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Balibago News May-2014

31 May 2014 - Poverty reduction teams urged to ‘guard’ projects

PAMPANGA -- Third District Representative Oscar Rodriguez recently urged the Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT) of some 11 local government units to monitor the implementation of multi-million projects awarded them by National Government agencies.

The office of the solon, in collaboration with the provincial Department of Interior and Local Government headed by director Myrvi Fabia, facilitated the recent "Assessment/Validation of Grassroots Participatory Planning and Budgeting Process (GPPBP)-Pampanga Projects" at the Talete king Panyulung Kapampangan, Inc. foundation headquarters in this city.

31 May 2014 - Business group: Trees should be earthballed, moved

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) reiterated that various trees posing risks to motorists and pedestrians along north MacArthur Highway in this city should be immediate earthballed and moved to a safer place.

During the recent members’ breakfast forum at Gracelane Hotel here, Pamcham president Jim Jimenez said that the business group maintains its stand that the decades-old trees, mostly Acacia, should not be cut but earthballed by concerned agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

31 May 2014 - Guv eyes fund transfer from DPWH to Capitol

PAMPANA -- In a bid to fast track the payment of claims of residents in Lubao, Pampanga who were affected by the road widening of the Sta. Cruz, Lubao-Dinalupihan Section, Governor Lilia Pineda proposed on Friday to officials of the Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) to transfer the intended funds to the provincial government.

This came as hundreds of affected residents and even officials of DPWH brought the issue to the attention of the governor for her speedy intervention.

31 May 2014 - CIDG denies ‘abuse of authority’

ANGELES CITY -- The Provincial Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) headed by Chief Inspector Heryl Bruno Saturday denied allegations that he and his non-commissioned officers (NCOs) had been drinking and consuming food in local bars here and then refusing to pay the bills.

In a statement furnished Sun.Star Pampanga, the CIDG said that "for the past two days, allegations have been printed in the media falsely accusing our provincial head and his police NCOs of abuse of authority."

31 May 2014 - American found dead in apartment

ANGELES CITY -- An American national was found dead inside his rented unit at A and A Apartment in Barangay Sta. Maria 1, Balibago, Angeles City, recently.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said that William Darriel Strickland, 77, an American national, was found hanging inside the comfort room of his apartment unit.

31 May 2014 - Cops bust 4 drug peddlers

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested on Thursday four suspected drug pushers during a buy bust operation in Barangay San Anton, Guagua, Pampanga.

Superintendent Jhoanna Rosales, Floridablanca police chief, identified the suspects as Jesus Paras, alias JP; Hermy Langit, alias Tong, both residents of Barangay Ascomo, Guagua; Maylene Mercado, 17, of Barangay Mabical, this town; and Vennalyn Verzosa, 28, of Barangay Balic-balic, Olongapo City.

31 May 2014 - UST Orchestra wows Fernandinos

PAMPANGA -- The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Symphony Orchestra wowed Fernandinos with their musical ensemble performance at the Heroes Hall, this city Friday night.

The concert was part of UST's Summer Music Camp where they perform from one venue to another in the country to hone the abilities of their members and also to entertain audiences with their world class performances.

31 May 2014 - Pyestang Fernandino ends with a blast

PAMPANGA -- Pyestang Fernandino 2014 on Friday night "ended with a blast" after Alvin "The Illusionist" Gaviola Bucao, Petti and Goya, Hans Lee, Teri Onor, the Midori Boys and Le Chazz sent hundreds of Fernandinos "howling for more" in the variety show cum celebrated night that culminated the City of San Fernando’s week-long fiesta celebrations.

Fernandinos went wild as Teri Onor stepped on stage singing, dancing and impersonating superstar Nora Aunor while the Midori Boys, the promising boy group of the country today, serenaded the audience with songs and dances.

30 May 2014 - Guv wants stronger child care program

Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda recently convened 629 child development service providers at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center here in an effort to strengthen the early child care and development programs in the province.

Pineda hopes to boost the physical and mental development of Kapampangan young children by providing health care workers with updated laws governing child care.

30 May 2014 - Man shot to death

PAMPANGA -- A 50-year-old man was gunned down by eight unidentified armed men in Barangay Colgante, Apalit town, recently.

In a belated report here, Superintendent Hommer Penecilla identified the victim as Marinao Luartes, 50, a resident of Highview Hills Subdivision in Barangay Colgante.

30 May 2014 - Resettlement site eyed in Candaba

PAMPANGA -- Local officials here headed by Mayor Rene Maglanque are eyeing the establishment of a resettlement area in a 6.7-hectare relocation site for those who would be affected by the typhoons and riverbank erosion this coming rainy season.

Maglanque said the proposed lot is located along Pansol Road in Barangay Pasig, which could be a better and safer place for the affected Candabenios.

30 May 2014 - Police collar swindlers

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested four suspected swindlers during an entrapment operation in Barangay Sto. Rosario, City of San Fernando, Wednesday.

In a report, Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, officer-in-charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO), said that operatives from the Intelligence branch conducted an entrapment operation against the suspects at Angelina's Optical along General Hizon Avenue in Barangay Sto. Rosario.

29 May 2014 - DILG conducts gab on women’s Magna Carta

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Central Luzon office, in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women conducted a Roll-Out Seminar-Workshop on the Localization of the Magna Carta of Women on May 7 to 9, May 14 to 16 and May 21 to 23, 2014 at Oxford Hotel in this Freeport.

Regional Director Florida Dijan welcomed the participants and discussed the DILG framework and the department’s role in mainstreaming gender and development.

29 May 2014 - Gay pageant honors LGBT community

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago together with other city officials paid tribute to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community of this city during the celebration of "Ms. Gay Fernandino: Queen of the Universe" held at the City Hall on Wednesday.

"This pageant is to recognize the talents and contributions of the LGBT community of San Fernando who are very much part of society," Santiago said.

29 May 2014 - Sanitary landfill consultation starts

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Board (PB) through the committee on environment and natural resources, conducted a hearing on Wednesday to identify vital information and concerns over the planned sanitary landfill project for Pampanga.

Committee chair Nestor Tolentino led the meeting with Board Members Mike Tapang and Salvador Dimson as they met representatives and officials of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Community Environment and Natural Resources Office and other sectors among others.

29 May 2014 - City official slams Angeles tree cutting

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr., during their regular session last May 27, hit the administration of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for its apparent "inconsistent" stand concerning the cutting of trees affected in road-widening projects.

Lazatin said that before the May 2013 elections, the Pamintuan administration was adamant in protecting the trees along the MacArthur Highway and even issued an order forbidding the cutting of the said trees.

29 May 2014 - Angeles maintains stand on tree-cutting

ANGELES CITY -– "The current city administration under the leadership of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has always been steadfast in its stand against the cutting of decades-old trees affected by the ongoing road widening and rehabilitation projects."

Thus, said City Environment and Natural Resources Officer (Cenro) Francis Pangilinan, in response to a press statement issued by Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr. criticizing Pamintuan's apparently "inconsistent" stand concerning the tree-cutting currently being undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in this city.

29 May 2014 - Kapampangan lawmakers all multi-millionaires

PAMPANGA -- What do Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc, Joseller "Yeng" Guiao, Agapito Guanlao and Oscar Rodriguez have in common?

Based on the summary report of the Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN) for 2013 of members of the House in the 16th Congress, Arroyo is the richest Pampanga representative with a networth of P136.7 million. She ranks among the 20 richest lawmakers in the House of Representatives. In her SALN, Arroyo reported real properties worth P75.4 million, P211.3 million in personal properties or total assets of P286.7 million against liabilities worth P150 million.

28 May 2014 - Deal to professionalize Clark airport personnel signed

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has forged an agreement with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) to improve the airport management organization.

Officials of the two entities signed on Wednesday a memorandum of agreement, a deal for the “Transformation of the Clark International Airport Corporation Towards Performance Excellence” in a bid to achieve the Philippine Quality Award.

28 May 2014 - Lawmaker bares health, education programs

ANGELES CITY -- Representative Joseller “Yeng” Guiao has bared his programs on health and education for the indigent constituents in Pampanga’s first congressional district which includes this city and nearby Mabalacat City and Magalang town.

Guiao bared his programs during the inauguration of a covered court he donated in Barangay Pulung Maragul here on Wednesday.

28 May 2014 - Business tycoon eyes farm dev’t in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Business tycoon Lucio Tan signified interest to provide support to the agricultural modernization program of the Provincial Government.

