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Balibago News Dec-2017

31 Dec 2017 -

DoTr asked to work on mass transport system MABALACAT CITY -- A lawmaker has urged the Department of Transportation (DoTr) to support the construction of a nationalized mass transport system in the country.

Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao issued the statement alongside with the group’s appeal to the transportation department not to allow the Busan Universal Rail Incorporation BURI to bid on the three MRT projects in Metro Manila.

31 Dec 2017 - Game farm owners donate money for parish programs

PAMPANGA -- Several owners of game farms in Porac town donated P100,000 for the various programs and projects of Saint Catherine of Alexandria Parish.

The donation was facilitated by Vice-Mayor Dexter David and donors Councilor Mich “Manman” Bengco, Rolando “Jhendy” Meneses Jr., Lumes Lumba, Arpie “Racroy” David, Notnot Canlapan and Romy Gamboa.

31 Dec 2017 - SBMA police seizes P40-M worth of smuggled liquor

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT –- At least P40-million worth of smuggled liquor was confiscated recently by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) police operatives here.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma Eisma said SBMA Law Enforcement Department operatives seized the contraband even before it could be spirited out of the Freeport on Christmas Eve.

31 Dec 2017 - Vice guv gives yearend treats to Porac resettlement community

PAMPANGA -- Vice Governor Dennis Pineda led the distribution of food items to residents of the Porac Model Community here as part of his yearly commitment to help the local resettlement community and its residents. Porac Vice-Mayor Dexter David said that the vice-governor personally handed bags of processed meat and other food items to hundreds of residents.

The vice mayor added that the provincial official has been helping the community for some time now.

31 Dec 2017 - Mayor urges public: Avoid firecrackers, use alternatives

PAMPANGA -- Masantol Mayor Danilo Guintu has urged residents to use safer merry-making instruments as alternative to lighting firecrackers in welcoming the forthcoming New Year.

Guintu made the appeal in line with the goal of the government to minimize firecracker-related injuries and casualties this holiday season.

31 Dec 2017 - Clark airport construction best 2017 news for Kapampangans

CLARK FREEPORT -- Majority of Kapampangans were both amazed and delighted over the pronouncement of President Duterte that Clark International Airport here will the country’s second premier airport next to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.

Because of this development, the country’s flag carrier – Philippine Airlines (PAL) mounted several domestic and international flights in Clark which was followed by low-cost carriers including Cebu Pacific and Philippines AirAsia also commencing flights in the airport named as the “Airport of the North.”

31 Dec 2017 - PrimeWater San Fernando bares 2017 service improvement projects

PAMPANGA -- A year after its joint venture with the City of San Fernando Water District, PrimeWater San Fernando bared its service improvement projects undertaken in 2017.

PrimeWater San Fernando Branch Manager Jan Canlas said that under the joint venture, three major projects to improve the delivery of potable water and services to concessionaires included pipe extension, deep well development and the installation of generator sets in selected pumping station and bulk water stations (BWS).

30 Dec 2017 - DTI reminds public: Be careful in buying firecrackers, pyros

PAMPANGA -- A day before New Year’s Eve, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Central Luzon reiterated its reminder to the public to be careful in buying pyrotechnic products for the holiday season by purchasing only from certified and authorized manufacturers and dealers.

DTI-Central Luzon Information Officer Warren Serrano said the agency continues to monitor the sale of allowed firecrackers until December 31 when buyers are expected to go last minute shopping in the hope of cheaper prices.

29 Dec 2017 - DTI reminds public: Be careful in buying firecrackers, pyros

PAMPANGA -- A day before New Year’s Eve, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Central Luzon reiterated its reminder to the public to be careful in buying pyrotechnic products for the holiday season by purchasing only from certified and authorized manufacturers and dealers.

DTI-Central Luzon Information Officer Warren Serrano said the agency continues to monitor the sale of allowed firecrackers until December 31 when buyers are expected to go last minute shopping in the hope of cheaper prices.

29 Dec 2017 - CDC: Number of Clark workers grew to 107,000

CLARK FREEPORT -- The number of workers in this Freeport reached 107,000, according to the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

The state-owned firm stated that workers in Clark increased by more than 14,227 as of November or within an 11-month period.

29 Dec 2017 - Physically-challenged students get financial aid from LGU

MABALACAT CITY -- Physically-challenged students in this component city received P1,200 each as financial assistance from the local government unit (LGU).

Mayor Crisostomo Garbo led the distribution of the educational aid at the city hall last Wednesday, December 27.

29 Dec 2017 - PDEA neutralizes notorious drug group in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- A notorious drug group operating in Tarlac City was neutralized by operatives of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Luzon on Friday, December 29.

The operation in Block 3, Barangay San Nicolas, resulted in the dismantling of two drug dens being operated by the group and arrest of 22 drug personalities including the group’s leaders and seizure of P325,000 worth of illegal drugs.

29 Dec 2017 - Hundreds of kids benefit from hotel’s gift giving

MABALACAT CITY --- A low-cost hotel firm has conducted a series of gift giving and outreach program which benefited hundreds of children in the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija.

Mhar De Jesus, North area manager of Hotel Sogo, said that employees of the hotel branches in Tarlac City, Cabanatuan in Nueva Ecija, and Dau and Mexico in Pampanga initiated their respective programs in line with the celebration of Christmas.

28 Dec 2017 - Public urged: Stay safe on New Year’s Eve

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Luzon has urged the public to stay safe on New Year’s Eve by not using firecrackers.

PRO-Central Luzon director Amador Corpus warned the public from using prohibited firecrackers in welcoming the New Year.

28 Dec 2017 - BFP warns of fire incidents on New Year

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) warned Fernandinos on Thursday on the use of pyrotechnic materials, which may cause fire incidents, during the New Year's celebration.

BFP-San Fernando director Roderick Marquez said that the Executive Order No. 28 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte does not totally ban the lighting of fireworks on New Year’s Eve, but only limits the use of loud and dangerous ones.

28 Dec 2017 - San Fernando, San Simon set firecracker zones

PAMPANGA -- With the continuing goal of safely welcoming New Year in the province, police personnel in the City of San Fernando and San Simon town yesterday set areas where use and selling of firecrackers will be allowed.

City's police chief Roland Agohob said that they designated two firecracker zones -- one in Salilungan compound along Jose Abad Santos Avenue in Barangay San Juan, and the other in front of Moderno Food Park along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Telabastagan.

28 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat cops nab 2 rape suspects

MABALACAT CITY -- A carpenter and a jobless man, who were charged with rape, were arrested in two separate operation conducted by the city police a day after Christmas.

Senior Police Officer 1 Dennis J. Dela Cruz, warrant officer of the city police, identified the suspects as Armando Payad Lacson, 69, jobless, a resident of Barangay Tabun, and Orlando Salangsang Borbon, 55, a carpenter and a resident of Barangay Sapang Biabas.

27 Dec 2017 - Firecracker zones in Pampanga bared

PAMPANGA -- In its last ditch efforts to warn the public and prevent firecracker casualties this holiday season, the Police Regional Office in Central Luzon bared the list of firecracker zones in Pampanga.

This came in pursuant to Executive Order No. 28 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in June this year which bans the sale of firecrackers or use of firecrackers in households or residential areas nationwide.

