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Balibago News Feb-2015

28 Feb 2015 - DILG launches disaster preparedness manual

PAMPANGA -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) launched Saturday the Operation Listo Disaster Preparedness Manual in an effort to beef up capabilities of local government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon to prevent severe loss of properties and lives during calamities specifically typhoons.

"LGUs are the frontliners in the response to any natural disaster, as mandated by law, as they are the ones most familiar with their terrain and resources and interact directly with citizens. We seek to strengthen their capacity on that aspect while preserving their flexibility in responding to it," DILG Regional Director and RDRRMC Vice-Chairperson for Preparedness Florida Dijan said during the launch.

28 Feb 2015 - Militants call for a people’s transition council to replace Aquino

CLARK FREEPORT -- The militant Anakpawis Partylist called for an establishment of a people’s transition council to replace the Aquino government as demands from different sectors for the president’s resignation are intensifying. The group joined the massive protest at Mendiola led by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (New Patriotic Alliance).

“Noong una pa lang ay maraming nang nagtatanong kung sino ang ipapalit kapag nag-resign si Aquino, ang aming paninindigan ay hindi sino kundi ano at ito ay ang transition council,” (Since the start, many were already asking who would replace in case of Aquino’s resignation; our position is not who, but what and this is the people’s transition council), Anakpawis Representative Fernando “Ka Pando” Hicap said during the protest.

28 Feb 2015 - P343M set for DA programs in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) has set some P343,493,927 worth of proposed projects for Central Luzon in a bid to streamline and boost local agriculture production.

The programs include a P22-million processing facilities in Aurora province, P130-million storage facility in Bataan province and P26- million farm machinery in Nueva Ecija along with P51-million onion hangar facility that is aimed that boosting onion processing in the area.

28 Feb 2015 - American national arrested for stealing hazelnut spread

SUBIC BAY -- An American national was arrested for stealing a bottle of hazelnut spread at SM City Olongapo, recently.

Senior Superintendent Pedrito Delos Reyes, Olongapo City police director, said a security personnel of SM City Olongapo arrested Hugh Harrelson, 33, an American national presently billeted at G-Homes hotel located at East Tapinac, Olongapo City.

28 Feb 2015 - 2 arrested for illegal drugs

PAMPANGA -- Police recently arrested five illegal drug pushers in Barangay Prado Siongco. Porac.

The arrest, the Lubao police anti-illegal drugs unit said, is part of their local campaign against the illegal drugs trade.

28 Feb 2015 - Pemberton trial set March 23

SUBIC BAY -- The trial of United States Marines Lance Corporal Joseph Pemberton has been set on March 23.

Pemberton, 19, is facing a murder charge over the death of Filipino transgender Jennifer Laude last year in this city.

27 Feb 2015 - Pampanga towns to experience 10-hour power interruption

PAMPANGA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced Friday the scheduled shutdown of some of its transmission facilities in parts of Mexico town, Arayat, Magalang and Mabalacat, Pampanga on March 1, Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NGCP Corporate Communications Officer Ernest Vidal said the affected distribution utilities are Pampanga I Electric Cooperative Inc. (Pelco I), Pampanga II Electric Cooperative Inc. (Pelco II), and Pampanga Rural Electric Service Cooperative Inc. (Presco).

27 Feb 2015 - Arsenic poisoning worries Pampanga town folk

Food and health safety has become a major concern in this town after the Department of Health (DOH)-Central Luzon confirmed a number of cases of a skin disease that has been associated with exposure to high levels of arsenic.

Based on results of the confirmatory test, the DOH revealed that higher levels of arsenic were traced among 17 out of the 100 people who were examined.

27 Feb 2015 - BCDA: Construction of fuel station along SCTEX starts

CLARK FREEPORT -- The state-owned Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) said that motorists plying the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) can expect added convenience by the end of the year with the first ever service area to be constructed by the country’s largest independent oil player.

BCDA president and CEO Arnel Paciano D. Casanova said ground breaking rites for the first SCTEx service area was held last Wednesday led by Seaoil Philippines Inc.

27 Feb 2015 - Wig-making program to benefit 160 in 2 Central Luzon provinces

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC), in cooperation with two locators here, is currently conducting a joint skills training and employment program for 160 individuals from the contiguous areas of this Freeport zone.

In support of CDC's effort to generate 100,000 jobs by next year, the state-owned firm has partnered with Aderans Philippines Inc. (API) and Starboard Manpower Services Inc. (SMSI) for the training and employment program on wig making project.

27 Feb 2015 - DTI-Central Luzon posts notable performance in 2014

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon reported significant accomplishments for Calendar Year 2014.

These are reflected in the following areas: SME development, jobs generation, investment facilitation and consumer advocacy for the seven provinces of Central Luzon.

26 Feb 2015 - BCDA eyes Clark link to North-South railway

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is studying the construction of a 55-kilometer railway connector that will link Clark Green City with the proposed North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), which will run from Malolos, Bulacan to Calamba, Laguna.

In a statement, BCDA president and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Casanova disclosed that they are in talks with at least two firms, the Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Corporation and another unnamed Japanese company.

26 Feb 2015 - CDC disperses veggie seeds to 300 farmers in Tarlac

CLARK FREEPORT -- Some 300 farmers benefited in the dispersal of vegetable seeds for backyard vegetable production to supplement the vegetable needs of their families and possible income from sales of excess produce.

The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) dispersed the vegetable seeds to selected farmer-beneficiaries in communities contiguous to this Freeport and Special Economic Zones.

26 Feb 2015 - Nepomucenos will support Pamintuan

ANGELES CITY -- Cut-Cut barangay chairwoman Cecile Nepomuceno, wife of former vice governor Robin Nepomuceno and mother of Councilor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno, reiterated her family's support to the administration of incumbent Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.

Nepomuceno said that the Nepomuceno family will be supporting Pamintuan who will seek his final term in the coming May 2016 elections.

26 Feb 2015 - Tigerair offers P1,088 Clark-Hong Kong flights

CLARK FREEPORT -- Tigerair Philippines is offering seat sale for its Clark Hong Kong flights for as low as P1,088 for travel period March 9 to June 14, 2015.

This is part of the airlines’ seat sale to all its destinations from 25 February 2015 to 27 February 2015 or until seats last.

26 Feb 2015 - Central Luzon attracts P55.11-B in new investments for 2014

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon, through its OIC-Regional Director Judith Angeles recently reported to the Regional Development Council-Sectoral Committee on Economic Development (RDC-SCED) that the region attracted a total of P55.11-billion in new investments for Calendar Year 2014, based on the list of the Board of Investments (BOI) Approved Projects.

The investments are estimated to translate into more than 3,000 new jobs for the residents of Central Luzon.

25 Feb 2015 - Nepomuceno, Pamintuan unite for 2016

ANGELES CITY -- This city's Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan confirmed Wednesday that they are now in an alliance with Councilor Bryan Nepomuceno in what observers believe is a move to deter the mayoralty plans of Senator Manuel "Lito" Lapid in 2016 here.

Pamintuan, during a breakfast forum with media, said that the young Nepomuceno is now with the administration majority.

25 Feb 2015 - 4 injured in school campus blast

ANGELES CITY -- Four persons were injured when a suspected improvised bomb exploded in a parking lot of a school in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Tuesday night.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, identified the injured as Nolaid Cayanan, 44, a resident of Barangay Manibaug, Porac, Pampanga; Julie Ann Garica, 29, and Maries Sorima, 17, both salesladies and both residents of Barangay Amsic, Angeles City; and Michelle Gadi, 14, a resident of Barangay Paralaya, Porac, Pampanga.

25 Feb 2015 - Angeles commemorates people power revolt

ANGELES CITY -- The Philippines may have been taking steps in the right direction after the 1986 People Power Revolution, but for Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, huge social, political, and economic challenges remain unresolved even after 29 years since the historic movement.

This year's anniversary is anchored on the theme "EDSA 29: Ituloy ang Pagbabago!" (Continue Change), which highlights the importance of using the spirit and ideals of the 1986 People Power Revolution in bringing about positive change in the country.

