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Balibago News Oct-2016

31 Oct 2016 - Safety, security up for ‘Undas’

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office III (PRO-3) on Monday assured the safety and security of the public who will troop and converge at cemeteries and memorial parks across Central Luzon in observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day respectively.

PRO-3 Director Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino said that more than 3,000 police personnel are now deployed in all public and private cemeteries as well as other convergence places such as churches for monitoring and quick response.

31 Oct 2016 - San Fernando City implements rerouting scheme for Undas 2016

PAMPANGA -- In preparation for the expected influx of people in the vicinity of cemeteries for All Saints and All Souls’’ Day observation, the City Traffic Management Office of the City of San Fernando will implement a rerouting scheme to avoid gridlocks and for the convenience of motorists and pedestrians alike.

The rerouting scheme, which will be implemented Tuesday, will cover thoroughfares going to two cemeteries – the San Fernando Old Cemetery and Good Shepherd Memorial Park-- located along major roads of this capital city.

31 Oct 2016 - Aquino claims Pampanga to be drug-cleared by year-end

PAMPANGA -- Philippine National Police (PNP) Region III Director, Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, on Friday challenged Pampanga police force to clear all drug-infested villages in the province before the year ends.

Aquino said that Pampanga, together with five provinces in Central Luzon, must abide with the initial deadline set by President Rodrigo Duterte in eradicating drug menace in the country six months after he assumed post.

31 Oct 2016 - Pamintuan, LFC grant salary hike of permanent employees

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and the Local Finance Committee have included in the 2017 Executive Budget the 2nd Tranche of Salary Increase for the City Goverment Plantilla Employees.

In a letter dated October 20, 2016, Pamintuan's Secretary Leonardo Kirk Galanza wrote to acting Vice Mayor Jericho Aguas saying that the local chief executive and the LFC will include in the city budget next year the saralary increase of the workers.

29 Oct 2016 - Angeles crowns new Ginoo at Mutya winners

ANGELES CITY -- The most awaited pageant in the city commenced at the Grand Palazzo Royale on October 27, as 24 stunning candidates vie for the coveted title of Ginoo at Mutya ning Angeles 2016.

The 17-year-old son of Barangay Lourdes Northwest was hailed as this year’s Ginoong Angeles while the 19-year old bet from Barangay Pampang, Hazel Ayn Erickson, was crowned as the new Mutya ning Angeles.

29 Oct 2016 - Lubao councilman arrested in buy-bust operation

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested Saturday a barangay councilman and his cohort during an anti-illegal drugs operation in Barangay Sto. Tomas, Lubao, Pampanga.

Senior Superintendent Joel Consulta, Officer-In-Charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office, identified the arrested as Ric Manabat, 50, and John Fernando, 29, also a resident of the said barangay.

29 Oct 2016 - DepEd reiterates commitment to accessible, inclusive education

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated its commitment to intensify efforts to provide quality, accessible, inclusive, and liberating basic public education for all Filipino learners one hundred days after the change of administration.

“The role of education in improving and uplifting the living standards of disadvantaged groups in the Philippines is not lost in the administration’s agenda, in fact, it is the focal point of every reform and continuity that we have been carrying out in our first 100 days,” Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones stated.

29 Oct 2016 - Pelco I donates blood to Phil. Red Cross

PAMPANGA -- The management staff and employees of the Pampanga I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Pelco I) have donated blood recently to the Philippine Red Cross in a bloodletting activity dubbed as “Operation Alay Dugo ng PELCO I 2016”.

Philippine Red Cross (PRC)–Pampanga/Angeles City Chapter Administrator Augusto Ocampo, who led PRC workers to the Pelco I main office in Barangay Sto. Domingo, this town said that the activity is a worthy endeavour and a big help to those who need blood.

28 Oct 2016 - BCDA, 2 Japanese firms ink pact for Clark Green City

MABALACAT CITY —- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with two Japanese corporations for the development of the key features of the planned Clark Green City.

The entry of the Japanese companies -- Hitachi Asia Limited and The Power Grid Solution Limited -- was a result of President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to Japan.

28 Oct 2016 - Consumers warned of water rate hike

PAMPANGA -- Consumers of the City of San Fernando Water District have been warned of possible increase in their monthly water bill if their service provider will pursue its pending joint venture with Prime Water.

This was learned from Balibago Waterworks Systems Inc. (BWSI) President Tito Panlilio during the public hearing facilitated by this city's Committee on Public Works on Wednesday.

28 Oct 2016 - Chinese companies eye chartered flights in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Two Chinese firms are planning to charter flights from Guangzhou to Clark International Airport (CRK) and vice versa.

This developed after President Duterte’s recent official trip to China.

26 Oct 2016 - Completion of NLEX widening set before Christmas -- MNTC

MABALACAT CITY -- A top official of the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) expressed optimism that ongoing widening of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Santa Rita in Bulacan to Sta. Ines in Mabalacat City will be completed before Christmas.

During the opening of the additional eight lanes at the Bocaue Toll Plaza on Tuesday, MNTC President and Chief Executive Officer Rodrigo Franco said that Package 1 – NLEX Segment 2 (Santa Rita to City of San Fernando) and Package 2 – NLEX Segment 3 (Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX Spur Road to Santa Ines) will be completed by December 15.

26 Oct 2016 - 3 Apalit villages declared ‘drug-cleared’

PAMPANGA -- Three barangays in Apalit were declared “drug-cleared” by the local police chief and Mayor Peter C. Nucom in the presence of a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) representative and barangay officials in a pronouncement ceremony at the Sangunian Bayan session hall early Wednesday.

Apalit Chief of Police PSupt. Wilson Alicuman said the drug-cleared status of barangays Balucuc, Colgante and Paligui was the result of barangay drug clearing operations in Central Luzon which kicked of July 2016 during the assumption of office of President Rodrigo Duterte.

