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Balibago News Sep-2016

30 Sep 2016 - Angeles execs: Illegal drugs most serious problem, not traffic

ANGELES CITY -- "Illegal drugs, just like in other parts of the country, is the principal problem. Traffic is one of the major problems but it is not the principal problem."

This was the statement of councilors Jericho Aguas and Alex Indiongco in reaction to the statement of opposition Councilor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. that traffic is the principal problem in Angeles City at present.

30 Sep 2016 - Clark locators set to use biodegradable waste bags

CLARK FREEPORT -- Locators inside the Freeport are set to use biodegradable garbage bags in support of the environmental protection program of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) that bans the use of plastic bags.

Clark Investors and Locator Association (CILA) president Josh Go said the use of environment-friendly materials and containers forms part of CILA’s corporate social responsibility program.

30 Sep 2016 - Police confiscates 32 bricks of marijuana

PAMPANGA -- At least 32 bricks of suspected marijuana were confiscated from a 26-year-old man in a checkpoint along MacArthur Highway, Barangay Sto. Cristo, Angeles City on Friday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, said the 32 bricks of marijuana were seized from the possession of Michael Moya, 26, of Barangay Dau, Mabalacat City.

30 Sep 2016 - 95 Apaliteños get NegoKarts, livelihood aid

PAMPANGA -- Some 95 indigent vendors from Apalit municipality recently received assistance from the local government here.

Together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Mayor Peter Nucom distributed nine negokarts to mobile vendors from barangays Calantipe, San Juan, Cansinala, Balucuc and Colgante as aid for their livelihood.

30 Sep 2016 - PRO3 joins nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) joined in the conduct of the third Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill held, the other day. Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, PRO3 acting director, said that the earthquake drill and simulation aim to help prepare PNP personnel and other employees inside the camp for an earthquake.

29 Sep 2016 - DQ vs Boking junked

MABALACAT CITY -- The Second Division of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Manila has dismissed the disqualification case against the candidacy of Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales in the last elections.

Morales of the Aksyon Demokratiko political party won in the last mayoral polls beating complainant Noelito Castro over a wide margin.

29 Sep 2016 - Bato: Pampanga has biggest drug operations in PH

PAMPANGA -- After the discovery of the clandestine mega shabu laboratory in Arayat town, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa disclosed that this province has the biggest drug operations in the country.

Dela Rosa made the statement during his visit here together with President Rodrigo Duterte to personally inspect the said facility recognized as the biggest found so far in the country.

29 Sep 2016 - DepEd in need of more teachers for Math, Science

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is now in need of more teachers for Mathematics and Science despite of the 195,302 newly hired teachers for the K to 12 program between the year 2015 and the current year.

The DepEd said that it is now in need of more teachers for the said areas during the budget hearing of the department for 2017.

29 Sep 2016 - New tourism convergence road to open in CSF

PAMPANGA -- A new convergence road leading to some tourism destinations in the region can soon be used by motorists for easy and convenient travel.

This was disclosed by Department of Tourism Regional Director Ronnie Tiotuico as his agency funded some P1 billion for the road project to be facilitated by the Department of Public Works and Highways. [

28 Sep 2016 - Shabu lab linked to Bilibid network

PAMPANGA -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday disclosed of the alleged connection of the clandestine mega shabu laboratory discovered in Arayat recently to the drug lords at the National Bilibid Prison (NBP).

This was after Duterte personally inspected the laboratory and equipment inside the said facility which he branded as a "factory" due to its capacity to produce some 200 kilos of methampethamine hydrochloride or shabu per cycle.

28 Sep 2016 - Guv Pineda apologizes for failure to detect shabu labs

PAMPANGA -- In line with the consecutive discoveries of clandestine shabu laboratories in the province, Governor Lilia Pineda on Thursday expressed her apologies to President Rodrigo Duterte for their existence.

During the visit of the President to personally inspect the mega shabu factory here, Duterte said Governor Pineda "profusely apologized" to him that such illegal establishments existed under her watch.

28 Sep 2016 - Councilors request inclusion of 2nd tranche of pay hikes in 2017 budget

ANGELES CITY - Councilors Edgardo Pamintuan Jr., Jericho Aguas and Alex Indiongco have asked City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and the Local Finance Committee to include the second tranche of the mandated salary increases and benefits of city plantilla personnel in the 2017 annual budget of the city government.

"Subject to availability of funds and viable fund sources, we are respectfully requesting the City Mayor and the Local Finance Committee to include the second tranche of the salary increases and benefits for plantilla city employees in the 2017 annual budget which will pass through the Sangguniang Panglungsod," the three councilors said in a resolution.

28 Sep 2016 - DILG initiates Operation Listo for disaster preparedness

PAMPANGA -- The Department of the Interior and local Government (DILG), through the Local Government Academy (LGA), initiated Operation LiSto in a bid to strengthen disaster preparedness of local government units.

This is in accordance with the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of 2010 (RA 10121). The advocacy program aims to strengthen the preparedness of local government units for disasters using the whole government approach for disaster preparedness.

27 Sep 2016 - Duterte orders shabu ‘factory’ sequestered

PAMPANGA -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday ordered for the sequestration of the mega shabu laboratory discovered in a remote area at the foot of Mt. Arayat in Barangay San Juan Baño recently.

Branding it as a “factory” due to its size and production capacities, the President directed officials to put the laboratory into government possession after he personally led an inspection of the clandestine facility. Duterte was accompanied by PNP Chief Gen. Ronald Dela Rosa, Police Regional Office III Direct Director Aaron Aquino, Pampanga Police Director Rodolfo Recomono, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director Genertal Isidro Lapeña, Governor Lilia Pineda, Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda, Arayat Mayor Emmanuel Alejandrino and other top officials.

27 Sep 2016 - EdSa named Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago was named one of the Presidential Lingkod Bayan (PLB) awardees in Central Luzon during the 2016 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

The award was received by Santiago from CSC Executive Director Arthur Luis Florentin and Regional Director Myrna Macatangay last September 26 at the Widus Hotel in Clark Freeport Zone.

27 Sep 2016 - Dead body found floating in Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- A body of a still unidentified woman was found floating at the Barangay Sucad portion, Apalit of Pampanga River on Monday.

According to Superintendent Wilson Alicuman, this town's police chief, the body, which was discovered by residents early morning, was put inside a steel barrier and was covered with a sack.

27 Sep 2016 - Mall workers undergo bomb threat seminar

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the 710th Special Operations Wing (SPOW) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday conducted a bomb threat management seminar at the SM City Clark here.

The project is aimed to educate mall employees on how to handle a bomb threat including the immediate reporting of incidents and evacuation of shoppers.

27 Sep 2016 - Africa eyes twinning agreement with Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- South African Ambassador Martin Slabber met Governor Lilia Pineda at the Provincial Capitol on Monday to discuss a twinning agreement between his country and the Province of Pampanga on agriculture, fishery and even manufacturing.