25 Feb 2015 - Grant franchise to colorum trikes, village chiefs to council

ANGELES CITY -- At least two village chairmen here have asked the Provincial Board to allow drivers and operators of "colorum tricycles" to secure franchises from the City Government.

Balibago chairman Rodelio "Tony" Mamac expressed support to the call of Angeles City Federation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (ACFEDTODA) that their colorum members, numbering more than 1,800, be granted permits to operate.

25 Feb 2015 - Cops foil attempt to steal government official’s SUV

Patrolling policemen foiled an attempt by suspected carnappers to steal the SUV of the regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Authority (Tesda) parked along the national highway in Barangay Sindalan, this city, Monday.

Superintendent Rechie Duldulao, city chief of police, said patrolling policemen stopped the suspects in taking the Toyota Fortuner (TQN-956) of Teodoro Gatchalian, 56, regional director of Tesda Central Luzon, who is a resident of Kalayaan Village, Barangay Quebiawan, San Fernando.

25 Feb 2015 - Masantol into solar energy

PAMPANGA -- In an effort aimed at decreasing the financial burden of the local government and promoting the use of renewable energy, this town has already installed 200 streetlights that are being powered by solar energy.

This action has already resulted to immediate benefits, said Masantol Mayor Danilo Guinto.

25 Feb 2015 - Bamban mayor sworn in as NPC member

PAMPANGA -- It was like a feast day Wednesday here in the town of Bamban when Jose Antonio T. Feliciano took his oath as new member of the Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC) before Representative Enrique Cojuangco, Sr., provincial chairman of the NPC in Tarlac.

Almost 2,000 people witnessed the oath taking, complete with live stage performances of skits, dances and a drum and lyre group.

24 Feb 2015 - Lubao hot air balloon fest preparations in full swing

PAMPANGA -- With barely a month to go before the start of this year's Lubao International Balloon Festival, preparations are now in full swing for the town's biggest event.

Now on its second year, the balloon festival, which will take place in Pradera Verde, Barangay Prado Siongco on March 26 to 29, is expected to showcase 40 hot air balloons from Germany, Malaysia, Europe and the United States. It will also raise 12 special shaped balloons like Darth Vader, Yoda,Obelix, Frog, and Humpty Dumpty.

24 Feb 2015 - Nicdao takes helm of PamCham leadership

CLARK FREEPORT -- Businessman Jess Nicdao formally assumed the post of president of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce of Industry on Monday vowing to continue the development programs, advocacies and objectives of one of the most active business chambers in region.

Nicdao was formally sworn into office with the new set of PamCham officers during the 47th General Membership Meeting and Induction of Officers at the Holiday Inn here. The induction was presided by Jollibee chairman and CEO Tony Tan Caktiong.

24 Feb 2015 - TV personalities, programs awarded in CL Media Awards

ANGELES CITY -- The Holy Angel University (HAU) Communicators League recently held the 2nd Paragala Central Luzon Media Awards at the HAU Theatre.

The country's top TV networks, ABS-CBN and GMA, both garnered 14 trophies with the former bagging two of the most coveted prizes of the event, Best National TV Station and Best Regional TV Station.

24 Feb 2015 - Angeles, Davao mayors ink sisterhood pact

ANGELES CITY -- The local chief executive here recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the City of Davao, which establishes a sisterhood city pact that will nurture and encourage cooperation between the two local governments and their constituencies.

Held February 23 at the Angeles University Foundation (AUF), Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte signed the MOA witnessed by University Chancellor, Dr. Emmanuel Y. Angeles, together with selected stakeholders and AUF student & faculty members.

24 Feb 2015 - DA hosts trade fair on high value crops

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Luzon, through the High Value Crops Development Banner Program (HVCDP) in collaboration with the Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), is currently hosting the High Value Crop Trade Fair at the Capitol grounds.

Since the upland farmers of Pampanga have the problem in marketing their produce, the monthly trade fair aims to promote upland high value commercial crops thru the conduct of local trade fair to make available and accessible quality natural food products.

24 Feb 2015 - PDIC raises P349-M from asset sales

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) allocated a total of P159-million worth of projects in this city and other nine municipalities of Pampanga in 2014 for the Bottoms-Up Budgeting (BuB) program of the agency.

DILG Pampanga Provincial Director Myrvi Fabia identified the City of San Fernando and the municipalities of Lubao, Sasmuan, Guagua, Mexico, San Simon, Apalit, Candaba, Macabebe and Masantol as project beneficiaries of BUB Program.

24 Feb 2015 - Lazatin files ordinance on waterways cleanup

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin recently filed an ordinance institutionalizing a city-wide waterways cleanup day at least once a month.

Lazatin filed Proposed Ordinance No. 814-01-15 also known as setting the first Saturday of every month as “Barangay Waterways Cleanup Day” in the city.

24 Feb 2015 - Widus to open peppers 21

CLARK FREEPORT -- Widus Hotel and Casino, Clark’s preferred one-stop leisure destination, delights its patrons once again as it premieres the world famous 21 day dry-aged steak with the opening of Peppers 21.

“We aim to give only the best luxury lifestyle as we bring in world-class fine dining experience here at Widus with Peppers 21”, shared Alfred Reyes Widus general manager.

23 Feb 2015 - 18 Pampanga towns in DILG’s GFH roster

PAMPANGA -- Eighteen Pampanga municipalities have made it to list of the 2014 Seal of Good Local Governance: Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The GFH town recipients include the local governments of Apalit, Arayat, Bacolor, Candaba, Floridablanca, Guagua, Lubao, Macabebe, Magalang, Masantol, Mexico, Minalin, Porac, San Luis, San Simon, Santa Ana, Sta. Rita and Sto. Tomas. Only the Municipality of Sasmuan was not on the 2014 list.

23 Feb 2015 - Lack of equipment, training hamper firemen

PAMPANGA - A fire volunteer official said the efforts to fight a deadly fire in Barangay Sto. Cristo were hampered because the old fire equipment that the town used during the incident barely mitigated the raging flames.

The fire tore through more than 60 households in the said village, where a one-year old boy died and hundreds were left homeless.

23 Feb 2015 - DTI Central Luzon to hold Regional Bamboo Congress

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon is inviting bamboo enthusiasts, furniture shop owners, businessmen, media members and other stakeholders to the Regional Bamboo Congress to be held on February 27, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Pampanga.

State Agricultural University (PSAU), formerly Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC).

23 Feb 2015 - P500,000 released for Sta. Ana town scholars

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Rommel Concepcion led Monday the distribution of P500,000 educational assistance to indigent students of the town in simple ceremonies in front of the municipal hall here attended by recipients and their parents.

Concepcion reported that the municipal government has already given millions in cash assistance since the start of his term.

23 Feb 2015 - ‘Pupul ning Banua’ to fete Angeleńo artists

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here is set to extol local artists with the “Pupul ning Banua” awards to be held on February 28, 7 p.m., at the Museo ning Angeles in Barangay Sto. Rosario.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that “Pupul” has been conceptualized to recognize Angeleńos who have been making strides in the field of cinema, music, fashion, visual arts, and literature, among others, in the past year.

22 Feb 2015 - ‘Pupul ning Banua’ to fete Angeleńo artists

22 Feb 2015 - Iconic PSD chimney to be reconstructed

PAMPANGA -- To allay speculations that one of the three decades-old chimneys of the Pampanga Sugar Development Corporation or Pasudeco was “torn down,” officials on Friday said that they are now consulting with heritage and structural experts in reconstructing the smoke stack which was cut in half about two weeks ago.

The chimney reportedly broke down because of age, evening of February 8 while several netizens and observers speculated that the chimney -- a historic heritage landmark built in March 1921 -- was purposely torn down.

22 Feb 2015 - Massive effort to save dolphin ends

SUBIC FREEPORT -- A massive collaborative effort to rescue and rehabilitate a Fraser's dolphin that was the lone survivor of an “unusual mortality event" affecting 31 dolphins last month has ended with its death.