26 Oct 2016 - Water district joint venture under fire

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando's Committee on Public Works on Wednesday held a public hearing on the alleged complaints of concerned local residents and the Balibago Waterworks System, Inc. on the joint venture bidding process of the City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) with Prime Water.

The public hearing was conducted to look into the complaint of a certain Mrs. Marilou Uban and the complaint of the Balibago Waterworks System, Inc. Uban and dozens of signatories from local residents in a letter dated October 11 asking the city council to investigate the bidding process.

25 Oct 2016 - Drug-free Mabalacat villages to get P1M each

MABALACAT CITY – Six barangays in this component city, which were declared drug-free by the Philippine National Police (PNP), will receive P1-million each from the city government.

This was learned from Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales during the inauguration of the Bahay Pagbabago reformation center in Mawaque Resettlement Center for surrendering drug pushers and users.

25 Oct 2016 - Maglanque denies involvement in plunderMaglanque denies involvement in plunder

PAMPANGA -- Former Candaba Mayor Rene Maglanque on Tuesday assailed former Mayor Jerry Pelayo for involving him in the plunder case filed by the latter regarding various infrastructure projects built in this town which are allegedly "irregular and substandard."

Recently, Pelayo together with former Vice-Mayor Daniel Gallardo filed a joint criminal and administrative complaint before the National Bureau of Investigation against Maglanque, Fourth District Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc, Department of Public Works and Highways Region III Director Antonio Molano, Jr. and the agency's department heads as well as officers of private contractor Edd Mari Construction, Ferdstar and Northern Builders.

25 Oct 2016 - MNTC head vows high-level service to motorists

CLARK FREEPORT --- Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) President Rodrigo Franco has assured that the expressway operator will continue implementing development programs to provide quality service to the motorists using the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex).

Franco made the announcement during the inauguration of the P278 million Bocaue Toll Plaza expansion last Tuesday.

25 Oct 2016 - CIAC, Qatar Airways forge business partnership

CLARK FREEPORT --- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and Qatar Airways have agreed to work together for the development of Clark International Airport (CRK).

In line with this, Qatar Airways has bared plans to target upscale travelers going to destinations in Europe, the USA and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

25 Oct 2016 - San Fernando city joins ‘End Polio Now’ campaign

PAMPANGA -- The only place polio should exist is in history books.

That's the battle cry on World Polio Day – and the reason Mayor Edwin Santiago and the City Government of San Fernando join the “End Polio Now” campaign.

24 Oct 2016 - Ex-mayor files plunder raps vs lawmaker, others

PAMPANGA -- Former Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo and a certain Daniel Gallardo filed a joint complaint-affidavit before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against Representative Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc (Pampanga, 4th district) and other individuals for alleged plunder involving “irregular, sub-standard construction projects” in Candaba town.

Pelayo and Gallardo also included in the criminal and administrative complaint former Mayor Rene Maglanque and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Director Antonio Molano. The complaint also included DPWH department heads and officers of private contractors EddMari Construction, Ferdstar and Northern Builders.

24 Oct 2016 - Bondoc: Plunder complaint politically motivated

PAMPANGA -- Representative Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc (Pampanga, 4th district) on Monday called former Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo's plunder complaint politically motivated adding that he is not involved in any irregular construction projects in Candaba town.

In an interview with Sun.Star Pampanga, Bondoc said that he, however, welcomes any initiative to ferret out the truth in government construction programs and the likes.

24 Oct 2016 - Magalang mayor defends sale of hogs from shabu lab

PAMPANGA -- Magalang Mayor Paras-Lacson defended the recent auction of the 4,000 hogs at a pig farm concealing an underground shabu laboratory, which was shut down on September 5 by the police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), invoking the need to protect the health and welfare of the public.

This came after criticisms over the sale of the said hogs. The pig farm was a front for the underground laboratory operating beneath a feed mill inside the compound.

24 Oct 2016 - Apalit, Sto. Tomas towns exhibit local products

PAMPANGA -- The municipalities of Apalit and Santo Tomas showcased some of their renowned products in an exhibit set at SM City Pampanga.

As part of the mall's advocacy to promote local products and cuisines, it hosted a five-day exhibit featuring merchandise from Apalit and Santo Tomas in their “Towns of the Month” program.

24 Oct 2016 - Execs bare short, long-term projects for Sto. Tomas town

PAMPANGA -- Santo Tomas Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc (Pampanga, 4th district) and Mayor Johnny Sambo bared some of the short- and long-term projects for the development of this town over the weekend.

Sambo, who has been working hand-in-hand with Bondoc to bring progress in the seven barangays of this fourth class municipality, said that he is maximizing his last three years in office to provide inclusive growth for the people.

24 Oct 2016 - First after-party set for GLF 2016

PAMPANGA -- Aside from flickering colorful lights of the Giant Lantern Festival (GLF) this year, the executive committee is preparing another party that will be enjoyed by the audience.

According to GLF 2016 chairperson Jim Jimenez, the executive committee has come up with an additional celebration following the lively and vibrant competition of giant lanterns to be held at the Robinsons Starmills on December 17.

23 Oct 2016 - Councilor: Increase barangay workers’ salaries

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. is pushing for an increase in the salaries of barangay workers.

Lazatin said he filed four separate resolutions on September 20 asking Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan to increase the honoraria and salaries of barangay nutrition scholars, barangay service point officers, barangay health workers and day care workers.

22 Oct 2016 - Santiago eyes long, short-term plans for traffic

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago said that he is looking at short-term and long-term plans to address the traffic problems in the city.

Santiago said he has instructed traffic personnel in the city to implement strictly traffic rules. He also asked the cooperation of motorists to avoid choke points and rush hour traffic.

22 Oct 2016 - Morales tells village leaders: Activate barangay anti-drug councils

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino Morales has directed the village leaders in the city to activate their respective Barangay Anti Drug Abuse Council (Badac) that will implement programs to eradicate the drug problem.

The mayor, who chairs the Mabalacat City Anti-Drugs Abuse Council (Macadac), said that the barangays are at the forefront of the fight against illegal drugs.