27 Dec 2017 - Angeles villagers enjoy PH’s fastest internet connection

ANGELES CITY -- Residents of a thickly-populated community in Barangay Balibago here are now enjoying the country’s fastest internet connection.

This, after the completion of the second phase WiFi zone project at Hadrian 3 and surrounding areas, according to Balibago Chairman Tony Mamac.

27 Dec 2017 - Drug peddler nabbed on Christmas day

PAMPANGA -- Not even Christmas day can stop local authorities here from implementing the law against bad elements as it arrested one suspected drug peddler on December 25.

City police chief Superintendent Roland Agohob said suspect Rolando Nucom, 37, was arrested in an anti-illegal operation launched by the Station Drug Enforcement Unit in Northville 1 Barangay Calulut.

27 Dec 2017 - Man shot dead by men in black

PAMPANGA -- Armed men on a motorcycle shot dead a man in Barangay Poblacion, Floridablanca, on Christmas day.

Authorities identified the victim as Sherwin Domingo Cadangan, 26, a resident of Barangay San Jose, Floridablanca town.

27 Dec 2017 - Man arrested for indiscriminate firing

PAMPANGA -- Police authorities arrested a man for indiscriminate firing in Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, on Christmas night.

Armando “Bornok” Fajardo, Jr., 26, married, helper and resident of Barangay Cojuangco, Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, was arrested after Romeo de Guzman, 45, single, jobless, resident of Barangay Cojuangco, Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, reported him to the police.

27 Dec 2017 - Police urges motorcycle riders to register

MABALACAT CITY -- The city police has urged motorcycle owners here to secure rider’s clearance and identification card to avoid hassles when travelling around the city.

The program is in line with the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s Clean Riders program recently implemented nationwide in response to the several cases of robbery where the suspects use motorcycles in what they call “riding in tandem.”

26 Dec 2017 - New migratory birds seen

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bird lovers, watchers, conservationists, and probably to a certain degree, hunters: attention.

Eleven new migratory birds have been sighted in various parts of Pampanga, according to Juanita Santos-Ancheta, a well-known Kapampangan conservationist and bird photographer.

26 Dec 2017 - Mayor orders thorough inspections of malls, buildings

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has ordered the Office of the City Building Office (OCBO) and the Angeles City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to conduct thorough inspections of all malls and buildings in time for next year's renewal of business permits.

The order came after a fire broke out at the NCCC Mall in Davao City on Saturday, December 23, 2017, less than an hour after opening wherein 37 persons, mostly agents of a business processing outsourcing company, perished in the tragic incident.

26 Dec 2017 - Mark Anthony Fernandez released

ANGELES CITY -- Actor Mark Anthony Fernandez celebrated Christmas at their home following his release from the Pampanga Provincial Jail on December 22.

The Regional Trial Court (RTC) here dismissed the case of violation of sections 5, 11 and 15 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act or the possession, use and transportation of illegal drugs.

26 Dec 2017 - 8 hurt in 10-vehicle smash up

PAMPANGA -- Eight persons were injured after 10 vehicles collided inside the Subic-Concepcion-Tarlac Expressway in Barangay Parang, Concepcion, Tarlac, Saturday.

Senior Superintendent Ritchie Posadas, Tarlac police provincial director, identified the injured as Romeo Laxamana of Angeles City, driver of a Nissan Urvan (ZGA 396), his passengers Leticia Buan of Arayat Pampanga; Romeo Laxama and Patricia Parcher, both residents of Angeles City; Marlon Estonido, 42, driver of a Mitsubishi Mirage (BIG 899) his passenger, Adelaida Estonido, and Pianne Estonido, all residents of Purok 6 San Antonio, Arayat, Pampanga; Jett Majan, driver of a Hyundai Galloper (YEH-722) of Salapungan Candaba, Pampanga.

26 Dec 2017 - Christmas generally peaceful

PAMPANGA -- The celebration of Christmas day in Pampanga was generally peaceful, said Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) Director Senior Superintendent Joel Consulta.

Consulta said that no crimes and any untoward incidents were reported from December 24 midnight to the whole day of December 25.

26 Dec 2017 - Bus with 40 passengers razed at NLex

MABALACAT CITY -- A passenger bus with some 40 passengers caught fire at the south-bound lane of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) at dawn on Tuesday.

No persons were reportedly injured because of the quick evacuation initiated by the bus driver and conductor upon reaching the Bocaue area in Bulacan province.

26 Dec 2017 - Guagua mayor wants more projects for town

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Dante Torres on Tuesday, December 26, said that he hopes to place more institutional developments and projects for the town.

Torres said that his administration is poised on pushing for impact projects for the town. He added that at the core of these are the disaster mitigation and urban development for the town.

23 Dec 2017 - 2,000 Aetas get Christmas gifts from PIRC

PAMPANGA -- Some 2,000 Aetas from tribal barangays in Bamban and Mabalacat City were given gift packs by the Philippine Investors and Retirement Council (PIRC).

Albert Dela Cruz, chairman of PIRC told SunStar Pampanga that the gift giving activity is a part of their corporate social responsibility that aims to uplift the lives of the tribal community and provide skills training and marketing of their handicrafts.

22 Dec 2017 - San Simon empowers barangay peacekeepers

PAMPANGA -- In an aim to maintain peace and order in the community, the local government here led by Mayor Leonora Wong on Thursday held an enhancement training for 30 members of Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPats).

The seminar, spearheaded by the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and Department of Interior and Local Government discussed the roles of BPATs members as first responders during times of untoward incidents.

22 Dec 2017 - PDEA seizes P30-M shabu in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has recovered shabu worth P30-million from the abandoned house of a suspected drug pusher here.

PDEA operatives were re-enacting a raid they conducted last year inside the residence of Chinese national Yiye Chen in Barangay Malabanias when they accidentally discovered the illegal drugs.

22 Dec 2017 - San Fernando mayor sets directions for 2018

Anchored on the vision of a new San Fernando, Mayor Edwin Santiago of this city on Thursday, December 21, bared three major directions the City Government will strengthen come 2018.

Speaking before members of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council during their Christmas gathering at Heroes Hall, Santiago said three pressing concerns will be addressed by the city government in response to the clamor raised by different groups and stakeholders.

22 Dec 2017 - Real Steel Corporation shares Christmas joy to Simonians

PAMPANGA -- The Real Steel Corporation (RSC) extended Christmas cheers to hundreds of Simonians here through a simple gift-giving ceremony held inside the smelting plant on Wednesday, December 20.

RSC General Manager Melody Arellano and Human Resource Officer Pamela Gomez led the distribution of gift packs to more than 500 local government employees, members of a non-government organization and residents of three barangays here.

22 Dec 2017 - PWDs, pedicab drivers get gift packs

PAMPANGA -- The season of giving is very much alive in this town as hundreds from the marginalized sector on Thursday, December 21 received their early Christmas gifts from the local government here.

Mayor Danilo Guintu led the distribution of grocery packs to almost a thousand persons with disabilities (PWDs) and pedicab drivers in a simple ceremony held at the municipal covered court.

22 Dec 2017 - BIR slaps Pampanga contractor with P12-M tax evasion raps

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) filed a complaint with the Department of Justice against one Jeric Maninang for unlawful possession of articles subject to excise tax and unlawful pursuit of business in violation of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997.