The two officials also discussed how to strengthen the cooperation and connection between South Africa and Pampanga in terms of agriculture and investment.

27 Sep 2016 - DOLE gives Pampanga gov’t P4-M for livelihood of 138 kabalens

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recently gave P4-million to the provincial government of Pampanga recently for the livelihood assistance of at least 138 kabalens.

According to Public Employment Services Office Manager Luningning Vergara, the P4-million worth of livelihood program includes the distribution of nego trailers to 12 kapampangan associations with 15 members each, assistance to 50 sewers under Mananahing Kapampangan, 10 individual nego-kart beneficiaries, 16 group starter kit beneficiaries with five members each and 50 push carts for scavengers.

26 Sep 2016 - Masantol to file TRO vs DPWH on fishpens

PAMPANGA -- In line with the ongoing battle of this municipality against the demolition of fishpens by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), local officials and residents here have agreed to file a temporary restraining order (TRO) in the proper court to stop further damage brought by the said project.

This was disclosed by Mayor Danilo S. Guintu following the protest staged by his constituents to show opposition to the project which reportedly damages the stability of the Pampanga Delta Dike.

26 Sep 2016 - Angeles City to host traffic summit

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City local government will host a traffic summit at Royce Hotel in Clark Freeport Zone on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 to address the growing problem of traffic congestion in the city.

With the theme, "Abe-abe king problema, saup-saup king solusyun," the day-long conference will tackle the issues on public transportation, traffic management, traffic legislation, the impact of the full utilization of Clark International Airport (CIA) and the future plans and projects of the local government that are geared towards the improvement of traffic.

26 Sep 2016 - Angeleño elderlies get free anti-pneumonia vaccination

ANGELES CITY -- As part of the Grandparents Day celebration, the local government here and the Department of Health Region III (DOH-3), administered a pneumococcal disease immunization program to over 250 senior citizens here on September 26 at the City Hall.

The said program aims to prevent Pneumonia among the elderly by intensifying DOH's nationwide efforts in implementing the Expanded Immunization Program for Senior Citizens. This is in cooperation with a US-based pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD).

26 Sep 2016 - Run to end HIV stigma set October 9

PAMPANGA -- The Pedal for HIV, a campaign in spreading HIV/AIDS awareness in the Philippines through cycling and sports-related activities, will organize a fun run on October 9, 2016 entitled "Run Series: Color Splash Edition 2016" in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga.

In partnership with different local government and non-government units, the event's core objective is to raise the understanding and awareness of people about the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

25 Sep 2016 - Ex Apalit vice mayor gunned down

PAMPANGA -- A former vice-mayor of this town was killed by two gunmen on Friday afternoon at his resort in Barangay San Juan here.

The victim identified as Alex Manlapaz, who became vice-mayor of this town from 2001 to 2004, was shot dead in Masa Royale, a private resort owned by his family at around 1 p.m. Friday.

25 Sep 2016 - CSF launches tourism promotions collaterals

PAMPANGA -- With the emergence of this city as one of the top tourism destinations in the region, the local government launched its three newest projects for tourism promotion over the weekend.

Led by Mayor Edwin D. Santiago and Department of Tourism Central Luzon Director Ronnie Tiotuico, the city presented its very own EZ Map which will serve as a comprehensive guide for visitors to all tourism related establishments and historical landmarks around the city.

25 Sep 2016 - Government team 'ready for peace'

ANGELES CITY -- The entire Philippine government team is all set for the next round of negotiation in Oslo, Norway, on October 6 to 10, an official said Sunday.

“All the Reciprocal Working Groups are functioning well and the Reciprocal Working Committees have conducted meetings too. I think it's all systems go for the next round. We're ready for peace,” said Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, League of Cities of Philippines national president and adviser of the Philippine Government Peace Panel for the talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

24 Sep 2016 - Folks chide DPWH over demolition of fishpens

PAMPANGA -- More than 500 Masantol residents and local officials rallied over the continuous demolition of fishpens in coastal villages here despite their repeated appeal to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to stop operations for the safety of the communities.

Led by former Mayor Epifanio Lacap and Vice-Mayor Marcelo "Bajun" Lacap, the group trooped to the Barangay Sapang Kawayan portion of the Pampanga Delta Dike where the removed fishponds which served as secondary dikes were damaged.

24 Sep 2016 - Guv eyes fish hubs in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda plans to put up Community Fish Landing Centers (CFLCs) in Minalin, Macabebe and Candaba towns as venue for skills development training in post–harvest, fishery conservation and resource management.

In a meeting with the Provincial Agricultural Fishery Council (PAFC) held at the Executive House, Capitol compound on Friday, Governor Pineda said that the CFLCs are part of the urban planning in Pampanga as they will serve as training ground for kabalens who wish to start a small business by acquiring skills in all kinds of fish preservation.

24 Sep 2016 - Drug suspect slain, 3 others arrested

ANGELES CITY -- A suspected shabu pusher was killed while three others were arrested during separate buy-bust operations on Friday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, identified the slain suspect as Jordan Cuartelon, 34, a resident of Barangay Malabanias, Angeles City.

24 Sep 2016 - Village chief denounces extrajudicial killings

ANGELES CITY -- A village chief in this city has condemned extrajudicial killings allegedly perpetrated by drug lords, Ninja cops, and other vigilante groups.

Chairman Tony Mamac of Barangay Balibago said that he supports legitimate Philippine National Police (PNP) operations against drug pushers and users.

24 Sep 2016 - Pampanga to ink deal with DND, VMCC on veterans’ healthcare

PAMPANGA -- The provincial government of Pampanga headed by Governor Lilia Pineda, the Department of National Defense and the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) will ink a memorandum of agreement to bring medical services closer to veterans.

VMCC Medical Professional Staff Dr. Dominador Chiong Jr. and Dr. Martha Nucum met with Governor Pineda, Provincial Administrator Andres Pangilinan, Jr. and officer-in-charge of the Provincial Health Office Dr. Jose Antonio Rivera to discuss the Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program that can be implemented in 11 provincial and district hospitals.

23 Sep 2016 - Suspected shabu lab operators identified

PAMPANGA -- Arayat Mayor Emmanuel Alejandrino named Friday, September 23, two Chinese nationals who are suspected to be part of the operation of the shabu laboratory discovered here on Thursday at the foot of Mt. Arayat.

The shabu laboratory, believed to be the biggest in the country, was busted by the local government here, in coordination with the Philippine National Police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, in a remote area of Barangay San Juan Banio.

23 Sep 2016 - Arayateño passes blind audition of Voice of Romania

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan singer Rose Marie Velasquez turned four chairs on The Voice of Romania on Friday.

Everyone was thrilled by Velasquez’s performance after giving her audience her flawless version of Andra Day’s 2015 hit, “Rise Up.”

