floridablanca last Friday.

Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, RPSB3 commander, said his men were patrolling the said area when they encountered the suspects who were identified as Larry Dabu, 41, a resident of Macapagal Village; Feliciano Cundangan Pelecilda, 58m of Palmayo Resettement and Reny Manacmul, 42, also of Palmayo Resettlement, all in Floridablaca town.

14 Sep 2014 - Indigent school children get new shoes

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting led the formal launching of her "Lakad Karunungan" program at the Marquee Mall event center here which was attended by student beneficiaries and teachers over the weekend.

Cabigting said that the shoe distribution program aims to improve the overall educational experience of students and call attention to the other educational needs of the indigent students.

13 Sep 2014 - 21,845 trees up for Angeles watershed reforestation

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here recently received 21,845 tree saplings from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as part of its strategies to meet the goals of the National Greening Program.

The program set by President Benigno Aquino III targets to cover 1.5 million hectares with 1.5 million trees before 2016.

13 Sep 2014 - More shabu seized in San Fernando subdivision

PAMPANGA -- Another haul of suspected shabu was seized by combined anti-illegal drugs operatives during a raid in a posh subdivision in the City of San Fernando late Friday afternoon.

Armed with a search warrant issued by Executive Judge Fernando Sagun of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court branch 78, joint elements from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operation Task Force (AIDSOTF),Regional Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operation Task Force, San Fernando Police, ASG-Philippine Army, Pampanga Police and US Drug Enforcement Agency raided a reported rented house at Rome Street corner Moscow Street in Richtown 1 Subdivision where 12 boxes containing 270 kilos of suspected shabu were confiscated from one Ying Ying Huang alias Sophia/Sofia from Fujian, China.

13 Sep 2014 - DOH chief leads immunization of Mabalacat Aetas

MABALACAT CITY -- Secretary Enrique Ona led the mass immunization of Aeta children in Barangay Calumpang here over the weekend.

The event is part of the nationwide campaign against measles, rubella and polio among Filipino children.

13 Sep 2014 - Man arrested in Porac for Facebook ‘sextortion’

PAMPANGA -- A man in Porc was charged with extortion after investigators say he threatened to post malicious pictures of a woman on Facebook if she wouldn't pay him money.

"He said through the text messages that I gave my password to him but I cannot recall any instances in the past that I gave it to him. I know that account passwords are very important," said 33-year-old victim Susan Gulapa.

13 Sep 2014 - DILG briefs Angeles execs on disclosure policy, environmental compliance

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently briefed barangay secretaries and treasurers of Angeles City on the Full Disclosure Program (FDP) and Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA).

"FDP is in line with the administration’s call for honest, transparent, and responsive governance. The reports should be posted in three conspicuous places so that constituents may have knowledge on where the budget of the barangay is being utilized," DILG City Director Remedios Rodriguez said.

13 Sep 2014 - Distressed OFWs get P2M livelihood assistance

PAMPANGA -- With the need to empower distressed migrant workers from Central Luzon, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Region Welfare Office (RWO) 3 recently provided livelihood assistance to returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from all parts of the region.

DOLE Regional Director Atty. Ana C. Dione reported to Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz and newly-seated OWWA Administrator Rebecca Calzado that the OWWA RWO No. 3, under the stewardship of OWWA RWO Director Ma. Lourdes Reyes, released livelihood assistance amounting to P2,090,000 under its Balik-Pinas Balik-Hanapbuhay (BPBH), benefiting 209 returning OFWs from the provinces of Pampanga (107), Bulacan (39), Bataan (21), Nueva Ecija (21), Tarlac (13), and Zambales (8).

12 Sep 2014 - Guiao: 1st district hospitals to get funding from DOH

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Health (DOH) has appropriated a total of P41.5 million to three public hospitals in Pampanga's first congressional district which covers this city, and nearby Angeles City and Magalang town.

This was learned from First District Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao during the blessing and inauguration of the newly restored barangay hall of Dau, this city's commercial center.

11 Sep 2014 - House committees probe demolition

PAMPANGA -- The House committees on agrarian reform and good government and public accountability on Wednesday started a probe on the ongoing land dispute between former Commission on Human Rights Commissioner Eligio Mallari and the farmers of Maimpis village.