It could be remembered that investigations showed that an abandoned Kia van truck with markings RPJ Dry Goods was impounded in Bacolor Municipal Police Station. Respondent Maninang introduced himself as the owner and was asked to open the truck. The police saw 60 boxes of assorted cigarette products of Marlboro and Philip Morris which were all wrapped in sacks.

22 Dec 2017 - Construction of new Clark airport starts

CLARK FREEPORT -- The construction of a new world-class passenger terminal at the Clark International Airport has started on Thursday, December 21.

Officials of National Government agencies and local government units including House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, Secretary of Transportation Arthur Tugade and BCDA President Vince Dizon, Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda and Tarlac Governor Susan Yap led the ground breaking ceremonies.

22 Dec 2017 - Subic keen on becoming next cruise ship playground

SUBIC BAY -- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is keen on positioning its port to become the next playground for royal Caribbean cruise ships starting next year.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma Eisma, who met here recently with Dr. Zinan Liu and other officials of Royal Caribbean International (RCI) over the weekend, said that the Subic community is hoping to generate more businesses with the growing cruise ship tourism industry in the Asian region.

22 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat employees receive P20k incentive

MABALACAT CITY --- Local government employees here received P20,000 each as an incentive for the good governance award the city recently received from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Vice Mayor Christian Halili said the city council appropriated P22-million for the employees’ perks after the city government was awarded Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

22 Dec 2017 - Dimson distributes P282,000 scholarship assistance

PAMPANGA -- Board Member Salvador Dimson on Thursday, December 21 distributed some P282,000 worth of scholarship assistance to scholars of the second district.

Dimson led the distribution at the Provincial Capitol attended by the scholars under the assistance program.

20 Dec 2017 - City of San Fernando's top 9, 10 most wanted persons arrested

PAMPANGA -- Two of the City of San Fernando's top wanted drug personalities were arrested in an anti-illegal drug operation launched by the City of San Fernando Drug Enforcement Unit on December 18.

Chief of Police Roland Agohob identified the suspects as Rolando Ocampo, alias Bryt, 35; Christian Quintero, alias Chinchan, 29; and Rosario Quiambao, alias Sayong, 35.

20 Dec 2017 - Royal Caribbean Cruise team impressed with Subic potential

SUBIC BAY -- Officials of one of the biggest cruise ship liners in the world came out visibly impressed after visiting the Subic Bay area over the weekend to gauge its potential in the international cruise tourism scene.

Dr. Zinan Liu, president of China and North Asia Pacific Region of the Royal Caribbean International (RCI), a cruise line brand based in Miami, Florida, arrived here on December 16 along with his assistant Anna Lian and company director Antonio Muresu.

20 Dec 2017 - Police nab one of Mabalacat City’s notorious drug peddler

PAMPANGA -- A notorious drug pusher was arrested in Mabalacat City on Tuesday, December 19.

Joint operatives of the Mabalacat City Police and Pampanga Drug Enforcement Unit conducted an anti-illegal drugs operation along South Daang Bakal, Barangay Dau, Mabalacat City, that resulted in the arrest of Zander Ian Lariza, alias Mayor, 34, a resident of Block-4, South Daang Bakal, Barangay Dau, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

20 Dec 2017 - Angeles LGU awards gender-sensitive and responsive barangays, personnel

PAMPANGA -- The local government of Angeles City, through the Gender and Development (GAD) office, recognized various gender-sensitive and gender-responsive villages during a ceremony held December 18 at Robinsons Place Angeles.

The 2017 Search for Most Outstanding Gender-Sensitive and Gender-Responsive Barangay and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Desk Personnel aims to enforce gender-responsive local governance in Angeles City, especially at the barangay level.

20 Dec 2017 - New road link 'solution to looming carmageddon'

PAMPANGA -- “IN FIVE to seven years, the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa) will experience moderate to heavy traffic unless we push through with the opening of proposed North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) Sto. Tomas town exit.”

Thus said NLEx Board Director and Laus Group of Companies Chairman Chief Executive Officer Levy Laus during a luncheon get-together with Pampanga mediamen at Dencio’s Restaurant at the LausGroup Complex in the City of San Fernando on Wednesday, December 20.

20 Dec 2017 - Exec calls for solutions to traffic at NLEX

PAMPANGA -- Laus Group of Companies Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Levy Laus announced Wednesday, December 20, that expansion and development plans are now in the works to relieve the traffic situation along the sections of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) in Pampanga.

Laus, who is also chairman emeritus of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., made this announcement before media men during a Christmas gathering at the LausGroup Complex here, as local stakeholders are expecting the heavy build up of traffic along Jose Abad Santos Avenue (Jasa) here.

20 Dec 2017 - P9.3-B new Clark airport terminal breaks ground

CLARK FREEPORT -- High ranking officials of the National Government broke ground for the P9.36-billion expansion project of Clark International Airport (IATA: CRK) here on Wednesday, December 20.

The project is the first hybrid public-private partnership venture rolled out under the Duterte administration and being implemented by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

20 Dec 2017 - Council approves firecracker ban

ANGELES CITY -- The Peace and Order Council (POC) in this city has banned the sale and distribution of firecrackers for health and safety reason.

This was gleaned in a resolution unanimously approved during the City Council’s regular quarterly meeting at the office of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan last Monday.

20 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat mayor eyes jobs for constituents

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Crisostomo Garbo has stressed the need to create more jobs for his constituents.

Garbo issued the statement following the inauguration of a Negosyo Center at the city’s Business One Stop Shop recently.

18 Dec 2017 - Pampanga, Negros Occidental ink sisterhood pact

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga solidified its relationship with Negros Occidental in a sisterhood agreement signed at Royce Hotel and Casino here on December 17.

Governor Lilia Pineda and Governor Alfredo Marañon led the signing of the memorandum of agreement. It was witnessed by the officials of each province.

18 Dec 2017 - PDEA-Central Luzon intensifies anti-drug campaign

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Central Luzon stepped up its anti-drug operations and advocacy campaigns in the provinces Aurora, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales.

In a statement, PDEA-Central Luzon Director Joseph C. Ladip said the region has recorded notable anti-narcotics accomplishments and seizures of huge amount of illegal substances.

18 Dec 2017 - DOT-Central Luzon boosts farm tourism industry

PAMPANGA -- Farm tourism industry in Central Luzon is now being developed as a new tourism product to not only attract travelers but also help local farmers boost their agricultural income.

This came after the Department of Tourism Region (DOT)-Central Luzon spearheaded a three-day seminar for farmowners, which discussed the proper transitioning from the traditional farm to a recreational tourism place.

18 Dec 2017 - Best organic practitioners recognized

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando recognized over the weekend some farmers who have set best practices in organic farming.

During the Farmers General Assembly on December 15 here, the City Agriculture and Veterinary Office (CVAO) announced the winners as Amando Fernando Jr. from Barangay Bulaon (first prize), followed by Randy Aquino from Barangay Quebiawan (second prize) and Alicia Quiambao from Barangay Pandaras (third prize).

18 Dec 2017 - Best organic practitioners recognized

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando recognized over the weekend some farmers who have set best practices in organic farming.

During the Farmers General Assembly on December 15 here, the City Agriculture and Veterinary Office (CVAO) announced the winners as Amando Fernando Jr. from Barangay Bulaon (first prize), followed by Randy Aquino from Barangay Quebiawan (second prize) and Alicia Quiambao from Barangay Pandaras (third prize).