23 Sep 2016 - Malaysian rating firm visits Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Officials of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) recently welcomed sovereign analysts from RAM Ratings Service Berhad to study the investment climate in the Philippines.

The Malaysian analysts' visit to Clark was arranged by the Investor Relations Office of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (IRO-BSP).

23 Sep 2016 - Schools get 'yellow boats'

PAMPANGA -- The Tarik Suliman High School and Sapang Kawayan Integrated School in Masantol, Bulac High School in Minalin and the San Esteban Elementary School in Macabebe each received one strong motorized yellow fiber boat from the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Pampanga, last September 19.

Students from these remote flood-prone areas who have no chances of reaching school by land were the beneficiaries of their "Yellow Boat Project."

22 Sep 2016 - Quarry revenues hit P2-B mark

PAMPANGA -- Revenues from the quarry industry of Pampanga has reached P2 billion in the past 75 months.

Based on the initial report of the Environmental and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) as of September 16, the quarry revenues came from the aggregated sum of P1,875,585,000 in quarry shares; weighing scale fees P114,067,000; accreditation of motor vehicles P32,558,555; and quarry sand and gravel fees P5,228,015.79.

22 Sep 2016 - Residents air complaint vs fast food chain waste water

MABALACAT CITY -- Tricycle drivers and residents of the Barangay Santa Ines and some parts of Barangay San Francisco here have filed a formal complaint against a Chinese fast food chain here for allegedly discharging waste water with foul odor.

A petition paper dated September 14, 2016, which was signed by more than 100 residents signed a petition, with matching photos, was recently sent to the city council to push local officials make an action regarding the issue.

22 Sep 2016 - Biggest shabu lab discovered

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and local police discovered what has been branded as the biggest shabu laboratory in the country at the foot of Mt. Arayat in Barangay San Juan Baño yesterday afternoon.

The shabu factory, which is the second to be uncovered in the province in the span of two weeks, is disguised as a piggery and corn crasher registered to a certain Chinese-national, said PDEA Central Luzon Information Officer Glen Guillermo.

22 Sep 2016 - Capitol to deploy 4 mobile vans for sick kabalens

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Nanay Pineda announced on Tuesday that the provincial government will deploy four mobile vans complete with medical laboratory equipment in the 505 barangays of the province.

This was gleaned during the 2016 Regional Health Workers Congress with a theme, "Lahat Para sa Kalusugan Tungo sa Kalusugan" attended by almost 1,000 barangay health workers (BHWs) from Central Luzon.

22 Sep 2016 - Local climate change action plan for LGUs formulated

PAMPANGA -- In line with the efforts of addressing Philippines' vulnerability when it comes to natural hazards, the Department of Interior and Local Government Region III (DILG-3) conducted a seminar-workshop on the formulation of the Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) for LGUs on September 21 to 23, 2016 at Angeles City with participants from selected local government units (LGUs) from the provinces of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, and Nueva Ecija.

The LCCAP contains the policies and measures that a local government must implement and streamline to be able to adapt to climate change and to mitigate its effects.

20 Sep 2016 - Waze driver satisfaction index plain data

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has described the Waze Driver Satisfaction Index (WDSI) as "plain data and nothing more than that."

"We looked at the Waze Driver Satisfaction Index and found out that it's their own analysis. It's not even a survey. It's plain data and that is that."

20 Sep 2016 - AC councilors express support to NUJP national

ANGELES CITY -- Members of the City Council of Angeles expressed support to the National Union of Journalist of the Philippines (NUJP) stand against threats to media men and declaration that media welcomes criticism.

"We fully support the declaration of the NUJP national leadership. By stating openly that media is open to criticism but at the same time standing up against any form violence against the press, whether physical or verbal threats, the NUJP showed that it is a democratic organization," said Councilor Jericho Aguas.

20 Sep 2016 - PPC issues counter caution vs Pamintuan

ANGELES CITY -- The Pampanga Press Club (PPC) has issued a counter caution to Angeles City Councilor Edgardo Pamintuan, Jr. for his apparent lack of understanding on the role of media in helping ensure free flow of information especially towards governance and public interests.

While media has no right to meddle in the affairs of the City Council and its members, it has, however, a duty to report to the public on developments at the August body and other offices, especially those in Government, the PPC said.

20 Sep 2016 - Halili orders inspection of piggeries

MABALACAT CITY -- Vice-Mayor Christian Halili has ordered for the inspection of hog farms in a bid to ensure that no drug syndicates are operating a shabu laboratory within the city.

Halili said that he and Mayor Marino Morales initiated the filing of a resolution urging various local government offices, including the permits and licensing division and rural health units, to conduct the inspection of the piggeries and similar establishments.

19 Sep 2016 - Dredging, desilting of waterways start

PAMPANGA -- Santo Tomas Mayor Johnny Sambo bared Monday that the second phase of the waterways declogging program has already started.

This was after the local government, who is the facilitating the project, successfully removed water hyacinths along the two-kilometer rivers and tributaries of Santo Tomas and Minalin towns and the City of San Fernando.

19 Sep 2016 - City councilors hit ‘tyranny of one’

ANGELES CITY -- Councilors belonging to the Partido Abe Kapampangan (AbeKa) criticized opposition Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. for "pushing for the approval of proposed resolutions and ordinances without giving us the opportunity to study or even conduct research."

"This is a tyranny of one!, we cannot be cowed by the desire of one person who wants his proposals calendared or approved even without the benefit of some amount of study." said No. 1 Councilor Jericho Aguas.

19 Sep 2016 - Don Bosco Bacolor to reopen in 2017

PAMPANGA -- Through the outpouring support and donations of Don Bosco alumni and past pupils, the Don Bosco Academy in Bacolor, Pampanga is finally set to reopen in school year 2017-2018.

In a press conference held Monday at Max's Restaurant in Villa Del Sol in third city, Fr. Ditto Gueco, vice provincial of the North Province of the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Philippines, announced the good news that the private Catholic educational institution will go back to its original site in Bacolor town.

19 Sep 2016 - Gonzales to push Bacolor rehabilitation

PAMPANGA -- Third District Representative Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. vowed to follow up the full implementation of the Bacolor rehabilitation plan in which the objective is the complete rehabilitation of this town buried by lahar, volcanic ashes and debris during the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991.

It could be remembered that the said law was initiated in the House of Representatives by Gonzales as House Bill (HB) 3380 in his term in 2008.

19 Sep 2016 - Brown rice to solve undernourishment in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- One important reason to switch to brown rice is that it will solve the region’s problem with undernourishment.

Be RICEponsible Campaign Director Hazel Antonio shared that based on the latest data provided by the International Food Policy Research Institute, there exists a 13.5 percent proportion of undernourished in the country’s population.

19 Sep 2016 - DOH Central Luzon to hold job fair

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health (DOH) is set to hold a Regional Job Fair on September 20 to 21 at the Trade Hall of SM City Pampanga.

