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Balibago News Jan-2016

30 Jan 2016 - Mayor defends ‘fishpond’ in quarry site

PAMPANGA -- Masantol Mayor Danilo Guintu defended the alleged "private fishpond" located in a national government-owned property supposedly used as a quarry site of the local government unit (LGU) in Barangay Bebe Anac here.

Guintu’s reaction came after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) sent a letter to the LGU dated January 20, 2016 about the demolition of the said fishpond and authorities have started their demolition last Friday, according to a source from Barangay Bebe Anac, who requested for anonymity.

30 Jan 2016 - Inmate found in possession of suspected drugs

PAMPANGA -- Authorities of Pampanga Provincial Jail found illegal drugs in the possession of an inmate on Saturday.

According to an official who requested anonymity, the suspected shabu was kept inside bread brought by one Joseph Generillo, 25.

30 Jan 2016 - Pineda’s program for seniors gets thumbs up from Poe-Escudero tandem

PAMPANGA -- Presidential bet Senator Grace Poe and vice-presidential aspirant Senator Francis Escudero lauded Governor Lilia Pineda for her programs for the senior citizens sector in Pampanga.

The two aspirants for the 2016 elections made these statements during a visit to some 204 executives of the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) from the first and third district of Pampanga at the Benigno Aquino Hall, Capitol compound on Friday.

30 Jan 2016 - Rodriguez inaugurates new projects in Mexico town

PAMPANGA -- Representative Oscar Rodriguez continues his progressive projects in the province's third district as he inaugurated five new infrastructures on Friday.

In a bid to continuously provide growth in the third district towns, Rodriguez--through the Department of Public works and Highways (DPWH)--initiated the construction and upgrading of roads, particularly farm-to-market roads in this municipality.

30 Jan 2016 - Escudero: Fight corruption with FOI bill

ANGELES CITY -- Senator Francis Escudero has described the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill as an “arm” in the fight against corruption.

Escudero, a vice presidential aspirant, stated this during his visit in Pampanga, together with running-mate Senator Grace Poe.

30 Jan 2016 - Ople wants libel ‘decriminalized’

PAMPANGA -- Senatorial aspirant Susan "Toots" Ople recently called for the “decriminalization” of libel to protect the interests of journalists.

"Many politicians and even private entities have been using [the case of] libel as a threat to journalists whose only aim is to inform our fellow countrymen about truth," Ople said.

29 Jan 2016 - Poe, Escudero want Clark airport's full utilization

ANGELES CITY -- Senators Grace Poe and Chiz Escudero yesterday stressed the need for the full utilization of Clark International Airport (CRK) in order to boost employment and tourism in Central and Northern Luzon.

During a press conference at Fortune Seafood and Restaurant here, Poe said Governor Lilia Pineda echoed some of the local issues in Pampanga including the full development of Clark airport.

29 Jan 2016 - P135-M zoo to rise in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- A theme park developer has started constructing a P135-million zoo inside a 20 to 40 hectare property in Clark Freeport.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade and Global Zoo and Theme Park Alliance Inc. (GZTPAI) general manager Ric Siccion led the groundbreaking on Thursday.

29 Jan 2016 - Poe lauds Pineda for leadership

PAMPANGA -- "If we aim for the development of both country and humanity, then we must have a leader who can deliver with a heart."

Thus said presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe when she spoke before Kapampangan senior citizens on Friday at the Benigno Aquino Hall at the Capitol Compound, where she cited the good governance of Governor Lilia Pineda.

29 Jan 2016 - PPOC okays P39-M peace and order, intel funds

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) approved the programming of P30-million as local peace and order fund and P9-million as confidential funds in the recent council meeting held at the Salilungan Pasalubong Center in this city on Thursday.

It was learned that P12-million of said POC funds shall be utilized for crime prevention and anti-insurgency measures such as information drives, trainings and seminars for relevant personnel, institutions, local officials and stakeholders; as well as livelihood programs in particular areas of concern.

29 Jan 2016 - Maglanque welcomes MNTC investment

PAMPANGA -- Candaba Mayor Rene Maglanque of this town has expressed his support in the planned investment of the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) in Candaba’s renowned bird sanctuary.

Maglanque said he will support any investment in the municipality considering its benefits to Candabeños.

29 Jan 2016 - Guiao cites Loyzaga’s contribution to basketball

PAMPANGA -- First District Representative Joseller “Yeng” Guiao cited Thursday the late Carlos "Caloy" Loyzaga for his contributions to Philippine basketball.

Guiao filed House Resolution 2646, "giving recognition and appreciation to the contributions of Loyzaga to Philippine basketball and expressing the most sincere and profound condolences of the House of Representatives to his family."

28 Jan 2016 - P20-B needed for Arnedo dike total rehabilitation

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) bared on Wednesday that the 65-year-old, 36-kilometer Arnedo Dike – now known as “Pampanga River Bank” – needs at least P20-billion for the full reconstruction and rehabilitation of the whole structure from Arayat to Apalit towns.

As this developed, Governor Lilia Pineda asked why the DPWH only requested the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for the approval of more than P900 million for the rehabilitation of the damaged portions of the dike due to typhoons “Lando” and “Nona”, when in fact P20-billion is needed for its total rehabilitation.

28 Jan 2016 - 2 killed in Angeles police anti-drug operation

ANGELES CITY -- A suspected drug pusher and his companion were killed during an encounter with police officers in Barangay Sapang Bato Wednesday night.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, city police director, identified the fatalities as Louie Ocampo, who was listed as a wanted person for illegal drugs and illegal possession of firearms and a certain Allan Aquilar.

28 Jan 2016 - 3 Pampanga LGUs get DA facilities

CLARK FREEPORT -- The local government units (LGUs) of Apalit, City of San Fernando and Angeles City were among the 17 government units that received composting facilities for biodegradable waste from the Bureau of Soils and Management (BSWM) together with the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 3.

The said agencies led the awarding at the Hotel Stotsenberg Clarkfield with Senator Cynthia Villar, concurrent chair of senate committee on agriculture, as the guest speaker during the program.

28 Jan 2016 - Angeles inaugurates new legislative building

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here held the blessing and inauguration of the new legislative building at the City Hall in Pulung Maragul, Tuesday.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan initiated the program with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and was joined by Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, DILG Director Martin Flores Moral, and local city councilors.

28 Jan 2016 - Joint PNP-NBI probe on cop slay sought

ANGELES CITY -- A top police official here said Thursday that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) will jointly conduct a separate investigation on the killing of a rookie policeman on December 24, 2015.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, city police director, said relatives of PO1 Jomar Batul, together with several NBI officials and special investigators, requested for the joint investigation.

28 Jan 2016 - Groups come together for Sitio Haduan IPs

CLARK FREEPORT -- A powerful demonstration of commitment was witnessed recently as four prime movers in social development joined forces in ensuring that more than 200 Aeta inhabitants of Sitio Haduan in Mabalacat City, Pampanga will soon have sustainable access to clean water.