The investigation was in accordance to House Resolution (HR) 1328, which was submitted by Butil Partylist representative Agapito Guanlao.

11 Sep 2014 - Visayas execs laud Kapampangans for hospitality, resiliency

CLARK FREEPORT -- The national president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) expressed the gratitude of Visayas local chief executives during the three day Visayas Island Cluster Conference held last September 9 to 11 at the Oxford Hotel in this Freeport Zone for the hospitality and resiliency of their Kapampangan hosts.

"We are forever grateful (to Kapampangans)," said Leyte Mayor Leonardo "Sandy" Javier Jr.

11 Sep 2014 - Central Luzon schools score higher in NAT

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Central Luzon Office announced that public schools in the region have scored higher in the National Achievement Test (NAT) for the school year 2013-2014.

Compared to the region's performance in the previous school year, Central Luzon's elementary level has improved on its overall score from 71.84 percent to 74.87 percent.

11 Sep 2014 - Charity clinic opens in local heroine's ancestral home

PAMPANGA -- Descendants of San Fernando's influential business families gathered at the home of the late heroine Nicolasa Dayrit to open the Dr. Vicente Hizon Panlilio Memorial Charity Clinic here that aims to help local indigents needing medical assistance.

The facility is housed at the old-Spanish era house along Consunji Street here and is a joint social project of the Pampanga Sugar Development Company (Pasudeco), San Fernando Electric Light and Power Company, Inc. (SFELAPCO) and the Balibago Water Works.

11 Sep 2014 - 135 erring policemen charged

PAMPANGA -- A total of 135 erring policemen from the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3), have been slapped with administrative charges.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, PRO-3 director, told reporters on Wednesday that since January of this year, at least 120 non-commissioned police officers and 18 police commissioned officers in Central Luzon were charged.

10 Sep 2014 - Traders reiterate decongestion call

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) reiterated Wednesday its call to decongest the National Capital Region (NCR) as the advocacy is gaining ground and support from concerned stakeholders in Central Luzon, including lawmakers.

The "Decongest (Metro Manila) for Country's Sake Advocacy" was launched December last year during the business group’s Disaster Management Forum: Understanding the Economic and Financial Impact of Natural and Man-made Disasters graced by Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology Director Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. at Max’s Restaurant in Villa Del Sol, this city.

10 Sep 2014 - More police getting involved in crimes

PAMPANGA -- The number of cases involving police officers in Central Luzon increased this year, data from the Police Regional Office (PRO-3) showed.

The Disciplinary Law and Order Section of the Human Resource Development Division of PRO-3 said that 204 administrative and criminal cases were filed against members of the regional police.

10 Sep 2014 - Cops bust gun-for-hire group

PAMPANGA -- The suspected leader of a gun-for-hire group and his four members were arrested during a raid in their supposed safehouse in Barangay San Gabriel, Sta. Maria, Bulacan, Wednesday morning, resulting in the confiscation of high-powered firearms and explosives.

The arrested leader, Henry Laxamana, 44, his cohorts Jose Quizon, 25, Raymart Agustin, 24, Michael Pamintuan, 23 and Kevin Pamintuan, 19, were presented during a press conference conducted by Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director.

10 Sep 2014 - Child killed in electrical accident in Lubao

An eight-year-old girl was killed after coming in contact with live electrical wires in this town Saturday, the local police said.

The victim was identified as Alpha R. Panlaqui, a resident of Barangay Sto. Domingo, Lubao, ccording to the girl's cousin, Alpha was trying to catch a dragonfly when the incident happened.

10 Sep 2014 - CIAC okays L&T expansion

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has approved the expansion plan of the Luen Thai International (L&T), a huge garment firm located inside the Freeport.

CIAC president and CEO Victor Jose Luciano and L&T International Group president Francisco Sauceda signed two lease contracts for the firm’s expansion program.

10 Sep 2014 - Qatar Airways offers fare discount to Clark passengers

CLARK FREEPORT -- Qatar Airways is offering a 40 percent discount on its Business Class and up to 30 percent discount on Economy Class fares for passengers in Clark International Airport (CRK).