Available positions include medical officers, medical specialists, administrative positions, nurses, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, social welfare officers, lawyers, medical equipment technicians, physical therapists, midwives, nursing attendants, social welfare assistants, speech therapists, and psychologists.

19 Sep 2016 - Santa Rita cops conduct drug campaign for students

PAMPANGA -- Chief Police Officer Francisco Sawadan Jr. along with San Jose Barangay Captain Abel Pineda spearheaded the Drug Information Dissemination Campaign for the high school students of Santa Rita College (SRC) on Monday.

This is part of the Anti-Illegal Drugs Awareness Program of the Barangay Drug Abuse Council (BDAC) and Philippine National Police (PNP) of Santa Rita town.

19 Sep 2016 - Mayor wants more school buildings for Bacolor

PAMPANGA -- Bacolor town Mayor Jose Maria "Jomar" Hizon had asked the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) and the Department of Education (DepEd) to include more school buildings in the new updated plans for the rehabilitation of Bacolor town.

Hizon said that it is likely that the town would need P100-million to P200-million in funding to build schools in or near former communities in the town that have been damaged by the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991. Most of Bacolor town's local population are now located in resettlement centers in Pampanga.

19 Sep 2016 - Drug pusher slain

ANGELES CITY -- A suspected drug pusher/user was killed when he tried to shoot it out with policemen in Barangay Sta. Trinidad early dawn yesterday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, identified the fatality as only a certain Hadji.

19 Sep 2016 - More investors flocking to Mexico town

PAMPANGA -- Jollibee, Puregold, SM Savemore and a gasoline station will soon rise in this town.

"These establishments will be of great help to the economy of our municipality and most especially to all Mexicanos," said Mexico Municipal Information Officer Dax Bondoc.

18 Sep 2016 - Two drug pushers slain, 13 others arrested

Two suspected drug pushers were killed and 13 others were arrested in a separate anti-illegal drug operations in Angeles City, Saturday and Sunday.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, identified one of the slain suspects as Datdo and while the other is still being identified; both slain suspects are residents of Barangay Balibago.

18 Sep 2016 - GMA7 corrects mistake, apologizes

ANGELES CITY -- GMA7 has apologized for its mistake in a report which quoted GRP Peace Panel Adviser and League of Cities of the Philippines National President Edgardo Pamintuan as saying the communist rebels are behind the killings of farmers in Nueva Ecija.

In an erratum, the website said, "GMA News Online corrected its article to remove the line saying that Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan had alleged that the CPP-NPA was behind the killings, which was published in error.

18 Sep 2016 - New Magalang Police Chief inspects business establishments

PAMPANGA -- Newly installed chief of police, Supt. Jhoanna P. Rosales on Friday conducted an inspection on farms, factories and other business establishments here.

Rosales led the inspection in compliance to executive order (EO) No. 10-2016 of Mayor Malu Paras-Lacson.

17 Sep 2016 - Guv wants campaign vs drugs sustained

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda has called on all barangay officials and the local police to sustain the anti-drugs campaign in Pampanga as the provincial government looks for better ways to help drug dependents get effective rehabilitation.

This, as Governor Pineda met with the officials and chiefs of police of different towns and cities of the province in the capital city on weekend.

17 Sep 2016 - Santiago commends city hall loyalty awardees

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago commended government employees in the City who completed public service for more than a decade during the loyalty awards ceremony on Thursday at Heroes Hall.

The city mayor, joined by Vice-Mayor Jimmy Lazatin, City Human Resource and Development Office (CHRDO) chief Rachelle Yusi and City Assessor Jose De Leon led this year’s awarding of 51 employees who rendered 10 to 35 years of service.

17 Sep 2016 - Pamintuan lauded for anti-drugs, cleanliness programs

ANGELES CITY -- A barangay chairman here has lauded Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for initiating anti-drugs and cleanliness drive all over the city.

Rodelio “Tony” Mamac, chairman of Barangay Balibago, said the mayor on Friday met with the 33 village chiefs here and discussed the programs.

17 Sep 2016 - Central Luzon farmers, nation to benefit from BROWN4good challenge

PAMPANGA -- Various Central Luzon farmers and farmers’ associations will benefit from the BROWN4good challenge spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).

PhilRice’s Be Riceposible Campaign Director Hazel Antonio said that one of the problems of the country related to agriculture is the low income of farmers, averaging P50,000 per annum.

17 Sep 2016 - Legarda: Help heal ozone layer

MABALACAT CITY -- In celebration of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer on September 16, Senator Loren Legarda encouraged everyone to continue to do their part in helping heal the ozone layer while also taking action to address other environmental concerns such as climate change.

Alarmed by the hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica in 1985, nations adopted the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer.

17 Sep 2016 - Drug pusher arrested in Minalin

PAMPANGA -- A suspected drug pusher was arrested by police operatives during a buy bust operation in Barangay Sta. Rita, Minalin recently.

Chief Inspector Pearl Joy Gollayan, acting chief of police, identified the suspect as Amar Perez, 36, a native of Sabang Lapaz, Agusan del Sur but presently residing at Purok 3, Barangay San Pedro in this municipality.

17 Sep 2016 - CCCSF students get scholarship grants from SMC

PAMPANGA -- A total of 10 students from the City College of San Fernando (CCSF) received scholarship grants from San Miguel Brewery Foundation.

The grantees were purposefully and carefully selected to qualify for the full scholarship grant given by the said beneficiary.

17 Sep 2016 - NUJP hits Pamintuan

CLARK FREEPORT -- The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) Pampanga Chapter has assailed Councilor Edgardo "Edu" Pamintuan, Jr. for his earlier statements perceived by newsmen as plain censorship that curtails press freedom.

NUJP-Pampanga Chairman Ashley Manabat said that on September 13, 2016, Pamintuan lambasted his fellow Councilor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. in a press release emanating from the City Information Office.

17 Sep 2016 - Vice-Guv, mayor laud Lubao top cop for arrest of rape-slay suspect

PAMPANGA -- Vice Governor Dennis Pineda and Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab commended Lubao's police chief for the immediate arrest of the suspect in the gruesome killing of mother and son in the coastal barangay of San Jose Gumi here the other day.

The vice-governor and the mayor here recognized the efforts of Police Chief Inspector Michael Masangkay and his men for their relentless efforts that resulted to the arrest of Ronnel Canilao, 21, resident of the same barangay and suspect in the slaying of a 41-year old mom and her 10-year old son.

16 Sep 2016 - Suspect in Lubao murders arrested

PAMPANGA -- The suspect in the murder of a 41-year-old mother and her 10-year-old son in their home in Barangay San Jose Gumi, Lubao town on Wednesday was arrested the next day after a massive manhunt and after an informant tipped off the whereabouts of the alleged killer.