Manila Water Foundation (MWF), through its Ahon Pinoy program, signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Clark Water Corporation (CWC), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Aeta Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) to rehabilitate the existing water well with hand pump of Sitio Haduan, which has been non-operational for years, to supply the water needs of the community.

27 Jan 2016 - Dengue cases in Central Luzon down 2%

PAMPANGA -- There has been a slight decrease in the number of dengue cases in Central Luzon as the Department of Health (DOH) noted a two percent decrease in recorded cases.

The DOH's Dengue Surveillance Update from the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit said that from 778 cases reported as of January 16, 2016, the number went down to 766 in the same period this year.

27 Jan 2016 - Kapampangan OFW now a public school teacher

PAMPANGA -- Overseas Filipino worker Merlita Musni Pabusatan is now a certified public school teacher, thanks to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The 46 year-old Magalang-native was appointed as Teacher I by the Department of Education (DepEd) after qualifying and successfully passing the program’s screening process.

27 Jan 2016 - San Fernando launches 'Oplan Goodbye Bulate'

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga and the Department of Health Region 3 (DOH-3) conducted a simultaneous school deworming on Wednesday as part of the program dubbed "Oplan Goodbye Bulate."

The program covered children who are studying from Kinder to Grade 6 in all elementary public schools of the city to prevent the detrimental effects of soil-transmitted helminthiasis.

27 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan urges students to be advocates of local tourism

ANGELES CITY – "As students of Tourism Management, you will soon brandish the torch and take hold of the responsibility to make a big impact on our city's tourism industry. I hope that this talk, and this convention, has inspired you to do greater things for the betterment of our community."

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan during Angeles University Foundation’s Tourism Convention 2016 held Tuesday at the university’s St. Cecilia Hall.

27 Jan 2016 - CDC's CSR gains international recognition

CLARK FREEPORT -- Close to 12,000 people from the contiguous areas here benefitted from the various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects launched by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) in partnership with some private and government agencies for 2015.

In a report submitted to CDC president Arthur Tugade, Assistant Vice President for External Affairs Department (CDC-EAD) Rommel Narciso said the state-run firm has recorded a total of 92 CSR projects last year, six of which were health related, four in education, 25 in livelihood, 18 are partnerships and 39 are special projects and services.

26 Jan 2016 - Guiao: Fight for Clark airport will continue

MABALACAT CITY -- Pampanga First District Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao assured that he will continue to fight for the development of Clark as premier airport and trade center.

Guiao said that one of his three-point agenda is the advocacy for the development of Clark.

26 Jan 2016 - Mayor: Youth should take more proactive stance for environment

ANGELES CITY -- "We always tell ourselves that we will do something 'in our own little way', but we always fail to start.

Thus said Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, as the local government here, together with the City College of Angeles (CCA) and Task Force One Million Trees, held a city-wide campus conference on climate change, Friday, at the CCA campus.

26 Jan 2016 - Guv: 95 years old elderly to receive P100,000

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda announced on Tuesday that starting this year, all natural born Kapampangans reaching the age of 95 shall receive P100,000 from the Provincial Government.

Pineda made the announcement during the assembly of senior citizens from the second district held at Salilungan Pasalubong Center, this city.

26 Jan 2016 - DOH, DepEd holds 2nd round of national deworming day

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Education (DepEd) are holding the second round of the Harmonized Deworming Day on Wednesday.

In a bid to develop the physical and mental health of the youth, the DOH and DepEd will be deworming some 3.3 million children today in Central Luzon alone.

26 Jan 2016 - Retired cop, man killed after heated argument

PAMPANGA -- A retired police officer and a 29-year-old man were killed during a heated argument in Barangay Ponduhan, City of San Fernando, Tuesday morning.

Chief Superintendent Rudy Lacadin, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, identified the fatalities as Leonardo Liwanag, 69, a resident of St. Jude Subdivision, City of San Fernando; and Ronald Gatpolintan, 29, a resident of Barangay Ponduhan.

25 Jan 2016 - Australian found dead

SUBIC BAY -- A 56-year-old Australian man was found dead from a heart attack inside a hotel room in Barretto village here on Sunday (Jan. 24) evening.

The remains of Melbourne resident Neil Robert Briscoe was discovered lying on the bed in his hotel room in Viking Hotel and Restaurant, said Sen. Insp. Rodel Paragas, police station 6 commander.

25 Jan 2016 - Lapid returns to Pampanga, seeks support for 2016 elections

PAMPANGA -- Former Pampanga governor and now senatorial aspirant Mark Lapid returned to Capitol on Monday and joined the flag raising rites, greeting some employees and people he had worked with nearly ten years ago when he sat at the helm of the Provincial Government in 2004 to 2007.

Lapid, a guest candidate of the Liberal Party, arrived early to “seek the blessing” of incumbent Governor Lilia Pineda, as well as the support of Kapampangans for his bid of a Senate post in time for the election season kickoff on February 9.

25 Jan 2016 - Central Luzon to get anti-dengue vaccine

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Central Luzon Region on Monday said that the region is one of the pilot receivers of the anti-dengue vaccine.

According to DOH Central Luzon Regional Epidemiologist Dr. Jessie Fantone, alongside Calabarzon and the National Capital Region were chosen as pilot beneficiary of the vaccine due to their high number of dengue cases in 2015 among the 17 regions.

25 Jan 2016 - Macabebe official: ‘They are just making another issue’

PAMPANGA -- "They are just making another issue so we need to verify it first."

Thus said Macabebe Municipal Administrator Jomel Cruz regarding the claims of the workers of contractor Edd-Mari Construction working on the evacuation road project in Barangay San Gabriel, where they claimed armed men are “going around” the construction site while they are working.

25 Jan 2016 - Families affected by Arnedo Dike rehab relocated

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga has relocated the families which will be affected by the rehabilitation of Arnedo Dike in Barangay Cupang, Arayat.

Mayor Emmanuel "Bon" Alejandrino said 12 families from the said area will be relocated to avoid hazards during the rehabilitation.

25 Jan 2016 - CDC, groups ink P250,000 water project for Aetas

CLARK FREEPORT -- About 200 residents, mostly Indigenous People (IP) in Sitio Haduan will soon have access to potable water through the partnership of the state-owned firm and private water firm operating here amounting to P250,000.

This was learned after the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Friday (January 22) among Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Manila Water Foundation (MWF), Clark Water Corporation (CWC), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Aeta Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) for the establishment of water supply project for the tribal community in Marcos Village, Mabalacat City.

25 Jan 2016 - Guv to assist BFP with service vehicles

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda has promised to help the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Pampanga with service vehicles to enable them to better serve their respective areas of jurisdiction in time for the Fire Prevention Month in March.

Governor Pineda made this assurance to the different station chiefs of Pampanga led by BFP Regional Director Aloveel Ferrer.