In a statement, Qatar Airways Philippines Country Manager Abdallah Okasha said the special treat to passengers here will start this month.

10 Sep 2014 - Children with special needs get support from QI Pampanga

Children under the care of the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) were the recent beneficiaries of the Quota International Pampanga's program for underprivileged children with the group providing food stuff, food supplements, equipment and hygiene kits in Barangay Prado Siongco, Lubao over the weekend.

Quota International Pampanga president Joycel Robles-Panlilio said that the event included a tour of the facilities of the RSCC and a discussion with the facility operators on how their group could further help in the operation of the facility.

9 Sep 2014 - NLEx, execs agree on infra proposals

PAMPANGA -- Representatives from the Manila North Tollways Corporation, operators of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) agreed Tuesday in initial talks to study major adjustments, improvements and construction of additional infrastructure as well as system upgrades designed to address frequent gridlocks in the City of San Fernando portion of the vital highway.

In an urgent meeting summoned by Pampanga third district Representative Oscar Rodriguez, San Fernando City Mayor Edwin Santiago, Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and industry Inc. chairman emeritus Levy Laus, vice-chairman Rene Romero, Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Director Antonio Molano Jr., and volunteer Engineer Marni Castro at the Carworld headquarters, the stakeholders all agreed that "immediate solutions to pressing concerns must be adopted" to ease traffic congestion along two roundabouts along east Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa).

9 Sep 2014 - Kapampangan among world's 2013 best central bankers

PAMPANGA -- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. earned an "A" grade on Global Finance Magazine’s Central Banker Report Cards earning him a slot among the "best central bankers" in the world in 2013.

Tetangco was raised in Apalit and received primary and secondary schooling in Pampanga. He is uncle to Apalit Mayor Oscar Tetangco Jr.

9 Sep 2014 - ‘Good Samaritan’ donates to PWDs

PAMPANGA -- The individual who insisted that his identity be kept anonymous has been coordinating donations with the San Fernando vice-mayor Jimmy Lazatin, the last of which was the donation of equipment for use of some persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the city.

Lazatin headed the awarding of four wheelchairs and one PWD bicycle at the Tiburcio Hilario Hall here over the weekend. The items have been purchased by the anonymous donor.

9 Sep 2014 - CDC asked to coordinate rotunda project with LGU

ANGELES CITY -- A village chief here asked the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to coordinate with the local government unit the roundabout or "rotunda" project at the main entrance of Clark Freeport.

Barangay Balibago Chairman Rodelio "Tony" Mamac said that the CDC failed to coordinate the project with the barangay council.

9 Sep 2014 - Dole to hold convergence program planning for sugarcane industry

PAMPANGA -- With the aim of formulating a Regional Human Resource Development Master Plan in the Sugarcane Industry in Central Luzon, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Office No. 3, in partnership with the District Tripartite Councils (DTCs) of Pampanga and Tarlac, will be holding the first Regional Human Resource Development Convergence Program Planning for the Sugarcane Industry on September 12, 2014, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Dole-3 office at the Diosdado Macapagal Regional Government Center, Maimpis, City of San Fernando.

According to Dole Regional Director Ana Dione, the Dole regional office, as instructed by Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, will be holding a series of convergence program planning sessions namely the Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) with small planters, field and mill workers; and the HRD Convergence Program Planning at District and Regional level.

9 Sep 2014 - Exec lauds perimeter road inclusion in Apec projects

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales has lauded the National Government and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) for including the Clark East Perimeter Road in the list of priority projects in preparation for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit early next year.

Morales said the improvement of the vital link will provide "seamless ingress and egress" within the city limits.

8 Sep 2014 - Arnedo dike ruined anew

PAMPANGA -- Apalit Residents are wary over potential flash floods as the Arnedo dike in Barangay San Vicente was breached anew.

Last week, a 52.5-meter portion of the Arnedo dike was ruined despite the recent efforts of the project contractor to strengthen it through a series of sand dumping operations.