18 Dec 2017 - Porac town gets P2M from Seal of Good Local Governance

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Government of Porac, through Mayor Condralito dela Cruz, received P20 million after winning this year’s Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

Dela Cruz formally presented the additional funding before municipal employees on Monday, December 18.

18 Dec 2017 - Porac town gets P2M from Seal of Good Local Governance

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Government of Porac, through Mayor Condralito dela Cruz, received P20 million after winning this year’s Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

Dela Cruz formally presented the additional funding before municipal employees on Monday, December 18.

17 Dec 2017 - Peace, freedom reign at Giant Lantern Festival

PAMPANGA -- Amid the chaos happening in the country nowadays, the giant lanterns that were lighted here over the weekend became symbols of hope to the nation this holiday season.

At the 109th Giant Lantern Festival held Saturday, December 16, most of the 10 participating barangays featured the words peace, love, hope and freedom in each of their 10-minute presentations.

17 Dec 2017 - Barangay Dolores wins lantern fest for 4th consecutive year

PAMPANGA -- Barangay Dolores in San Fernando City added another accomplishment to its belt after it emerged as winner in this year’s Grand Lantern Festival competition, the fourth since 2013.

Hall of famer lantern maker Teddy Aguilar led the 12-man team in bringing home again the coveted title and the Grand Lantern Festival revolving trophy.

17 Dec 2017 - Angeles City named retiree-friendly area

CLARK FREEPORT --- The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) has named Angeles as a retiree-friendly city.

Mayor Edgargo Pamintuan received the award from PRA General Manager Bienvenido K. Chy during the induction of officers of the Philippine Retirement and Investment Industry (PRII) at Midori Hotel here last Thursday, December 14.

17 Dec 2017 - Central Luzon police warn against indiscriminate firing

PAMPANGA -- The Central Luzon police has issued a stern warning against indiscriminate firing this coming holiday season.

Chief Superintendent Amador Corpus said the Central Luzon police force will be intensifying its information dissemination programs to educate the public on the consequences of indiscriminate firing as well as its monitoring activities to sanction anybody who will recklessly use their firearms.

17 Dec 2017 - Porac execs seek P150M for Miyamit Falls road

PAMPANGA -- Porac officials here are seeking funds amounting to P150 million for the construction of the vital road leading to Miyamit Falls.

The request was made through Undersecretary for Ecotourism, Farm Tourism and Faith Tourism Advocacy Silvino Q. Tejada, who visited Porac over the weekend.

17 Dec 2017 - CSF starts hearing on proposed septage management system

PAMPANGA -- The City Council of San Fernando and the City of San Fernando Water District on Friday, December 15, started a series of public hearings on the draft ordinance on septage management to ensure clean water in the Pampanga capital.

Councilor Redentor Halili, chair of the council's committee on environmental protection, natural resources, waterways and flooding intervention, and CSFWD chair Ferdinand Caylao led the public consultation at the Heroes Hall.

17 Dec 2017 - Tarlac province elevated to Gawad Kalasag hall of fame

PAMPANGA -- The Tarlac Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has been elevated to the Hall of Fame of the National Risk Reduction and Management Council’s [NDRRMC] Gawad Kalasag after winning the national award for three consecutive years.

PDRRMC’s Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team/Emergency Medical Services [DART/EMS] ranked first place in the Best Government Emergency Management Services in the Basic Search and Rescue category during the 19th Gawad Kalasag National Awarding ceremony held at Crown Plaza Manila Galleria in Quezon City last December 11. Tarlac previously won in 2015 and 2016.

16 Dec 2017 - DOT-Central Luzon promotes ‘Bring Home a Friend’

CLARK FREEPORT -- From cultural heritage sites to culinary haven to surfing safari to off road adventure to aerial tour of Mt. Pinatubo to hot spring experience, every tourist can sample Central Luzon’s vibrant destinations.

Aproximately 70 kilometers north of Manila, Central Luzon could be included in foreign and local tourists' "travel goals.”

16 Dec 2017 - Free dentures given to 120 Kapampangans

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Provincial Health Office (PHO) distributed free dentures to 120 Kapampangans to “bring back their smiles” on Friday at the Benigno Aquino Hall, Capitol Compound, this city.

The event was led by dentists from different district hospitals in the province where 240 cases of upper and lower dentures were given to the recipients.

16 Dec 2017 - 'Healthy places’ in City of San Fernando named

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando on Wednesday named the city’s “healthy places” as part of its advocacy to provide Fernandinos a livable environment.

The program, spearheaded by the City Health Office, recognized the top healthy places in the city as grand winners Villa Alfredo’s Resort as the Healthiest Resort, Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital as the Healthiest Hospital and Hotel Victoria de San Fernando as the Healthiest Hotel.

16 Dec 2017 - PAL adds 4 local flights in Clark

PAMPANGA -- Four new destinations – Bacolod, Tagbilaran, Cagayan de Oro and Virac – will be added to the Philippine Airlines (PAL) route at Clark International Airport.

The launching of these new routes marks a significant investment by the flag carrier in the development of Clark airport as a major airline gateway.

16 Dec 2017 - Victory Liner launches card-based payment

PAMPANGA -- Bus company Victory Liner has introduced its card-based payment system in a move to introduce seamless transactions for commuters.

The Victory Liner Premier prepaid Visa card was presented before media men over the weekend. The card is reloadable and can serve for transportation and shopping.

16 Dec 2017 - Capitol distributes P6.9-M to daycare workers

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga recently distributed a total amount of P6,909,000 to 658 daycare workers (DCWs) in the province.

Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda led the distribution of the subsidy, undergarments and food packs along with board members Rosve Henson, Cherry Manalo and Fritzie David-Dizon at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.

16 Dec 2017 - Education a top priority of 2018 national budget

MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda said on Satruday that the education sector remains a top priority of the government in the 2018 General Appropriations Bill (GAB), which had been ratified by both houses of Congress and is expected to be signed by the President on December 19, 2017.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and staunch advocate of education and children’s rights, said that the proposed 2018 budget of the Department of Education (DepEd) increased to P553.313-billion from the current year’s P543.186-billion, while the budget for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) were also significantly augmented to P62.115-billion and P49.426 billion, respectively.

15 Dec 2017 - Arroyo no hand in impeach raps vs Sereno

CLARK FREEPORT -- Former president and now Pampanga Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has nothing to do with the impeachment case filed against Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno in the House of Representatives.

"She's not involved in it," lawyer Larry Gadon, who filed the case in the House, said Friday during his conversation with members of the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (Cami) here.

15 Dec 2017 - Fire guts warehouse, food park in City of San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- A warehouse of motorcycle spare parts and tire shop about 200 meters away from this city’s Heroes Hall in Barangay San Juan was razed by a second-alarm fire Friday morning.

The fire, allegedly caused by electrical short circuit started at 9:20 a.m. Friday and burned down the warehouse of LL Motorcycle Parts owned by one Louie Canlas, said Fire Inspector Roderick Marquez.

15 Dec 2017 - Clark to serve as platform for Kapampangan talents

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bases and Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive officer Vince Dizon on Wednesday stated that the Clark Freeport Zone will soon serve as a platform for various Kapampangan talents and products.