The group of dolphins, which were found along the coast of thirteen different towns in Pangasinan and La Union, are suspected by authorities to be victims of dynamite fishing.

21 Feb 2015 - Kapampangan film reaps awards in Gawad Tanglaw

ANGELES CITY -- Internationally acclaimed film “Magkakabaung” bagged awards for Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Film with its lead actor Allen Dizon also winning Best Actor and sharing the honor stage with actresses Nora Aunor and Angelica Panganiban in the recent 13th Gawad Tanglaw awarding ceremonies the other day.

Gawad Tanglaw (Gawad Tagapuring mga Akademisyan ng Aninong Gumagalaw) is an academe-based award-giving body that honors the best in Philippine media annually. It recognizes outstanding works and personalities in cinema, television, radio, print, and theater arts which contribute to the development of Philippine arts as a whole.

21 Feb 2015 - DA, ATI conduct training for cassava planters

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Central Luzon in collaboration with the Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center 3 is now conducting the season-long Training of Trainers (TOT) on Integrated Crop Management for Cassava for the period of February to December 2015.

Andrew Villacorta, DA regional director, said that a total of 30 selected agriculture extension workers, agricultural technician and DA employees from the Provinces of Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija and Aurora are attending the said activity.

21 Feb 2015 - Epira causes Luzon brownouts

ANGELES CITY -- The Anakpawis Party-list said that the reported brownouts in Luzon to occur on the first half of March are all but consequences of Republic Act 9136, or the Electric Power Reform Act (Epira) of 2001.

The group claimed that the Epira law has surrendered the control of the country’s power plants to the private sector.

20 Feb 2015 - Guv wants ‘help’ for scavengers

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda wants a Health, Education, Livelihood Program (HELP) package for scavengers in Pampanga whom she acknowledged as one of the "environment heroes of the province."

The governor said scavengers play the lead role in the provincial waste management program in line with Capitol’s advocacy in making Pampanga a beautiful, clean, and environment-friendly province.

20 Feb 2015 - Angeles trike drivers ask council to open franchise

ANGELES CITY --- Tricycle drivers and operators from various associations in this city are asking the city council to open the issuance of franchise for trikes plying the city.

Pedring Punzalan, president of the Angeles City Federation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association, told the city councilors during the hearing that close to 2,000 of their members are operating sans permits from the City Government.

20 Feb 2015 - Angeles gets GFH award

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan announced that the City Government of Angeles is one of the recipients of the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) award from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

"This is another proof of the soundness of our financial policies and the transparency of all our transactions. We have continuously and consistently complied with the DILG’s directives on full disclosure policy," Pamintuan said.

20 Feb 2015 - Crime group members killed in shoot out

PAMPANGA -- Two members of a notorious crime group involved in robbery hold-up and carnapping activities in Pampanga were killed during a brief firefight with policemen in Barangay Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Thursday.

Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono Jr., Pampanga police provincial director, identified the fatalities as Francis Badillo and Jessie Romero, alias Ka Jessie Mallari, both were residents of Mexico town.

20 Feb 2015 - Binay asks Aquino to convene NSC

CLARK FREEPORT -- Vice-President Jejomar Binay called Wednesday on President Benigno Aquino III to convene the National Security Council (NSC) to assess the national peace and security situation and define appropriate measures.

"In light of recent developments especially the reports of renewed clashes in Mindanao, I urge President Aquino to convene the National Security Council," Binay said.

20 Feb 2015 - Roxas orders cascading of Oplan Lambat Sibat

PAMPANGA -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II ordered police officials to ensure that Oplan Lambat-Sibat be cascaded in a "deliberate, programmatic and systematic" manner in Central Luzon and other regions of the country.

Roxas said Oplan Lambat-Sibat will be launched in Central Luzon maybe on the first week of March and in Calabarzon in the first week of April this year.

19 Feb 2015 - Capitol expends P20 million for basic social services

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government headed by Governor Lilia Pineda expended a total of P 20,362,417.39 for the delivery of various basic social services for the year 2014, according to a report submitted by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).

The report shows Capitol launched various programs, projects, and activities benefitting Kapampangans from various sectoral groups such as children and youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, women, indigenous people (IPs), and family heads and other needy adults (FHONA).

19 Feb 2015 - 153 househelps, stakeholders attend Araw ng Kasambahay in CL

PAMPANGA -- Some 153 household helpers or "kasambahays" attended the recently concluded Araw ng Kasambahay in three provinces in Central Luzon, the Labor department said on Tuesday.

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) holds this annual event to commemorate the valuable contributions of kasambahays to families of working parents.

19 Feb 2015 - Fernandina among this year's Mansmith young market masters

PAMPANGA -- Fernandina Kathlene Gomez is among this year's awardees of the 10th Mansmith Young Market Masters Awards (YMMA).

Gomez is the Marketing Group Manager of Bounty Agro Ventures Inc. and this year’s Mansmith YMMA Awardee for Marketing Management. She is a Pampanga High School alumna and a native of this capital city.

19 Feb 2015 - Pampanga hits TB treatment target

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga hit the exact national tuberculosis (TB) treatment success rate of 90 percent in 2014 and exceeded the target of 90 percent with a 91 percent case detection rate for the same aspect last year.

This was noted by the Innovations and Multisectoral Partnerships to Achieve Control of Tuberculosis (Impact), a United States Agency for International Development-funded, Philippine Business for Social Progress-managed non-government organization based in Intramuros, Manila.

19 Feb 2015 - Angeles least vulnerable to climate change

ANGELES CITY -- This city emerged as least vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in the country and it could sustain its robust economic growth through sound infrastructure development and active trade facilitation, according to the latest study of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Bank of Philippines Islands Foundation (BPIF).

The study entitled "Business Risk Assessment and the Management of Climate Change Impacts" assessed the climate change preparedness of assessed the climate change preparedness of 16 major cities in the Philippines: Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Dagupan, Laoag, Zamboanga, Angeles, Batangas, Naga, Tacloban, Butuan, General Santos, Puerto Princesa and Santiago.

19 Feb 2015 - Guiao: Camp Dau road widening to start soon

MABALACAT CITY -- Pampanga First District Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao expressed yesterday optimism that the widening of the Camp Dau road will start soon.

Guiao said Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales assured him that he will talk to some of the residents who aired their opposition against the P29-million national government project, which will be implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Central Luzon office.

19 Feb 2015 - DA hosts Gawad Saka workshop

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Central Luzon conducted its Gawad Saka Review Planning and Workshop held at Fiona's Farm La Paz in Magalang town to encourage best practices in local agriculture.

The Gawad Saka is a prestigious award given by DA to honor and pay tribute to the outstanding achievers in agriculture and fisheries in the country. The DA hopes to encourage more farmers to go into other technologies, practices and skills development to further improve agricultural yield and improve the lives of local farmers and communities engaged in farming.

19 Feb 2015 - Man nabbed in Sta. Rita for illegal drugs

PAMPANGA -- A man was arrested Wednesday morning following a buy bust operation conducted by the Sta. Rita Municipal Police Station (MPS) at Barangay San Agustin here.

Police Senior Inspector Michael Masangkay, chief of Sta. Rita police, said the arrest was part of their efforts to put an end to the vast illegal drugs operations in the town.

19 Feb 2015 - Mamac all out for Pampanga redistricting

ANGELES CITY -- Barangay Balibago village chief Tony Mamac said that he is all out in supporting moves to reshape the district configuration of the province as well as turning Angeles City into a lone district.

Mamac told the current population, needs and political situation in the province demand a wider representation. He added that the redistricting would enable better resource management for the people in communities were funding and development is needed.

19 Feb 2015 - Paskuhan sale ‘aboveboard’

PAMPANGA -- Officials of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) on Wednesday disclosed that the sale of Paskuhan Village or Hilaga is "aboveboard" and that documents and processes related to its disposal are well in order.

Tieza general manager and former Pampanga governor Mark Lapid, along with operations manager Jethro Lozada and assistant chief of operations for infrastructure Atty. Guiller Asido, clarified during an interview over dwRW 95.1 FM’s Talakayan that "everything is aboveboard and all transactions regarding the sale of Paskuhan Village were followed with full transparency."