24 Jan 2016 - Fear grips Macabebe road construction site

PAMPANGA -- Fear grips engineers and workers of the Edd-Mari Construction, contractor of road project in Barangay San Gabriel, as armed men are reportedly brandishing around the construction site.

A source from the Edd-Mari Construction, who requested anonymity, said that a group of men he described as goons allegedly threatened to kill the workers and burn their equipment.

24 Jan 2016 - MNTC plans to acquire Candaba bird sanctuary

PAMPANGA -- Rodrigo E. Franco, president and chief executive officer of Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC), said the firm is contemplating on acquiring the 72-hectare Bird Sanctuary known as “Home of Migratory Birds” owned by former mayor Jerry Pelayo.

Franco, concurrent chair of Environment Committee of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (Finex), the biggest organization of financial executives in the country, expressed willingness to sustain and preserve the bird sanctuary.

24 Jan 2016 - Police hit for wrong report of drug-affected barangays

MABALACAT CITY -- A barangay chairman here assailed the local police for releasing “erroneous report” of barangays tagged as seriously affected by illegal drugs.

Mawaque chairman Noel Dimarucut clarified that Mauaque Resettlement Center, where 10 suspected drug pushers and users were arrested, is part of Barangay Sapang Biabas and not his barangay.

24 Jan 2016 - DILG: BUB will not be scrapped

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently assured the public that the bottom-up budgeting (BuB) program of the National Government will not be easily scrapped by the next administration.

As the national elections happening in May, DILG-Central Luzon Director Florida Dijan allayed worries regarding the abolition of BUB by stressing its non-removal whatever the polls' result.

24 Jan 2016 - Global Arts Philippines opens

ANGELES CITY -- Global Arts Philippines has opened its branch in Pampanga in a bid to provide Kapampangan students a world-class art school.

Located in Meifoods Commercial Building, Magalang Road Corner RA Canlas Street, Pandan, Angeles City, Global Arts Philippines offers a 20 percent discount on tuition until January 30.

24 Jan 2016 - Theater group to stage 'The Golden Girls'

ANGELES CITY -- The Teatru Ima Kami Pampanga will be staging the play “The Golden Girls” on February 19, 20 and 26, 27 at the Holy Family Auditorium in Angeles City.

Teatru Ima Kami is group of well accomplished women in their 50's and 60's who have found a new love in theater production and acting.

23 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan blasts critics of public cemetery project

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lambasted his detractors opposing the City Government's P110-million public cemetery project in Barangay Sapalibutad.

During the ground-breaking ceremony on Friday, the mayor hinted that it is unfair to say that his administration is “prioritizing projects for the dead and not for the living people.”

23 Jan 2016 - Magalang mayor supports guv’s road alignment plan

PAMPANGA -- Magalang Mayor Romulo “Romy” Pecson expressed support on Friday to the plan of Governor Lilia Pineda for a new road alignment, which will connect barangays San Isidro here and Dapdap in nearby Mabalacat City.

Pecson said he will help the governor by negotiating with the owners of the property where the proposed road will traverse.

23 Jan 2016 - Pelco 3: Proper coordination could have reduced expenses on road project

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga III Electric Cooperative (Pelco 3) said Friday that proper coordination of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Central Luzon on the evacuation road project in Barangay San Gabriel, Macabebe town could have lessened the needed expenses for the relocation of some electric poles in the project area.

"If they coordinated properly with us, Pelco 3 could have prepared and allocated some budget and only a few electric poles might have been relocated," said Engr. Gilbert Rodriguez, network services division engineer.

23 Jan 2016 - OFW coop, ambulant vendors receive negokarts

PAMPANGA -- A cooperative of overseas Filipino workers' (OFWs) families and ambulant vendors here were given negokarts and trailers recently.

Through the initiative of Mayor Roy Manalastas, 29 mobile workers were awarded negokarts by the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) as part of the Nego-Kart project.

21 Jan 2016 - Guv vows additional P20-M for Mabalacat City College

MABALACAT CITY -- Governor Lilia Pineda vowed Thursday to allot P20- million more for the construction of additional school buildings at the satellite campus of the Mabalacat City College (MCC) in Barangay Dapdap here.

During the inauguration of the MCC satellite school, the governor said the community college will need additional classrooms to accommodate students in several resettlements here and nearby Magalang town.

21 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan enjoins schools to visit Angeles museums

ANGELES CITY –- “We often become indifferent about the history of our place - but it is these stories, traditions, and artifacts from the past that define us as a people.

That’s why it is of utmost importance to me that we make our students well-versed on the topic of Angeles’ rich local history,” he said.

21 Jan 2016 - Minimum jeep fare in Central Luzon is P7

PAMPANGA -- The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved Thursday the transport groups' petition to reduce the existing minimum fare in Central Luzon.

After the voluntary petition of several transport groups in the region, including Pasang Masda, Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations, Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization and Liga ng Tsuper at Operators ng Pilipinas, the LTFRB has ordered a minimum jeepney fare rollback from P7.50 to P7.00 starting Friday.

21 Jan 2016 - Guv to village chiefs: Fight illegal drugs

MABALACAT CITY -- Governor Lilia Pineda asked barangay chairmen here to support the Provincial Government in fighting illegal drugs.

The governor issued the statement during the inauguration of the Mabalacat City College (MCC) satellite campus in Barangay Dapdap yesterday.

21 Jan 2016 - 13 drug suspects apprehended in Guagua

PAMPANGA -- Thirteen suspected drug pushers were apprehended at Purok 3, Barangay San Rafael, this town in a buy bust operation on Tuesday.

The police intelligence officers of the Provincial Police Office conducted the said one-time-big-time buy bust operation in coordination with the operatives of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Central Luzon and the regional police office.

21 Jan 2016 - Farmers assured assistance amid El Niño

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) here has assured assistance for farmers affected by the ongoing El Niño as it said that measures have been in place to cushion the effects of the drought this first quarter of the year.

The DA here said that Secretary Proceso Alcala had assured that the initiatives are aimed to protect farmers as he assured that the department is ready and will immediately respond to ensure that there will be no palay shortage and that production will not be severely affected during the El Niño.

21 Jan 2016 - Hybrid Road Train to benefit Clark Freeport

CLARK FREEPORT — The recently inaugurated Light Hybrid Electric Road Train (also called as LCRT) will become an alternate mass transportation system here due to the growing requirements of locators and investors for their employees inside this Freeport.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur P. Tugade said the light hybrid electric road train will not be the mass transport system that will replace the public utility vehicles in Clark ferrying mostly workers to various companies here.

20 Jan 2016 - DPWH tells contractor: Resume Macabebe roadworks

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) First Engineering District Office said Wednesday that Ed Marie Construction can resume works on the evacuation road project in Macabebe Barangay San Gabriel, after the contractor temporarily stopped on Monday.