22 Oct 2016 - DPWH marks P80-M for cutoff channel

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over the weekend announced that two tranches of P40-million plus would be used for the further development of the Bebe-San Esteban Cutoff Channel.

The DPWH said that the two tranches will be composed of concrete slope protection to further improve the said cutoff channel.

21 Oct 2016 - ‘Lawin’ displaces 31,000 families in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) disclosed on Thursday that the recent onslaught of super typhoon Lawin has displaced some 31,841 families or 134,893 individuals in Central Luzon.

OCD-3 Director and RDRRMC Chairman Josefina Timoteo said 10,513 families or 39,576 persons from the 333 affected barangays were housed in various evacuation centers across the region while 7,629 families or 34,530 persons settled outside the centers.

21 Oct 2016 - Mayors condemn violent dispersal of militant groups

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed indignation over the violence that recently occurred in front of the US Embassy, where scores of demonstrators and policemen were injured.

Pamintuan, adviser to the Philippine Government (GRP) Peace Panel and president of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), said he and former city league president Herbert Bautista prepared a joint statement expressing deep concern on the incident.

20 Oct 2016 - Typhoons submerge 5 Pampanga towns

PAMPANGA -- Five municipalities in Pampanga are now submerged in floodwaters after two consecutive typhoons dumped rains in a span of one week.

According to the Provincial Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), 27 villages from the towns of Candaba, Masantol, Macabebe, San Luis and San Simon are experiencing up to 10 feet of floods brought by the onslaught of Typhoon "Karen" and Super Typhoon "Lawin".

20 Oct 2016 - Pagasa: Pampanga River may overflow with persistent rains

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Thursday disclosed that the Pampanga River may overflow and cause heavy flooding if downpours brought by Super Typhoon "Lawin" persist.

PAGASA-Pampanga River Basin and Flood Forecasting and Warning Center Officer-in-Charge Hilton Hernandez said that Pampanga River in Arayat almost reached its critical level with 7.1 meters while the Candaba portion is near spilling level with 5.74 meters as of 4:00 a.m. Thursday.

20 Oct 2016 - 4Ps to get extra benefits in rice allowance

PAMPANGA -- The beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps are set to receive additional benefits in terns of rice allowance.

The amount each family will be receiving will be the equivalent of 20 kilos of rice each month.

19 Oct 2016 - Clark International Airport named '15th best in Asia'

CLARK FREEPORT --- The Clark International Airport (CRK) was ranked 15th best airport in Asia in a survey conducted by the Sleeping in Airports.

Other Philippine international gateways that were voted by travellers include Iloilo International Airport (ILO), Top 12; Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), Top 14; and Davao Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO), Top 26.

19 Oct 2016 - Gov’t firm lauded for low transportation fares in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) has commended the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) for "helping" facilitate lower fares on public utility vehicles.

During the investors' recent general membership meeting, CILA president Joselito P. Go said the minimum fare in Clark is cheaper compared to jeepney fares outside the Freeport.

19 Oct 2016 - DPWH sets flood mitigation projects for 4th district towns

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is preparing various projects for Pampanga to address the perennial flooding problem in low-lying municipalities of the province.

Through the implementation of the Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation (IDRR-CCA) Measures in Low Lying Areas of Pampanga Bay Project, the national government aims to minimize the adverse effects of flooding in the province.

19 Oct 2016 - Pampanga eyes national Gawad Kalasag award

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga through its Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) is eyeing the National Gawad Kalasag (Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan) award.

This came after PDRRMC Pampanga bagged the hall of fame award for the Regional Gawad Kalasag Awards given by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Central Luzon held recently at Subic Freeport Zone.

18 Oct 2016 - PDDRMO: Prepare and don't panic

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) on Tuesday disclosed that Capitol is ready for the onslaught of severe Typhoon Lawin (international name Haima) and its possible effects on Pampanga when it slams Northern Luzon by Thursday.

PDRRMC head Angie Blanco on Tuesday told Sun.Star Pampanga that all necessary interventions have been made and measures are still in place after Typhoon Karen crossed Central Luzon over the weekend.

18 Oct 2016 - 3 found dead with 4-inch nails in heads

PAMPANGA -- Three men with four-inch nails punctured on top of their heads were found inside a car in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Magalang, Pampanga, over the weekend.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3-) director, identified the fatalities as Mark Gil Ramos, 36; Jessie Miranda and Ariel Adrinao, 40, all residents of Barangay West Poblacion, General Tinio, Nueva Ecija.

18 Oct 2016 - Investors bullish on Clark as growth center

CLARK FREEPORT -- Developers of a logistics center here on Tuesday expressed confidence about the potential of Clark as the country's growth center.

Officials of the Global Gateway Development Corporation (GGDC), led by their Chief Executive Officer Mark Williams stressed this during the topping off ceremony for the two towers inside the AeroPark Campus mixed used facility inside the 177-hectare Global Gateway Logistics City (GGLC).

18 Oct 2016 - Macabebe approves demolition of fishpens

PAMPANGA -- Amid the battle of this town between a neighboring municipality and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on the demolition of fishpens, the local government here expressed approval on the project in areas of their jurisdiction.

This was disclosed by Municipal Administrator and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Officer (MDRRMO) Jomel Cruz in an exclusive interview with Sun.Star Pampanga recently.

18 Oct 2016 - Central Luzon braces for 'Lawin'

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) on Tuesday, October 18, ordered to prepare for the possible effects of Typhoon Lawin, which is seen to intensify into a super typhoon.

Josefina Timoteo, chairperson of the RDRRMC and regional director of the Office of Civil Defense in Central Luzon, said all provincial and municipal disaster councils in Central Luzon have been ordered to remain on alert status and undertake precautionary measures and other disaster response activities.

17 Oct 2016 - Pampanga enters Kalasag hall of fame

PAMPANGA -- The Province of Pampanga, through its Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), has been elevated to the Hall of Fame of the Gawad Kalasag Award after winning for the third straight year.