During a press conference at the municipal hall here, police identified the suspect as Ronnel Canilao, 21, a resident of Barangay San Jose Gumi. Authorities disclosed that the suspect checked-in at Twin Peaks Motel in Barangay Sto. Tomas, Lubao.

16 Sep 2016 - DoTr, DOLE open one-stop center for OFWs in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) are set to open Friday a one-stop business center for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) inside the Freeport.

Several government agencies dealing with Filipino overseas workers (OFWs) are establishing their respective satellite offices here to provide OFWs easy access of documents and other requirements.

16 Sep 2016 - 4 drug suspects nabbed in Mexico

PAMPANGA -- Four suspected drug personalities were recently arrested by local authorities here in different anti-illegal drug operations.

The personalities identified as Lemuel Manalo, Noel Rivera and Allen Espinosa were arrested for possession of suspected methampethamine hydrochloride while Joseph Tiglao was caught in the act of selling the same prohibited drugs in a buy-bust operation.

16 Sep 2016 - CSF local civil registry office recognized

PAMPANGA -- The Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO) of the City of San Fernando was recently recognized as one of the Outstanding Local Civil Registry Office by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

City Civil Registrar Rimando Umali said the city ranked sixth in the top 10 local civil registry offices for the extra large category in 2015.

16 Sep 2016 - Parts of Pampanga powerless on Sept. 17

PAMPANGA -- Some parts of Pampanga particularly areas covered by Pampanga I Electric Cooperative (Pelco 1) like this town, Sta. Ana and Arayat will experience power interruption on September 17, Saturday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Central Luzon Corporate Communication and Public Affairs Officer Ernest Vidal said that the scheduled shutdown of some of its transmission facilities in these areas is due to the testing of the instrument transformer at Pelco I-Mexico metering point.

14 Sep 2016 - Mother, child murdered

PAMPANGA -- A 41-year-old mother was found dead in her home in Barangay San Jose Gumi, Lubao town along with her 10-year-old child after being killed by still unknown suspects.

Police found the female victim---a teacher---without her undergarments and is believed to have been raped.

14 Sep 2016 - Coastal residents fear dike breach with fishpens demolition

PAMPANGA -- The Masantol local government and residents here led by Mayor Danilo Guintu expressed fear over the ongoing demolition of fishponds in coastal areas which may impose bigger threats to public.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) First Engineering District started the demolition of fishpens in Barangay Sapang Kawayan here which encroach the floodway of the Pampanga River as required by the mandamus of the Supreme Court.

14 Sep 2016 - DA taps social media for brown rice advocacy

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) has launched its brown rice advocacy yesterday promoting the use of #Brown4good #Region 3.

This is in the hope of promoting the commercial and home consumption of brown rice.

14 Sep 2016 - Legarda: Promote int'l airports like Clark

MABALACAT CITY - Senator Loren Legarda said that international airports in the country like Clark should be developed utilized in a bid to promote tourism.

"We should promote other international airports in the country such as the Clark International Airport, which will be the gateway not only to Central Luzon but also to the Cordillera Region," said Legarda.

12 Sep 2016 - Lazatin tells majority bloc: 'Stick to the issue'

ANGELES CITY -- Opposition Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, Jr. advised the city council's majority bloc to "stick to the issue" and always put the welfare of the public first before their "other agenda."

Lazatin was reacting to the statement of Councilor Edgardo Pamintuan, Jr. last September 10, chiding the former for bringing up to the media the majority bloc's disapproval of his proposed resolution, asking the Department of Public Works and Highways to fund the rehabilitation and repair of the Porac-Angeles traffic lights in Barangay Cutcut.

12 Sep 2016 - Pamintuan threatens to file case vs GMA7, reporter

ANGELES CITY -- League of Cities of the Philippines National President and GRP Peace Panel Adviser Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has threatened to file a formal case against television and radio network GMA 7 and its reporter Jessica Bartolome for publishing an alleged "wrong and very dangerous and damaging report."

In its online gmanews.com, Bartolome reportedly wrote "Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, adviser of the government's peace panel, had earlier condemned the killings. He alleged that the CPP's armed wing, the New People's Army, and its political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF) are behind the killings due to land disputes."

12 Sep 2016 - Exec: Commerce in Subic not affected by sea dispute

SUBIC BAY -- Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman Roberto Garcia clarified that the West Philippine Sea dispute has not yet raised threats or tensions and will not affect the flow of global commerce in the maritime area.

"As of now there is no threat. The ceiling between the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea remains free," he said during Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc (PamCham) 53rd General Membership Meeting held recently at the LausGroup Event Centre here.

12 Sep 2016 - 20 drug suspects slain in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- At least 20 drug personalities were killed while 1,514 surrendered during anti-illegal drug operations from July 1 to August 31 here.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police acting director, said from July 1 they have visited 2,265 houses of suspected drug pushers and users that resulted in the surrender of 1,514.

12 Sep 2016 - Former Mabalacat OIC police denies involvement in extortion

MABALACAT CITY -- The former Officer in Charge of the Mabalacat Police Station has denied any involvement in the alleged extortion and abuse cases filed against him and reported police "asset" Jerry Villanueva by businessman Rogelio Yangco of Madapdap Resettlement, Mabalacat City.

During the Provincial Board committee hearing over the weekend, former Mabalacat City Police OIC Chief Insp. Gil Domingo denied any involvement in the alleged extortion activities of Villanueva, but admitted there were lapses on his part and he should have stopped the illegal transaction.

12 Sep 2016 - Scammer loots P70-M from Masantoleños

PAMPANGA -- Millions of pesos were taken away from some 50 residents here by an alleged notorious scammer who was nabbed recently in Macabebe town.

The suspect, identified as Merrie Haezel Bustos-Agustin, 35, embezzled some P70-million from her fellow Masantoleños after promising her supposed clients a 20 percent interest for investing in her business.

11 Sep 2016 - US agency cites BOC men for arrest of drug mule

CLARK FREEPORT -- The United States Department of Homeland Security has commended three officials of the Bureau of Customs following the arrest of a Chinese American who tried to smuggle 2.4 kilos of high-grade cocaine through the Clark International Airport on August 28.

US Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) attaché Ransom Avilla presented certificates of recognition to BOC Deputy Commissioner of the Enforcement Group Arnel Alcaraz and the agency's police officials Marlon M. Alameda and Sherwin Adrada.

11 Sep 2016 - Vice guv warns cops vs 'asset'

PAMPANGA -- Vice-Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda has directed a police official to warn all chiefs of police in the province's 19 towns and two cities not to transact with a so-called police asset who used a police station and personnel in an alleged extortion racket preying on fuel distributors.

Pineda gave the order to Superintendent Joyce Patrick Sangalang, provincial police deputy director, after Sangalang confirmed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in a hearing that a man identified as Jerry Villanueva is "not in the roster of confidential agents of the PPO [Pampanga police office]."