19 Feb 2015 - Village chief: Residents oppose widening of Camp Dau road

MABALACAT CITY -- Residents here are opposing the widening of the Camp Dau Road which leads to the old gate or checkpoint of Clark Freeport.

This was learned from Dau Barangay Chairman Oscar Aurelio, who said that he asked officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to suspend the start of the construction until issues are resolved.

19 Feb 2015 - Pamintuan: Angeles crime rate down 15%

ANGELES CITY -- The index crime rate has declined by as much as 15 percent, from 554 to 470 covering January 2014 to January 2015, signifying improved peace and order in this city.

This was according to a report from Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) as Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan recently convened the first meeting of the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) for 2015.

19 Feb 2015 - Morales: City jail congested

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Maricel "Marang" Morales has stressed the need to build more cells at the Angeles City District Jail, which already exceeded its maximum number of inmates.

During a visit on Valentine's Day, Morales said she and Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan found out that that prison cells at the district jail are overcrowded.

19 Feb 2015 - Police files double murder charges vs killer of 2 females

ANGELES CITY -- Police on Tuesday filed double murder charges against the killer of two females who were found in two rooms at Clarkview Hotel located in Barangay Malabanias, Angeles City.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said Angeles City Police station 4 has filed double murder cases before the Angeles City Prosecutor’s Office against the suspect identified as Blessed John Albano, 19.

17 Feb 2015 - AbeKa pooh-poohs Lapid claim on bonus tax law

ANGELES CITY -- The Partido Abe Kapampangan (AbeKa) pooh-poohed Tuesday the claim of Senator Lito Lapid that he is a principal author of the new law, Republic Act 10653, that exempts the 13th month pay and other bonuses from taxes.

"The claim is like cattle rustling. As we put it in Kapampangan, it is like mapanaku damulag," said AbeKa deputy secretary general William Aguilar.

17 Feb 2015 - Angeles celebrates National Arts Month

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) has prepared a sundry of art events in celebration of the National Arts Month (NAM) 2015.

With the theme "Highlighting Local Cultural Genius to Promote Pride of Place", local Kapampangan and Angeleńo artists will take center stage as they showcase their talents and artistry in the different art disciplines.

17 Feb 2015 - Anakpawis: Aquino suppressing issues on Mamasapano clash

MABALACAT CITY -- Anakpawis partylist Representative Fernando "Ka Pando" Hicap slammed the suspension of the joint hearing of the committees on Public Order and Peace, Reconciliation and Unity on the Mamasapano incident at the House of Representatives.

Hicap claimed that the move is yet another deceitful ploy of President Aquino to suppress the truth from the Filipino people.

17 Feb 2015 - Capitol to help in rebuilding homes of Guagua fire victims

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda said Monday that they are now in coordination with the victims of the recent fire incident in Guagua town that rendered some 85 families homeless as the Provincial Government of Pampanga is set to assist the victims in rebuilding their homes.

"We have ordered the clearing of the area so that they can start rebuilding," Governor Pineda said in an interview at the Capitol.

17 Feb 2015 - Fernandino couples wed on Valentine’s Day

PAMPANGA -- A mass wedding was held last February 14 in celebration of Valentine's Day and the last installment for the celebration of Kaganapan 2015, the 14th celebration of the cityhood of San Fernando.

Led by City Mayor Edwin Santiago, City Civil Registry Officer Rimando Umali, Kaganapan 2015 chairperson Virgilio Cortez and co-chairperson of Kasalang Balen Engr. Jose Diaz, the mass wedding was attended by a total of 89 couples all from the 35 barangays of the city.

17 Feb 2015 - Suspected killer of 2 women arrested

ANGELES CITY -- Police arrested Monday the suspected killer of two women who were found dead in two rooms of Clarkview hotel located along Malabanias, Angeles City.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said arrested was Blessed John Albano, 19, a native of Ramon, Isabela.

17 Feb 2015 - Porac gets good financial housekeeping award

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has announced recently in its official website that Porac is one of the local government units in this province to receive the much-coveted Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) Award.

Mayor Condralito Dela Cruz said the award only proves that his administration is serious with its transparency and good governance stance.

17 Feb 2015 - Camarines Sur village execs observe best practices of Balibago

ANGELES CITY -- Camarines Sur Third District Maria Leonor "Leni" Gerona-Robredo yesterday said that he wants barangays in her district to be inspired and work for the progress of the respective villages.

Robredo led barangay leaders from Calabanga town, Camarines Sur (CamSur) province in a whole-day educational tour (Lakbay Aral) in Barangay Balibago on Tuesday.

17 Feb 2015 - Balloon fest boosts local economy

CLARK FREEPORT -- Thousands of local merchants and members of the transport industry in and around the Freeport here profited from the recently concluded 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF).

The trickle-down effect in the economy was felt by the local businesses as an estimated 200,000 spectators locally and from around the world flocked to the aerosports event.

16 Feb 2015 - Paskuhan lots sold, not donated to PTA

PAMPANGA -- The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) said Monday that the two parcels of land where Paskuhan Village (later renamed to Hilaga) is located were sold to the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) and not donated as speculated by some observers.

Tieza said it is still waiting for the issuance of a notice of award to reported winning bidder SM Development Corporation.

16 Feb 2015 - San Fernando hits P1-B revenue goal

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando has reached the first billion of its revenue goal for 2014 with a total revenue collection of P1.077 billion, sourced mainly from business taxes and realty taxes paid by business owners and real property owners in this city.

Mayor Edwin Santiago said that without increasing taxes, the city was able to realize 92 percent of its last year’s target pegged at P1.17 billion.

16 Feb 2015 - Lapid authors 13th month pay, bonus tax exemption laws

PAMPANGA -- Senator Lito Lapid is one of the principal authors in the Senate of the new law exempting the 13th month pay and other benefits from income taxation, said lawyer Filmer Abrajano, Lapid's chief of staff.

The law, now known as Republic Act 10653, was approved by President Benigno Aquino III last February 12.

16 Feb 2015 - 600th Air Base Wing promotes oral health

CLARK FREEPORT -- The 600th Air Base Wing (ABW) of the Philippine Air Force recently celebrated its 22nd Founding Anniversary by extending dental services to hundreds of school children here.

The 600th ABW's task is to operate and maintain base facilities within the total of 313.39 hectares comprising the Clark Special Economic Zone.

16 Feb 2015 - Priest bashing on Facebook continues

PAMPANGA -- Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto's appeal to Kapampangans last year to stop the unabated bashing of priest on the social networking site Facebook seemed to be unheeded by unscrupulous groups as one Facebook page still continues to issue statements discrediting the parish priest of Santa Rita de Cascia in Santa Rita town.

Earlier, Aniceto has called the people behind two Facebook accounts to refrain from issuing damaging statements on Facebook against the priest of Santa Rita and Santa Monica Parish in Mexico town.

16 Feb 2015 - New vehicles ready to serve Fernandinos

PAMPANGA -- Faster and more efficient delivery of services await Fernandinos as the City Government here acquired more service vehicles for public use.

This was stated by Mayor Edwin Santiago during the blessing and inauguration of the 39 newly acquired vehicles by the City Government held in front of the city hall on Monday.

15 Feb 2015 - 2 suspected drug pushers nabbed in Floridablanca

Michael Manuel, 28, a resident of Pabanlag Resettlement; and Millet Juego, 31, a resident of Barangay Del Carmen, both in the town of Floridablanca, were arrested during a buy-bust operation conducted by operatives of Floridablanca police in Barangay Paguiruan, Floridablanca, Pampanga, over the weekend.

Superintendent Jhonna Rosales, chief of police of Floridablanca, said the two were collared after they handed to a buyer poseur three small heat sealed transparent sachets containing suspected shabu and P500 marked money used in the operation.

15 Feb 2015 - 2 women found dead in hotel

ANGLELES CITY -- Two women were found dead in two rooms of Clarkview hotel located along Malabanias, Angeles City, on Friday.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said the two victims were found in separate rooms of Clarkview by hotel attendants.