The Gawad Kalasag (Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan) Award is conferred by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to local DRRMCs that have implemented best practices and undertaken humanitarian assistance.

17 Oct 2016 - 12 Kapampangans conquer Ironman Taiwan challenge

PAMPANGA -- Twelve Kapampangan triathletes completed the tough race in the Ironman Championship held October 2 in Penghu, Taiwan.

The tri-athletes from Pampanga were Rondee Aquino, Jason Caguiat, Cyril Bermudo, Arvin Bituin, Bryan De Mata, Mark Jingco, Adrian Lugasing, Cherry Sanchez, Jonathan Sunga, Abe Tayag, Jerry Yutuc and Raffy Zapata.

17 Oct 2016 - 'Karen' victims get initial aid

PAMPANGA -- Member-agencies of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) have provided initial aid to families displaced by typhoon Karen in Central Luzon.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said 5,000 family food packs were delivered directly from their National Relief Operations Center in Metro Manila to a satellite warehouse at the Nueva Ecija Home for Girls in Palayan City.

17 Oct 2016 - Masantol starts reformation of 436 drug surrenderees

PAMPANGA -- After the intensive campaign which urged drug suspects to surrender themselves to authorities, the Masantol local government here has started the reformation of 436 drug surrenderees.

Mayor Danilo Guintu, together with the Philippine National Police and Department of Interior and Local Government, launched this town's "Bahay Pagbabago" which kicked off the formal rehabilitation process of drug dependents who voluntarily turned themselves in to the government.

16 Oct 2016 - Second hall of fame award: CSF most business friendly city anew

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando was named anew the most business friendly local government unit in the component city category on by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. or PCCI.

The PCCI's recognition and second hall of fame citation this year is the sixth since the city government was first cited in 2009.

16 Oct 2016 - No Yuletide holiday for Oplan Kandado program in CL

PAMPANGA -- There will be no Yuletide break in the implementation of the Oplan Kandado program as the Bureau of Internal Revenue Region IV (RR-4) is set to close 10 more establishments in Central Luzon.

THE BIR said six establishments may be closed in Pampanga alone.

16 Oct 2016 - BIR sets completion of P600-M building on Dec 2017

PAMPANGA -- Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 regional director Jethro Sabariaga is confident that the new P600 million new building project in Barangay Sindalan will be completed by December 2017.

Sabariaga told Sun.Star Pampanga that the builder of the said project is catching up on the delayed construction due to recent inclement weather conditions.

15 Oct 2016 - CL hardware dealers, manufacturers meet to discuss uncertified products

ANGELES CITY -- Hardware stores owners and manufacturers in Central Luzon met at the conference room of the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III (DTI-3) on Friday to update them on regulations on product standards.

The event also aims to coordinate the needs of hardware and construction materials dealers for certified products, especially mandatory products.

15 Oct 2016 - Kapampangan center to launch Simbulan book on PMA

ANGELES CITY -- The Center for Kapampangan Studies will host the second launching of Dr. Dante Simbulan's much-anticipated autobiography, “Whose Side Are We On? Memoirs of a PMAer,” on Tuesday, October 25 at 3 p.m. at the Casa Nena, Holy Angel University in Angeles City.

The Center for People Empowerment in Governance (CenPeg) and the Center for the Study of Social Change (CSSC) will co-sponsor the book’s initial launch at the University of the Philippines in Diliman on October 20.

15 Oct 2016 - Kuwaiti firm sets topping off of 2 AeroPark Campus towers

CLARK FREEPORT -- Kuwaiti firm KGL Investment Company (KGLI) has set the topping off of two buildings inside its AeroPark Campus located inside the 177-hectare Global Gateway Logistics City of Clark Civil Aviation Complex.

The topping off ceremony for the One West and Two West towers, which are included in the initial phase of the AeroPark Campus Quad 1, will be held at 10:30 am on October 18 (Tuesday).

15 Oct 2016 - PhilHealth coverage for all Pinoys pushed

MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda has pushed for PhilHealth coverage of all Filipinos by next year as she augmented the budget of the Department of Health (DOH) to achieve said target.

According to the DOH, there are about eight million Filipinos still not covered by PhilHealth.

15 Oct 2016 - Central Luzon braces for Typhoon 'Karen'

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) here Saturday alerted all its local councils and offices in Central Luzon to monitor and prepare for the possible effects of Typhoon Karen.

Josefina Timoteo, chairperson of the RDRRMC and regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), said members of the disaster councils have been ordered to undertake precautionary measures and other disaster response activities.

15 Oct 2016 - Mayor moves to ease traffic in San Simon town

PAMPANGA -- With the growing traffic situation caused by a roadwork in town, San Simon Mayor Leonora Wong is set to implement traffic measures to ease gridlock at the CDCP junction.

Motorists and commuters passing by the intersection in Barangay Sta. Monica here have been lamenting the unusual traffic jam experienced in the said area, which halts their daily transportation going to their schools and offices.

15 Oct 2016 - NYC urges CL youth to venture to agriculture

PAMPANGA -- The National Youth Commission (NYC) called on youngsters in Central Luzon to venture to agriculture to sustain the country's food security.

“The average age of farmers in the Philippines is 57. Young people must go back to agriculture and continue farming,” NYC Commissioner for Luzon Percival Cendaña said.

13 Oct 2016 - Exec defends cops on drug war slays

MABALACAT CITY -- Vice-Mayor Christian Halili defended the police force saying that the recent killings of some drugs personalities in this city are "not deliberate."

Halili said that it is against the will of police officers to engage in a shootout with the suspects.

13 Oct 2016 - Clark, Subic welcome railway development

CLARK FREEPORT -- The plan to put up a railway that will connect Clark Freeport and Subic Bay is a welcome development.

Noel Tulabut, head of the Clark Development Corporation Communications Department, said that project "presents once again the government's firm resolve to develop further the two former US military bases which have become the engines of growth in Central Luzon."