Speaking before Central Luzon media men during the year-end fellowship party held at the Asean Convention Center, Dizon stressed that the Freeport is the perfect place to showcase the world-class talents and globally-recognized products of Kapampangans with the development that is happening in it.

15 Dec 2017 - Guv lauds efforts of Bantay Bayan for peaceful Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda together with Vice Governor Dennis Pineda cited the efforts of 5,679 Bantay Bayan members for curbing illegal drugs and reducing the crime rate in the province.

“With your help, Pampanga is now one of the peaceful provinces in Central Luzon,” the lady governor told the Bantay Bayan members from the second district (2,796) and third District (2,883) during the Year-End Assessment on Managing Man-Made Disasters held separately at the Lubao Gymnasium and Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center in the City of San Fernando.

15 Dec 2017 - NBI seizes counterfeit product from Clark duty free shops

CLARK FREEPORT -- Counterfeit bags, shoes, shirts and other products were confiscated from two duty shops and a boutique here by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Thursday.

Gary Ruiz, special investigator of NBI capital region, said that they conducted the raid on the Clark establishments following complaints from imported garments manufacturing companies.

15 Dec 2017 - Employers reminded to give 13th month pay on time

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) urged Central Luzon employers on Friday to give their workers the 13th month pay on time and not later than December 24.

Dole Regional Director lawyer Ana Dione said “It is the obligation of every employer to pay their workers their much awaited 13th month pay, and by doing so, they may fully enjoy spirit of the yuletide season with their families.”

14 Dec 2017 - Lubao mayor shares best Pampanga practices

CLARK FREEPORT – The chief executive of Lubao summed up its winning strategy in qualifying and winning the 2017 Seal of Good Local Governance by not competing with each other.

Lubao Mayor and Pampanga Mayors League President Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab said constant communication and consultation among all the mayors and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) bolstered Pampanga’s ranking among the provinces with the most number of SGLG haul for the year.

14 Dec 2017 - City of San Fernando finalist for most child-friendly city

PAMPANGA -- Eighteen local government units from all over the Philippines attended as national finalist in the conferment ceremony of the 2016 Presidential Awards for the Child Friendly Municipalities and Cities (PACFMC), at the Rizal Hall in Malacañan Palace on December 12.

The City of San Fernando, represented by Mayor Edwin Santiago, was among the four finalists for the component city category together with the cities of Tagaytay, Dipolog and Calbayog.

14 Dec 2017 - Christmas icons light up Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Colorful and bright Christmas icons will cheer arrivals and departure areas at the terminal of the Clark International Airport.

Recreating Christmas nativity scene with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, a life-size Belen is now on display across the departure area of the terminal while a big lantern on top of the airport build up letters greets passengers entering the terminal.

14 Dec 2017 - Porac official wants stronger GAD plan to empower women

PAMPANGA -- Vice-Mayor Dexter David is pushing for stronger gender and development (GAD) that will address women issues and subsequently empower them.

David said the annual GAD plans and budget in the barangays should help determine if their proposed projects resolve the problems arising in their community.

14 Dec 2017 - Garbo cites vital role of village drug council

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Crisostomo Garbo has underscored the vital role of the Barangay Anti-Drugs Abuse Council (Badac) in the government’s war against prohibited drugs.

In a workshop on Wednesday, December 13, the city mayor said that barangay officials are the frontliners and get all information regarding drug operations and personalities.

14 Dec 2017 - DPWH chief says Central Luzon projects a top priority

CLARK FREEPORT – Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar said infrastructure projects in Central Luzon will go as planned.

“Dito sa Clark marami kaming projects connecting the existing Freeport to Clark Green City. Tuluy-tuloy naman ang mga projects dito. Malaki ang potential ng Region III so we are excited sa mga projects (We have a lot of projects connecting the exiting Freeport to Clark Green City. The projects will continue. Central Luzon has a big potential and we are excited about it),” Villar said during the agency’s regular meeting at the Nayong Pilipino Clark, Thursday, December 14.

14 Dec 2017 - Guv gives Christmas cheers to seniors, village leaders

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda shared some Christmas cheers to senior citizens, village watchmen and purok leaders in a series of meetings this week urging attendees to keep the spirit of Christmas alive with their families and friends. Pineda met with 797 senior citizens and 1,200 purok leaders at the Lubao Gym along with 2,716 purok leaders from Pampanga’s first, third and fourth districts.

This was followed by another meeting with around 5,000 bantay bayan volunteers.

13 Dec 2017 - Dengue cases in Central Luzon down by 50%

PAMPANGA -- Dengue cases in Central Luzon went down by almost 50 percent this year compared to last year, the Department of Health Central Luzon region said.

DOH Central Luzon regional director Leonita Gorgolon said 2,006 cases of dengue were recorded from January to July this year, more than half of the 4,302 cases recorded in the same period in 2016.

13 Dec 2017 - Capitol to allot emergency budget for Dengvaxia vaccine recipients

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda announced before 3,916 purok leaders that the Provincial Board is bent to allot a budget for Dengvaxia vaccine emergency cases. Pineda said if there will be cases of Dengvaxia vaccine-related cases, hospitalization for patients will be for free.

She then tasked purok leaders to help health workers for a better healthcare coverage in rural areas.

13 Dec 2017 - Pampanga to donate P6.8M to Marawi

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda is planning to extend the Kapampangan Christmas cheer to Maranao brothers and sisters in Marawi City through a personal visit to Ground Zero.

Pineda said she, and other Provincial Government officials, are planning to visit Marawi City this December to check on the situation, extend their sympathy with residents and extend any possible aid.

13 Dec 2017 - Kapampangan scholars pass civil engineering board

PAMPANGA -- Two Kapampangan scholars of the Provincial Government of Pampanga passed the civil engineering board examination held last November.

Bernard Morales, 22, from Mabalacat City and John Renzo Liquete from Lubao town are both graduates of Holy Angel University (HAU).

12 Dec 2017 - Angeles City mayor assails drug firm for dengue vaccine crisis

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has assailed pharmaceutical company Sanofi Pasteur over the controversial dengue vaccine crisis.

Pamintuan, president of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) and chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-Central Luzon, said more than 6,000 nine-year-old kids were administered with Dengvaxia, a dengue vaccine manufactured by Sanofi.

12 Dec 2017 - Lantern industry in San Fernando ‘innovating, not dying’

PAMPANGA -- City of San Fernando officials, led by Mayor Edwin Santiago, asserted that the renowned lantern-making industry in the city continues to flourish amid claims that it is “slowly dying.”

During a recent press conference, Santiago refuted the reports circulating that the city’s traditional lantern is vanishing due to innovations happening in the Philippine lantern industry.

12 Dec 2017 - Porac vice mayor calls for stronger barangay anti-drug councils

PAMPANGA -- Porac town Vice Mayor Dexter David had met with stakeholders over the weekend urging for the need to strengthen the Barangay Anti-Drugs Abuse Councils (Badac) in light of the government effort to rid of the drug menace.

“We need the Badac to become more proactive in their respective areas,” David said before stakeholders at the Villa Cristiana here.

12 Dec 2017 - Ecclesiastical artist opens 1st nude exhibit at NCCA

PAMPANGA -- Foremost ecclesiastical artist Maestro Willy Layug has proven that his wood carving skills are not merely confined to conservative style of religious art as he opened his first nude exhibit, “Naked Truth,” at the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) gallery over the weekend.