Assistant District Engineer William "Bong" Bustos said the DPWH did not instruct them to stop their work even if Mayor Annette Balgan wrote a letter to them regarding the stoppage of the said project until some concerns were addressed.

20 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan distributes 2nd batch of vehicles to barangays, police

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here, through Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, distributed the second batch of multi-purpose vehicles to the city’s barangay captains and local police in a brief ceremony Wednesday.

A total of 10 vehicles were donated, six of which were given to the barangay captains, while four were donated to the Angeles City Police Office.

20 Jan 2016 - 10 Mabalacat villages 'seriously affected' by drugs

MABALACAT CITY -- At least 10 villages here were tagged by the local police as seriously affected by illegal drugs.

Chief Inspector Gil Domingo, officer-in-charge of the city police, said barangays with serious drug problems include Dau, Mabiga, Mawaque, Poblacion, Dapdap, Atlu-Bola, San Francisco, Camachiles, Lakandula, and San Joacquin.

20 Jan 2016 - Mayor assures constituents of peaceful elections

PAMPANGA -- Despite being included in the poll watchlist, Mexico Mayor Roy Manalastas assured on Wednesday his constituents of peaceful elections come May.

Manalastas said the local government here is implementing several precautionary measures to avoid any untoward incidents in the May polls as well as during the whole election season.

20 Jan 2016 - State universities’ budget augmented

PAMPANGA -- State universities and colleges (SUCs), including the Pampanga State Agricultural University in Magalang and the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) in Bacolor town, will receive additional funding from the national government.

Senator Loren Legarda, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, said they have augmented the budget of state universities and colleges (SUCs) to support research programs and infrastructure development.

20 Jan 2016 - Transport groups want fare cut

PAMPANGA -- Several transport groups have expressed their plans to implement a fare rollback in the region recently.

As a response to the continuous drop of oil prices in the market, transport groups in Central Luzon like Pasang Masda, Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations, Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization and Liga ng Tsuper at Operators ng Pilipinas have agreed to a 50-centavo-cut in the existing P7.50 minimum transport fare.

19 Jan 2016 - Mayor asks DPWH to stop roadworks

PAMPANGA -- Macabebe Mayor Annette Flores-Balgan of this town has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) office in Central Luzon to temporarily stop the ongoing evacuation road project in Barangay San Gabriel after some stakeholders complained of engineering designs and lack of proper coordination.

In a letter to DPWH Regional Director Antonio Molano Jr. dated January 13, 2016, Balgan said that proper coordination could have avoided the temporary stoppage of the P50-million, 1.468-kilometer long evacuation road project facilitated by Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc (Pampanga, 4th District) which started September last year.

19 Jan 2016 - Group: Cubi, Poro best Edca sites

ANGELES CITY -- An advocacy group here said that the best locations for US military facilities are Poro Point, La Union and Cubi Point in Bataan.

The Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) issued the statement after Clark was included in the list of military camps as possible sites for US military troops and equipment for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca).

19 Jan 2016 - Businessman says 'wait and see' attitude due to election

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) Vice-Chairman Rene Romero said on Monday that election spending will be the country's top reason for the rise of consumption for the first quarter with an obvious effect on the local and national economies.

But Romero was quick to note that mainstream investment is in a "wait and see" mode as investors are still anxious of the possible winners in this year's elections.

19 Jan 2016 - Tarlac pet shop closed due to under declaration

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4) led the closure of the Matias Pet Shop in Tarlac City after the said establishment was found to have under declared its sales for at least two years.

BIR RR4 Regional Director Jethro Sabarriaga said that the establishment owned by one Ma. Teresa de Jesus made under declarations for 2013 and 2014.

19 Jan 2016 - Floridablanca Doctors Hospital opens

PAMPANGA -- The Floridablanca Doctors Hospital Incorporated (FDHI) held its blessing, inauguration and grand opening on Monday.

Led by its Director Allan Policarpio, a group of Floridablanca doctors vowed to serve their townmates through the medical institution.

19 Jan 2016 - Parents urged to avail of IPV dose

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health (DOH) called Tuesday on parents and guardians to avail of the free Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) being offered in health centers nationwide.

According to the DOH, the IPV should be given to infants together with the third of the three Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) doses.

18 Jan 2016 - ‘Salilungan’ opens in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga led by Governor Lilia Pineda led the opening of the first ever provincial one-stop-shop here of Pampanga made products at the former City of San Fernando Transport Terminal that has been refurbished and now called "Salilungan".

The opening was attended by different mayors and government officials of Pampanga.

18 Jan 2016 - TUP center of excellence to rise in Clark Green City

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and CEO Arnel Paciano Casanova disclosed that the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) has chosen BCDA’s biggest development project, the 9,450-hectare Clark Green City, to be the location of its new innovative campus.

The state-owned BCDA signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with TUP for the establishment of a center specializing in industrial and technology skills development in Clark Green City, a master-planned global city within the Clark Special Economic Zone that is envisioned to be the first smart, disaster-resilient and green city in the country.

18 Jan 2016 - Affinity, CFC gives flu vaccine to flood victims

PAMPANGA -- A medical center, together with the Couples for Christ (CFC)-San Simon chapter, conducted a free medical mission for flood victims here on Sunday.

Some P3-million worth of flu vaccines from Affinity Health and Wellness Corporation were given to 2,000 Simonians at Nuestra Señora del Pilar Parish.

18 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan cites local cops

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded the efforts of the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) for solving various cases through the neutralization and arrest of several criminals here.

ACPO Director Police Senior Superintendent Sydney Villaflor, together with three station commanders and their respective teams were given recognition yesterday during a courtesy call with the mayor for their efforts.

17 Jan 2016 - BCDA to 2016 presidential bets: Include Metro Manila decongestion

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said on Friday the proposal to decongest Metro Manila should be included as one of the major political discourse leading up to next year's presidential election.

During the Bale Balitaan roundtable discussion with members of the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI), BCDA president and chief executive officer Arnel Paciano Casanova said plans to ease the congestion in Metro Manila must be included in the programs of governance of presidential candidates which may include the transfer of other key industries and major public offices into other regions.

17 Jan 2016 - DILG: No public funds will be used on poll campaign

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) assures the public that no government funds will be used for campaigning by incumbent officials.

As the campaign period is nearly approaching, DILG-Central Luzon Regional Director Florida Dijan said the budget released to the local government units (LGUs) months before the May 2016 polls are already obligated.

17 Jan 2016 - LGC breaks ground for new automotive services complex

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Laus Group of Companies (LGC) on Wednesday broke ground for a new automotive complex in this Freeport that will provide quality auto products and services for vehicle owners and motoring enthusiasts.

The groundbreaking ceremonies for the soon-to-rise 1.9-hectare auto services complex along MA Roxas Avenue here was led by LGC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Levy P. Laus, Executive Vice- President and Chief Operating Officer Lisset A. Laus-Velasco and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Arthur Tugade.