15 Feb 2015 - Paragala Central Luzon media awards set February 21

ANGELES CITY -- The most liked, most, watched, and the most popular icons on Philippine television will once again take the center stage at this year's Paragala Central Luzon Media Awards, which will take place on February 21 at the Holy Angel University (HAU) Theatre.

Now on its second year, the Paragala was convened by the HAU Communicators' League, the official organization of Communication Arts students in the university.

14 Feb 2015 - Sectoral initiative sought to help streetkids

ANGELES CITY -- Balibago Barangay chairman Tony Mamac has called on sectoral initiatives to help keep children off the streets.

This, after Mamac initiated rescue operations taking dozens of children off the streets.

13 Feb 2015 - Boy killed in Guagua fire

PAMPANGA -- A one-year old boy died and hundreds were left homeless a day before Valentine's Day after a huge fire razed more than 60 households in a residential lot in this town.

Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono, Pampanga police provincial director, identified the fatality as Louise Gabriel Olimpio Lapire of Santo Cristo, a densely populated village in said part of Guagua town.

13 Feb 2015 - Mabalacat RPT shares reach over P30M in 2014 -- Morales

MABALACAT CITY -- The City Government of Mabalacat has clarified that its Real Property Tax (RPT) shares last year was recorded at P30,293,474.06.

Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales denied reports that only some P899,819 had been remitted to the provincial coffer in 2014.

13 Feb 2015 - Kapampangan receives ‘Ani ng Dangal’ with Vilma Santos, Jake Cuenca

Multi-Awarded Photographer Ruston Banal received the 2015 Ani ng Dangal Awards in the field of photography at the National Museum in Manila over the weekend sharing the stage with Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto and actor Jake Cuenca.

Ani ng Dangal or "Harvest of Honors" is a state recognition given by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts under the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines. It

13 Feb 2015 - PhilHealth, Lubao RHU conduct blood typing for pregnant women

PAMPANGA -- In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Philippine Health (PhilHealth) Insurance Corporation, in cooperation with the Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Barangay San Isidro,conducted freeblood type testing for more than 500 pregnant women in this town.

“The blood typing activity is part of the PhilHealth’s 20th anniversary. Knowing the blood type is basic for pregnant women so the PhilHealth decided to expand the activity in the different parts of the country,” said Ma. Elizabeth Capuli of the PhilHealth Region III.

13 Feb 2015 - NPA rebels burn heavy equipment

Members of the New People's Army (NPA) burned a heavy equipment in a construction site in Barangay Palomaria, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, Friday morning.

Senior Superintendent Crizaldo Nieves, Nueva Ecija police provincial director, said the incident occurred along the Bongabon-Rizal provincial road at 12:15 Friday.

12 Feb 2015 - Angeles village amusement tax gets council’s nod

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government has approved an ordinance passed by the council of Barangay Malabanias imposing fees in places of recreation and amusement centers.

The city council approved the amended version of Malabanias Barangay Council Ordinance Number 02 Series of 2014 enacting the imposition of barangay fees in businesses.

12 Feb 2015 - ‘Fallen 44’ inspires future commandos

PAMPANGA -- "Police trainees should draw inspiration from the 44 slain Special Action Force (SAF) commandos in fulfilling their duties of fighting crime in the country."

Thus said Police Superintendent Rodel Pastor as he addressed the recognition rites of the 213 members of the "Matikas" Class of 2014 at the Regional Training Center III in Barangay Sto. Nińo here.

12 Feb 2015 - LTO Angeles wins 'Seal of Excellence' award

ANGELES CITY -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has conferred the citizen's Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Angeles City District Office last February 6.

LTO Angeles District Office chief Aida Santiago received the award from Robert Martinez, acting commissioner of the CSC, in ceremonies held at the CSC Region III office at the Government Center in Barangay Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga.

12 Feb 2015 - Fire guts P300,000 worth of grocery items

PAMPANGA -- The fire that hit a grocery store in a building located at the Old Public Market in San Fernando on Wednesday caused some P300,000 in damages to property.

The City of San Fernando Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said that the fire probably resulted from an electrical short circuit.

12 Feb 2015 - LGBT advocate to host CLTV 36 lifestyle show

PAMPANGA -- The Laus Group-owned regional television network CLTV 36 has announced that starting this February, it will begin airing a new show called "Living in Style with Michelle Jhoie Ferraris".

This new local lifestyle show will have its primetime debut on February 14, Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and will have replays on Fridays from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

12 Feb 2015 - Government asked to stop police, military operations in Mindanao

ANGELES CITY -- The Anakpawis Partylist has asked the government to stop police and military operations in Mindanao.

This as the House of Representatives conduct its investigation on the clash between the Philippine National Police – Special Action Force (PNP–SAF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) forces in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao

12 Feb 2015 - PELCO I preps up for AGMA

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga I Electric Cooperative Inc. (PELCO I) is presently preparing for its upcoming Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) to be held on February 15 at the PELCO I Main Office, Barangay Sto. Domingo, this town.

Engineer Roy De Leon, Institutional Services Department manager of PELCO I, said that they are currently on the preparation stage for their big event this coming Sunday as they are aiming for more member-consumers attending the annual assembly.

11 Feb 2015 - ‘Badong’ art exhibit opens in Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- In line with the celebration of the National Arts Month in this city, the Angeles City of Tourism Office (ACTO) is currently hosting “Badong: Salvador Bernal Designs the Stage” exhibit at the Angeles City Library and Information Center.

“We wanted to bring arts, culture and tourism closer to the Angeleńos and it is such an honor that Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and National Council for Culture and Arts (NCCA) granted us this rare opportunity to host this exhibit,” said Dr. Richard Daenos, City Tourism Officer.

11 Feb 2015 - Angeles cops observe awareness week to prevent child abuse

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) joins the observance of the National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Commercial Sexual exploitation, or the Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Week (CSAAW).

This year’s observance started last February 8 and will run until February 14 under the theme “Labanan ang Pang-aabusong Sekswal sa mga Bata: NOW NA!”

11 Feb 2015 - Capitol completes P1.6-B infra projects in 4 years

PAMPANGA -- Assistant Provincial Engineer Olimpio “Noli” Pangan revealed Wednesday that a total of P1,637,749,396.65 worth of infrastructure projects have been completed by Capitol in less than four years of the administration of Governor Lilia Pineda.

Pangan said that in the first term of Governor Pineda alone, some P1.03-billion major infrastructure projects have been implemented and completed by the Provincial Government.

11 Feb 2015 - Bayan ‘doubts’ approval of Purisima’s resignation

PAMPANGA -- The militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan(Bayan) Central Luzon expressed Wednesday doubts over the intentions of President Benigno Aquino III in accepting the resignation of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Alan Purisima, who allegedly acted as the commander of the doomed operation that killed 44 elite cops in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Bayan-Central Luzon secretary general Eco Dangla, who led a protest last weekend to demand the resignation of President Aquino, described the resigned PNP chief Purisima as nothing more than a diversionary tactic to distract attention from the issues.

11 Feb 2015 - 88,000 indigents served by KDF

PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) has served more than 88,000 indigents through its various health programs in Pampanga since the organization renewed its non-profit activities in Pampanga in 2007.

This was reported by KDF Trustee Sylvia Ordonez as the organization is set to celebrate the natal day of its late partner this week whose namesake hospital, the Jose A. Datu Medical Center has become the base of operations of KDF. Ordonez said that most of the beneficiaries are those who availed of medical services like free cataract operations, artificial legs, and facial reconstructive surgery among others aside from its medical missions and other support services.

11 Feb 2015 - Angeles mayor’s staff to seek vice mayoral post

ANGELES CITY -- The name and reputation of former City Councilor Alexander "Alex" Cauguiran is synonymous to victories, particularly on elections for mayor here.

Cauguiran, chief-of-staff of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, is regarded as the chief political tactician of the incumbent two-term mayor.