11 Sep 2016 - Mamac cites challenges of drug war

ANGELES CITY -- “Are we ready to meet the challenges of eradication of illegal drugs in our communities?”

This was the question raised by Balibago Chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac during the presentation of the Narcotic Anonymous Moral Recovery Program by the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) on September 8.

11 Sep 2016 - Village chief hits DPWH for 'neglected project'

PAMPANGA -- A village chief from San Simon recently hit the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for allegedly abandoning a project started a year ago and now causes a series of problems to motorists and the public.

Barangay Sta. Monica chief Mio Cariño is referring to the demolition of commercial spaces at the CDCP junction in preparation for a road widening and rehabilitation project, which started in September 2015 and has been neglected since then.

11 Sep 2016 - LCP condemns killing of peasant leaders

ANGELES CITY -- The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) yesterday issued a statement condemning the killing of Isabela and Nueva Ecija peasant leaders.

LCP President and Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, who is also GPH Peace Panel adviser, said that an investigation must be conducted by the Philippine National Police immediately.

10 Sep 2016 - Lazatin chided by colleagues

ANGELES CITY -- Members of the Sangguniang Panglunsod's majority bloc have assailed the lone opposition councilor for bringing out to the media the disapproval of his proposed resolution asking the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to fund the rehabilitation of the Porac-Angeles intersection traffic lights in Barangay Cutcut here.

Councilor Edgardo Pamintuan, Jr. together with the other majority councilors, responded to previous statements of Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, who described as inappropriate the disapproval of the resolution intended to address the worsening traffic condition in the area.

10 Sep 2016 - Execs eye full utilization, development of Subic, Clark

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) Chairman Emeritus Levy P. Laus firmly pushes to fully utilize and develop Subic and Clark as the country's two major transportation and logistics hubs.

During the chamber's 53rd General Membership Meeting entitled "Optimizing Your Business with Global Supply Chain Partners" held recently at the LausGroup Event Centre, he noted that the private sector is confident of the two Freeport's potential to provide world-class passenger mobility and cargo distribution network.

10 Sep 2016 - PELCO-3 breaks ground of new power substation

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga III Electric Cooperative (PELCO-3) on Thursday broke ground for their new power substation in Santo Tomas which will cater to the growing demand of electricity of industrial companies in San Simon town.

The new 20-megavolt amp (MVA) will be adjacent to the existing substation of the electric company in Barangay Sto. Rosario Pau here.

10 Sep 2016 - 154 foreigners arrested for online gaming

CLARK FREEPORT -- At least 154 foreigners including 25 female Chinese nationals reportedly operating on-line games were arrested during a raid at Don Gwang Building Tower 2 early dawn Friday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, said the raid was conducted by a joint team from the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID) and 53 Angeles City policemen.

9 Sep 2016 - San Simon Mayor denies 'drug factories' in town

PAMPANGA -- "As far as my knowledge is concerned, there are no factories manufacturing illegal drugs in my town."

Thus said San Simon Mayor Leonora Wong in response to the claims of Fourth District Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc regarding the "nameless" factories operating along the stretch of Quezon road here which are allegedly manufacturing prohibited drugs.

9 Sep 2016 - Thousands flock to Virgen Delos Remedios coronation anniversary

PAMPANGA -- There was no stopping Roman Catholic Marian devotees who woke up early on Thursday to attend the 60th Canonical Coronation Anniversary celebration of Virgen Delos Remedios, dubbed the "Patroness of the Kapampangans".

The celebration revolved around the wooden image of the Virgen Delos Remedios which was bestowed the Canonical Crown on September 8, 1956.

9 Sep 2016 - Underground shabu lab in Magalang town busted

PAMPANGA -- Joint operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and Regional Intelligence Division III, Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division III, Pampanga Provincial Police Office, Pampanga PPSC and Magalang Police Station on Wednesday busted an underground shabu laboratory operated by six Chinese nationals.

Police said that about 20 kilograms of ephedrine and 468 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride plus equipment used in concocting shabu were discovered and seized reportedly from the basement of Jay Wong Farm, a warehouse used for milling and storing animal feeds and piggery where the manufacturing of the illegal drug is done.

9 Sep 2016 - ACPO opens reformation center

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) formally opened and inaugurated the new Bahay Pag-asa Reformation Center for women located at Camp Tomas J. Pepito, Sto. Domingo, this city on September 1.

According to ACPO Chief PSSUPT. Sidney Villaflor, the reformation center is built for the female victims of drug abuse in the city.

9 Sep 2016 - Environmentalists submit infra project study to CDC

CLARK FREEPORT -- Environment advocates have recently submitted to Clark Development Corporation (CDC) a study on the proposed infrastructure development to assist the state-run firm to plan and design future infrastructure development inside this premiere investment destination in Central Luzon.

Kabang Kalikasan Ng Pilipinas Foundation Inc. (KKPFI) has turned over recently "maps and e-files" which will serve as CDC's planning tool on infrastructure development inside the Freeport.

9 Sep 2016 - Pampanga determined to solve flood woes

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government and the private sector led by Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) are working hand-in-hand to immediately resolve the perennial flooding problem of the province.

Local officials led by Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda and PamCham Chairman Emeritus Levy P. Laus are now personally seeking solutions to the province's plight which may affect its potentials for development.

8 Sep 2016 - Lazatin hits colleagues for rejecting resolution

ANGELES CITY -- Opposition Councilor Carmelo G. "Pogi" Lazatin, Jr. hit the city council's majority bloc after it disapproved his resolution requesting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to appropriate funds for the repair of traffic lights along the vital Cutcut Porac intersections.

In a press statement, Lazatin claimed that the majority bloc action is inappropriate, adding that "it is not clear to him why the resolution was rejected since it is intended to address the worsening traffic condition in the area."

8 Sep 2016 - DPWH chief supports Pampanga anti-flooding programs

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice-Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda have obtained the all-out support of Public Works Secretary Mark Villar for the long-term program of the provincial government to ease flooding in the province.

Secretary Villar expressed his commitment during a meeting with the two provincial leaders at the Department of Public Works and Highways national office in Manila last Monday.

8 Sep 2016 - No bomb threats -- Police

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Central Luzon has not received any information regarding bomb threats in the region particularly in Pampanga.

This was learned from Superintendent Fe G. Grenas, public information of the Region III police office, during the Pampanga Press Club's Talk Widus at Widus Hotel and Casino on Wednesday.

8 Sep 2016 - 3 drug pushers slain, 15 others arrested in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Three suspected drug pushers were killed and 15 others were during an anti-drug operation conducted by joint police operatives in Barangay Quebiawan, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, police said Wednesday.

Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono Jr., Pampanga police provincial director, identified the slain suspects as Orlan Paman alias Ninoy, Danny Latid Rago alias Kambal and Joseph Jay Caasi alias Jay, all residents of San Miguel Compound, Barangay Quebiawan in the City of San Fernando.