13 Oct 2016 - Commission wants barangay youth task force strengthened

PAMPANGA -- The National Youth Commission (NYC) the Youth Task Force (YTF) at the barangay level strengthened following the postponement of village polls this month.

NYC Executive Director Lex Tupas said that YTF members must undergo intensive training in order for them to efficiently serve their respective villages.

13 Oct 2016 - CL cops create 88 reformation centers

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office III in Camp Olivas has established some 88 "Bahay Pagbabago" or reformation centers in Central Luzon for drug users and pushers during the first 100 days of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Deputy Chief of Regional Operations Division PSupt. Donato Bait said that the centers offer moral recovery programs and skills training for drug surrenderees.

13 Oct 2016 - Angeles City wins ATOP Pearl Award anew

ANGELES CITY -- It's a back-to-back victory for this highly urbanized city as it once again bagged the grand prize in the recently concluded 11th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines - Department of Tourism (ATOP-DOT) Pearl Awards, held at the Royce Hotel and Casino in Clark Freeport Zone.

Under the Best Practices in Community-based Responsible Tourism - Heritage Conservation Category, Angeles won with the entry, "Safeguarding Angeles City Heritage: Success Stories and Beyond," which highlights the city's efforts in protecting, promoting and sustaining its heritage legacy.

12 Oct 2016 - DPWH to work 24/7 on JASA roadworks

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways Region III (DPWH-3) vowed to expedite the rehabilitation of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) in San Fernando which has been causing traffic gridlocks and inconvenience to motorists and commuters.

This was bared by DPWH-3 Assistant Regional Director Laureta Malaluan, saying the agency and its project contractor will work 24 hours every day to ensure completion of the project at the soonest possible time.

12 Oct 2016 - Detained actor won't get special treatment

PAMPANGA -- Actor Mark Anthony Fernandez will not get any special treatment while in detention at the Pampanga Provincial Jail (PPJ).

This was disclosed by PPJ Warden Edwin Mangiliman and Police Regional Office III Director Aaron Aquino on Wednesday, following Fernandez's transfer on Tuesday to the presidio from the Angeles City District Jail, which the actor and his mother Alma Moreno described as "congested."

12 Oct 2016 - Sinukwan Festival is about the 'Kapampangan soul'

PAMPANGA -- Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan Inc. (FLKI) chair Maria Theresa Laus said that this year's Sinukwan Festival will continue to showcase everything good in the Kapampangan spirit.

"More than just street dancing and cultural events, the Sinukwan Festival unites Kapampangan communities and binds Kapampangans in culture and traditions uniquely our own," Laus said during Tuesday's twin launching of the Sinukwan Festival and the Giant Lantern Festival at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga.

12 Oct 2016 - Capitol officially opens MOKA nominees

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga through the office of the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTOP) officially opened Wednesday the submission of nominees for the Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA).

Nominees for MOKA must meet all the qualifications: strictly must be Kapampangan by blood or by birth; has personal accomplishments and/or body of work/s that have contributed to the betterment of the Kapampangan race and has overwhelming achievements in chosen field in which enhances the honor and reputation of the Kapampangan people.

11 Oct 2016 - Balibago declared 'drug-cleared' village

ANGELES CITY --- The city's entertainment village of Balibago has been declared a "cleared" barangay in terms of illegal drugs.

Balibago Chairman Rodelio "Tony" Mamac said his village was declared a "drug-cleared" barangay after about 85 percent of the 243 suspected drug pushers and users, who surrendered to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and barangay officials, already disengaged from their illegal activities.

11 Oct 2016 - Mayor 'serenades' drug users, pushers

PAMPANGA -- In a show of support to the provincial government's program dubbed "Dalan ning Pamagbayu" or "Road to Change," the San Luis chief executive here serenaded villagers in the 17 barangays during Sunday's motorcade in this town.

Mayor Venancio "Asyong" Macapagal, singing the song "Bawal na Gamot " and "May Bukas Pa," serenaded his constituents to seek help in the fight against illegal drugs.

11 Oct 2016 - Pineda defies SC order; halts demolition of Masantol fishpens

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda recently assured fisherfolk of this town that no demolition of fishpens will be done until issues and concerns of both sides are addressed.

This was after the fish farmers, together with local officials led by Mayor Danilo Guintu and residents of coastal villages expressed concern and rallied over the ongoing project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to remove the fishpens and other obstructions at the Pampanga River.

11 Oct 2016 - Sinukwan 2016 to highlight use of Kapampangan language

PAMPANGA -- As the Sinukwan Festival turns 18 this year, the San Fernando city government together with the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan has slated a week-long calendar of activities that will focus on the promotion of Kapampangan language.

This year's Sinukwan Festival Chairperson Michelle Ong said that the use of Kapampangan language among youth nowadays seems to be fading due to engagement in various technology and social media platforms where use of the English language "seems to be a must."

11 Oct 2016 - Chinese, 3 Taiwanese found dead

PAMPANGA -- A Chinese national and three Taiwanese were found dead in along McArthur highway in Barangay Baliti, City of San Fernando, Tuesday morning.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, said Jia Cheng Chen alias Michael Chen was found inside a Gray Ford Explorer without plate number with conduction sticker No. 0094.

10 Oct 2016 - Lazatin: Drugs, traffic must be addressed

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. over the weekend expressed disappointment on the earlier statement of the city council's majority bloc that "illegal drugs and not traffic" is the major problem of the city.

Lazatin said the majority bloc is reacting to his statement issued to the members of the Capampangan in Media Inc. last September 23, where he said that traffic is the city's major problem.

10 Oct 2016 - Kapampangan vets get medical services, medicines from VMMC

PAMPANGA -- War veterans and Armed Forces of the Philippines veterans in Pampanga were able to avail of medical check-ups and medicines from the hospital staff and doctors during Monday's program at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.

It was a medical mission and symposium made possible through the effort of the Pampanga provincial government and the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).