17 Jan 2016 - BIR to close 20 more establishments in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The The Bureau of Internal Revenue Region IV (RR-4) is set to close 20 more establishments in Central Luzon through its Oplan Kandado Program as part of the bureau's tax campaign to encourage taxpayers to pay right taxes.

BIR RR-4 Director Jethro Sabarriaga said that surveillance of possible delinquent tax payers is currently on going.

17 Jan 2016 - Candaba eyes construction of community college

PAMPANGA -- The local government here is looking at the possibility of constructing a community college to provide affordable education to indigent students.

Mayor Rene Maglanque of this town said he is pushing for free college education for his constituents to increase the number of professional Candabenos.

17 Jan 2016 - Masantol residents get relief goods

PAMPANGA -- The municipal government, in cooperation with Fourth District Congressman Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc, has provided relief goods to the residents of Barangay Sapang Kawayan recently.

Mayor Danilo Guintu said that the 2, 000 residents, which benefitted from the assistance, expressed gratitude to the local officials.

16 Jan 2016 - 7 returning OFWs now have teaching careers

PAMPANGA -- Seven returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) now have teaching careers in Central Luzon, thanks to the “Sa ‘Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am/Sir” Program, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) said Friday.

This means that all beneficiaries successfully passed the program’s screening process and appointed by the Department of Education (DepEd) as Teacher I, assigned at various public schools in the region.

16 Jan 2016 - Mabalacat chief cop vows crackdown vs illegal drugs

MABALACAT CITY -- The newly-installed officer-in-charge of this city's police has vowed to conduct continuous operations against illegal drugs.

Chief Inspector Gil Domingo, the city's new acting chief of police, issued the statement during a courtesy call at the city council on Wednesday.

15 Jan 2016 - NBI initiates probe on rookie cop slay

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Death Investigation Division of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has started a separate investigation on the reported shootout at a mall here where a rookie policeman was killed.

Relatives of Police Officer 1 Jomar Batul, who was killed in an alleged shoot out with security personnel of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), sought the assistance of the NBI after discovering conflicting reports prepared by the Angeles City police and the Clark Public Safety Department.

15 Jan 2016 - San Fernando creating book on local heroes

PAMPANGA -- In an aim to continuously raise the awareness and inculcate in the minds of the youth the value of history, the city government here is creating a book about the lives of local heroes.

Mayor Edwin Santiago said the book will serve as a reminder to the youth on the efforts and sacrifices of Fernandino heroes for the city.

15 Jan 2016 - Hybrid road train to benefit Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president and CEO Emigdio Tanjuatco III said on Thursday that the Hybrid Road Train project of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) will benefit workers and locators at Clark Freeport Zone.

The CDC and DOST finally launched the Maiden Trip Hybrid Road Train at Clark Freeport in a bid to improve the transportation system in the area.

15 Jan 2016 - Policarpio writes 30

ANGELES CITY -- Veteran print and broadcast journalist Rizal Policarpio has joined his Creator at the age of 75.

Policarpio succumbed to pneumonia Wednesday morning at the intensive care unit of the Ospital ning Angeles.

15 Jan 2016 - Candaba set to expand municipal hospital

PAMPANGA -- The local government here aims to cascade better its health services by expanding the current municipal hospital.

Mayor Rene Maglanque of this town continues to push for the transformation of the community hospital by adding an annex building.

15 Jan 2016 - Suspect arrested at Comelec checkpoint

PAMPANGA -- The Masantol Police arrested a homicide suspect in at a Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoint recently at Barangay San Isidro here.

The suspect identified as Moises Cabrera, 35, a resident of Barangay Bebe Anac, has a warrant of arrest way back 2010.

14 Jan 2016 - San Fernando creates 1st bike lane in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- The first bicycle lane in the province has been created and launched by the city government here with the aim of lessening pollution caused by motor vehicles.

Led by Mayor Edwin Santiago, the City of San Fernando continues to promote its advocacy of protecting the environment through different ways including the creation of the bicycle lane.

14 Jan 2016 - CDC ground breaks Clark-AC-Mabalacat road project

CLARK FREEPORT – A close to P173-million six-kilometer vital road project that would ease traffic flow in the cities of Angeles and Mabalacat broke ground yesterday.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur P. Tugade led the groundbreaking ceremonies of the Clark-Mabalacat-Angeles Road Project signaling the construction of an interconnecting route from Mabalacat gate to Balibago in Angeles City along the east perimeter fence of this Freeport.

14 Jan 2016 - Mabalacat council recognizes Aeta tribe representative

MABALACAT CITY -- The city council here has confirmed the appointment of a new councilor representing the Aeta indigenous people.

Tribal Chieftain Ruvielane Serrano Margarito, who attended her first session on Wednesday, vowed to work for the welfare of the indigenous people (IP) living in the mountain villages of Mabalacat.

14 Jan 2016 - Sto. Tomas town records 3 mishaps in 32 minutes

PAMPANGA -- Around 11:55 p.m. Tuesday, a motorcycle driven by Ariel Santos, 44, a resident of Caloocan City, lost control when he did not notice the portion of the highway is under renovation, causing him to crash.

Then at around 12:05 a.m. Wednesday, the motorcycle driven by Patrick Galang, 22, a resident of Barangay Sta. Rita, Minalin, also lost control and fell down together with his passenger in the portion of the highway in front of the Manukan Restaurant that is also under renovation while about 22 minutes later at 12:27 a.m., another accident occurred in the same barangay where one van and one pick-up truck collided.

14 Jan 2016 - Boy, 6, drowns in San Luis

PAMPANGA -- A six year old boy drowned on Wednesday morning while playing along the river in Barangay Sta. Cruz Pambilog.

The victim identified as Joshua Ponce, a resident of the said barangay, drowned while playing with his two playmates along the river.

14 Jan 2016 - Anakpawis: Defend land, livelihood vs US military

CLARK FREEPORTT – The Anakpawis Party-list has urged Filipino farmers, indigenous people, fishermen and other rural-based groups to assert their rights over properties and livelihood against “imminent occupation” of US military forces.

This after the Supreme Court decided that the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (Edca), an executive agreement between President Aquino and US President Barack Obama is constitutional.

14 Jan 2016 - San Fernando cops gear up to be fitter police force

PAMPANGA -- Some 15 selected officers of Philippine National Police (PNP) San Fernando are undergoing a crossfit program dubbed as “PNP San Fernando Biggest Loser Challenge” with the hashtag #ForgingEliteForces.

The PNP launched its 45-day pilot program for the year 2016 on January 12 held at CrossFit Cabalen, their gym sponsor for the duration of said program.

13 Jan 2016 - Taxman padlocks 2 shops in Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue Region IV (RR-4) on Tuesday shut down two business establishments in Angeles City for operating without the required certificates of registration.