Former Mayor Jerry Pelayo said Tan wants to help develop the agricultural areas of the province particularly in this town to become more productive in order to generate income and employment among the locals.

28 May 2014 - San Fernando observes Flag Day

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando started its observance of National Flag Day on May 28 with a program that was attended by a cross-section of Fernandino society including local government officials and private sector representatives.

In his speech, Mayor Edwin Santiago highlighted the importance of barangay-based governance as a manifestation of “the spirit of heroism which was once showed by our forefathers during the Battle of Alapan in Cavite.”

28 May 2014 - Police nab drug pushers

PAMPANGA -- Police again showed their seriousness to eradicate the illegal drug trade in Pampanga after another two drug personalities were arrested during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Mangga, Candaba town, recently.

Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, officer-in-charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office, said Candaba police successfully arrested Crispin dela Cruz Barrera alias Jun Barrera, 40, a resident of Barangay Talang and Virgilio Francisco, 44, of Barangay Mangga, both in Candaba.

28 May 2014 - DPWH halfway through flood mitigation works

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Wednesday that it is halfway through flood mitigation works along major roadways here particularly along Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) and Lazatin Boulevard in time for the rainy season.

DPWH district engineer Rico Guilas told Sun.Star Pampanga that the construction works for the canalization along JASA's section in Barangay Lagundi are moving as planned. Guilas, however, said that the P50-million project would have to hurdle right of way problems.

28 May 2014 - Water district launches customer service desk

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) launched early this week a customer service desk, arguably the first of its kind among water utilities in the region, to fast track front line services for its 35,000 concessionaires.

Dubbed as BOSS (Business One Stop Shop), the project which is currently in a month-long dry-run, aims to provide fast service for consumers.

28 May 2014 - Kapampangan athletes win in paralympic games

PAMPANGA -- Physically-challenged Kapampangan athletes won in the recently concluded Para National Games conducted by the Philippine Sports Association for Differently Abled National Paralympic Committee of the Philippines (PHILSPADA-NPC) in different venues including PSC-Philsports Complex, Makati Sports Center and Marikina Sports Complex.

The differently abled Kapampangan athletes reaped gold, silver and bronze medals in their respective categories.

28 May 2014 - CSC encourages public to take civil service exam

PAMPANGA -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Regional Office 3 invites Central Luzon residents to take the second Career Service Professional and Subprofessional Paper and Pencil Tests of 2014 that is scheduled on October 26.

“Exams are open to all Filipino citizens aged 18 years old and above who are of good moral character; have not been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude or disgraceful or immoral conduct, dishonesty, examination irregularity, drunkenness or addiction to drugs; have not been dishonorably discharged from military service or dismissed for cause from any civilian positions in the government and have not taken the same level of CSC examination in less than three months,” CSC Regional Director Myrna Macatangay said.

27 May 2014 - Ex-Magalang execs accused of land grabbing

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Romulo Pecson has accused former municipal officials of land grabbing and illegal acquisition of some portion of the property where the socialized housing is proposed to be developed.

Pecson also denied reports that he forged a joint venture agreement with a property developer for the housing project in Barangay San Agustin (Ayala Area) here in 2008.

27 May 2014 - Clark farmers stop fencing wakeboard facility site

CLARK FREEPORT -- A group of farmers recently stopped the fencing of a 20-hectare property, where a proposed wake boarding facility will be built inside the Clark sub-zone, saying the government should compensate the cost of their crops before proceeding with the project.

The group, consisting of some 11 farmers from Barangay Calumpang in Mabalacat City, sought the intercession of their City Council, which invited the officials of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) in a committee hearing on Tuesday.

27 May 2014 - Guagua public park inaugurated

PAMPANGA -- The Manuel P. Santiago Park, which has been redesigned by the Municipal Government here after recent road elevation works have left it perennially inundated for a couple of years, was formally inaugurated on Tuesday.

The park has been re-elevated and designed reportedly at a budget of P3,002,050. Some P1 million came from the Provincial Government of Pampanga.

27 May 2014 - Akyat Bahay gang strikes in Lubao

PAMPANGA -- The Akyat Bahay gang carted away several cellular phones from the house of a 54-year-old woman in Barangay Concepcion, Lubao, Pampanga, recently.

Police said that the victim, identified as Crisanta Macale-Manuel, was sleeping when the suspects entered her house.

27 May 2014 - 629 day care centers ok for class opening

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga led by Governor Lilia Pineda has spruced up not only public classrooms but even the 629 day care centers in the province before the opening of classes on June 2.

“While we are preparing for the school and day care opening this school year through ‘Brigada Eskwela’, let us also ensure that the nutrition and health needs of the children are ready and in place,” the governor said.

27 May 2014 - Soft drinks warehouse robbed

PAMPANGA -- A suspected motorcycle-riding criminal wearing a helmet held up and carted away P90,000 in cash collections from a soft drinks warehouse in Barangay San Jose, San Simon, Pampanga recently.

Reports said that one Alex Sangil, together with his two helpers while closing their warehouse, was approached by the unidentified man armed with a pistol.

27 May 2014 - Pamintuan nabs riding-in-tandem criminals

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, together with his security team, was able to stop a crime committed by two motorcycle riding criminals on Tuesday.

The incident happened at around 12 noon as the mayor was heading to his home in Villa Angelina Subdivision, Barangay San Jose, onboard his service vehicle.

27 May 2014 - Beauty queen to aspirants: Don’t give up

PAMPANGA -- Reigning Binibining Pilipinas-Universe titlist MJ Lastimosa recently advised aspiring beauty queens here and across Pampanga to “never give up” until they get hold of the “precious pageant crown.”

The statuesque Lastimosa was crowned Mayflower Festival Queen last Sunday by Mayor Edwin Santiago in the joint City of San Fernando-SM City San Fernando Downtown-Pizza Hut annual “Flores De Mayo,” which is a part of the ongoing Pyestang Fernandino celebrations.

27 May 2014 - Central Luzon police ready for class opening

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office in Central Luzon (PRO3) is all geared up to provide utmost assistance to students during the opening of classes on June 2.

Chief Superintendent Petrasanta, PRO3 director, said guidelines were already established in accordance with “Implan Balik- Eskwela 2014”, a directive which emanated from the national headquarters that is being conducted annually.

26 May 2014 - 4 more towns embrace iTax

PAMPANGA -- The local government units of Santa Ana, Bacolor, Guagua and Sasmuan formally embraced the German-made Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) that aims to boost local Real Property Tax (RPT) and streamline collection with that of the Provincial Government of Pampanga.

Governor Lilia Pineda led the individual launching of the integrated data base of the iTAX system with Bacolor Mayor Jomar Hizon, Sta. Ana Mayor Rommel Concepcion, Sasmuan Mayor Nardo Velasco and Guagua Mayor Dante Torres.

26 May 2014 - Angeles observes National Flag Day

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and other city officials here carried out a ceremonial flag-raising as the city joins the country in observing National Flag Day.

“Today, we are raising our flag with pride for it is the symbol of unity, sovereignty and independence in our country,” said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan. “We should take time to look back in history and see how this piece of cloth changed the fate of us Filipinos forever."

26 May 2014 - Cyclists pedal for coins

PAMPANGA -- In a bid to raise Filipino consciousness on the importance of coin circulation while advocating for a healthy and active lifestyle, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) conducted last May 24 the “Bisikleta para sa Barya” cycling caravan.

A total of 671 cyclists registered for the 35-kilometer event to help the city alleviate the shortage of coins.

26 May 2014 - Dole, Capitol award P3M to SPES beneficiaries

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) and Pampanga Public Employment Service Office (Peso) awarded more than P3 million to 531 students under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES).

The beneficiaries belong to the first batch of employed students who started April and worked for 20 days until this month.

26 May 2014 - Aquino appoints Bulacan guv as RDC chair

PAMPANGA -- President Benigno Aquino III has appointed Bulacan Governor Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado as chair of the Central Luzon Regional Development Council (RDC).

RDC Vice Chair and National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Regional Director Severino Santos announced this on Friday.

25 May 2014 - Housing plan opposed

PAMPANGA -- Concerned residents at Barangay Ayala in Magalang are opposing a huge housing project being pushed by Mayor Romulo Pecson on the slopes of Mt. Arayat.

The proposed project, estimated to cost around P600 million, will be located on a 50-hectare site owned by the local government at the Orchard Village of the barangay and will be funded by a loan from the Land Bank of the Philippines using the town's internal revenue allotment (IRA) as collateral.