8 Sep 2014 - GGDC assumes $3-billion Clark project

CLARK FREEPORT - Global Gateway Development Corp. (GGDC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kuwaiti private equity investment firm KGL Investment Company (KGLI), and the project owner and lessee of the Sabah Al-Ahmad Global Gateway Logistics City (GGLC) project, said it is assuming operational control over the development of the 177-hectare GGLC project in Pampanga province.

GGDC said it has obtained a favorable action from the Court of Appeals against its terminated former contractor Peregrine.

8 Sep 2014 - Charity maternity clinic opened in Bacolor

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) president Benigno Ricafort led on Monday the blessing and inauguration of the opening of a charity maternity clinic at the Jesus A. Datu Medical Center (JADMC) in Barangay San Vicente of this town.

Ricafort said that the facility will cater to indigent women. The facility will be manned by volunteer doctors and will offer free pre-natal checkups for the beneficiaries. KDF is implementing the free clinic program as part of its health program for the poor.

8 Sep 2014 - Man arrested for stealing motorcycles

PAMPANGA -- Charges were filed against a man for stealing motorcycles several times in the province.

The suspect was identified as Alberto Hernandez Jr., 26, a resident of Barangay Suclaban, Mexico, Pampanga.

8 Sep 2014 - Cop, cohort collared in buy-bust operation

MABALACAT CITY -- A police officer and his alleged cohort were apprehended by combined police operatives from the Regional Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Task Group (RAIDSOT) and Regional Investigation Division during a buy-bust operation at the vicinity of Barangay Mawaque, Mabalacat, Sunday.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) Director, said Chief Inspector Julius Ceazar Ablang, a resident of Barangay Labas, Sta. Rosa, Laguna and presently assigned at the Aurora Provincial Police Office and his cohort identified as Aiko Mallari, a resident of Barangay Mawaque were immediately collared by operatives after selling three pieces of small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu.

8 Sep 2014 - Man shot dead in Mexico

PAMPANGA -- Jonathan Pasco, 23, a resident of Purok 1, Barangay Maisac, Mexico was shot near his house in Barangay Sapang Maisac recently, police said.

Based on the investigation of the Mexico police, the victim was sitting along his home’s front with another person identified as Nikes Garcia of Magalang, Pampanga when two motorcycle-riding men shot Pasco while Garcia was able to evade the gunshot.

8 Sep 2014 - Porac officials to help in water supply woes

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Condralito dela Cruz said Monday that the Municipal Government of Porac has committed to help in the growing water supply problem in Barangays Pio and Planas adding that the municipality is looking for possible measures to solve the problems of the two upland villages.

Dela Cruz said that it would take some P200,000 to upgrade the machinery that supply water to the said barangays. The two barangays currently receive water through a sort of cooperative system. However, failing efforts to professionalize collection of payments from residents have left facilities in poor state prompting the municipal government to step in.

8 Sep 2014 - Recyclable boats set sail in Subic

SUBIC BAY -- Boats made out of recycled materials set sail in the waters of Subic Bay last Saturday at the Lighthouse Marina Resort for the International Coastal Cleanup Zambales Recyclable Regatta challenge.

Teams from different companies, local government units and non-government organizations built their own boats made out of 80 percent recycled materials and raced 100 meters to shore to prove that even trash can be used wisely.

7 Sep 2014 - 58th anniversary of Pampanga patroness commemorated

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan Roman Catholics are expected to flock by the hundreds on Monday at the Villa del Sol Subdivision here to commemorate the 58th Canonical Coronation of the image of Pampanga's patroness, the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Our Lady of Remedies).

The celebration is in commemoration of the 1956 coronation when, in recognition of Kapampangan's enthusiastic and deep devotion to Mary, Pope Pius XII bestowed the canonical crown on September 8, 1956.

7 Sep 2014 - Lawmaker to college students: Shun illegal drugs

ANGELES CITY -- Pampanga First District Representative Joseller “Yeng” Guiao urged college students, who availed of his educational assistance program, to do away with illegal drugs in order to attain their dreams and goals in life.

This is one of the requirements set under Guiao’s scholarship program dubbed Tulong Dunong Scholarship Program which benefitted more than 1,000 students here and in nearby Mabalacat City and Magalang town.