10 Feb 2015 - Homeowners irked over loud sounds from bars

ANGELES CITY -- Scores of residents at Diamond Subdivision, a posh residential area in Barangay Balibago, here are complaining about the "blasting and disturbing" sounds coming from nearby business establishments situated at the private subdivision’s main entrance.

Tanya Dizon, spokesperson of the Diamond Subdivision homeowners, said that noise pollution along Arayat Street and Marlim Boulevard is causing sleepless nights and illnesses to some residents.

10 Feb 2015 - Guv extends aid to kabalen OFWs from Sierra Leone

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda distributed on Monday financial assistance to eight Kapampangan Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who worked and came home from Ebola-affected Sierra Leone.

The OFWs who received P10,000 each were Jonathan Tuazon, Jr, Ernesto Montemayor, Luisito Capulong, Efren Ignacio, Jovert Libut, Roden De Leon, Rommel Mandap and Alvin Mandap.

10 Feb 2015 - AUF grads tops in PT boards

ANGELES CITY -- Two graduates of Angeles University Foundation (AUF) bagged the second and seventh places in the February 2015 Physical Therapy Licensure Examination, announced AUF President Dr. Joseph E.L. Angeles.

AUF also registered the highest passing rate among PT schools in Northern and Central Luzon, according to the records of the Professional Regulation Commission.

10 Feb 2015 - Lazatin lauds US military for humanitarian mission

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin has lauded the plan of the United States military to conduct a humanitarian mission here and Olongapo City this coming August.

Lazatin said "it's a great manifestation of care and friendship" shortly after he assisted five officers of the United States Navy and United States Army during a visit in the city to coordinate the mission.

10 Feb 2015 - Trade Fair highlights Fernandino Culture

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga headed by Mayor Edwin Santiago, is holding an agro-industrial trade fair from February 2 to 14 in line with the 14th cityhood anniversary of this city.

Themed as "an afFair to remember", the five-day activity is showcasing the indigenous products of Fernandinos like wood crafts, water lily handicrafts, fresh farm products, authentic Kapampangan cuisine and native delicacies.

10 Feb 2015 - Puregold giant store to open soon in Candaba

PAMPANGA -- Puregold, giant retail chain with more than 225 stores nationwide will soon open its another one-stop shopping convenience store in the heart of this town – Poblacion.

This came as the municipality led by Mayor Rene Maglanque and Puregold headed by Girlie Sy and site inspection and acquisition manager Lalette Alea, inked Friday a memorandum of agreement for the establishment of Puregold offering a wide array of goods from groceries, apparel, household accessories and furniture at very affordable prices.

9 Feb 2015 - Apec records ‘zero crimes’

CLARK FREEPORT – "Relatively safe and zero crimes" were recorded on the recently concluded Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Senior Officials Meeting 1 (SOM1) held here.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, Central Luzon Police officer-in-charge and Task Group Commander disclosed this during the monthly forum "Talk Widus" of the Pampanga Press Club (PPC) in cooperation with the Widus Hotel and Casino.

9 Feb 2015 - Local hotels support Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2015

CLARK FREEPORT -- Operators of hotels in Angeles city expressed support to the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) amidst the challenges and some reports to stop the event.

According to Roy Del Rosario, Manager of Oasis Hotel, the annual event has benefitted the entire Angeles City and the surrounding area, making it the city and the province’s signature event.

9 Feb 2015 - Expectant moms given oral health care tips in ‘Buntis Congress’

PAMPANGA -- Why do pregnant women often suffer from oral health diseases? What do healthy teeth in a soon-to-be mother have to do with the baby? How can expecting moms prevent tooth decay?

These were some of the questions asked by some 150 pregnant women during the week-long "Buntis Congress" of the Department of Health National Association of Dentist (DHNAD) Pampanga Chapter and Philippine Dental Association (PDA) Pampanga Chapter, which was held at the Domingo B. Flores District Hospital (DBFDH) in Macabebe.

9 Feb 2015 - Graduating students hired in Metro Job Fair

PAMPANGA -- Some 700 graduating students and fresh graduates were given priority in the opening of this year’s Metro Job Fair at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga.

The job fair is a joint project of the local government units of San Ferando, Bacolor, Sto. Tomas, and Mexico in cooperation with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and Department of Labor and Employment (Dole).

9 Feb 2015 - SBMA employees protest delay in salary increase

SUBIC BAY -- Employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) wore black armbands and black shirts during the flag raising ceremony here on Monday as a sign of protest against the long delayed implementation of salary increases in the agency.

According to Ted Peńaflor II, president of the newly formed SBMA Employees Association, their action calls for President Aquino to hear the sentiments of SBMA employees who have been allegedly “neglected by the government for a long period of time.”

9 Feb 2015 - San Fernando leads cycling caravan

PAMPANGA -- A cycling caravan took place last February over the weekend as part of Kaganapan 2015, the 14th anniversary celebration of the cityhood of San Fernando.

Led by the Kaganapan 2015 Committee under its chairperson Virgilio Cortez and the San Fernando Sports Council, the caravan covered 36 kilometers from the City Hall through all but four of the city’s barangays, up to the Heroes Hall.

9 Feb 2015 - Pampanga's RPT collection reaches P209-M

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga's Real Property Tax proceeds have reached P208,996,907.16 in the previous year, amassed from the province’s one city and 19 municipalities.

This refutes earlier information that for several years, the province's RPT collection was tied up at only P24 million or so.

8 Feb 2015 - Provincial Board backs 'decongest' advocacy

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Board headed by Vice Governor Dennis Pineda and all local legislators here have manifested their full support to the advocacy of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) calling for the decongestion of Metro Manila amid threats and risks posed by natural disasters.

In last Friday’s session, Third District Board Member Rosve Henson filed a resolution supporting the advocacy, expressing the urgency for government to decongest the National Capital Region and the importance of spreading out investments, resources and vital centers among the country’s 16 regions which was unanimously approved.

8 Feb 2015 - Top Central Luzon shabu dealers nabbed

ANGELES CITY -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Region 3 (PDEA3) has apprehended two notorious drug dealer in Central Luzon in Barangay Pampang, Angeles City after several months of casing and surveillance.

PDEA3 director Jeoffrey Tacio identified the suspects as Abdul Fatah Unte, 35, and his cohort Absari Boriongan, both residents of said barangay.

7 Feb 2015 - Official: Hosting of Apec meet has long-term economic benefits

CLARK FREEPORT -- The country's hosting of this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit would mean a lot of economic benefits for the Philippines in the long term, the head of the Apec 2015 National Organizing Council said.

In the past 10 to 15 years, the Philippines’ trade with Apec member economies has grown by eight percent annually, Director General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. told China Central Television during an interview here.

7 Feb 2015 - Group slams police on ‘no rally’ policy

ANGELES CITY -- The militant Anakpawis Partylist slammed the "no rally" policy set by the Central Luzon police during the Asia Pacific Economic Conference (Apec) meeting in Clark Freeport, which officially concluded Saturday.

The group stated that Central Luzon police director Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, claimed that mayors around the Clark Freeport did not grant rally permits in order to secure the area and protect the VIPs attending the Apec Senior Officials Meeting (SOM1).

7 Feb 2015 - Group slams police on ‘no rally’ policy

7 Feb 2015 - Binay lauds HLURB’s ISO certification

PAMPANGA -- Vice President Jejomar Binay lauded the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) after its Quality Management System (QMS) was certified under ISO 9001:2008.

The certification covers the HLURB Core Processes (Provision of Technical Assistance in Land Use Planning, Regulation and Adjudication) and Support Processes in the Central Office, Expanded National Capital Regional Field Office and Southern Tagalog Regional Field Office.

7 Feb 2015 - Holiday Inn, Chevrolet Pampanga to present ‘#FlyingHighInLove’

CLARK FREEPORT -- It is the most romantic time of the year. This Valentine’s month, Holiday Inn Clark continues its tradition of providing the best dining and entertainment choices in the region, with our variety of Valentine dinner date options.

Holiday Inn Clark marks Valentine's Day with the "#FlyingHighInLove" show at the poolside, featuring the REtroSPECT Band.