25 May 2014 - City exec wants CSF schools disaster-ready

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin called on education stakeholders on Sunday to make public schools in this capital city disaster ready in line with the objectives of the recently concluded Department of Education's (DepEd) “Brigada Eskwela” campaign.

Lazatin urged teachers, parents and government officials to prepare schools from disasters that affected the entire country in 2013.

25 May 2014 - Forum on natal day with health workers held

PAMPANGA -- Councilor Angie Hizon celebrated her 47th birthday over the weekend with a forum on Republic Act 9262 (RA 9262) or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) law at Barangay Santa Teresita.

Hizon was joined by hundreds of Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) and Barangay Health Workers from the City of San Fernando.

24 May 2014 - DTI holds Diskwento Caravan in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) held a two-day Diskwento Caravan in front of the city hall of San Fernando last May 22 to 24.

DTI Provincial Director Elenita Ordonio said that some 36 manufacturers of school supplies, leather crafts, home furnishings, kitchenware and basic and prime commodities sold their goods at factory prices, which benefitted consumers here.

24 May 2014 - CSC confers Seal of Excellence to Ched-Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- Civil Service Commission (CSC) recently conferred the Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award to the Regional Office of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The office received the plaque and cash reward from CSC Central Luzon Director Myrna Macatangay during its 20th anniversary celebration.

24 May 2014 - ACPRC celebrates 50th year, holds induction rites

ANGELES CITY – "For over 50 years now, the Angeles City Press and Radio Club (ACPRC), with members coming from various print and broadcast outfits in the city, aimed to convene in an organization that would recognize them as credible and ethical professionals in the field."

Thus, said Jose Aubrey Pelayo IV as he was sworn-in as the newest president of the organization during its turnover and induction ceremonies held at the Wensha Spa and Buffet (formerly Shanghai Palace Restaurant) in Barangay Balibago, this city.

24 May 2014 - PHL to join World Environment Day celebration

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) Central Luzon office has announced that the Philippines will join the United Nation World Environment Day (WED) celebration on June 5.

DOT Regional Director Ronnie Tiotuico said that this is UNs' principal vehicle for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the environment.

24 May 2014 - Tandem riders rob hardware store

PAMPANGA -- Four armed men on board two motorcycles robbed a hardware store along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Saguin, City of San Fernando, recently.

In a report here, city police director Superintendent Edilberto Pitallano said that the robbers armed with short firearms forcibly entered the Northern Steel Hardware in the said barangay.

24 May 2014 - DepEd releases 2014-2015 school calendar

The Department of Education (DepEd) has published the official school calendar for School Year (SY) 2014-2015.

The next school year will be composed of 201 school days excluding summer classes, according to Department Order No. 18, s. 2014 issued by Secretary of Education Armin Luistro.

24 May 2014 - Capitol boosts garbage program

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government led by Governor Lilia Pineda is poised to strengthen its solid waste management program that will eventually reduce garbage problems.

On Friday, Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) chief Engr. Art Punsalan said that the governor is "very resolute in solving Pampanga’s garbage woes."

24 May 2014 - CIDG smashes illegal gambling ring

MABALACAT CITY -- The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) busted an illegal gambling here under its Oplan Roulette.

CIDG Provincial Office Police Chief Inspector Heryl Bruno, in a report furnished Sun.Star Pampanga, said that around 8:20 p.m. Thursday, operatives intercepted and arrested five persons for playing "monte," an illegal game prohibited under Presidential Decree 1602, as amended by Republic Act 9287.

23 May 2014 - Mayor: Trees must be trimmed, earthballed

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago on Friday said the City Government sought the approval of national government agencies for the trimming and earthballing of trees along MacArthur Highway.

This developed after a "microburst" or freak weather disturbance uprooted an acacia tree near the highway in Barangay Telabastagan and fell on a passing passenger jeep, killing a 24-year-old woman.

23 May 2014 - UP locates at Clark Green City area

CLARK FREEPORT -- The University of the Philippines is set to establish a campus inside the Clark Green City situated at the Freeport sub-zone.

A memorandum of understanding was forged between the state university and Bases Conversion and Development Authority for the project.

23 May 2014 - Dole to employ marginalized folk

PAMPANGA -- With the aim of strengthening social protection for vulnerable workers of Central Luzon by enhancing their access to emergency employment and livelihood program in times of calamities, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Office 3, this year, launched its Tulong Alalay para sa mga Disadvantaged Workers or better known as "Tupad."

The Tupad is one of the flagship programs under the Dole Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP).

23 May 2014 - ‘Sampernando’ car show kicks off today

PAMPANGA -- This year's fiesta celebration here will feature the biggest car show ever assembled in Central Luzon with over 100 cars and motorbikes participating in the event which opens today and will run until May 25 at Robinson's Starmills Pampanga.

Marnie Castro, one of the organizers of the event, said that the event will bring together various car enthusiasts, collectors and hobbyists.

23 May 2014 - No. 3 most wanted person in Magalang arrested

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested the number three most wanted person (MWP) in Magalang town in Pampanga on Wednesday.

In a report here, Superintendent Anna Liza Guzman, Magalang police chief, identified the suspect as Averdeen Mendoza, 34, a resident of Barangay Dolores, Magalang town.

23 May 2014 - Mayor: Trees must be trimmed, earthballed

PAMPANGA -- San Fenando Mayor Edwin Santiago on Friday said the City Government sought the approval of national government agencies for the trimming and earthballing of trees along MacArthur Highway.

This developed after a "microburst" or freak weather disturbance uprooted an acacia tree near the highway in Barangay Telabastagan and fell on a passing passenger jeep, killing a 24-year-old woman.

23 May 2014 - UP locates at Clark Green City area

CLARK FREEPORT -- The University of the Philippines is set to establish a campus inside the Clark Green City situated at the Freeport sub-zone.

A memorandum of understanding was forged between the state university and Bases Conversion and Development Authority for the project.

23 May 2014 - Dole to employ marginalized folk

PAMPANGA -- With the aim of strengthening social protection for vulnerable workers of Central Luzon by enhancing their access to emergency employment and livelihood program in times of calamities, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Office 3, this year, launched its Tulong Alalay para sa mga Disadvantaged Workers or better known as "Tupad."

The Tupad is one of the flagship programs under the Dole Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP).

22 May 2014 - Guv directs officials to solve malnutrition

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda on Thursday directed social workers, teachers, and health officers in the province to address the growing issue on malnutrition, especially in public schools.

The governor issued the directive as she learned about the alarming statistics of malnutrition in the province particularly in the Fourth District, which include the towns of Minalin, Masantol, Apalit, Candaba, and San Simon.

22 May 2014 - Angeles mayor: Fast track infra projects

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and his chief-of-staff, Alexander Cauguiran, invited authorities from the region's Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local contractors in a meeting last week to address issues regarding the "slow phasing and response" of the said agencies and companies regarding the city's several infrastructure projects.

The mayor and his chief-of-staff were completely distraught of the "red-tape" and other procedural quandaries, especially in the regional agencies, that seem to hamper the progress of the projects simultaneously being done in the city.

22 May 2014 - Pampanga aims to beef up heritage tourism

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga is one of the provinces in the country that has the richest culture, historical background and heritage.

Its geographic location is so strategic making it very accessible to people from different parts of Luzon.

22 May 2014 - Freak weather disturbance kills woman in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- A recent freak weather disturbance described by weathermen as a "microburst" killed a woman when an acacia tree fell down on the passenger jeepney she and other passengers were riding in San Fernando.

Police and rescuers identified the victim as Juvily Gardamo, 24, of Barangay Del Rosario while another critically injured passenger was identified as Erlinda Manansala, 54, of Barangay Dela Paz Sur.

22 May 2014 - Korean robs fellow Korean

ANGELES CITY -- Police arrested a Korean after robbing a fellow Korean inside a car along Friendship Highway, Barangay Anunas, Angeles City, police reported yesterday.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, identified the suspect as Yangrae Song, 37, temporary billeted at the New Welbing Hotel, Clark Freeport, Pampanga.

22 May 2014 - RDRRMC launches action plan

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) formally launched recently an action plan that would be its guide in the remainder of the term of President Benigno Aquino III.