10 Oct 2016 - 11 Pampanga hospitals now VMMC partners

PAMPANGA -- Veterans and their dependents can now avail of medical and hospital services from 11 provincial and district hospitals in Pampanga as the Department of National Defense and the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) and the provincial government have entered into an agreement where veterans can refund certain hospital expenses with the VMMC.

VMCC Medical Professional Staff Dr. Dominador Chiong, Jr. said the program aims to address the health care needs of veterans and their qualified dependents who do not have convenient access to VMMC and provide partial subsidy for the hospitalization expenses and reimbursement of certain select procedures and additional benefits.

9 Oct 2016 - EdPam: No snag in peace talks

ANGELES CITY -- City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that there are no snags in the peace talks and the second round of the negotiation between the Philippine government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) went very well.

"There were some debates and disagreements on issues but that is understandable. At the end of the day, the unity on major points far outweighed the few debates," said Pamintuan, who is also the League of Cities of the Philippines president and adviser of the GRP peace panel.

9 Oct 2016 - Mark Anthony transferred to Angeles City district jail

ANGELES CITY -- Actor Mark Anthony Fernandez, who was arrested for possession of a kilo of marijuana last week, was transferred on Saturday to the district jail at Camp Pepito in Barangay Sto. Domingo in this city.

Fernandez, who was initially detained at the Police Station 6, is now staying at Cell Number 8, which has three double deck beds.

9 Oct 2016 - San Simon to implement truck ban

PAMPANGA -- To further address the growing traffic situation in San Simon, the local government here is set to implement a truck ban in major thoroughfares.

Under the SB Ordinance No. 16-008 or Truck Ban Ordinance approved September 22, all types of trucks will be prohibited to traverse roads including the San Simon-Apalit road, San Simon-Minalin boundary, one kilometer portion of Quezon road from the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) bridge and the CDCP road in Barangay Sta. Monica here.

8 Oct 2016 - UK-based newspaper features vintage car restorer in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -— A locator inside this Freeport was recently featured for Filipino craftsmanship in restoring vintage cars in one of the leading publications in the United Kingdom.

Byrnes Motor Trust (BMT), which restores vintage cars from other countries, was featured in The Telegraph publication based in UK.

8 Oct 2016 - Senior citizens benefit from medical mission

MABALACAT CITY -– Hundreds of senior citizens in this city benefitted from a medical mission set by the Mabalacat City Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (Osca).

OSCA head Rizalino Tuazon said that his office initiated the medical mission in line with the Elderly Week 2016 celebration which was held at the Jade Hall, Xevera Lot Only in Barangay Tabun.

8 Oct 2016 - Village folk pitch in for CCTV cameras

PAMPANGA -- Residents of Guagua Barangay Maquiapo here pooled their contributions together to purchase and have installed CCTV cameras in their village.

Barangay Maquiapo Chairman Delano Serrano said that after almost one month, the village folk were able to raise some P50,000 as downpayment for 16 CCTV cameras to be used for monitoring and ensuring the safety of residents here from crimes and other untoward incidents.

8 Oct 2016 - Lawmaker urges Porac villages to strengthen health programs

PAMPANGA -- Porac councilor and Ex-Officio Board Member Olga Frances “Fritzie” David-Dizon urged village officials of her town to strengthen medical assistance in their villages.

This came as David-Dizon gave a digital blood pressure monitor from the Department of Health to the Porac Medical Team.

8 Oct 2016 - First 100 days of Duterte: Farmers ask for government reforms

PAMPANGA -- Central Luzon farmers have joined their counterparts under the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) in calling the “poor sectors” to further drive President Duterte to the nationwide clamor for fundamental reforms in governance.

The militant Anakpawis Partylist led more than 2,000 farmers from Central Luzon, Bicol, Cagayan Valley, and Mindanao that converged at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) compound.

8 Oct 2016 - 1,504 oriented on solo parents welfare act

PAMPANGA -- Some 1,504 solo parents were given orientation on the Solo Parents Welfare Act, known as Republic Act 8972, by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in the 19 towns and cities of the province.

Jill Quimosing, PSWD social worker officer I said the orientation was aimed at providing assistance to solo parents on how they could they avail of the benefits and privileges to augment their necessary needs in raising their children alone.

8 Oct 2016 - Porac quarrymen agree to stop P200-fee hike

PAMPANGA -- The Porac Quarry Association (PQA) has agreed to suspend its collection of an additional P200 fee on trucks that haul sand and gravel from the town, in effect ruling out a price increase of the commodity valued in the construction industry following a request from Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda and the Pampanga Provincial Board.

"We accede to the appeal of the honorable vice-governor and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) to hold the collection of P200 in the meantime," Antonio Ayson, PQA director, announced when the hearing on the matter resumed at Max's Restaurant in Villa del Sol here on Friday.

8 Oct 2016 - Militants convey dismay on farmers’ plight in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- A group of militant protesters, mostly farmers, flocked in front of the Provincial Capitol to express their dismay over the current situation of farmers in Central Luzon.

The militant group protested to show their concerns in connection with President Rodrigo Duterte’s first 100 days as chief executive of the country.

7 Oct 2016 - 2 get ax for attempted trafficking of 3 minors

ANGELES CITY -- Two suspects charged with the attempted cybersex trafficking of three minors in Angeles City were convicted recently after the court found them guilty beyond reasonable doubt and were sentenced to a straight penalty of 15 years imprisonment plus pay a fine of P500,000.

The court convicted Lyan A. Tandeg and Shellina A. Nisperos, who have been arrested by National Bureau of Investigation-Cyber crime Division (NBI-CD) for producing child pornographic materials and pimping three minors, an eight year old and two 11 year old girls.

7 Oct 2016 - October 10, 21 declared special holidays in Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte has declared October 10 and 21 special non-working holidays here in celebration of the city's "Fiestang Kuliat" and the Tigtigan Terakan Keng Daan street festival, which symbolizes the resiliency of the Angeleños after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo.