Layug demonstrated his familiarity with the human form, in its bare essence, with exquisite examples in wood and marble, with one piece done with the famed carara marble from Italy.

12 Dec 2017 - Pampanga towns to experience 11-hour power interruption Dec. 14

PAMPANGA -- At least five towns in Pampanga will be experiencing an 11-hour power interruption on Thursday, December 14.

National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Communications Officer Ernest Vidal said that the towns served by the Pampanga III Electric Cooperative namely Apalit, Macabebe, Masantol, San Simon, Minalin and Sto. Tomas will have power outage from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday.

11 Dec 2017 - Guv hopes side effects of Dengvaxia ‘not true’

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda expressed over the week hopes that the reported side effects of dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, are not true and that the government clears the controversy as soon as possible to give relief to parents of children who were already administered the anti-dengue vaccine.

Vaccine manufacturer Sanofi has admitted that dengue could be “severe” among those who had never been ill of the mosquito-borne disease but were given Dengvaxia shots.

11 Dec 2017 - ‘Santa Wong’ extends aid to marginalized sector

PAMPANGA -- Around 2,000 marginalized residents from barangays Concepcion and San Jose in this town received on Monday their early Christmas presents from the local government.

Mayor Leonora Wong played the role of Santa Claus as she led the distribution of grocery packs, appliances and cash gifts to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs) solo parents, farmers, fisherfolk and purok coordinators and leaders at the covered courts of the two barangays.

11 Dec 2017 - Lubao lass crowned Mutya Ning Kapampangan 2017

A young lady of “beauty and brains” from Lubao town, Ann Carlisle Castro, was crowned Mutya Ning Kapampangan 2017 during the coronation night on Sunday at the Bren Z.

Guiao Convention Center. Candidates who landed in the top five were Eloiza A. Canlas of Mexico, first runner-up, Reizzha Danielle S. Razon of Bacolor, second runner-up; Patrisha Kamille L. Gutierrez of Minalin, third runner-up, and Hazel Ayn R. Erickson of Angeles City, fourth runner-up.

10 Dec 2017 - Alcohol plant resumes operation

PAMPANGA -- After a month of suspension, the Far East Alcohol Corporation (Feaco) is back to business.

Feaco has reportedly complied with the requirements set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the local government here.

10 Dec 2017 - Angeles exec hits ONA personnel for discriminating patients

ANGELES CITY -- A city official has lambasted some personnel of the Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA) for allegedly discriminating indigent patients.

Councilor Jesus Sangil, during a recent privelege at the city council, has urged for the strict monitoring of hospital personnel including nurses, midwife, and others for discrimination.

10 Dec 2017 - PDEA dismantles drug den in Mabalacat City

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Luzon dismantled a drug den in Mabalacat City recently.

PDEA-Central Luzon Information Officer Glenn Guillermo said that anti-narcotics team served a search warrant at the residence of certain Romel Arolfo a.k.a. “Maton” in Barangay Dau.

10 Dec 2017 - Vintage car show wows tourists, enthusiasts

PAMPANGA -- Tourists and car lovers were amazed by old and new cars displayed during the Pampanga motor show in Lubao.

The tourists, who trooped to the recreational complex Pradera here, had a grand time admiring and even riding some of the vintage cars on display.

9 Dec 2017 - Duterte: Pampanga has ‘best cuisine’ in PH

CLARK FREEPORT – “Pampanga has the ‘best cuisine’ in the Philippines.”

So, said President Rodrigo Duterte as he cited the native talent and extreme expertise of Kapampangans when it comes to food.

9 Dec 2017 - Duterte: Drug war will be a policy until my dying days

CLARK FREEPORT -- President Rodrigo Duterte reiterated that the war on drugs will be a policy until the dying days of his life.

“Give me a little bit of time and I will finish it to the last month,” the President stressed during his attendance to the first-ever Kapampangan Food Festival recently.

9 Dec 2017 - Oplan Kandado still on this December

PAMPANGA -- Business establishments in the City of San Fernando that are not paying proper taxes will still be closed even this Yuletide Holiday.

This, as the implementation of the Oplan Kandado program will continue for the whole month of December.

9 Dec 2017 - Yokohama PH protects environment, combats malnutrition

ANGELES CITY – In an effort to combat malnutrition among children, employee-volunteers of a tire manufacturer in Clark Freeport implemented a 60-day feeding program in an Aeta Community here.

Serving healthy meal to 60 malnourished students of Sitio Target Extension School in Barangay Sapang Bato, in this city, the program started last September 7 according to Reynante Legion, manager environmental section of Yokohama Tire Philippines Inc. (YTPI).

9 Dec 2017 - Angeles City receives Blue Certification from Ombudsman

PAMPANGA -- The Angeles City Government, through the Business Permit and License Division (BPLD), acquired the Blue Certification presented by Gerard A. Moaquera, deputy Ombudsman for Luzon, at the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday, December 8.

The certification was given for the city’s implementation and maintaining a system that conforms to the ease of doing business with the government in terms of registration of new businesses and renewal of business permits.

9 Dec 2017 - Indigent kids benefit from feeding, medical programs

PAMPANGA -- Hundreds of indigent children in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City benefitted from the supplemental feeding program and medical mission sponsored by village as part of its Salakot Festival and the city’s foundation day celebration.

Balibago village chief Tony Mamac said the feeding program and medical mission are part of the week-long fiesta celebration of the barangay.

8 Dec 2017 - Pampanga proves ‘culinary capital of PH' title

CLARK FREEPORT - The Province of Pampanga once again proved that it is indeed the Culinary Capital of the PhilippinCLARK FREEPORT - The Province of Pampanga once again proved that it is indeed the Culinary Capital of the Philippines as it showcased renowned local cuisine during the first Kapampangan Food Festival held at the Asean Convention Center here on Thursday.

More than 20 traditional dishes prepared by the Culinarya Pampanga group were presented to the festival’s distinguished guests including President Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Tito Sotto, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, Cabinet members and locators and investors in Clark and Subic freeports.

8 Dec 2017 - ‘Angel Marcos’ nabbed in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- A man who introduced himself as Angel Marcos and a scion of the strongman, former President Ferdinand Marcos, was arrested by joint elements of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) Public Safety Department and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) yesterday morning.

Edilberto Del Carmen alias Angel Marcos was arrested for alleged possession of high-powered firearms and explosives.

8 Dec 2017 - Gov’t, multi-sectoral groups stage anti-drug awareness run

ANGELES CITY -- More than a thousand troop to the Angeles City Hall grounds on December 8, Friday, to participate in the annual Pulayan Tagalan Kontra Droga (PTKD).

The event, spearheaded by the Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Acadac) and the Angeles City Sports Office (ACSO), is in line with the massive information and awareness drive of the city against illegal drugs use and its harmful effects to the society.

8 Dec 2017 - Gov’t, multi-sectoral groups stage anti-drug awareness run

ANGELES CITY -- More than a thousand troop to the Angeles City Hall grounds on December 8, Friday, to participate in the annual Pulayan Tagalan Kontra Droga (PTKD).

The event, spearheaded by the Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Acadac) and the Angeles City Sports Office (ACSO), is in line with the massive information and awareness drive of the city against illegal drugs use and its harmful effects to the society.