"The 2013-2016 Central Luzon DRRM Action Plan is a product of the convergence of minds from national government agencies and local government units that are based in one of the country’s prime regions. It fulfills one of the mandates of Republic Act 10121 which is to provide basis for the local policies, plans and programs to address location-specific circumstances and concerns," RDRRMC chairperson and Office of Civil Defense Regional Director Josefina Timoteo explained.

21 May 2014 - Trinidad liquor code on despite appeals

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Council of La Trinidad rejected appeals of the Women’s Brigade and the La Trinidad Bars and Restaurant (LTBAR) owners to suspend and revise the town's Liquor Code.

The code is being enforced on bars, restaurants and night spots in three different levels as far as curfew is concerned.

21 May 2014 - DPWH hit for slow road construction

ANGELES CITY -- Officials here assailed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the delayed construction of the Pandan Road (Angeles-Magalang), which has severely affected residents and businessmen in the area.

During the City Council session on Tuesday, Vice Mayor Maria Vicenta "Vicky" Vega Cabigting said residents and traders along the vital road are complaining about the slow phase of the construction.

21 May 2014 - Pampanga lawmaker not on Luy files

PAMPANGA -- "I am vindicated and can assure Kapampangans and everyone again that I never misused public funds."

Thus, said Pampanga Third District Representative Oscar Rodriguez on Wednesday, smiling and heaving a sigh of relief after his name was not among those in the list of whistle blower Benhur Luy, which was made public and published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Wednesday.

21 May 2014 - CSFWD urges folks to conserve water

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) on Wednesday assured its consumers here that water supply for the city will be stable despite the prevailing El Nino phenomenon that is now drying up dams all across Central Luzon.

General manager Jorge Gumba said the water utility will be able to serve its water concessionaires even as the dry spell continues until mid-June. At present, CSFWD supplies 20,000 cubic meters of water for 35,000 concessionaires regularly.

21 May 2014 - Central Luzon schools ready for June 2 opening

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Central Luzon office said that schools all over the region are ready for the June 2 opening of classes.

Dr. Isabelita M. Borres, DepEd Central Luzon director, said that Brigada Eskwela has been effective in carrying out its mission with the help of local officials, other government agencies, and private individuals and organizations.

21 May 2014 - Folks denounce priests for desecrating church

PAMPANGA -- Folks in Barangay Patling in Tarlac denounced recently the action taken by the Catholic Church against the more than 300 years old "balon" or well located inside the premises of the St. Joseph Parish Church -- believed to be one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Philippines -- which was used as a dumping area of trash.

A small chapel was built in front of the well, which hides it. The priest assigned there also ordered it closed to the viewing public.

20 May 2014 - Angeles City joins world HIV memorial

ANGELES CITY -- "As we light the candles in remembrance of those who passed away because of AIDS, let us light another candle of hope-that there is hope for the victims."

Thus, said Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting during the ceremonial World HIV Candle Lighting rites held at the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC) in this city.

20 May 2014 - Provincial hospital preps up for disaster

PAMPANGA -- Doctors, nurses and other personnel of the Guagua Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital have undergone their final earthquake and fire drill for this year conducted by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) on Tuesday.

"Their seminar and training went very well and the evaluators gave their performance a 9 out of 10 rating so we are confident that they know what to do when disaster come," said Antonio Dungo, PDRRMO Disaster Operations Officer.

20 May 2014 - 2 nabbed for illegal drugs, firearm

PAMPANGA -- Police operatives of Sto Thomas arrested two suspects the other day after they were found in possession of illegal drugs and an undocumented firearm, this town's Chief Inspector John Clark told.

Police identified the suspects as Ryan Espiritu, 31, and Rex Balmores, 22, both residents of the town. Clark said that police operatives conducted a buy bust operation that led to the arrest of the suspects.

20 May 2014 - DILG updates partners on new SGLG

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Central Luzon recently briefed its technical staff and partner civil society organizations on the Local Governance Performance Management System Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

According to DILG regional director Florida Dijan, SGLG is actually an upgrade of the previous Seal of Good Housekeeping awarded to qualified local government units (LGUs).

19 May 2014 - Bulgarians in ATM skimming arrested

ANGELES CITY -- Police arrested two Bulgarians who were skimming an automated teller machine (ATM) at the Banco de Oro branch inside SM City Pampanga over the weekend.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, identified and presented to media the two suspects as Mladenov Emil Stoyanov, 22, and Karnev Lyuven Georgeiv, 28.

19 May 2014 - Pampanga to hold DRRM summit

PAMPANGA -- Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief Angie Blanco said Monday that Capitol and the Office of Civil Defense will hold a Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Summit on June 5 to 6 at the Hotel Stotsenberg in Clark Freeport.

Blanco said the general objective of the summit is to formulate action plans based on comprehensive and standard understanding of the DRRM roles and responsibilities of local chief executives (LCEs) as a result of the 2013 Regional Summit for the effective and efficient delivery of government services.

19 May 2014 - Mayor declares all out war vs illegal drugs

PAMPANGA -- Floridablanca Mayor Eduardo Guerrero has issued a stern warning to drug pushers and users to "get out of the town or face the full force of the law."

This came in the heels of the continued arrest of suspected drug pushers and the surrender of a suspected drug peddler over the weekend.

19 May 2014 - First ever Kapampangan finishes art restoration course in Italian school

PAMPANGA -- Franz Dominic Layug, son of Presidential Merit Awardee for Ecclesiastical Art Willy Layug, recently finished a year-long art restoration and conservation course at the prestigious Lorenzo de' Medici School (LdM) in Florence, Italy.

The young Layug is the first Kapampangan and arguably the only Filipino artist to finish a professional course in art restoration the said school. LdM specializes in the arts, such as studio art, fine arts, liberal arts, and language studies.

19 May 2014 - More water pumping stations to rise

MABALACAT CITY -- The Mabalacat City Water District (MCWD) is set to build new water pumping stations in the city, particularly in Sapang Biabas and Camachilles Resettlement Phase 1.

Engr. Jaime D.L. Signey, MCWD department manager of Engineering Services, said the construction is to start next month and is most likely to be completed in three months.

19 May 2014 - Firm to build P500-M gasifier plant in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- Advance Energy Technologies, a power firm specializing in renewable energy production will construct a biomass gasifier power plant in a still undisclosed site in the City of San Fernando with an investment of P500-million to produce four-megawatt electricity.

Samuel West Stewart, managing director of Advanced Energy Technologies, said the biomass gasifiers technology will be the first to be constructed in the Philippines, if not in Southeast Asia. He said the company is a subsidiary of US company General Electric.

19 May 2014 - Drug Dealer nabbed

PAMPANGA -- The Intelligence Unit of the Concepcion Police Station recently apprehended an elusive suspected drug pusher in a buy bust operation.

Chief Inspector Rey Apolonio, Concepcion police officer-in-charge, identified the suspect as Christian Marcelo, alias Muslim, 34, and a resident of Sto. Rosario, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

17 May 2014 - 3 Clubs raided in Balibago

ANGELES CITY -- Last night Valhalla, Geckos and Barnana Clubs were raided by CIDG.

Employess were taken to San Fernando for further questioning.

17 May 2014 - More houses, lots eyed for informal settlers

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Edwin Santiago disclosed Saturday that the City Government is set to award more houses and lots for displaced Fernandinos following its compliance to the ongoing Supreme Court Mandamus clearing all waterways of informal settlers to support the Manila Bay Protection and Clean-up Campaign.

Last Monday, 400 informal settler-families received their respective houses and lots located at the San Fernando Heights Resettlement center in Barangay Malpitic in this city. The 300 free house and lot units were awarded to informal settlers from Barangays Saguin, San Jose, Pandaras, Del Rosario, San Agustin and San Pedro, who have lived along the San Fernando River, San Agustin Creek, Saguin Creek and Balimbing Creek in the City of San Fernando.

17 May 2014 - Pyestang Fernandino kicks-off Monday

PAMPANGA -- The grand and culturally festive Pyestang Fernandino 2014 will kick-off on Monday, May 19, with the unveiling of various activities set to run until May 30, the feast day of San Fernando.

Themed “Pamagmasusi king Makuleng Kultura, Fernandino ing Manimuna,” Pyestang Fernandino will be highlighted by a three-day agro-industrial trade fair and “diskwento” caravan in front of City Hall on May 22 to 24, which Mayor Edwin Santiago disclosed will feature the one barangay-one crop products of Fernandinos launched recently to boost the 35 villages’ livelihood programs.