7 Sep 2014 - 500 children benefit from feeding program

ANGELES CITY -- Some 500 children in Barangay Pulungbulu here benefited from the Sulong Kalusugan feeding program of Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting over the weekend.

Vega-Cabigting said that the program was made possible with the help of Angeles City Nutrition Office and the Pulungbulu Barangay Council.

6 Sep 2014 - Casanova on GGLC leasehold: ‘No need for annotation’

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) president and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano Casanova said there is no need to annotate the lease contract of the Global Gateway Development Corporation here.

Casanova issued the statement after officials of the GGDC aired their sentiments regarding the alleged reluctance of the BCDA to annotate the investor's leasehold, which is now for processing at the Register of Deeds.

6 Sep 2014 - Pamintuan: Arts and culture is soul of Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and his determined efforts to bring back the “soul of the city” is on the right track.

Pamintuan’s dream to make Angeles City the center of arts and culture in Pampanga and the entire Central Luzon is fast becoming a reality with some P326 million worth of tourism-related projects in the city set to be completed before the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit early next year.

6 Sep 2014 - Guv: Let’s make Lubao peaceful, drug free

PAMPANGA -- "Let's make our town number one in anti-crime prevention. Let us work together in achieving a more peaceful and drug-free Lubao."

So stressed Governor Lilia Nanay Pineda the other day in a meeting held at the Pineda Sports Complex, this town, attended by some 800 barangay officials and tanods from the 44 barangays here.

6 Sep 2014 - Local government employees told to give back bonuses

PAMPANGA -- Local government employees in San Fernando are dismayed over a recent memorandum from the Office of the City Mayor, which will deduct a substantial amount from their monthly salary.

The said amount, however, was deemed unauthorized by the Commission on Audit (COA) as all government workers in the national, local, judiciary, congressional offices and agencies were ordered to give back the excess amount of the allowable PEI fixed at P5,000 only.

5 Sep 2014 - Porac execs inspect villages on water supply needs

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Condralito dela Cruz and Vice-Mayor Dexter David visited Barangays Pio and Planas here to see how the municipal government can help in the water supply problems of the said barangays.

Both officials met with the barangay leaders yesterday in the hopes of permanently addressing the need for reliable and clean water source.

5 Sep 2014 - Couple shot in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- Spouses Emanuel Avedillo and Erlinda Avedillo who are both residents of Barangay Sabanilla, Mexico, were fatally shot in Barangay Telabastagan last September 3, the city police said.

Based on the investigation of the city police, the couple, along with their son Warren Avedillo, was about to bet in the nearest lotto outlet at Essel Supermarket when a man wearing a bonnet and jacket shot them multiple times.

5 Sep 2014 - MPU head, 5 others relieved

ANGELES CITY -- The head of a mobile patrol unit (MPU) of Angeles City Police and five other policemen were ordered relieved from their post over the alleged robbery extortion incident.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said those relieved from their post were Senior Inspector Felimon Oyan, officer-in-charge of the MPU together with his personnel PO1 Mark Anthony Bagsic, PO3 Lorena Calma, PO1 Mijares Reyes, PO1 Angelito Toribio and PO1 Rachele Lugtu.

5 Sep 2014 - Man arrested for illegal possessions of gun, shabu

PAMPANGA -- A 34-year-old man who evaded a PNP checkpoint at Barangay San Antonio, Guagua town was arrested the other day after operatives recovered from him a gun and illegal drugs.

Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB3), said that Maurice Santos, 34, a resident of Barangay San Roque, Lubao, Pampanga was riding his black Yamaha MIO without plate number when flagged down by RPSB3 operatives at said checkpoint.

5 Sep 2014 - Tri-wheeler driver killed dead by MRCs

PAMPANGA -- A tri-wheeler driver was gunned down by Motorcycle Riding Criminals along the road of Barangay Lagundi, Mexico, Pampanga, recently.

Superintendent Ricardo Pangan, Officer-In-Charge of Mexico Police, identified the fatality as Gerald Simbillo, 33, a resident of Barangay San Jose Matulid, Mexico town.

5 Sep 2014 - Macabebe women benefit from mat-making industry

MACABEBE -- The women sector of this town is benefitting from the sustained livelihood program pushed by the Municipal Government.