8 Sep 2016 - School to school partnership: Building Networks of Educational Leaders

PAMPANGA -- The Information and Communication Technology High School or ICTHS, considered as the first IT-oriented public secondary school in Region III located in Sindalan, is one of the 362 leader schools tasked to support and help its respective partner school, the City of San Fernando West Integrated School, reach its full potential and consequently benefit the community under the DepEd School to School Partnership Program.

Through school-to-school partnerships, high-performing schools can be instruments for reform by sharing their best practices and helping other schools improve their school performance using Learning Action Cells (LAC), the Continuous Improvement (CI) Program, and School-Based Management (SBM).

7 Sep 2016 - Delta cited for war versus crime, drugs

PAMPANGA -- Vice-Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda on Monday was commended by the Philippine National Police for his continuous crusade against crime and illegal drugs in Pampanga.

PNP chief Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, handed over a plaque of appreciation to the two-term governor for his "invaluable contribution to the accomplishment of peace and order endeavors of the Police Regional Office III (PRO-3)."

7 Sep 2016 - Bon: State of lawlessness a precautionary measure

PAMPANGA -- Arayat Mayor Emmanuel "Bon" Alejandrino on Tuesday stressed that President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of a state of national emergency is timely to address violence and terrorism transpiring in the country now.

President Duterte signed on Monday the proclamation declaring a "state of national emergency" on account of lawlessness following the bombing incident in Davao City that left 14 people dead and dozens injured.

7 Sep 2016 - Japanese firm allots P211-M on Clark expansion projectJapanese firm allots P211-M on Clark expansion project

CLARK FREEPORT -- A Japanese firm manufacturing wires used in advanced surgical procedures has allotted an additional P211-million on its expansion program inside the Freeport.

In the lease agreement with Clark Development Corporation (CDC), the TRS Philippines Corporation (TRS) is set to acquire an additional 4,355 square meter property here in the next 25 years.

6 Sep 2016 - PNP fetes partners in programs, projects

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) honored on Monday its units, personnel, and partners in Central Luzon for their support in the police force's overall programs and projects.

No less than PNP Chief Ronald Dela Rosa and Police Regional Director PCSupt. Aaron Aquino led the awarding of plaques and streamers of recognition to the different officers and partner agencies.

6 Sep 2016 - Group: Transfer int'l, major PH flights to Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- An advocacy group has urged the national government to transfer some international and major local flights to Clark International Airport (CRK).

Businessman Ruperto Cruz, head of the Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement which calls for the full development and utilization of Clark airport, said the move will prove that government, particularly the Department of Transportation (DOTr), is serious in transforming CRK as the country's next premier gateway.

5 Sep 2016 - Pimentel takes federalism on campus tour

PAMPANGA -- Former Senator Aquilino "Nene" Pimentel over the weekend took the federalism advocacy to Pampanga via a forum with students, school officials and other local government executives at the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) here.

The DHVTSU forum which was hosted by PDP Laban Pampanga, Pimentel said, is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's directive to create awareness and launch information drives on federalism at all levels.

5 Sep 2016 - San Simon town creates multisectoral committee

PAMPANGA -- The local San Simon government has created a multisectoral committee which will work on the creation of 10-year Comprehensive Solid Waste Management program as part of their compliance with Republic Act. No. 9003 or the Ecological Waste Management Act of 2000.

Earlier, the Ombudsman has filed a case against officials of this town, along with 70 other officials in Central Luzon for their alleged operation of illegal dumpsites.

5 Sep 2016 - Bello tells Clark locators 'not to be afraid of endo'

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE -- "Do not be afraid, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is not here to close your companies, rather, it is here to help you."

This was Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III's message to some 300 representatives from different Clark Freeport Zone-locators that recently attended an employers' forum at the Royce Hotel and Casino.

5 Sep 2016 - CDC welcomes tie up on data science course

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC0 welcomes the recent tie up of a software firm with a university in Angeles City and US non-government organization that will collaborate on the design of graduate course on Data Science.

CDC Officer-in-Charge Noel F. Manankil said the course on data science will help on the improvement of software development in the Philippines, especially in this Freeport.

4 Sep 2016 - Pampanga board to start probe into ex-Mabalacat police chief, others

PAMPANGA -- The former police director of Mabalacat City and his men, including a police "asset," are set to face a formal Provincial Board (PB) investigation this week.

The PB had scheduled the investigation of the said officials on its next regular session. The officials are under investigation over complaints of alleged extortion and abuse.

4 Sep 2016 - Councilor asks contractors to hire locals

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. recently filed a resolution requesting local contractors to hire laborers from the barangays where the construction site is located.

Lazatin said the resolution applies to all contractors both private and government funded.

4 Sep 2016 - Cities league condemns Davao attack

ANGELES CITY -- The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) has condemned the recent attack in Davao City where 14 people died and wounded 67 others.

"The League of Cities of the Philippines strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Davao's night market and we stand united in grief, outrage and resolve to defend not only the City of Davao but also all cities and, with the cooperation of the League of Provinces and League of Municipalities, all other areas of the country," stated a statement signed by Edgardo Pamintuan, LCP national president; Maria Laarni Lopez-Cayetano, LCP chairperson; and Francis Anthony Garcia, LCP secretary general.

4 Sep 2016 - Mayor wants Jasa cemented

PAMPANGA -- To avoid further deterioration of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa) in San Fernando, City Mayor Edwin Santiago recommended to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to cement the thoroughfare instead of asphalting it.

The Dolores junction portion of the Jasa has been irking commuters and motorists due to the hazardous craters caused by flooding brought about by past monsoon rains.

4 Sep 2016 - Legarda calls for creation of People’s Broadcasting Corp.

MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda has filed a bill that would establish the People’s Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) to replace the People’s Television Network Inc. (PTNI).

Legarda, a former broadcast journalist, said the rapidly evolving media landscape, together with the need for a reinvigorated government-owned broadcast station, necessitates the abolition of PTNI to be replaced by PBC, which will be granted both television and radio broadcasting rights.

4 Sep 2016 - CDC to implement new traffic scheme near Clark main gate

CLARK FREEPORT —- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) announced that a new traffic scheme is expected to be implemented soon by its Public Safety Department (PSD) at the newly constructed Clark Alley near the Clark main gate and SM City Clark.

The CDC would like to inform the locators, commuters, private and public motorists on the enforcement of the new traffic scheme, following the completion of the new service road that is set to "soft open" this week.

4 Sep 2016 - Dole Central Luzon launches 24/7 hotlines

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) in Central Luzon has launched its 24/7 hotlines that would answer to the queries of its clients.

The numbers are 0925-8150214 (mobile) and (045) 455-1619 (landline).

4 Sep 2016 - PHLPost launches Postal ID Privilege Program

PAMPANGA -- Exciting discounts and freebies await holders of the improved postal ID as the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has launched its privilege card.