17 May 2014 - Angeleños get ‘Alaga Ka’ cards

ANGELES CITY -- Some 600 Angeleño families on Wednesday received the benefits-expanded “Alaga Ka” cards from Philhealth and the city government here through its Gender and Development Office.

Themed “Alaga Ka Para sa Maayos na Buhay, PhilHealth announced the expanded benefits that would be extended to its the members. This year, the National Housing Targeting System (NHTS) identified 12,000 members to benefit from the program.

17 May 2014 - Western Visayas most wanted person arrested in Zambales

PAMPANGA -- A former barangay chairman and number one most wanted person in Western Visayas with a cash reward of P500,000 was arrested in a public market in Barangay Palanginan, Iba, Zambales, Thursday afternoon.

Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, Police Regional Office-Central Luzon director, said that Noel Ayalin alias Kalbo was apprehended by Nueva Ecija police intelligence personnel and Zambales police while he was selling coconuts (buko) at the public market of Iba town.

17 May 2014 - Foundation, SM Malls, to stage ‘Alfredo Verzosa, Obispo’ musical

PAMPANGA -- The Bishop Alfredo Florentin Verzosa Foundation, Inc., in cooperation with SM Malls, will stage on July 6 at the Samsung Hall of SM City Aura in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig the musical "Alfredo Verzosa, Obispo."

SM City Pampanga Public Relations manager Rain Cervantes shared that after the recent auditions conducted by officials of the foundation in various SM Malls across Luzon, the production of the musical which is directed by Joey Nombres, with playwright Frank G. Rivera and music by Ato Del Rosario, will immediately start. The auditions culminated in SM Rosales (Pangasinan) last May 13.

16 May 2014 - CIAC, HARP work to improve tourism

ANGELES CITY -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Pampanga (HARP) is working to improve tourism in Pampanga and other parts of Central Luzon.

On Wednesday, officials of the two entities signed a Memorandum of Agreement that will grant discounts and incentives to arriving passengers at the Clark International Airport.

16 May 2014 - Development of Clark airport focus of today’s aviation meet

CLARK FREEPORT -- The full development of Clark International Airport will be the focus of Friday's aviation conference at the Grand ballroom of Holiday Inn in this Freeport.

Themed “Clark: Reshaping Philippine Aviation---The Aerotropolis Concept, the Clark Aviation Conference 2014 conference is a call for the full development of Clark International Airport as an aviation hub, a key driver for economic development in Central Luzon.

16 May 2014 - Guv: Revive glory of Pampanga River

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government is eyeing to revive the old glory of the Pampanga River through the conduct of river cruise and other water sports activities, establishment of floating Inns to attract more tourists and investors.

Initially, Pampanga officials conducted yesterday a 12-kilometer river cruise from the town of Apalit traversing the towns of Calumpit in Bulacan, Macabebe and Masantol.

16 May 2014 - NGO now wants 1-M coconut trees

PAMPANGA -- There is now a paradigm shift in how farmers, cooperatives and ordinary folk plant trees in Central Luzon, leading a slow but steady development in community farming.

This, as the Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF), a non-government civic service group, is now set to plant an additional one million coconut trees in Central Luzon as supplement to its earlier initiative of planting one million fruit trees in various provinces of the region using certified seeds.

15 May 2014 - Pampanga ‘very good’ in DOF scorecard

PAMPANGA -- For three consecutive years from 2010 to 2012, the local government unit (LGU) of the Province of Pampanga scored “very good” in the Department of Finance’s (DOF) fiscal performance assessment.

Pampanga’s fiscal performance was posted on the DOF website dubbed “Iskor ng ‘yong Bayan,” which, the DOF said, is aimed at promoting governance at all levels by rating the fiscal performances of all LGUs through the LGU fiscal sustainability scorecard.

15 May 2014 - Visa-upon-arrival for Chinese tourists eyed at Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT - Despite growing tension between China and the Philippines over territorial issues, the government plans to implement here a visa-upon-arrival scheme to lure more Chinese tourists into the country.

Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) President-CEO Victor Jose Luciano said the scheme wherein Chinese nationals could fly into the country as tourists and be given visa only upon arrival at the Clark International Airport (CIA) here.

15 May 2014 - Clark firm donations to benefit 600 Aeta, indigent students

CLARK FREEPORT— Close to 600 indigents and Aeta students are expected to benefit from the 15 sets of ceiling wall fans complete, including the electric installations, donated by a firm inside this Freeport zone.

The External Affairs Department of CDC reported that FSPhil Corporation, a locator of inside CFZ, awarded the electric fans to Calangitan Elementary School in Capas, Tarlac in an effort to improve the ventilation of the school.

15 May 2014 - Ace targets 4 mega projects before term ends

PAMPANGA -- Tarlac Mayor Ace Manalang has vowed to accomplish four big projects comprising two tourist hubs, an astrodome and the city hospital before his term ends in 2016.

The Tarlac City Reclamation Project covering Barangays San Nicolas, Sepung Calzada, Salapungan, Aguso and Sta. Cruz will be developed into the Tarlac City Eco-Tourism Light Industrial Park (TETLIP) to host commercial centers, government offices and the city astrodome.

15 May 2014 - Gov, DENR, DILG to form group to handle solid waste

CLARK FREEPORT -- “We are not giving up.” Thus stressed Lormelyn Claudio, regional director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) Environment Management Bureau (EMB), shortly after her meeting with Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda on Wednesday here to discuss the handling of the solid waste management in the province.

Claudio said “we will not stop until all the local government units in Pampanga are compliant” to the provisions of the Republic Act 9003, or the Solid Waste Management Act 2000. Claudio praised Pineda “for her efforts in helping solve the problem.” “The governor’s actions are laudable because she provides everything needed to help comply with the law,” said Claudio.

15 May 2014 - Search mission turns bloody, 1 dead, cop wounded in Lubao

PAMPANGA -- A mission to search the home of a suspect for illegal possession of firearms evolved into a firefi ght that killed him and wounded a policeman in Sitio Mutla in Barangay San Roque Arbol here last Tuesday.

Newly installed Pampanga police director Senior Supt. Marlon Madrid cited a report saying that at about 6:20 a.m. Tuesday, a police team from the local police and the Regional Public Safety Battalion tried to serve an arrest warrant against Jesus Torres, alias Boy Pana, 43, in his home in Sitio Mutla.

14 May 2014 - CIAC: Qatar Airways robust

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation said that the operation of Qatar Airways here is in good condition and the airline company continues to attract passengers for its daily flights.

CIAC President and CEO Victor Jose I. Luciano noted that the passengers of Qatar Airways via Doha-Clark-Doha increased since its launching on October 28, 2013.

14 May 2014 - Girl, 5, molested by 65-year-old man

PAMPANGA -- Police arrested on Sunday a 65-year-old man for allegedly molesting a 5-year-old girl in Barangay Quebiawan, City of San Fernando.

In a report here, Superintendent Edilberto Pitallano, Officer-In-Charge of the City of San Fernando police, identified the suspect as Reynaldo Tamayo, 65, a resident of Duplex, Barangay San Isidro of the said city.

14 May 2014 - Creation of solid waste task force eyed

CLARK FREEPORT – "We are not giving up" stressed Lormelyn Claudio, regional director of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Environment Management Bureau (EMB), shortly after her meeting with Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda on Wednesday here to discuss the handling of solid waste management in the province.

Claudio said "we will not stop until all the Local Government Units in Pampanga are compliant" to the provisions of the Republic Act 9003, or the Solid Waste Management Act 2000.

14 May 2014 - Morales vows to provide area for PWDs, elderly

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales has vowed to provide an area for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens who are transacting business and securing clearances at the city hall.

Morales said he will designate a temporary office at the ground level for the physically challenged and the elderly. “Temporary lamang ito, habang wala pa tayong escalators o elevators,” the mayor added.

14 May 2014 - Police nab notorious human trafficker

ANGELES CITY -- The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested Saturday an alleged notorious human trafficker along A. Santos Street, Balibago in this city.

CIDG Provincial Officer Police Inspector Heryl Bruno identified the suspect as one Rafaela Reyes alias Geraldine, 33, who is believed to be engaged in rampant human trafficking and providing prostitution sexual services to foreigners and local customers in exchange for cash.

13 May 2014 - Tadeco: ‘Give us a chance’

PAMPANGA -- The towering pride of the Cojuangcos of Tarlac Development Corporation or Tadeco literally "bended down," at least for a day or two when Tadeco through its spokesman Ramon De Vera appealed to the public to "give them a chance to show that their intentions are good in developing the piece of property inside Hacienda Luisita."