Proclamation Number 66, which was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea, stated that Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan requested the Office of the President to declare the dates as holidays in order for the people of Angeles City to celebrate and participated in the event.

7 Oct 2016 - Lubao mayor is new PML president

PAMPANGA -- Lubao Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab has been elected as new president of the Pampanga Mayors League (PML) during Friday's meeting of the group's officers and members composed of the different mayors of the various towns of the province.

Cayabyab, the daughter of Governor Lilia Pineda and sister to Vice-Gov. Dennis Pineda, was elected on Friday in the capital city.

7 Oct 2016 - Former seaman nabbed for drugs

MABALACAT CITY -- A former seaman was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by elements of the city police recently.

Elmar Manarang Salazar, 37, was arrested at Sitio Gasdam in Barangay Dau by elements of the city police intelligence division headed by Senior Inspector Melvin Florida.

6 Oct 2016 - DPWH: No vertical clearance on overpass 'compromised'

PAMPANGA -- Department of Public Works and Highways Region III Director Antonio Molano, Jr. on Thursday assured motorists, pedestrians and the public that no structures will be compromised by the ongoing road upgrading and rehabilitation at the Barangay Dolores portion of Jose Abad Santos Avenue in San Fernando.

This was after several motorists and stakeholders raised concern over the possible lowering of the vertical clearance on an existing footbridge and pedestrian overpass due to elevation by at least one foot of the major thoroughfare.

6 Oct 2016 - Hailili asks cops to orient village execs on drug labs

MABALACAT CITY -- Vice Mayor Christian Halili has asked the city police to orient village officials regarding hog farms used as laboratories in manufacturing illegal drugs.

Halili said the orientation is important because barangay officials will learn how shabu is produced and what the drug laboratories look like.

5 Oct 2016 - Pampanga tops in day care workers, centers accreditation in CL

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga is number one in Central Luzon with the accreditation of 454 active day care workers (DCWs) and 454 day care centers (DCCs).

Pampanga was followed by Bulacan with the accreditation of active 524 DCWs and 509 DCCs; Bataan with 219 DWCs and 208 DCCs; Tarlac with 393 DCWs and 375 DCCs; Aurora with 152 DCWs and 133 DCCs; Nueva Ecija with 279 DCWs and 253 DCCs; and Zambales with 40 DCWs and 39 DCCs.

5 Oct 2016 - Diño assumes SBMA top post

SUBIC BAY -- Newly appointed Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Martin Diño on Monday assumed the top post here after accepting the official SBMA flag from outgoing chairman Roberto Garcia in a turnover ceremony held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center here.

The turnover ceremony was the first public appearance of Diño before employees of SBMA and local government officials from Zambales, Bataan and Olongapo City.

5 Oct 2016 - AboitizPower plans to acquire stakes on Bataan power plants

MABALACAT CITY -- The Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), through its subsidiary Therma Power, Inc. (TPI), has announced its proposed acquisition of indirect partnership interests held by funds managed by Blackstone (NYSE: BX) in GNPower Mariveles Coal Plant Ltd. Co. (GMCP) and GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD).

TPI will hold an indirect effective interest of 66.1 percent in GMCP and 40 percent in GNPD.

5 Oct 2016 - Top cop: Actor may rot in jail for 'grass'

PAMPANGA -- Philippine National Police Region III Director Aaron Aquino on Tuesday disclosed that actor Mark Anthony Fernandez may rot in jail if proven guilty of the cases filed against him.

Fernandez was recently arrested by police in a checkpoint in Angeles City for possession of about one kilo of marijuana in his vehicle.

4 Oct 2016 - Pamintuan: People will accept peace agreement with NDF

ANGELES CITY -- "The ongoing peace negotiation with the National Democratic Front has the support of our people. The future peace agreement will be embraced by the Filipino nation."

Thus said Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, government peace panel adviser, in reaction to the rejection in a plebiscite of the peace agreement between the Colombian government and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People's Army or FARC-EP.

4 Oct 2016 - Guv urges Duterte to sign EO creating Pampanga Task Force

PAMPANGA -- Following the discovery of suspected shabu laboratories in the province, the Governor Lilia Pineda urged President Rodrigo Duterte to sign an executive order (EO) for the creation of the Pampanga Task Force.

Pineda said the Task Force will be of help in solving the illegal drug problem in the province.

4 Oct 2016 - Pampanga to showcase best tourism practices in ATOP convention

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga is bent on exhibiting its best tourism practices in the upcoming 17th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Convention.

ATOP president Alphonsus Tesoro, concurrent Capiz provincial tourism and cultural affairs officer, said that with this event, Pampanga will have the opportunity to showcase its cultural heritage to the different provinces of the country.

4 Oct 2016 - Hundreds flock to VDLR Marian exhibit

PAMPANGA -- The Marian Festival held by an elite group of image owners in Sta Rita attracted hundreds of Marian devotees and lay faithful from all across the province.

The Parochial Marian Exhibit of Virgen Delos Remedios Parish organized by Marian enthusiasts in Pampanga’s second district staged a five-day exhibit of antique and newly commissioned Marian images at the parish’s multipurpose building here from October 1 to 5.

4 Oct 2016 - More than 100 MSMEs to join Likha ng Central Luzon 2016

ANGELES CITY -- More than 100 micro, small, and medium enterprises will join the Likha ng Central Luzon (LCL) 2016 which is slated from October 10 to 13 at Old Glorietta Activity Center, Ayala Center, Makati City.

“LCL is major regional trade promotion activity jointly organized by us and Philexport Region 3 with the full support of Regional Development Council and Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc. The event is also supported by WhenInManila.com,” Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Judith Angeles said.

4 Oct 2016 - Drug surrenderee killed in Masantol

PAMPANGA -- A self-confessed drug user who surrendered to authorities of Masantol town was recently gunned down by still unidentified suspects.

The victim identified as Joseph Bustos was killed by two gunmen onboard a motorcycle while taking his snacks at a store in Barangay Cambasi.