7 Feb 2015 - SM Pampanga to host papal visit memorabilia exhibit

PAMPANGA -- SM City Pampanga will host this March an exhibit on the recent papal visit of Pope Francis that will feature memorabilia items from the various papal events and even a crucifix used in one of the Masses.

The event dubbed "Papal Throwback: An Exhibit of Papal Visit Memorabilia" brings together items collected by Roman Catholic faithful to remind them of the recent event.

6 Feb 2015 - Capitol hosts dinner for Apec delegates

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga headed by Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis Pineda hosted a banquet for the delegates of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) at Oxford Hotel on Thursday.

Delegates from various parts of the world particularly Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam are at Clark for the First Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM1).

6 Feb 2015 - Apl. De. Ap inspires Kapampangan kids

MABALACAT CITY -- Filipino American pop artist and record producer Apl De Ap (Allan Pineda) has motivated Kapampangan children to study and work hard to attain their dreams in life.

The Black Eyes Peas member inspired the kids during the launching of his Jollibee franchise store in the commercial district of Barangay Dau here on Thursday.

6 Feb 2015 - 35 police chiefs in Central Luzon to be relieved in major revamp

PAMPANGA -- At least 35 chiefs of police (COPs) in Central Luzon will be relieved from their posts as part of major revamp that will be implemented soon.

This was disclosed by Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, officer-in-charge of the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3)

6 Feb 2015 - Marang wants March 6 a non-working holiday

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Maricel "Marang" Morales is pushing for the declaration of March 6 as a non-working holiday for female employees of the city government here.

Morales sponsored a resolution in the City Council to declare holiday on the said date in line with the country’s celebration of Women's Month.

6 Feb 2015 - Capitol recruitment fair records 469 applicants

PAMPANGA -- A total of 469 Kapampangans attended and submitted applications for various positions at the recently concluded Special Recruitment Activity conducted by the provincial government through its Public Employment Services Office (Peso).

The Capitol, headed by Governor Lilia Pineda, partnered for the first time with PhilStar International Services Corporation which was in urgent need of more than 700 skilled workers to be deployed in Guam.

6 Feb 2015 - Couple arrested for drugs

PAMPANGA -- Agents of the Regional Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Central Luzon (PDEA-3) arrested a couple during a buy-bust operation at a food chain along Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA), City of San Fernando and recovered from the suspects was 200 grams of shabu worth P700,000.

PDEA-3 director Jeoffrey Tacio identified the arrested as Paul Omina, 33 and Merlyn Ates, 32, both of Barangay San Antonio 1, Noveleta, Tanza, Cavite.

5 Feb 2015 - RDC prepares for implementation of senior high school

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Development Council (RDC) has formed a technical working group (TWG) that is meant to address gaps and prepare Central Luzon for the implementation of Senior High School (SHS) by School Year 2016-2017.

"The Department of Education (DepEd) has reiterated the need for the support of all local government units as well as concerned national agencies in preparation for SHS and full implementation of K to 12 in general. It shall be needing help particularly in the provision of adequate facilities and other logistical concerns," RDC Vice Chair and National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Regional Director Severino Santos said.

5 Feb 2015 - Quarrymen start year with P27.8-M income

PAMPANGA -- Branding it as a good start for 2015 towards another big year in quarry operations, Capitol's Environment and Natural Resources Office and the Kapampangan A Lulugud at Matapat (Kalam) quarrymen disclosed Thursday of the P27,820,000 income posted last month.

With the January revenues, total quarry collections during the administration of Governor Lilia Pineda now stand at P1,304,665,000 from the sand and gravel sector alone.

5 Feb 2015 - Anakpawis urges Aquino to resign

ANGELES CITY – The militant Anakpawis Partylist joined the Makabayan progressive bloc in the public clamor for President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino to resign or step down from his position.

Anakpawis based its demand from Aquino’s successive and grave errors such as the botched Mamasapano operation and the recent affirmation of the Supreme Court that the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) is unconstitutional.

5 Feb 2015 - Pampanga Peso helps 10,601 Kapampangans land jobs in 2014

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government headed by Governor Lilia Pineda was able to place 10,601 Kapampangans for both local and overseas employment in 2014, based on a report by the Public Employment Services Office (PESO).

Luningning Vergara, provincial public employment services officer, said that a total of 131 local recruitment activities or job fairs were conducted by their office in said year alone, benefitting the 19 municipalities and two component cities of the province.

5 Feb 2015 - Binay awards 1,186 CeLAs to Nueva Ecija folk

CLARK FREEPORT -- Vice President Jejomar Binay led the distribution of Certificates of Lot Allocation (CeLAs) to over 1,000 housing beneficiaries in Nueva Ecija over the weekend.

Binay, chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDDC), awarded CeLAs to 800 employees of the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) in the Science City of Muńoz and to 386 occupants of non-core properties of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) designated as socialized housing sites in Cuyapo town.

5 Feb 2015 - 2 dead in separate shootings

PAMPANGA -- Two persons were killed by motorcycle riding suspects in two municipalities in Pampanga, Wednesday.

Police identified the two fatalities as Leonardo Salac, 51, a resident of Barangay Cupang, Arayat; and Reyanan Quiros, 38, a resident of Barangay San Juan, San Simon.

5 Feb 2015 - Celebrate a weekend of fun-flying, love and excitement at Widus

CLARK FREEPORT -- Widus Leisure Inc., proprietor of Widus Hotel and Casino, celebrates the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF) with special promos and gastronomic offers exclusively slated for the “weekend of everything that flies”.

The widely anticipated aviation event, which annually draws huge crowds from families, group of friends to aviation fans, is making its return to Clark from February 12 to 15, guaranteeing this year to be bigger and better than previous staging.

4 Feb 2015 - Central Luzon police head warns ‘bad eggs’ in uniform

ANGELES CITY -- The officer-in-charge of the Central Luzon police office has warned police officers who are engaging in mulcting activities that he will not tolerate wrongdoings in the police service.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos issued the statement to local media Wednesday at Widus Hotel when he was asked about Tuesday night’s arrest of two policemen in this city who allegedly extorted P1-million from a Korean national they charged with human trafficking.

4 Feb 2015 - Capitol willing to support organic farming

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda reiterated the willingness of the Provincial Government in supporting organic farming in the province as she visited an organic farm in Barangay San Roque, this town.

Pineda said the Provincial Government is willing to help those who are promoting organic farming like Charisma Natural Farm as its vegetable produce are ideal, nutritious and good for the health of the people.

4 Feb 2015 - Communications student is Miss Mabalacat

MABALACAT CITY -- A communications student from Barangay Dau was named Friday as Miss Mabalacat City 2015 during the elaborate and Broadway-inspired pageant held at Xevera, Tabun here.

Bianca Leana Mae De Leon, 20, who is currently taking Bachelor of Arts Major in Communication at Holy Angel University emerged victorious among 14 lovely candidates during the star-studded coronation night.

4 Feb 2015 - Police: Apec delegates secured

CLARK FREEPORT -- Delegates of the Asia Pacific Economic Conference, who came from various countries, are safe and no untoward incidents involving them were reported.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, Central Luzon police officer in charge and Task Group commander, disclosed this during the monthly forum Talk Widus of the Pampanga Press Club (PPC) at Widus Hotel on Wednesday.

4 Feb 2015 - Capitol back on air at RW 95.1

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government, through its Provincial Information Office (PIO), can now be heard again on-air through, "Mabuhay Ka Pampanga!" -- a one-hour radio program broadcasted over regional station dwRW 95.1 FM.

"Mabuhay Ka Pampanga!", hosted by Provincial Information Officer Joel Mapiles, aims to bring timely and relevant information to kabalens, particularly projects and programs launched by Capitol headed by Governor Lilia Pineda.

4 Feb 2015 - Man arrested for raping girl, 9

Police arrested a 20-year-old man for allegedly raping a nine-year-old girl in Barangay San Roque Bitas, Arayat, Pampanga, Tuesday.