Josephine Cojuangco-Guingona was present during the simple presentation of Tadeco of their plans and commitments to the City Government of Tarlac where City Council presiding officer Vice Mayor Miguel Tañedo, and Mayor Gelacio Manalang together with members of the academe, business sector, police force, students, youth and media listened.

13 May 2014 - Pharmacy assistant wins Dole’s Talentadong Manggagawa in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- A pharmacy assistant was this year's big winner among 13 grand finalists in the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Central Luzon's recently concluded "Search for Talentadong Manggagawa ng Tarlac," held at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Tarlac, here in Tarlac City.

The 4th annual talent search competition for workers, which is a joint-project of the Dole Tarlac Field Office and the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council in Tarlac (TIPCT), is one of the most anticipated activities of the Dole's month-long celebration of the 112th Philippine Labor Day anchored on the theme, "Sa Sipag, Tiyaga at Talino, Buong Mundo, Saludo sa Manggagawang Pilipino."

12 May 2014 - Mayor: Dialogue will solve ‘hacienda’ dispute

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Condralito dela Cruz is still optimistic that a continuing dialogue will finally settle the dispute between farmer-members of the Aniban ng Nagkakaisang Mamayan sa Hacienda Dolores (Aniban) and the LLL Holdings and FL Properties and Management Corp. on the subject of the land dispute in Hacienda Dolores.

Dela Cruz urged both parties to open lines of dialogue with their respective lawyers to finally settle concerns in the land.

12 May 2014 - Lawmaker off to Laos for drugs meet

PAMPANGA -- First District Representative Joseller “Yeng” Guiao left Monday afternoon for Laos to attend the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly on dangerous drugs.

Guiao, who is a member of the House of Representatives’ committee on dangerous drugs, told Sun.Star Pampanga that the assembly will tackle important issues regarding the illegal drugs problem.

12 May 2014 - Akyat Bahay gang robs cop, gov’t employee

PAMPANGA -- Suspected Akyat Bahay gang members struck over the weekend again in two separate robberies involving a policeman and a government employee.

The rented room of Police Officer 2 (PO2) Efren Palpag, a member of Guagua police station and residing at Barangay Bancal, Guagua, Pampanga, was ransacked. Carted away were his black bag pack containing a .9mm Glock pistol, PNP ID, Firearms ID, Landbank ATM, BDO ATM, PNB ATM, driver’s license and an undetermined amount of cash.

12 May 2014 - Sto. Tomas chief cop cited for anti-drug campaign

PAMPANGA -- Sto. Tomas police Chief Insp. John Clark was again recognized by the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) on Monday for his successful anti-drugs campaign that led to the arrest of another suspect recently.

Clark was awarded a certificate of commendation by PPPO officer-in-charge Senior Supt. Marlon Madrid at the PPPO grounds, together with SPO1 Derrick Avila, PO3 Jonnel Francia, PO2 Fernando Gacusana Jr., PO1 Arriane Sudario.

12 May 2014 - Bacolor, Dole distribute negocarts

PAMPANGA -- The local government unit of Bacolor and Mayor Jose Maria Hizon and Department of Labor and Employment Central Luzon Office (Dole-3) distributed on Monday 34 negocarts intended as a means of livelihood for ambulant vendors here.

“Gusto ko man kayong bigyan ng pambili ng pagkain araw-araw pero hindi ko po kayo natutulungan. Sa ganitong paraan, dito sa mga negocart na ito ay matututo kayong maghanap-buhay at kumita ng marangal para sa inyong pamilya,” Hizon said.

11 May 2014 - It’s 3-0 for Arroyo

PAMPANGA -- It's now three triumphs for the camp of former President and current Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo after the Office of the Ombudsman recently let her off the hook on the fertilizer scam.

The third "victory" came after Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, in a resolution signed on May 2, 2014, cleared Arroyo of involvement in the P728-million fertilizer fund scam.

11 May 2014 - School official: No PDAF for PSAU

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga State Agricultural State University (PSAU) here has not received any funding support from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of any legislator, president Honorio Soriano Jr. disclosed last Friday.

In a briefing of members of the Campampangan in Media Inc. (CAMI), Soriano said most of its funding for various infrastructure and research programs came from government agencies and non-government organizations.

11 May 2014 - Binay asks media, LGU help in fight vs illegal recruitment

PAMPANGA -- Vice President Jejomar Binay has asked the media and local government units to help in the in battle against illegal recruitment.

"Siguro ang media, papakiusapan ko kayo na tulungan kami sa aming campaign laban sa illegal recruitment. Malaking problema pa rin iyon," Binay said.

11 May 2014 - ‘Father of Betis wood sculpture’ honored at SM Clark event

CLARK FREEPORT -- The late Juan C. Flores, acclaimed as the "Father of Betis woodcarving", was among the artists and craftsmen honored in the My City, My SM, Crafts event at the SM City Clark over the weekend.

SM City Clark public relations officer Venus Manalang said that the event recognizes the efforts of Kapampangan artists in uplifting the quality of local crafts. She added that the My City, My SM, Crafts event aims to highlight regional products where SM malls are located

10 May 2014 - Singapore firm commits P7B for project

CLARK FREEPORT -- A Singaporean firm committed some P7 billion for its industrial estate, which will be developed inside a three-hectare property inside the Freeport.

The Capilion Corporation Pte. Ltd. and the Clark Development Corporation forged a long-term lease agreement for the property where a facility, ideal for business process outsourcing (BPO), residential, commercial, or even retail enterprises, will be developed.

10 May 2014 - Police nab Pampanga’s 7th most wanted

ANGELES CITY -- Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Friday arrested Pampanga's seventh most wanted person.

CIDG Pampanga Provincial Officer Police Chief Inspector Heryl Bruno identified the suspect as Chuckwayne Cadag Obisco, 36, of Mabalacat Pampanga.

10 May 2014 - AUF prexy gets PhD on biz

ANGELES CITY -- Angeles University Foundation (AUF) president Joseph Emmanuel Angeles recently graduated with the degree Doctor of Philosophy (Business Administration) from the University of the Philippines Diliman Cesar EA Virata School of Business.

The doctorate degree the young AUF president finished is an addition to his law diploma from the University of the Philippines Diliman.

10 May 2014 - Group hits Ombudsman for clearing Arroyo

MABALACAT CITY -- The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) assailed the Office of the Ombudsman for clearing former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in the fertilizer fund scam.

"The biggest reversal in recent history, a blockbuster case of political accommodation involving the highest office in the land," said the fisherfolk alliance Pamalakaya, one of the complainants in the P728-million fertilizer fund scam.

10 May 2014 - NGOs inspect water pumps

PAMPANGA -- Officials of the Rotary Club of Makati South and Rotary Club of Westlake (USA) inspected their "Water for Life and Health Project" here as the groups set more water pumps for Barangay Pandaras, San Fernando.

Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin, the groups' partner in the city, said the program gave some five more shallow tube wells to the village, which is in much need of potable watercourse. He added the water pumps will benefit some 40 families in the area.

10 May 2014 - Miracle Art holds 1st Central Luzon exhibit at Marquee Mall

ANGELES CITY -- Miracle Art is mysterious, unbelievable, fantasy with character in the painting.

Diether Yoo, project director of Happy World Inc. described the Miracle Art Museum, which open its door last Friday at Marquee Mall here, as an optical illusion art which is alive and moving.

9 May 2014 - Capitol launches new environment program

PAMPANGA -- The Capitol, through the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office and Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB), on Friday launched its new environment program dubbed "Kalinisan, Kabyayan at Gulayan king Barangay" or KKGB.

According to SWMB head Jaeson Sambat, the program, which was introduced to municipal and city solid waste managers, is designed “to give emphasis to all barangays to prioritize their budget, plans and programs on clean environment, agriculture, livestock and livelihood projects that would benefit and address these concerns and to ensure sustainability of these programs.”

9 May 2014 - Dole to employ 1,242 marginalized young workers

PAMPANGA -- With aims to provide marginalized young workers in Central Luzon the opportunity to demonstrate their talents and skills in the field of public service, particularly in the areas of labor and employment, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Office No. 3, on Friday officially kicked-off the simultaneous launching of the Dole-Government Internship Program (Dole-GIP) in different parts of the region.