Mayor Annette Flores-Balgan and Councilor Bembong Balgan announced on Monday that at least 33 women, most of whom are mothers who stay at their homes, are members of the "Biyaya ning Balen Association."

5 Sep 2014 - 16 container vans sent back to Manila port

SUBIC BAY -- At least 16 container vans containing undetermined materials have been sent back to Manila after they were found to be leaking and emitting foul odor.

According to Roberto Garcia, chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the container vans were among the 721 that arrived at the new container terminal 2 (NCT-2) in Subic Freeport on board M/V Asterix from the Port of Manila last week.

4 Sep 2014 - Police, farmers clash as demolition resumes

PAMPANGA -- Farmers' woes persist as they attempt to stop the resumption of the demolition operations at a 130-hectare farmland in Barangay Maimpis here.

Clashes erupted between the Maimpis farmers and the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPO) personnel during the demolition of the disputed land with enraged farmers blocking the demolition equipment and the police attempting to suppress the disorder.

4 Sep 2014 - BCDA to pour P5-B for CGC

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and CEO Arnel Paciano Casanova disclosed on Thursday that the state-owned firm will infuse at least P5 billion for the Clark Green City (CGC) project at the 35,000 hectares area in Pampanga and Tarlac provinces.

Casanova said the BCDA has its own funds for the initial development of the Green City that will spur tremendous economic growth in Central Luzon.

4 Sep 2014 - Guv vows support for Apec meet

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda pledged on Wednesday to support the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit, which will run from January 26 to February 3, 2015 at Clark Freeport in Pampanga.

In a meeting with Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., Apec 2015 Organizing Committee chair and retired Lieutenant General Anthony Alcantara and General Ricardo Banaya at Capitol, Governor Pineda said that she will immediately create a coordinating committee, which will help in the preparations for the summit.

4 Sep 2014 - PamCham okay with proposed FMVs

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) reacted favorably on Wednesday to the proposed ordinance on the revised schedule of fair market values (FMVs) of properties in the province.

During the fourth of five public hearings conducted by the Provincial Board (PB) committee on ways and means chaired by third district Board Member Rosve Henson at Benigno Aquino Hall at Capitol, PamCham president Jim Jimenez said that the proposed FMVs are "equitable and reasonable" with the lowered assessment rates.

4 Sep 2014 - P100,000 bounty up for arrest of suspect in Mabalacat case

MABALACAT CITY -- The City Council here approved on Wednesday a resolution authorizing Mayor Marino Morales to put-up a P100,000 reward for the arrest of a suspect in last month’s robbery and frustrated homicide case.

The resolution was sponsored by Councilor Benny Jocson, committee on Public Safety chairman and was unanimously approved by Councilors Gerald Guttrie Aquino, Eddie Sotto, Carlo Nino Rivera, Oscar Aurelio, Dwight Morales, Win-Win Garbo, Jeng Yumul, Froyland Galang, Bok Tiglao, and Rox Pena.

4 Sep 2014 - 1 hurt in four-vehicle smash-up

PAMPANGA -- One person was seriously injured after the recent collision of four vehicles along MacArthur Highway, Barangay Dela Paz Norte, San Fernando.

The said vehicular accident involved an XLT (CLH 470), a black Toyota Hilux (UDO 209), a Sarao public jeepeney (CWU 518), and a green dump truck (RJC 895).

3 Sep 2014 - Angeles launches anti-measles, polio campaign

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here through its City Health Office (CHO) has launched a month-long mass immunization campaign that aims to lessen the growing cases of measles and polio.

Simultaneous to the “Ligtas sa Tigdas at Polio” nationwide campaign launched by the Department of Health (DOH), Angeles City is more than enthusiastic to help achieve its goal in reducing child mortality rate in the Philippines.

3 Sep 2014 - Bikers push health, environmental advocacies

ANGELES CITY -- Recreational Outdoor eXchange (ROX) hosted its Third Bike for a Cause in Clark, Pampanga recently.

The said biking event aims to raise the awareness of the youth on how to improve public health and environmental protection.