8 Dec 2017 - City recognized for anti-drug drive

ANGELES CITY -- As A testament to the consistent anti-drug campaign program of Angeles City, numerous awards were conferred to the local government by various regional and national government agencies.

In 2012 and 2013, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency hailed the city as the Best Anti-Drug Abuse Council in the Philippines for its comprehensive drug abuse prevention and rehabilitation program.

8 Dec 2017 - Fernandino students compete in inter-school lantern tilt

PAMPANGA -- A total of 33 public and private schools in the City of San Fernando participated in this year’s Inter School Lantern Parade Competition held December 7 in line with the annual Giant Lantern Festival (GLF).

The competition was divided into three categories namely elementary, high school and college.

8 Dec 2017 - Duterte promotes Clark Freeport as ‘ideal investment destination’

CLARK FREEPORT -- “If somebody would ask me for an investment location, I would say go to Clark.”

President Rodrigo Duterte said this as he cited Clark Freeport Zone as the next most-developed economic hub in the country during his speech at the Kapampangan Food Festival held at the Asean Convention Center here on Thursday.

7 Dec 2017 - DOH monitors 205,000 kids vaccinated with Dengvaxia

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Health Central Luzon Region said that some 205,058 kids vaccinated with Dengvaxia are closely monitored.

DOH-Central Luzon Director Leonita Gorgolon said kids aged nine years old and above in Central Luzon are now under surveillance after receiving the Dengvaxia from the health agency in 2016 as part of its dengue immunization program.

7 Dec 2017 - Top cop vows probe into priest’s death

PAMPANGA -- Police Regional Office Central Luzon Director Amador Corpus ordered a thorough investigation on the untimely death of a retired Catholic priest in Jaen, Nueva Ecija, recently.

Activist priest Fr. Marcelito “Tito” Paez, 72, was shot by still unidentified motorcycle-riding gunmen as he was driving through Sitio Sangalang in Barangay Lambakin in Jaen town on Monday night, December 4.

7 Dec 2017 - DepEd teachers to undergo career guidance training

ANGELES CITY -- A total of 440 Grade 11 and 12 teachers shall undergo the Regional Training on Career Guidance Program conducted by the Department of Education Region in Central Luzon on December 4 to 6 for Grade 11 teachers and December 7-9 for Grade 12 teachers at Eurotel, Angeles City.

The training aims to equip teachers with concrete understanding on the implementation of the Grade 11 and 12 Career Guidance Program to perform tasks to effectively deliver the program to the learners. Likewise, the activities are in line with the implementation of Grade 12 of the K to 12 Program, in which the Career Guidance Program aims to apply academic and employment readiness skills in work-based learning situations such as internships, shadowing or mentoring, and determine a clear directional exit after senior high school.

7 Dec 2017 - Anti-insurgency, illegal drugs get top priority in peace council budget

PAMPANGA -- Anti-insurgency and the campaign against illegal drugs are given the top budget allocation by the province of Pampanga in 2018.

The Pampanga Peace and Order (PPOC) unanimously approved on Monday, December 4, the P40-million proposed budget of the council for 2018.

7 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat BFP warns against substandard Christmas lights

MABALACAT CITY -- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here has warned the public against faulty and substandard Christmas lights.

Senior Fire Officer Richard Medina, the city’s deputy fire marshal, said the people have to be meticulous in buying and selecting illuminations for their residences to prevent fire incidents.

6 Dec 2017 - Pampanga's campaign vs trafficking gets boost

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga signed on Wednesday, December 6, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with concerned national government agencies to strengthen and expand the law enforcement, cooperation and coordination in the fight against illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Through the MOA, Task Force AIR-TIP (Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking in Persons) was created which is composed of the Provincial Government, the Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Bureau of Immigration, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Clark International Airport Corporation, among others.

6 Dec 2017 - Health office told to monitor Angelenos who got dengue vaccine

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has instructed the City Health Office (CHO) to monitor all those who were vaccinated with dengue vaccine by the Department of Health (DOH).

Pamintuan told Dr. Lenario Santos of CHO on Monday to get the status of all students who took part in the dengue vaccination program of DOH.

6 Dec 2017 - Kapampangans get P27M worth of livelihood assistance

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), distributed on Wednesday more than P27-million worth of salary and livelihood assistance to mark the first day of the week-long Pampanga Day celebration.

Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda led the distribution of grants to some 4,493 Kapampangan working students and unemployed individuals under the Special Program for Employment of Students (Spes) and Tulong Panghanap-buhay sa Displaced Workers (Tupad).

6 Dec 2017 - 7 firms submit bids for Clark airport project

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) have announced that seven firms submitted bid documents for the design, engineering, and construction of the Clark International Airport new terminal building.

The firms include China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd., China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd., Sinohydro Corporation Limited, the joint venture of Megawide-GMR Infrastructure (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., DDT Konstract Inc., R-II Builders Inc., and Tokwing Construction Corporation.

6 Dec 2017 - City of San Fernando holds 1st Go Negosyo conference for students

PAMPANGA -- More than 500 Senior High School students from seven public schools in this city attended the first “Go Negosyo” conference on Wednesday, December 6, at the LausGroup Event Centre.

This was initiated by the City Government of San Fernando, in partnership with the City Schools Division, to prepare the students for the real world if they decide to look for jobs instead of pursuing tertiary education.

6 Dec 2017 - Dec. 8 & 11 are non-working holidays in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- The City Information Office (CIO) here has issued a public advisory stating that the city will join the province of Pampanga in celebrating the province’s 446th Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day).

The CIO stated stated in its Facebook page that pursuant to Proclamation Number 2226 Series of 1982 signed by then President Ferdinand marcos, December 11 of every year is declared a public holiday in the province.

5 Dec 2017 - Clark airport ready for Christmas rush

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport (CRK) is ready for a big passenger volume during the Christmas season, an executive of the airport operator said on Monday.

Alexander Cauguiran, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) acting president and CEO, said CIAC personnel, particularly from the airport operations team, were directed to ensure the security and comfort of passengers.

5 Dec 2017 - San Fernando hosts national artist’s centenarian exhibit

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando on Monday unveiled to the public an exhibit about the works of National Artist for Painting Cesar Legaspi in honor of his centenary birthday which is now installed at the Old Train Station here.

Dubbed as “Miligtas,” the exhibit features the prominent artworks of Legaspi such as the "Survivor" and the "Bayanihan," and will occasion the infusing of new media projects, such as 3D mapping and animation, alongside the permanent exhibition of local history and memorabilia objects from the Bataan Death March.

5 Dec 2017 - Angeles City villagers celebrate Salakot Festival

ANGELES CITY -- Residents of this city’s entertainment village, Barangay Balibago, are celebrating their week-long Salakot Festival.

Balibago village chief Tony Mamac said the celebration, which started last December 1, will culminate on December 8 during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

5 Dec 2017 - Lazatin calls for more social programs for seniors

PAMPANGA -- Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin on Tuesday called for stakeholders to help in providing more social support programs for senior citizens at different levels to help them to enjoy the remainder of their lives.

Lazatin said that the community should also extend various social support and even emotional cushion for seniors who struggle with their senior problems and health issues.