Dole Regional Director reported to Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz that the Dole Regional Office No. 3, in coordination with the different Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs), identified and targeted 1,242 Dole-GIP youth beneficiaries, comprised of college graduates and undergraduates, tech-voc graduates, and high school graduates all over the region.

9 May 2014 - Tarlac sets 141st founding anniversary celebration

PAMPANGA -- A week-long celebration with various activities has been lined-up by the Tarlac Provincial Government in connection with its 141st founding anniversary.

The celebration, slated May 24 to 31, will feature the Department of Foreign Affairs mobile passporting at the My Metro Town Mall as the kick-off followed by the 3rd motocross competition on May 25 at the Binauganan dirt bike track.

9 May 2014 - SM Clark welcomes premium tattoo, piercing shop

ANGELES CITY -- Do you have a passion for tattoos yet worried about the results? Do you want to get inked to create an indelible mark that will make you impress, express, or both?

Worry not! SM City Clark now housed the latest tattoo shop in the city that offers not just a wide range of colors and styles, but also safe and affordable procedures: Majestic Tattoo Shop.

8 May 2014 - Aman Futures scam lady tries to bribe police

PAMPANGA -- A "mystery caller and friend" of pyramid scam lady fugitive Abigail Pendulas, the wife of Aman Futures Group Philippines, Inc. founder Manuel Amalilio, allegedly attempted to bribe elements of the Regional Intelligence Division (RID3) by offering P100 million for her release.

This was confirmed by Chief Inspector Melvin Montante on Thursday via text message, after the cancellation of a supposed press briefing regarding the alleged bribery.

8 May 2014 - Communities get potable water pumps

PAMPANGA -- Various communities in San Fernando now have access to safe potable drinking water through the help of two Rotary clubs and this city's Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin.

Lazatin said that the water pumps were made possible through the help of the Rotary Club of Makati South through their "Water for Life and Health Project."

8 May 2014 - Training aims to boost tourism

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Tourism Office gathered Thursday all tourism officers and in-house parish tourist guides from the 19 municipalities and three cities of Pampanga for a training and seminar designed to boost tourism in the province.

The participants of the seminar and training were asked to present and promote the landmarks and cuisine for which their respective town or city is known for.

8 May 2014 - 141 Tarlaquenos finish various PESO courses

PAMPANGA -- A total of 141 Tarlaquenos residing in the capital finished various courses in trainings sponsored by the city Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in the first quarter of 2014.

"Sixty residents of Barangay Bantog and students of our PESO Training Center finished a course on Massage Therapy, 56 residents of barangays Matatalaib and Amucao graduated on Beauty Care and 25 residents of Barangay San Rafael on food processing," Mayor Gelacio Manalang disclosed.

7 May 2014 - DOF discloses LGUs’ fiscal performance

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Finance (DOF) said its preliminary assessment of the fiscal performance of the local government units (LGUs) of Pampanga, Angeles City and the City of San Fernando for the period covering 2010 to 2012.

For Pampanga, the initial findings are impressive; for the two cities, the scores are not so good, if not dismal.

7 May 2014 - Mabalacat mayor vows probe on open dumpsite

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales said he will direct the city environment office to conduct an investigation regarding the reported presence of an open dumpsite near a low-cost housing area in Barangay Sapang Biabas here.

The mayor issued the statement following a television news report of CL TV 36, which aired complaints of some residents in the said village affected by the household waste coming from the Metro Clark subdivision.

7 May 2014 - 4-day advertising summit kicks off

SUBIC BAY -- The four-day Advertising Summit kicked off Wednesday here with some 2,000 advertising and marketing practitioners from all over the country.

The Advertising Summit, themed "Age of Enlightenment," was organized by the Association of Accredited Agencies of the Philippines (4As Philippines), and is the most-awaited advertising and marketing event, which will run until 10 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

7 May 2014 - Akyat bahay gang strikes again

PAMPANGA -- The Akyat bahay gang struck again in two separate places in Pampanga -- in one day -- starting by robbing the Municipal Agriculture Office in Barangay Mabical, Floridablanca on Monday.

In a report here, Superintendent Jhoanna Rosales, chief of police of Floridablanca, said the robbers carted away one laptop, three digicams and P2,000 cash.

7 May 2014 - Porac, police create ‘Task Force Barcia’

PAMPANGA -- The local government of Porac and Pampanga police have created a task force to look into the killing of Hacienda Dolores barangay councilman Nemelao "Boy" Barcia who was gunned down by still unidentified suspects last May 2 in Manibaug Paralaya here.

Mayor Carling dela Cruz told Sun.Star Pampanga that he has already ordered Porac police chief Superintendent Neil Miro to create Task Force Barcia that will go after the killers.

7 May 2014 - Mayor wants quality education for indigent students

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales said the Mabalacat City College (MCC) is committed to provide quality education students belonging to indigent families.

Morales, who is the chairman of the school, issued the statement during a "kapihan" press conference conducted by the City Government at the school on Wednesday.

6 May 2014 - Wife of Aman Futures scam leader nabbed

PAMPANGA -- The wife of Manuel Amalilio, founder of Aman Future Group Philippines Inc., who lured some P12 billion from their victims, was apprehended by the Regional Intelligence Division (RID3) inside a restaurant at Barangay Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, last Friday.

In a press conference Tuesday, Chief Superintendent Raul Petransanta, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, said that Abigail Pendulas, 26, wife and one of the co-conspirators of the said pyramid scam was nabbed by operatives of the RID3 led by Chief Inspector Melvin Montante.

6 May 2014 - Guv: DAR should fast track settlement

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) should speed up the settlement of the raging land dispute in Hacienda Dolores in Porac town to finally end related killings there, reportedly arising from the battle between farmer-members of the Aniban ng Nagkakaisang Mamayan sa Hacienda Dolores (Aniban) and private land holdings firms.

This was said by Governor Lilia Pineda on Tuesday, when she met officials and members of Aniban at Capitol who sought her help in ending the dispute and killings after a barangay councilman and farmer, Nemelao Barcia, was ambushed and shot dead last Friday evening in Barangay Manibaug Paralaya in Porac.

6 May 2014 - Dole issues CDO vs giant shipbuilder

PAMPANGA -- Department of Labor and Employment Central Luzon regional director Raymundo G. Agravante on Tuesday issued a Cease and Desist Order (CDO) to Finback Corporation, a subcontractor of the Hanjin Heavy Industries Corporation Philippines (HHIC-Phils), until further notice after an accident occurred at the box beam inside the trans-bulkhead at PO110-Block 2507 site of the Hanjin Shipyard in Subic, Zambales, resulting to the death of one employee.

Based on Agravante’s report to Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, the CDO was issued to Finback Corporation based on the results of the Accident Investigation conducted by the DOLE-3 Labor Law Compliance Officers (LLCOs) Engr. Angelito Longos and Jose Roberto Navata, which revealed that an accident happened on April 30, 2014 at around 3:05 p.m. when Ryan E. Gacus, 29, welder and fitter of the subcontractor, was reported to have accidentally obtained a second degree burn from an explosion of a gas-hose of oxy-ethylene used while the victim was conducting cutting and fit-up work.

6 May 2014 - Taxman commends Pampanga lawyers

PAMPANGA -- An official of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Region 4 on Tuesday commended lawyers in Pampanga for supporting the government tax drive.

BIR R-4 Regional Director Araceli Francisco said that lawyers in the province have volunteered to be among the first to undergo tax mapping, wherein revenue officials inspect business establishments for compliance to the requirements of taxation such as posting of tax documents, accomplishment of book of accounts and issuance of official receipts.

6 May 2014 - Porac execs laud villagers for arrest of tricycle thief

PAMPANGA -- Porac Mayor Condralito dela Cruz and police chief Superintendent Niel Miro lauded the efforts of the officials of Barangay Mitla here for the arrest of a notorious suspected tricycle thief.

Dela Cruz said that the officials were able to help in the arrest of Jayson Mariano, 25, of Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac. Police reports said that suspect "was on-board a stolen motorcycle on his way to escape after taking at knife-point the vehicle from Beejay Tabagon when he met an accident that led to his arrest."

6 May 2014 - Trader robbed after withdrawing money from ATM

ANGELES CITY -- A businesswoman who had just withdrawn money from a BDO automated teller machine (ATM) along Barangay Sto. Domingo, Angeles City was robbed on Sunday by motorcycle riding criminals.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, identified the victim as Regina Velasquez, 38, a resident of Villa Gloria Subdivision, Barangay San Jose, Angeles City.