4 Oct 2016 - Lawmakers seek inquiry on Clark Green City project

MABALACAT CITY -- A group of congressmen is pushing for an inquiry on the possible impact of the 36,000-hectare Clark Green City (CGC) project to the indigenous people in Tarlac and Pampanga.

This was gleaned in a proposed House of Representative Resolution Number 383 introduced by Representatives Ariel Casilao, Carlos Isagani Zarate, Emmi De Jesus, Antonio Tinio, Arlene Brosas, France Castro, and Sarah Jane Elago.

3 Oct 2016 - Businessman decries government harassment

PAMPANGA -- A prominent businessman has decried the alleged continuous harassment on its property near the regional government center here by a government body.

Antonio Koh, president of the First St. Francisco Realty and Development Corporation, which owns the two-hectare lot near the Diosdado Macapagal Regional Center in Barangay Maimpis, assailed what he called the highhanded efforts by the Management Committee of the center to prevent them from conducting lawful business activities inside their property using the road leading to the center.

3 Oct 2016 - 2,698 barangays in Central Luzon still infected by drugs

PAMPANGA -- A total of 2,698 barangays in Central Luzon are still infected by illegal drugs while 539 of them were totally cleared as of September 30.

According to Superintendent Oscar Jacildo, chief of the Regional Police Community Relations Division (RPCRD3), those still infected are barangays in Aurora, 125; Bataan, 218; Bulacan, 525; Nueva Ecija, 693; Pampanga, 479; Tarlac, 405; Zambales, 203; Angeles City, 33; and Olongapo City, 17.

3 Oct 2016 - Guv wants full investigation of shabu labs

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda yesterday disclosed that she wants Capitol and other bodies to conduct a coordinated full-scale investigation on the existence of clandestine shabu laboratories in the province.

During a press conference at Capitol, Governor Pineda stressed she wants to get hold of thorough reports from authorities like the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and even the Department of Interior and Local Government which oversees frontliners like barangay officials and local chief executives.

3 Oct 2016 - Ang Hortaleza Foundation provides livelihood training to Masantoleños

PAMPANGA -- In a bid to impart vocational skills to indigent people, the Ang Hortaleza Foundation, through the Rotary Club of Timog recently provided livelihood training to some 33 residents here.

The Ang Hortaleza Foundation, an institution which promotes inclusive progress for every Filipino through trainings and educational assistance, has been helping indigent people, not only in Pampanga but in the whole country as well.

3 Oct 2016 - Motorists, commuters irked at 'slow-paced' JASA works

PAMPANGA -- Hundreds of motorists and commuters are irked over the "slow-paced" road construction project along the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA), which causes heavy traffic jams at the major thoroughfare.

According to motorists, the road works being facilitated by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been causing inconvenience in their travel, both during sunny and rainy days.

3 Oct 2016 - DepEd to launch documentaries on best teaching practices

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Central Luzon will be launching its first ever series of documentary videos on the best practices and accomplishments of the 2015 Regional Outstanding Public School Teachers and School Heads in celebration of the World Teachers’ Day on October 5.

The DepEd said that this is in support of the thrust of delivering quality education where the curriculum is the heart and centerpiece.

2 Oct 2016 - EdPam optimistic on Oslo, Norway peace talks

ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed optimism that the negotiations in Oslo Norway will result to the formal signing of the peace settlement next year.

Pamintuan is set to leave for Oslo, Norway on Wednesday (October 5, 2016), to attend the second round of peace negotiation between the Government Peace Panel and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

1 Oct 2016 - SIM cards, contraband discovered in jail check

PAMPANGA -- Several Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, contraband and other prohibited items were discovered and seized by an inspection team led by Vice-Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda during a surprise early morning check of the Pampanga Provincial Jail at the Capitol Compound here.

The vice-governor, accompanied by Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives, conducted the inspection as part of Operation Greyhound which aims to stop illicit drug operations in Philippine jails.

1 Oct 2016 - Pamintuan orders crackdown vs illegal drugs

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has directed the city police to intensify operations against illegal drugs.

The mayor at the same time directed the Angeles City Anti-Illegal Drugs Abuse Council (ACADAC) to "continue grassroots education campaign on the menace of illegal drugs."

1 Oct 2016 - Fiestang Kuliat 2016 to highlight Angeles' religious events

ANGELES CITY -- This year's Fiestang Kuliat events will highlight the city's religious traditions with emphasis on the city's triad of religious festivals.

Angeles City Tourism officers and church officials over the weekend told media men that the religious events will kick off with the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angeles on October 2. The yearly celebration has a religious and historical significance for the city. The founder of what is now Angeles City, Don Angel Pantaleon de Miranda together with his wife, Dña Rosalia de Jesus, founded the town of Culiat in the year 1829. Culiat was renamed Angeles, dedicated to the Los Santos Angeles Custodios.

1 Oct 2016 - 3 suspected drug pushers arrested, 1 killed in shootout

ANGELES CITY -- Three suspected drug pushers were arrested in Angeles City and Magalang town in Pampanga on Friday.

Those arrested were identified as Adrian Algaba, 23, a resident of Barangay Capaya 2nd; Jerome Cadag, 37, of Barangay Lourdes, both in Angeles City; and Jerwin Garcia, 37, a resident of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Magalang.

1 Oct 2016 - Top cop: Probable drug deals going on at presidio

PAMPANGA -- City of San Fernando Police Chief Jean Fajardo disclosed Saturday there are probable drug transactions going on at the “presidio” or Pampanga Provincial Jail gauging from the several SIM cards confiscated from detainees, particularly Chinese nationals.

During the surprise inspection conducted by Capitol officials, Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) at the maximum security detention facility of the presidio, Fajardo said that the SIM cards are proof that inmates are communicating with outside entities.

1 Oct 2016 - Duterte appoints Diño as new SBMA chairman

SUBIC BAY -- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has a new chairman.

President Rodrigo Duterte officially signed the appointment paper of Martin Diño as chairman of the board of directors of SBMA.