According to PHLPost, the discounts and freebies include: 10 percent discount on Ocean Adventure's admission fee and encounter programs (Beach Encounter, Swim with Dolphins, etc.); 10 percent discount on Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel's Deluxe and Superior rooms; P1 discount per liter in gasoline or diesel from Flying V; and 10-15 percent discounts from Derm Magic, Fresh Salon and Spa, Fresh Touch Spa, among othes.

3 Sep 2016 - CDC: Gas leak in Bataan contained

CLARK FREEPORT —- The contamination issue in a village affected by the recent gas leak from the Subic-Clark pipeline in Dinalupihan, Bataan has been contained.

The Clark Development Corporation said in a statement that a report from Clark Pipeline and Depot Company (CPDC) noted that the leak from a puncture caused by a government construction project in Barangay San Ramon, Dinalupihan has been put under control.

3 Sep 2016 - DA: Eat brown rice for a good cause

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) has launched “Brown4Good” in a bid to encourage the people of Central Luzon Region to eat brown rice for a good cause.

“Every time you get to eat brown rice, either at home or in certain restaurants in the region, snap a photo of it or take a selfie with the brown rice, then post it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram captioned with the hashtags #BROWN4good and #Region3,” DA Information Officer Anabelle Mendoza said.

3 Sep 2016 - Easier CAV processing thru DepEd’s streamlined frontline services

PAMPANGA -- Certification, authentication, and verification (CAV) of permits and other documents can now be requested directly at the Department of Education (DepEd)-Central Luzon.

“In line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to cut red tape and complete government transactions within 30 days, we streamlined our frontline services for a faster and simplified processing of elementary and secondary education diploma, official transcript of records and other school records either for employment, study abroad or Seaman’s Book. All are free of charge,” DepEd Regional Director Malcolm Garma said.

3 Sep 2016 - PRDP approves 77 micro-enterprise proposals in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Project Advisory Board of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) recently approved a total of 77 micro-enterprise proposals amounting to P109 million.

These fall under the Enterprise Development Component or I-Reap of PRDP which aims to engage different capable proponent groups (PG) in the region in the production of profit-making surplus through investments in strategic segments of priority commodity value chains prioritized by Regional Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Plan and the Provincial Commodity Investment Plans.

2 Sep 2016 - City of San Fernando opens pasalubong center

PAMPANGA -- In a bid to further support budding Fernandino entrepreneurs, the City Government here opened its first Pasalubong Center on Friday, September 2.

The 18-stall shop will showcase products from different barangays in this city managed by micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs).

2 Sep 2016 - CDC sets new traffic scheme in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation announced that a new traffic scheme is expected to be implemented soon by its Public Safety Department (PSD) at the newly constructed Clark Alley near Clark Main Gate and SM City Clark.

The state-owned firm informed the locators, commuters, private and public motorists on the enforcement of new traffic scheme following the completion of the new service road that is set to “soft open” next week.

2 Sep 2016 - Apalit prepares 6-month rehab program for surrenderees

PAMPANGA -- The Apalit local government is preparing a six-month rehabilitation program for drug users who voluntarily turned themselves in to authorities under the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Oplan Double Barrel.

Mayor Peter Nucom said that some 1,000 drug users and pushers have already surrendered to them since the program was launched on July 1.

2 Sep 2016 - Vice-mayors league airs support to Duterte, guv's anti-drug drive

MABALACAT CITY -- The Vice-Mayors League of the Philippines (VMLP) Pampanga Chapter has expressed support to the anti-drug campaign of President Duterte and Governor Lilia Pineda.

The VMLP Pampanga echoed its support to the President and the governor during the election of a new set of officers at the Mabalacat City Hall on Friday, September 2.

1 Sep 2016 - 2 drug pushers slain, 17 others arrested in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- Two suspected drug pushers were slain and 17 other drug personalities were arrested during separate anti-illegal drugs operations conducted in Angeles City.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, identified the slain drug pushers as Randolf Geradila, a resident of Barangay Margot, and a certain alias Ranran, of Barangay Pampang.

1 Sep 2016 - Mabalacat City execs deny involvement in drugs trade

MABALACT CUTY -- Officials in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, have vehemently denied that they are protectors of drug pushers.

Mayor Marino Morales, Vice Mayor Christian Halili and the 11 city councilors issued the statement during a press conference at City Hall Thursday, September 1, in reaction to the purported Facebook posts of businesswoman Pyra Lucas that the city officials are “protectors of illegal drugs [trade].”

1 Sep 2016 - City of San Fernando beefs up anti-drug campaign

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago signed an executive order that reorganizes this city’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Cadac) to support the relentless anti-drug campaign of the Duterte administration.

The council, chaired by Santiago and co-chaired by Chief of Police Jean Fajardo, convened on Wednesday, August 31, to address issues on the increasing numbers of drug surrenderers in the city.

1 Sep 2016 - NLEX, San Fernando interchange projects hailed

PAMPANGA -- Two good news for denizens who can't help but commute or drive to this city as the Christmas season approaches.

First: The widening of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Sta. Rita to San Fernando is scheduled to be completed on December 15, in time for the holiday rush.

1 Sep 2016 - Declogging of Sto. Tomas waterways to be finished ahead of deadline

PAMPANGA -- Santo Tomas Mayor Johnny Sambo said the waterways clearing program facilitated by local government here will be finished earlier than the set timeline.

Sambo, together with Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, City of San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago and Minalin town Mayor Edgar Flores, whose localities were severely affected by flooding caused by monsoon rains, earlier said that the project, intended to ease floodwaters toward Manila Bay, is expected to end in two to three months.

1 Sep 2016 - Dialogues, lectures to highlight crime prevention weekDialogues, lectures to highlight crime prevention week

PAMPANGA -- The observance of the 22nd National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW) in Central Luzon will be highlighted by community dialogues and school lectures from September 1 to 10.

National Police Commission Regional Director Rodolfo Grande Santos Jr. said the community dialogues are scheduled in barangays San Isidro and Maimpis in the City of San Fernando on September 3 and Barangay Poblacion Norte in Paniqui, Tarlac, on September 10.

1 Sep 2016 - 573 Masantol students receive financial aid

PAMPANGA -- Some 573 students from this municipality received on Wednesday, August 31, financial assistance from the local government as aid for their educational expenses.

Mayor Danilo Guintu led the distribution of cash grants amounting to P1,100 for every college student from 26 barangays here.

1 Sep 2016 - Villar lauds empowerment of mothers

PAMPANGA -- Senator Cynthia Villar lauded on Wednesday the active participation and involvement of mothers in Pampanga after being empowered by Governor Lilia Pineda as partners in countryside development.

Villar and Pineda met the Nanay Community Workers (NCWs) at Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center here, where the two officials led some 4,000 mothers as members of the NCW.