5 Dec 2017 - Giant lantern fest represents San Fernando’s culture, heritage

PAMPANGA -- “More than showcasing the lantern industry of the city, our main goal in holding the annual giant lantern festival (GLF) is to share the culture and heritage of San Fernando to tourists.”

Thus said Mayor Edwin Santiago during the press conference held at the Heroes Hall here Monday for the forthcoming GLF 2017.

4 Dec 2017 - Grand food fest to highlight Pampanga culinary tradition

PAMPANGA -- Nineteen municipalities and two cities from Pampanga are set to showcase their best “lutong barrio” specialties during the Kapampangan Food Festival slated on December 7 at Fontana Leisure Estate in Clark Freeport.

The grand food festival, which aims to showcase the province’s native and authentic delicacies, as well as promote Kapampangan culinary heritage, is part of the week-long celebration of the 446th Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day), which kicks off Wednesday, December 6.

4 Dec 2017 - Giant lantern fest committee ups security measures for December 16

PAMPANGA -- To ensure the safety and convenience of spectators, the Giant Lantern Festival (GLF) 2017 Executive Committee (ExeCom) will implement additional security measures and improved floor plan on the December 16 competition day of the “Ligligan Parul.”

This year’s chairperson, Virgilio Cortez, said the group will implement a crowd control system where ticket holders will be directed to fill up the front seats (yellow and green area) first to maximize the floor plan and avoid choking the entrance gates.

4 Dec 2017 - Guv to lead Pampanga Day kick-off on December 6

PAMPANGA -- This year’s 446th Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day) is set to be formally opened on December 6 by Governor Lilia Pineda, with events centering on Kapampangan traditions, food and culture.

Pineda is expected to lead the celebrations along with Provincial Government officials.

4 Dec 2017 - ONA awarded for best practices in infection prevention control

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan commended the staff of Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA) for bagging the award for Best Practices in Infection Prevention Control during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, December 4.

“This is a manifestation that our hospital is raising the standards not only with its infrastructure but also in terms of the services given to our citizens,” said Pamintuan.

4 Dec 2017 - Cancer patients benefit from Central Luzon Suppliers’ Ball

PAMPANGA -- Event organizers and suppliers from all over Central Luzon raised funds to help children suffering from different types of cancer.

Cancer patients from the Kythe Foundation Inc. were the chosen beneficiaries of the fourth Central Luzon Event Suppliers’ Ball held recently at the Bella Plaza, Tarlac City, said organizer and Flowers and Beyond owner Aris Santos.

4 Dec 2017 - Central Luzon wage board honors 8 hotel-resto firms for service

PAMPANGA -- Some eight hotel and restaurant firms operating within different parts of Central Luzon were bestowed over the weekend with the Service Quality (SQ) Seal of Recognition.

The firms, recognized for their efforts in fostering service quality to their clients, were honored by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)-Central Luzon.

4 Dec 2017 - Santa Rita unveils monument to patron saint

PAMPANGA -- Government officials of Santa Rita, along with Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, led the formal opening of the Santa Rita de Cascia monument dedicated to the town's patron saint and namesake.

The edifice is almost a three storey-structure that features a full storey-sized figure of the Italian saint Rita of Cascia atop a round open-air structure as base. The structure is adorned with columns for support and images of saints that are the patrons of the town's 10 barangays.

3 Dec 2017 - Construction of new Clark airport terminal starts

CLARK FREEPORT -- Officials of Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has announced that the construction of a new passenger terminal will start this month.

CIAC President Alexander Cauguiran has stressed the need to construct new airport terminals because of the rapid increase in the number of passengers.

3 Dec 2017 - Press corps conducts journalism seminar

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pampanga-Tarlac Energy Press Corps has organized a journalism seminar at Park Inn by Radisson Clark hotel here today, December 4.

Jay Pelayo, president of the press corps, said they sponsored the event in recognition of the group's social responsibility.

3 Dec 2017 - Primary school pupils benefit from groups' feeding program

PAMPANGA -- At least 271 public elementary school students from the Calipayan Elementary School benefitted from the feeding program sponsored by the Provincial Government of Tarlac and the Hope and Dreams Foundation.

The students -- kindergarten to grade six -- were provided rice, mongo beans, fortified milk drink, canned goods and noodles for their lunch.

2 Dec 2017 - 'Giant Lantern of Hope' draws 30,000 spectators

PAMPANGA -- SM City Pampanga’s Giant Lantern of Hope spectacle has managed to draw a 30,000 spectators in what could also be the biggest gathering of people for an outdoor fireworks event in Pampanga.

With the tallest ferris wheel in the country as the backdrop, the 10-minute firework display managed to attract people from as far as Nueva Ecija, Bulacan and Tarlac provinces.

2 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat vice mayor lauds religious group’s community projects

MABALACAT City Vice Mayor Christian Halili has lauded the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for implementing various community projects that benefit children’s home and indigent communities here.

Halili said the church, through its Adventist Community Services, has been helping the local government by conducting medical and dental mission and other civic programs.

2 Dec 2017 - Mabalacat City mayor asks village chiefs to practice generosity, unity

MABALACAT City Mayor Crisostomo Garbo has urged village leaders here to associate selflessness and unity with governance.

During a recent meeting, Garbo reminded the barangay officials that they owe their respective positions and mandates to their fellow Mabalaquenos.

1 Dec 2017 - Pampanga labor landscape cited

PAMPANGA -- With the massive development experienced by Pampanga today, its employment landscape has been cited and is now tagged as one of the country’s major industrial and commercial hubs.

This was gleaned from the report released by JobStreet.com which revealed that about 10,000 various job opportunities from all industries are now available in Pampanga’s labor market, making it one of provinces that has the most diverse and dynamic labor landscape.

1 Dec 2017 - DENR caps investigation on ‘polluting’ steel mills

PAMPANGA -- The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has completed the ambient air testing conducted on three steel plants which are allegedly sources of pollution.

This was learned from EMB National Air Quality Management Section Chief Gerry Capulong who led the investigation ordered by DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu following the report released by labor rights group Philippine Association of Free Labor Unions (PAFLU) and environmental group Clean Air Philippines Movement Inc. (Capmi).

1 Dec 2017 - Duterte wants idle lands in military camps leased

PAMPANGA -- President Rodrigo Duterte has disclosed his desire to have idle lands in military camps and bases leased immediately to private investors for commercial purposes.

Speaking during the 67th anniversary of the Scout Ranger Regiment or FSSR in Camp Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan recently, the President in particular pointed to Basa Air Base, home of 5th Fighter Wing of the Philippine Air Force in Floridablanca, Pampanga, and Camp Tecson in Bulacan province.

1 Dec 2017 - De Lima pushes for nutritional info in fast food, resto menu

MABALACAT CITY -- With the worsening problems of obesity and improper nutrition among Filipinos, Senator Leila de Lima has filed a measure requiring all fast food and restaurant chains to disclose nutritional information in the menus of food they serve to public.

In filing Senate Bill No. (SBN) 521, De Lima said consumers need to be informed of the calorie content from food and beverages they take from fast food and restaurants to help them monitor their weight and avoid health risks associated with obesity.

1 Dec 2017 - Legarda: Senate approves 2018 national budget

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Senate unanimously approved the proposed 2018 national budget worth P3.767 trillion said Senator Loren Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and sponsor of the budget.

On Wednesday night, 16 senators present in session voted to approve the proposed national budget on third and final reading.