Superintendent Wilson Alicuman, Arayat chief of police, identified the arrested as Sherwin Flores, 20, a resident of said barangay.

4 Feb 2015 - Apec fast-tracks private, government projects

CLARK FREEPORT – One of the biggest benefits brought by the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) to the country is fast-tracking projects of both the government and private sectors including expansion plans of various locators here.

It can be recalled that Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president and chief executive officer Arthur Tugade said that legacy projects including the Clark Rotunda, Clark Museum, Clark 4D Theatre and Clark Integrated Command Center were to be implemented by 2015.

3 Feb 2015 - Apec council supports ‘decongest’ advocacy

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Business Advisory Council has vowed strong support in the call of North and Central Luzon business groups spearheaded by the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) to decongest Metro Manila and focus on the full development of Clark Freeport in a bid to attain inclusive growth.

During the first Apec Public Private Dialogue (PPD) on Services 2015 here on Tuesday, Business Advisory Council Chairman Doris Magsaysay Ho said that Metro Manila "is not the only place in the Philippines" and that stakeholders, including the national government, should look farther to growth corridors in Pampanga, Tarlac, Subic and other North and Central Luzon development hubs.

3 Feb 2015 - San Fernando to celebrate 14th cityhood anniversary

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando will lead this year's 14th cityhood celebrations with a throng of activities highlighting the theme "Fernandinong Misasanmetung, Susi ning Tagumpe at Panyulung."

Mayor Edwin Santiago, in Tuesday's press conference, said that the events are aimed promoting unity and participation among the city's different sectors through various cultural and social activities. The events include bloodletting, cycling caravan, zumba marathon, and job fair.

3 Feb 2015 - Rizal Memorial Coliseum transferring to Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Stakeholders of the Rizal Memorial Coliseum have agreed to transfer the sports facility to Clark, Pampanga First District Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao recently announced.

Guiao said a coliseum, which serves as national training center of Filipino athletes, will be built inside a 50-hectare property inside the Freeport to replace the old one in Metro Manila.

3 Feb 2015 - Angeles mayor announces 20 new positions at City College

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan recently revealed 20 new positions that need to be filled in at the City College of Angeles (CCA).

Pamintuan said that with the rise of enrollment numbers in the said school, it is only right to hire more instructors and professors as a response to the rising demand.

3 Feb 2015 - LGU eyes widening of PSAU road link

PAMPANGA -- Magalang Mayor Romulo "Romy" Pecson said they will ask the National Government to appropriate funds for the widening of a three-kilometer road from Barangay San Nicolas to Barangay Ayala where the Pampanga State Agricultural College (PSAU) is situated.

The mayor said that at least P5-million is needed to construct additional one meter on both sides of the highway and drainage system.

3 Feb 2015 - Birthing clinic benefits indigents

PAMPANGA -- The indigent birthing clinic at Jesus Datu Medical Center (JADMC) has facilitated dozens of successful maternal deliveries barely a few months since it opened in September last year.

The clinic is run by the Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) in cooperation with the Arellano University and the Amado Rodriguez District Hospital in Bacolor.

3 Feb 2015 - Santos: Regional connectivity effective strategy for inclusive growth

SUBIC BAY – "As recognized by the APEC Economic Leaders in 2013, we have already been able, and should continue to move ahead in a common direction towards furthering travel facilitation for the benefit of business people across economies, in pursuance of the need for more efficient flow of goods, services, capital and people."

Thus stressed Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Wilfredo Santos on Monday to member-economies of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) in the need to accelerate the region’s connectivity in various areas of interest as an effective strategy to reach inclusive growth.

3 Feb 2015 - Swiss national stabbed to death

MABALACAT CITY -- A Swiss national was stabbed to death by a bystander along 1st Drive Airmen's Village in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, over the weekend.

Superintendent Noel Torre, chief of police of Mabalacat City, identified the victim as Roger Fritz Lang, 67, a Swiss national and temporarily renting a house at the said village.

2 Feb 2015 - Guv: ‘Fallen 44’ worth honoring

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda said the sacrifices of the 44 fallen commandos of the Philippine National Police - Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) who were slain and the 12 others who were hurt in a clash in Mamasapano, Maguindanao Sunday are worth honoring as they put, dedicated and offered themselves in defense of the country and the Filipino people.

The governor issued the statement as she extended condolences and sympathies to the families of the fallen members of the PNP-SAF.

2 Feb 2015 - No plastics move to go up to Provincial Board

PAMPANGA -- To allay the confusion on the boundaries where the no plastics ordinance of the City of San Fernando is being implemented, Councilor Benedict Jasper Lagman said over the weekend that the regulatory measure will be elevated to the Provincial Board (PB) for possible adoption of other local government units.

Recently, many consumers and shoppers were reportedly confused after supermarket personnel referred them to the "Mexico side" of a giant mall here where they could avail of plastic bags for the purchases, even if they were from San Fernando.

2 Feb 2015 - Customs exec: ‘Empowering SMEs key to inclusive growth’

CLARK FREEPORT — "We can, and should, make the extra effort to ensure that small businesses are not excluded from the benefits of integration."

Thus said Customs Commissioner John Sevilla as he called on fellow customs officials from member-economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) to enhance regional economic integration by empowering small and medium enterprises towards the attainment of inclusive growth.

2 Feb 2015 - Title distribution for Hacienda Dolores beneficiaries ongoing

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Condralito Dela Cruz assured Monday that the distribution of land titles for those in Barangay Hacienda Dolores is ongoing as 44 locals received their land titles recently as part of real estate developer Leonio Land's title donation program.

Dela Cruz said they are coordinating with beneficiaries and Leonio Land to ensure that everything is done efficiently for the beneficiaries. Dela Cruz added that they are coordinating for more livelihood programs for the beneficiaries to help them put up various sources of income.

2 Feb 2015 - Angeles honors slain SAF troops

ANGELES CITY -- With the Philippine flag hoisted at half-mast and the national anthem sang loudly, hundreds of local government employees and officials here gathered on Monday to pay tribute to the 44 Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) elite personnel who fell during a battle in Mamasapano in Maguindanao.

The rites for the 44 brave souls were held at the City Hall during the regular Monday flag-raising ceremony.

2 Feb 2015 - Porac thanks partylist for support to indigents

PAMPANGA -- he Porac Town Council passed a resolution over the weekend thanking the Citizens’ Battle Against Corruption (Cibac) Partylist for its support of P1.7 million for various social services programs for the town.

Councilor Mark Valencia filed the resolution which was approved unanimously by councilors present during the session. Mayor Condralito Dela Cruz also thanked Cibac Representative Sherwin Tugna for his continuing support for Porac town.

1 Feb 2015 - Guiao: Prepare for student influx at PSAU

PAMPANGA -- First District Representative Joseller “Yeng” Guiao urged officials in this agricultural town to prepare for the influx of student at the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), which was recently declared state university by the Commission on Higher Education (Ched).

Guiao issued the statement during the inauguration of the Bren Z. Guiao Legislative and Judicial Hall on Friday.

1 Feb 2015 - KDF birthing clinic benefits indigents

PAMPANGA -- A birthing clinic at Jesus A Datu Medical Center (JADMC) has facilitated dozens of successful maternal deliveries barely a few months since it opened in September last year.

The clinic is run by Kapampangan Development Foundation ( KDF) and in cooperation with the Arellano University (AU) and the Amado Rodriguez District Hospital in Bacolor.

1 Feb 2015 - Slain SAF member gets military honor

PAMPANGA -- Police officers in 11 stations in Bataan province and Balanga City provided military honor to slain PO3 John Lloyd Sumbilla.

Senior Superintendent Rhodel Sermonia, Bataan police director, said some of the police officers who provided military honor to Sumbilla are members of Special Action Force.

1 Feb 2015 - Sto.Tomas police nab man in buy-bust operation

PAMPANGA -- This town's Municipal Anti-illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group (Maidsotg) operatives, under the supervision of Police Chief Insp. John Clark, arrested one suspect in a buy-bust operation over the weekend.

Clark said the operation was in coordination with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 3, under control number 0115-00174.

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