BIR RR-4 Director Jethro Sabarriaga and Revenue District Office 21-A head Romeo Naranjo implemented the closure order against the Woori Pawnshop and Jhanezell Cellphone and Internet Cafe right after the holiday season.

13 Jan 2016 - 3 Pampanga towns in poll watch list

PAMPANGA -- The towns of Arayat, Masantol, and Mexico have landed in this year’s election watch-list of the Philippine National Police (PNP) due to reported incidents in previous polls.

It could be remembered that Arayat town has been consistently placed under the watch list every election time with most number of violent incidents almost every elections, plus the alleged presence of armed groups operating in the area.

13 Jan 2016 - Santiago: Preserve culture, environment

PAMPANGA -- SAn Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago urged the community, including government officials, to preserve the city's culture and environment despite its move to join the global economic integration.

During the commemoration of the 121st birthday of former Mayor Vivencio Cuyugan, Santiago said that the efforts of former city leaders must be preserved as they have big roles in the state of the city today.

13 Jan 2016 - Angeles exec reiterates stand against Clark Capilion project

ANGELES CITY -- A councilor here reiterated Wednesday his stand against the location of the Clark Green Frontier mixed-used commercial complex of Singapore-based Capilion Corporation Limited.

Councilor Amos Rivera expressed his opposition against the P7-billion project during the monthly media forum of the Pampanga Press Club at Widus Hotel and Casino in Clark Freeport yesterday.

13 Jan 2016 - No case yet on cop shooting

ANGELES CITY -- So far, there is no case against security personnel of Clark Freeport in connection with the killing of a police officer in an alleged shootout at the parking space of a mall here on Christmas eve.

Chief Inspector Dederick Relativo, Police Station 4 commander, said that relatives of the PO1 Jomar Batul of the Mindoro Police Public Safety Battalion, did not yet seek the assistance of the city police.

13 Jan 2016 - Capitol gives 12 brand new service vehicles to hospitals worth P14.5-M

PAMPANGA -- Twelve brand new service vehicles worth P14,592,000 were distributed to one provincial, 10 district hospitals and another one to the provincial administrator’s office in front of the Provincial Capitol yesterday.

First District Board Member Crisostomo Garbo, chairman of the committee on appropriation and Provincial Administrator Andres Pangilinan, Jr., together with Engr. Olimpio Pangan, officer-in-charge of Provincial General Services Office (GSO), Amelia Bondoc, Human Resource Management and Development Office head, led the turnover.

13 Jan 2016 - PHO lauds San Simon town’s dengue programs

PAMPANGA -- San Simon's dengue prevention and control program has been lauded by the Pampanga Provincial Health Office (PHO) on Tuesday after the fall in dengue cases here.

According to OIC-PHO Dr. Jose Antonio Rivera, record shows that there are no reported dengue cases in the municipality for the past six weeks.

13 Jan 2016 - Contractors’ license application rise in 2015

ANGELES CITY -- Applications for Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) licenses processed by the regional office of the Department of Trade and Industry have increased in 2015.

The Department of Trade and Industry Region (DTI) in Central Luzon has processed a total of 331 applications for PCAB license in 2015 which is a marked increase from the total of 303 applications processed in 2014.

12 Jan 2016 - Plastic ban in Clark set

CLARK FREEPORT -- Starting April 21, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) will no longer allow the use of plastics and other non-recyclable materials inside the Freeport.

This is in consonance with the state-run firm’s environmental protection program that will help in reversing climate change and global warming.

12 Jan 2016 - ‘Make police visibility top priority’

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan of this city has challenged the new Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) Director Senior Superintendent Sydney Villaflor on Monday to focus on police visibility by deploying more personnel on public areas.

“Threats of criminality are reduced when police are around. Your presence makes everyone feel safe and secured,” Pamintuan said.

12 Jan 2016 - Comelec, PNP prepare for 2106 polls

PAMPANGA -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are now conducting several preparatory measures to avoid misconduct on the forthcoming national elections.

Comelec-Central Luzon director Temie Lambino, their office and the PNP are now administering simultaneous reshuffling of officials as part of the said preparation.

12 Jan 2016 - BCDA, Filinvest ink deal for Clark Green City

MABALACAT CITY -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Filinvest Land Inc. have signed a joint venture partnership for the development of a 288–hectare Clark Green City.

The contract signing ceremonies, held at the BCDA Corporate Center in Taguig City, marked the first step toward the full development of the BCDA’s flagship project.

12 Jan 2016 - Mayor lauds 4Ps leaders, tells them to avoid political affiliations

PAMPANGA -- Candaba Mayor Rene Maglanque of this town has lauded the efforts of the national government's program for indigent people.

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is a program of the government which grants cash to indigent families in an aim to improve health, nutrition and education of their children.

12 Jan 2016 - DTI reminds businesses to renew permits early

PAMPANGA -- Business owners are reminded to renew their business name early in the year to avoid the rush of applicants for registration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The early renewal will also enable them to facilitate their application for business permit with their respective local government units and requirements with other national government agencies.

11 Jan 2016 - 17 towns, cities child-friendly

PAMPANGA -- Some 14 towns and all three cities in Pampanga have made it to this year’s list of child-friendly local government units based on the 2015 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit Results.

The audit is carried out by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) which assess the performance of local government units (LGUs) in the delivery of social services that promote the welfare of children.

11 Jan 2016 - Guv inaugurates P7-M municipal hall extension in Macabebe

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda and this town's Mayor Annette Flores Balgan inaugurated on Monday the newly constructed P7-million left wing extension of the old municipal hall.

Provincial Administrator Andres Pangilinan Jr. and other department heads of the Provincial Government accompanied the governor who joined the regular Monday flag raising ceremony in front of the municipal hall here.

11 Jan 2016 - Binay tops Mabalacat survey

MABALACAT CITY -- A survey by the IPolls Research Group shows Vice President Jejomar Binay is leading the presidential race based on the trust and approval ratings gathered by students here during a 10-day survey from December 12 to 21.

The survey did not focus on the winnability of the candidates but on their acceptability by voters, based on the lone question "Whom of the following candidates do you trust?"

11 Jan 2016 - MDRRMO explains 'floodwaters with mud'

PAMPANGA -- The San Simon Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) explained the reasons of the flood waters having mud.

"The land was being soaked by flood waters, that is why it brings mud whenever there is flooding," Benjamin Santos, MDRRM officer, said.

9 Jan 2016 - Guv wants relocation for families along Arnedo dike

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda urged thousands of families and villagers living along the stretch of the Arnedo Dike to relocate to permanent resettlement sites.

Pineda said that relocation would pave the way for possible construction works on the dike and secure the safety of families living along the dike.

9 Jan 2016 - Joint security for May 2016 elections convened

PAMPANGA -- The first Regional Joint Security Coordinating Center (RJSCC) meeting was held on Friday at the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) conference room.

The meeting is in preparation of the national and local elections with barely four months to go, said Chief Superintendent Rudy Lacadin, PRO-Central Luzon director.