6 May 2014 - San Fernando village execs attend Baguio study tour

PAMPANGA -- Barangay officials from the 35 villages of this city recently attended the "Lakbay-Aral" sponsored by the City Government and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Baguio City.

The City Government of San Fernando, in a statement, said that the learning activity held from April 30 to May 2 was intended to "widen barangay kagawads' knowledge and understanding of how good governance and shared responsibility can bring about the holistic development of society."

5 May 2014 - Angeles mayor: ‘Let a thousand flowers bloom’

ANGELES CITY – "Let a thousand flowers bloom", so said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan -- borrowing the famous quote from Mao Tse Tung -- as he disclosed recently that he has no objection on the proposal of the City Council calling for the conversion of highly urbanized Angeles City into a lone district, which may finally separate it from Mabalacat City and Magalang town.

During a breakfast forum with mediamen, Pamintuan stressed that Angeles City, or the whole First Congressional District for that matter, "does not belong only to the Pamintuans, Lazatins and Nepomucenos."

5 May 2014 - May 7 a non-working day in Pampanga, Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- Wednesday, May 7 is a special non-working day in Pampanga and Angeles City.

The holiday will give way to the commemoration of the 72nd death anniversary of Kapampangan martyr Jose Abad Santos, a former Supreme Court Chief Justice and World War II hero.

5 May 2014 - Lubao church declared an ICP

PAMPANGA -- The 442-year-old San Agustin Church, a historic and religious symbol of the Catholic faith for thousands of Lubaoeños in this town was declared an "Important Cultural Property" (ICP) by the National Museum on Monday.

Carmencita D.R. Mariano, Cultural Property Officer of the National Museum told Sun.Star Pampanga that the ICP is the second highest title or recognition that the National Museum bestows. She said that in order to be declared as an ICP, certain things should be considered like the historical and spiritual significance of the church or structure to the lives of the people.

5 May 2014 - American abducted by gunmen

SUBIC BAY -- Ten unidentified armed men on board two cars abducted an American at Baloy Beach in Barangay Barreto, Olongapo City, on Friday.

In a belated report here, Senior Superintendent Pedrito delos Reyes, Olongapo City police director, identified the victim as John Nash, an American national and presently residing at Casa Del Mar Subdivision located inside Baloy Beach.

5 May 2014 - Barangay councilman shot dead

PAMPANGA -- A barangay councilman was killed while his wife was wounded when unidentified armed men riding-in-tandem on board a motorcycle ambushed them along Barangay Manibaug Paralaya, Porac, Pampanga, Friday night.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, officer-in-charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office, said that Nemelao Barcia, 58, a barangay councilman and his wife Maria, 54, were on board an owner jeepney (CRL-139) when fired upon by the gunmen.

5 May 2014 - Porac coop gets P450,000 from DTI project

PAMPANGA -- The Palat Multi-Purpose Cooperative received P450,000 worth of Food Processing Equipment from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)'s Shared Service Facility or SSF program.

The launching and awarding was attended by Mayor Condralito dela Cruz, Vice Mayor Dexter David, DTI regional director Judith Angeles and DTI Provincial director Elenita Ordonia.

5 May 2014 - Police collar 16 in 2-day drug clearing operations

ANGELES CITY -- Joint elements of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Central Luzon Office and Angeles City police conducted two days of multiple buy bust operations along Fields Avenue over the weekend, which resulted in the arrest of 16 suspected pushers.

Tacio, in a report furnished Sun.Star Pampanga, identified those arrested last Thursday as Samanudin Obinal, Abdul Rahid, Jacquiline Willis alias Kirara, Estelita Tapang, Maryjane Darantinao, and Joselito Ablaza.

4 May 2014 - Hundreds join Lubao’s Sampaguita festival

PAMPANGA -- Hundreds of participants from the town's 44 barangays participated in the Third Sampaguita Festival held in front of the historic St. Agustin Church here on Sunday.

Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab said this year's festival featured participants in seven clusters coming from different villages.

4 May 2014 - Tiinz art exhibit at Museo ning Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- The granddaughter of the late Huk Supremo, Ka Luis Taruc, opened an art exhibit at the Museo Ning Angeles last Saturday.

Maria Cristina "Tiinz" Taruc, daughter of former City councilor Dr. Romy Taruc, came home after a successful art exhibit in Los Angeles and New York City.

4 May 2014 - Dole-Central Luzon holds World Day for Safety, Health

PAMPANGA -- Continuously intensifying its campaign for a safety and healthy workplace here in Central Luzon, the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office No. 3 (Dole-3) recently celebrated the Work Day for Safety and Health at Work, in two provinces in the region.

This year’s theme “Safety and Health in the Use of Chemicals at Work,” calls on industries, especially those exposed to chemicals, to take the necessary and proactive steps to prevent and control potential risks for workers, workplaces, communities, and the environment.

4 May 2014 - Malaysian hotels offer supervisory course

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Malaysian Association of Hotels Training and Education Centre (MAHTEC) is inviting hospitality management, hotel and restaurant management and tourism graduates to enroll in a six-month supervisory program in Malaysia beginning in June.

Participants will undergo an intensive 30-day program before participating in a full time supervisory internship allowing them to be Certified Hospitality Supervisory Programme (CHSP) awardees.

4 May 2014 - Promote sports development -- Morales

MABALACAT CITY -- Duquit Chairwoman Marjorie " MMS" Morales-Sambo said the barangay council here is pushing for sports development programs which will benefit the youth.

Sambo, daughter of City Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales, said during Saturday's opening of the First MMS Basketball Tournament that she and members of the barangay council had agreed to hold more sports events to ensure the proper training of young athletes in Duquit.

3 May 2014 - Village chief warns illegal gas traders

MABALACAT CITY -- A barangay chief here warned owners of small and unlicensed shops selling gasoline and other petroleum products refilled in soda bottles to stop their illegal operations.

Dr. Oscar Aurelio, chairman of Barangay Dau, said he ordered the stoppage of the merchants' illegal operations two months ago following an accident where two children died at Sitio Canida due to a fire and an explosion.

3 May 2014 - ‘Dukit’ get 10 Urian nominations

PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan independent film "Dukit" is nominated in at least 10 categories in this year's 37th Gawad Urian Awards.

This was announced by president Grace Javier Alfonso, National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera, and Mario Hernando of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino. Most of the nominees in this year's awards are independent films.

3 May 2014 - Legarda: Conserve water during El Niño

ANGELES CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda said that there is no time to waste in getting ready for the El Niño phenomenon that is expected to hit the country in June.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said the El Niño may trigger drought and stronger storms.

2 May 2014 - Agencies forge pact vs human trafficking

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) have joined hands to address the issue on human trafficking.

The three agencies recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement that will establish a facility that institutionalizes the response to the issues on exploitation and trafficking of women, the socio-emotional costs of feminized migration and institutionalize gender-responsive programs.

2 May 2014 - San Fernando to boost investment capital plan

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Edwin Santiago said Friday that moves are in the offing to boost the City Government's investment capital plan to make San Fernando more competitive.

This, after the City of San Fernando was recently named third most competitive city in the Philippines by the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation, which recognized the best local government units implementing the streamlining program in the issuance of mayor’s permits.

2 May 2014 - Mexico to promote corn festival

PAMPANGA -- Just like the Baguio's Flower Festival, this first class municipality wants its "Mais Festival" (Corn Festival) to become a big crowd drawer and a highlight tourism event in Pampanga.

Mayor Roy Manalastas told Sun.Star Pampanga during the festival on Friday that he has already requested the Municipal Council presided by Vice Mayor Jonathan Pangan to allot some P2 million for the municipal tourism office, which will promote the local fest next year.

2 May 2014 - Capitol wants improved coastal management in Pampanga towns

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga headed by Governor Lilia Pineda wants local government units here with coastal barangays to boost their efficiency in integrated coastal management (ICM).

This was bared Friday by Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Officer Engr. Art Punsalan, who said during the ICM conference at Capitol that "scoping" would be a tool in harnessing the efficiency of the management system.

2 May 2014 - SM City Clark joins nationwide job fair

CLARK FREEPORT -- SM City Clark has joined the nationwide job fair hosted by the SM Supermalls on Labor Day.

Ana Datu, SM City Clark manager said the job fair was conducted in all 46 SM malls, which have been catalyst in creating employment and business opportunities in areas where they are located.