3 Sep 2014 - Clark water rates to remain low for 3 years

CLARK FREEPORT -- Hundreds of residents in this eco-zone, including some 700 locators can expect lower water bills starting this month until the next three years as an agreement between Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Ayala-led Clark Water Corporation (CWC) to reduce cost by P1.00 per cubic meter (pcm) has taken effect last September 1.

CDC president and CEO Arthur Tugade said residential and commercial utility rates will go down depending on their consumption from a base rate of as low as P70.00 or high as P300,000 effective this month until 2017.

3 Sep 2014 - Bonchon Chicken now open at SM City Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Bonchon Chicken, the global Asian-Korean-American food that highlights the crispy yet light and non-greasy original Korean fried chicken in soy garlic, spicy and honey citrus flavors recently opened its 79th store in SM City Pampanga.

Another reason to get excited about fast food is the wide range of complementary offerings in very reasonable prices which includes rice meals, seafood, bulgogi, sandwiches, noodles, snacks, salad and sides.

3 Sep 2014 - MCC eyed as institution of excellence

MABALACAT CITY -- The newly installed head of the Mabalacat City College (MCC) is envisioning the community college to be an institution of excellence, which is expected to provide quality education to its students.

Carmelita Pangan Sotto issued the statement during her installation as new MCC president last Tuesday.

2 Sep 2014 - PNoy ‘bars’ full lease for Kuwaiti investor

CLARK FREEPORT - President Aquino has reportedly instructed the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) to withhold the full granting of rights to the Kuwaiti investor Global Gateway Development Corp. (GGDC) over 177 hectares of land it already has invested some $70 million in the past six years.

This surfaced during a House transportation committee hearing held here recently after GGDC President-CEO Mark Williams raised the issue over the reluctance of the BCDA to “annotate” the firm’s lease for processing by the Register of Deeds.

2 Sep 2014 - NAIA passengers from CL, NL unaware of Clark airport flights

CLARK FREEPORT - Some 22 percent of Central and Northern Luzon folk who flew to international and domestic destinations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from January to May this year were not even aware of flights at the Clark International Airport (Clark airport) here.

This was among the results of a survey finished recently by the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) in its bid to lure more passengers from Regions 1, 2, 3 and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to use Clark airport. The survey referred to the regions as Clark’s “catchment area”, as against NAIA’s catchment area covering the National Capital Region (NCR) and Regions 4 and 5.

2 Sep 2014 - Boking boasts P1.6-B income

MABALACAT CITY- Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales reported Monday that the local government has earned P1.631 billion in total revenues from local collections since it became a city two years ago.

In his State-of-the-City address at the SM City Clark mall, Morales noted that of the total amount, some P1.2 billion was raised in 2013 alone from “local taxes, permits and licenses.” Morales’ prepared speech furnished to Punto and other media, however, contained figures and statements that seemed to clash.

1 Sep 2014 - PNoy now eyes high-speed railway between Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- President Aquino has asked the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to conduct a feasibility study on a “high speed railway” to link the Clark International Airport (CIA) and Metro Manila, using the same old route initially intended for the aborted North Railways project of the Arroyo administration.

Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) President-CEO Victor Jose Luciano said the President issued this directive Tuesday last week during a meeting of the Cabinet cluster on transportation.

1 Sep 2014 - SBMA H1 2014 fiscal performance tops last year’s records

SUBIC BAY —- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has again notched impressive financial performance in the first semester of 2014, surpassing even its record-breaking first half performance last year when it turned in a net profit of P1.2 billion, the agency’s highest in its entire 21-year history.

According to the SBMA’s midyear accomplishment report, the state-owned corporation obtained positive results in the first six months of 2014 in all the key results areas like investment generation, customs duties and tax collections, export production, as well as job creation.

1 Sep 2014 - MacArthur Highway turns into speedway

MABALACAT CITY -– It has become all too common every night – motorcycle street-drag racing along the MacArthur Highway in Barangays Dau, Camachiles and Mabiga here.

Street drag racing is illegal but starting at around midnight, scores of motorcycle riders gather along the MacArthur Highway and set up drag races unmindful of other motorists and in complete disregard of law enforcers. Most racers modify their motorcycles which emit loud noises.