9 Jan 2016 - Pampanga collects P331.6M from quarry for 2015

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga has collected some P331,660, 000 from quarry revenues from January to December of 2015.

This forms part of the Provincial Government's collection of P1.7 billion from quarry operations for the past 65 months in office of Governor Lilia Pineda.

9 Jan 2016 - DepEd cites outstanding public school teachers, heads in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- Department of Education (DepEd) ended 2015 by recognizing 20 Outstanding Public School Teachers and School Heads in Central Luzon.

“The search aims to bestow honor upon the teaching profession by according special recognition to teachers and school heads who manifest profound commitment to the development of the youth through exemplary competence, remarkable dedication to their work, and effective educational leadership,” DepEd OIC-Regional Director Malcolm Garma said.

8 Jan 2016 - Pamintuan orders crime crackdown

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has ordered the city police to go after criminal elements including those riding motorcycles and others engaged in street crimes.

The mayor issued the directive during a recent conference at the Angeles City police office where two men, who are allegedly responsible in a series of robbery hold up in the city, were presented to the media.

8 Jan 2016 - San Fernando hosts regional school presscon

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga hosted this year's Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2015 held at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center on January 7.

Thousands of campus journalists from public and private elementary and high schools in Central Luzon participated in the various writing and broadcasting competitions which the city hosted for the first time.

8 Jan 2016 - Businessman dares Roxas on Clark airport development

ANGELES CITY -- A businessman has dared presidential candidate Mar Roxas who recently articulated his plan to develop Clark International Airport (CRK) as the country’s premier gateway.

Rene Romero, owner of Romac Manpower Services and vice-chairman of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., said that he doesn't believe that Roxas will implement development programs for Clark airport.

8 Jan 2016 - Guv wants to start long term plan vs floods

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda wants to start the long-term plan to ease flooding as she inspected towns along the Pampanga River that were affected by floods due to recent typhoons Nona and Onyok.

"We will repair all the damage caused by the floods but we need to admit that the Pampanga Delta Dike can no longer be used as a protection. We need to start planning long-term to ease flooding," Pineda said.

8 Jan 2016 - Village chiefs fear flood with mud, cry for help

PAMPANGA -- Village chiefs from San Simon said on Monday that they greatly fear floodwaters with mud as they cried for help.

"Before, we only have floodwaters but now, floodwaters have mud and wastes," said Barangay San Jose Captain Carlos Mamangun.

7 Jan 2016 - Binay: I am not top spender on TV ads

PAMPANGA -- Presidential aspirant incumbent Vice President Jejomar Binay belied reports that he is the top spender in television advertisements among the presidential candidates.

During his "meet and greet" with Kapampangans in several towns on Tuesday, Binay stressed that “other candidates and officials spent more on TV advertisements."

7 Jan 2016 - CIAC president lauded for Emirates' return in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- An advocacy group has lauded the head of the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) for the return of the Emirates airlines in Clark.

Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) Chairman Ruperto Cruz praised CIAC president and Chief Executive Officer Emigdio "Dino" Tanjuatco for his good leadership, which resulted to the development of Clark airport and attraction of airlines.

7 Jan 2016 - Activist lawyer wants to explore Zapanta's case

PAMPANGA -- A controversial and renowned activist lawyer has vowed to help the Zapanta family in exploring the case of Joselito, the Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was executed in Saudi Arabia recently.

Harry Roque, a University of the Philippines professor and law practitioner, suggested to the Zapanta family to propose an examination of the government's action in saving the OFW's life.

7 Jan 2016 - Porac exec wants stricter regulation of Pinatubo route

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Condralito dela Cruz bared yesterday that the municipality is now aiming to implement stricter regulations on tourists who would like to access the Mt. Pinatubo crater lake through this town for safety and monitoring reasons.

This came after Dela Cruz led the recent rescue of 29 mountaineers from Climbers Philippines who were earlier reportedly "trapped" in the crater network.

7 Jan 2016 - CDC wins Asian CSR leadership awards

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) recently received two prestigious awards from the Asian Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Leadership Awards held in Dubai.

CDC was recognized in two categories namely best CSR practices and promoting employment for the physically challenged.

7 Jan 2016 - Alunan: 'Let us make agriculture, industries sexy'

PAMPANGA -- Former interior secretary Rafael Alunan III has stressed the importance of creating attractive industries in the countryside that would generate employment if government would be serious in decongesting Metro Manila and this include making the agriculture sector "sexier."

Alunan said that merely bringing government operations into the provinces, like Pampanga, will not be enough if people would still be trooping to Metro Manila to earn a living. He added that the creation of more livelihoods through a strengthened industry sector would make people consider working in Manila.

7 Jan 2016 - Angeles cops arrest 2 suspected robbers

ANGELES CITY -- The city police has arrested two men allegedly responsible in a series of robbery hold up in barangays Salapungan and Ninoy Aquino over the past few days.

Rosauro Zablan, 36, and his younger brother Ronald, 23, both of Santo Tomas town, Pampanga, were arrested in a checkpoint conducted by elements of Police Station 6 around 5 a.m. Thursday.

7 Jan 2016 - PRO-3 conducts unsealing of firearms muzzles

PAMPANGA -- The unsealing of firearms muzzles was conducted simultaneously in different provincial and city police offices including the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) headquarters, here.

The unsealing of firearms muzzles of PRO-3 personnel was conducted at the parade grounds on Tuesday, said Superintendent Fe Grenas, chief of the Regional Police Information Office.

6 Jan 2016 - Zapantas want ‘donation’ used for Joselito’s kids

PAMPANGA -- The mother and sister of executed Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Joselito Zapanta disclosed on Wednesday that they want the “blood money” or “donation” raised to save him used for the education of his two children.

The OFW’s mother Mona and sister Rose Mary said in a meeting at Heroes Hall in this city that they are “not inclined to agree” with the proposal of Vice President Jejomar Binay that “a sizable portion of the P23-million blood money raised to free Zapanta can be added to government funds to be used for other Filipino migrants who are also in death row, but depending on the discretion of donors.”

6 Jan 2016 - Binay: Palace failed to act on blood money proposal

MABALACAT CITY -- Vice President Jejomar Binay said Malacanang failed to act on his proposals regarding the payment of blood money and other forms of assistance to overseas Filipino workers in distress.

Binay issued the statement Tuesday during his visit to the family of Joselito Zapanta, an overseas Filipino worker from Bacolor town in Pampanga who was executed in Saudi Arabia last week.

6 Jan 2016 - Gordon wants longer term for elective officials

PAMPANGA -- We need at least four years and additional two terms for the president for them to prepare."

Thus said Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon referring to the Philippine government to change the said officials’ usual three year-term to four years for them to prepare especially during disasters.

6 Jan 2016 - Binay eyes Mabalacat’s economic development

MABALACAT CITY --- Vice-President Jejomar Binay has cited the potential of Mabalacat City as an investment and tourist haven.

The Vice President disclosed this during his visit to the residence of former Mabalacat City councilor Jerry Basilio at the Fiesta Communities in Barangay Tabun here on Tuesday.

6 Jan 2016 - Man, 72, drowns on New Year's Day

PAMPANGA -- A 72 year old man drowned after he allegedly slipped and fell into the Pampanga River on New Year's Day at Barangay San Jose, San Simon.

The victim was identified as Hipolito Garcia, a resident of the said barangay.

6 Jan 2016 - Pampanga is top 2 in fireworks injuries in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Province has registered the second most number of fireworks-related injuries with 66 recorded cases, as of January 2, in the whole of Central Luzon (CL).

The Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the Department of Health (DOH) here recorded three cases of eye injuries from fireworks and 63 case of burns from fireworks.

6 Jan 2016 - Village chiefs defend town mayor on ‘palabra de honor’

PAMPANGA -- Village chairmen of Bacolor defended the incumbent mayor here that he allegedly “reneged on his own words.”

The Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) here led by president Ener Lampa defended Mayor Jomar Hizon regarding the issue that he abandoned his endorsement of former mayoralty candidate and good friend, Sebastian Pagcu.

6 Jan 2016 - PRC distributes relief packs to San Simon folk

PAMPANGA -- Some 1,000 residents of Barangay San Jose in San Simon town received relief items from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) recently.

The relief distribution was personally attended by PRC Chairman Richard Gordon and officers and volunteers of PRC in Pampanga.

5 Jan 2016 - Zapanta's mom wants to visit son's tomb

PAMPANGA -- The family of Joselito Zapanta, the Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was executed recently, appealed to the government if they can be allowed to visit his tomb in Saudi Arabia.

As the chances of bringing Joselito's remains home dimmed, his mother Mona Zapanta said they are willing to fly to Saudi Arabia if it is the only way to see his son's resting place.

5 Jan 2016 - Angat Dam releases water; no expected flooding in Pampanga, Bulacan

PAMPANGA -- The Angat Dam in Bulacan started releasing 70 cubic meters per second (cms) of water due to the advisory of Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) regarding the combination of monsoon and easterly rains this weekend.

As of 3:00 p.m. Monday, the Angat Dam's water elevation level was at 215.11 meters above sea level (masl), which is above the normal high water elevation of 212 masl.

5 Jan 2016 - Clark airport welcomes resumption of Emirates Airlines' flights

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (Ciac) welcomes the resumption of daily flights of Emirates Airlines at Clark International Airport (CRK).

Emirates will launch a daily Dubai-Cebu-Clark (DXB-CEB-CRK-DXB) circular service in the Philippines, starting March 30, 2016.

5 Jan 2016 - Pampanga collects P1.7B in quarry revenues

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government has collected roughly P1.7 billion from quarry operations for the past 65 months in office of Governor Lilia Pineda.

Based on the initial report of the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) as of Tuesday, the provincial government acquired P119-million in quarry shares in 2010.

4 Jan 2016 - Return of Zapanta remains unlikely

The Pampanga Action Center for OFW Concerns (Pacoc) here yesterday said that the repatriation of the remains Joselito Zapanta, a Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Saudi Arabia recently is now unlikely as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier stated that Zapanta’s remains would not be repatriated because it was immediately buried after the execution.

Zapanta, a native of Bacolor town, had converted to Islam years ago.

4 Jan 2016 - Rodriguez bares plans to prevent flooding in third district

PAMPANGA -- Representative Oscar Rodriguez bared some of his plans to mitigate the flooding in Pampanga's third district.

Rodriguez said that the government has funded some major flood-prevention projects in the province.

4 Jan 2016 - Mayor to assist executed OFW's family

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Jose Mari "Jomar" Hizon of this town vowed to assist the family of the Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was executed in Saudi Arabia on December 29.

Joselito Zapanta, who was in prison for murder with robbery since April 13, 2010 was executed after his family failed to execute an Affidavit of Forgiveness in exchange for the P48-million blood money.

4 Jan 2016 - CDC steps up ‘greening efforts’

CLARK FREEPORT -- Supporting the government’s “greening efforts”, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) recently issued a Memorandum Circular (MC) to all locators here to submit an inventory report of all trees within their leased or sub-leased areas.

Rogelio Magat, manager, Environmental Permits Department (CDC-EPD) said they recently issued the MC no. 15-1011 in view of the National Greening Program (NGP).

3 Jan 2016 - Develop safe Porac-Pinatubo route

PAMPANGA -- Porac Mayor Condralito Dela Cruz said that the Municipal Government is now studying ways to develop a new and safe route to the Mount Pinatubo crater lake.

This came after Dela Cruz came to the rescue of 29 mountaineers from Climbers Philippines who were "trapped" in the crater of Mount Pinatubo.

3 Jan 2016 - Butil Party-list aids flood-stricken farmers

PAMPANGA -- The Butil Partylist has extended financial assistance to farmers who were severely affected by the recent typhoons.

Partylist Representative Agapito Guanlao said Candabeño farmers who cannot plant their land yet can have an alternative source of income.

3 Jan 2016 - Sasmuan town residents end Christmas with ritual dance

PAMPANGA -- After putting away the Christmas decorations and ushering in the New Year, the people of Sasmuan and devotees from all across Pampanga will officially end the Yuletide season with a five-day dance ritual in honor of the town’s patron saint.

Starting this Sunday, a mix crowd of devotees, people with disabilities and tourists will form part of the endless sea of participants to this year’s “Kuraldal Atlung Ari.”

2 Jan 2016 - Gov't did everything to save Kapampangan OFW

CLARK FREEPORT -- Malacanang said the government has exhausted all means to save Joselito Zapanta, a Kapampangan overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Saudi Arabia who was executed last Tuesday.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. issued the statement after Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Partylist Representative Roy Seneres, Sr. blamed President Aquino for the death of Zapanta saying the latter should have asked the king of Saudi Arabia for clemency.

2 Jan 2016 - Kapampangan bishop takes Kalookan Diocese

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Siongco David took canonical possession on Saturday of the Diocese of Kalookan almost two years under sede vacante.

The diocese covers the cities of Caloocan, Malabon and Navotas.

2 Jan 2016 - Central Luzon firecracker cases down 50%

PAMPANGA -- A total of 303 fireworks-related injuries were reported in Central Luzon from December 21, 2015 to January 1, 2016, the Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon said.

The number was 50 percent lower than the same period last year where there were 609 registered cases, the DOH said.

2 Jan 2016 - PDEA busts 17,000 drug dealers in 2015

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) disclosed over the Christmas Season the arrest of some 17,000 illegal drug dealers across the country last year.

PDEA Director General Arturo Cacdac Jr. said that the arrests conducted by the combined teams from the Philippine National (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies were higher by 4,000 versus that in 2014 with only 13,000 from the period January to December.