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Balibago News Mar-2015

31 Mar 2015 - CA supports Arroyo bail ruling

PAMPANGA -- THE Court of Appeals (CA) has supported a Pasay City court ruling that granted bail to former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on the electoral sabotage case filed against her.

According to reports, the CA’s 9th Division under Associate Justice Elihu Ybanez released a 13-page decision supporting the orders of the Pasay City trial court allowing Arroyo to post bail.

31 Mar 2015 - Group: Decreasing flights in Clark an 'economic sabotage'

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) said the decreasing flights in Clark International Airport (CRK) are hurting the country’s tourism and economy.

PGKM head and businessman Ruperto Cruz, owner of the Grand Palazzo Royale and Royal Golf and Country Club, described the failure of national leaders to fully develop the Clark airport as “economic sabotage.”

31 Mar 2015 - Sto. Tomas all set for ‘Sabuaga’

PAMPANGA -- The Municipality of St. Tomas has finalized its preparations for the 6th “Sabuaga” festival set for Easter Sunday starting 2 p.m. at the St. Thomas Parish Grounds in the town’s poblacion.

Mayor Lito Naguit said the annual festival has been institutionalized through the proper ordinance enacted by the municipal council.

31 Mar 2015 - Cops: Disaster preparedness must start at home

PAMPANGA -- Earthquakes, fires, and floods can strike any time so preparedness and planning for such disasters must always start at home.

Thus said Police Senior Superintendent Melvin Buenafe, deputy regional director for operation of the Police Regional Office-3, during the nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill recently held in this camp.

31 Mar 2015 - Rabies awareness campaign held in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) began its Central Luzon-wide communication advocacy on rabies awareness by bringing its signature Kapihan ng Mamamayan (KNM) in Barangay San Nicolas, City of San Fernando.

The provincial capital has been identified as among the cities highly susceptible to rabies virus.

31 Mar 2015 - Capitol bares new programs for elderly

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) led the orientation of some 400 elderly representatives on the new programs for senior citizens at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center last Monday.

The Provincial Senior Citizens’ Summit is the first convention of senior citizen representatives since the enactment of the Senior Citizens’ Code last year. The event aims to apprise the leaders of the new privileges intended for them and their members.

30 Mar 2015 - Cabalen opens at SM City Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Cabalen, the home of authentic Kapampangan cuisine on Monday opened its 16th store in the Philippines at SM City Pampanga.

The restaurant, also the fourth of branches sporting Cabalen's innovative modern look with a green and white motif and homey decors and furniture, is located near the Events Center and the Skyranch theme park.

30 Mar 2015 - Central Luzon bags rice achievers awards

PAMPANGA -- Six provinces, one municipality and 87 agricultural extension workers (AEWs) of Central Luzon were awarded during the Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Awards held at Resorts World Manila recently.

The Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers’ Awards is part of Department of Agriculture (DA)’s interventions and incentive system to encourage local government units, Irrigators Associations (IAs), Small Water Impounding System Associations (SWISAs), Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and Local Farmer Technician (LFTs) to contribute their share in increasing farmers’ harvest and incomes to attain national rice sufficiency.

30 Mar 2015 - Angeles village is DILG's showcase in regional assembly

ANGELES CITY -- Barangay Cutcut of Angeles City is the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Central Luzon's Regional Showcase Barangay for the first semester of 2015.

During the assembly here over the weekend, barangay chairman Cecilia Nepomuceno comprehensively delivered her State of the Barangay Address (SOBA) highlighting their accomplishments for the past six months in the areas of infrastructure, peace and order, waste management, health and sanitation, education, culture and sports, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and the proposed projects of the barangay for Calendar Year 2015.

30 Mar 2015 - Trader to San Fernando: Remove tricycles from major roads

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) vice chairman Rene Romero has called on the City Government of San Fernando to exercise political will and remove tricycles here using major highways citing regulations and safety reasons.

Romero said that the proliferation of unregistered tricycles or colorums, was disadvantageous to legitimate operators because it results to unfair competition, monstrous traffic and contributes to non-indexed crimes recorded in the city. He added that tricycles on major highways pose danger on the tricycle operators themselves and fellow motorists.

30 Mar 2015 - In Maleldo rites: No crucifixion for foreigners

PAMPANGA -- Officials of the 2015 Maleldo (Holy Week) committee announced on Monday that they are banning foreigners from joining the annual crucifixion rites on Good Friday in Barangay San Pedro Cutud, here.

In a press conference at the city hall, committee chairman City Councilor Harvey Quiwa said the ban "will prevent the Lenten rites from becoming a circus."

29 Mar 2015 - Romero renews call for Abaya’s ouster

ANGELES CITY -- Businessman Rene Romero is calling for the ouster of Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya for failing to fully develop the Clark International Airport (CRK).

Romero issued the statement supporting the call of various organizations and businessmen in Pampanga and Central Luzon for Abaya to resign from his post as chief of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

29 Mar 2015 - Help in protecting environment

PAMPANGA -- The SM City Pampanga joined this year's observance of Earth Hour urging mall-goers to do their share in protecting the environment by cutting on their energy consumption and practicing healthy environmental choices.

SM City Pampanga joined other SM Supermalls in the country, along with its international malls in China, in switching off their lights for at least an hour in solidarity with the Earth Hour initiative.

28 Mar 2015 - Angeles cops warn public vs motorcycle theft

ANGELES CITY -- "Padlock when you park" signs were posted in front of establishments to warn motorists to secure their respective motorcycles before leaving them in parking areas and along the streets.

This is in connection with the Lambat Bitag, an intensified anti-criminality campaign the city police implemented recently.

28 Mar 2015 - Bayan: Aquino out now

ANGELES CITY -- The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) – Gitnang Luzon is calling for the resignation of President Benigno Aquino III.

During a media briefing at the Holy Family Academy here Saturday, the group disclosed their "final verdict" on Mr. Aquino.

28 Mar 2015 - Local artists to create new arts hub

ANGELES CITY -- Local artists in this city have joined hands to rehabilitate a two-decade abandoned building and turn it into a new arts hub in the heritage district.

The old CSSI building at 1246 Miranda Street is designed to be an eco-friendly contemporary arts hub that will serve as a venue for arts practitioners in Pampanga and a nesting ground to harness young potential artists in the city.

27 Mar 2015 - ‘Harsher measures’ eyed in Sapang Balen clean-up

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here, through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) will implement stricter measures in dealing with the problems of illegal structures and dumping of waste along Sapang Balen Creek.

Sapang Balen creek is one of the major waterways of the city and it cuts across seven barangays. A large number of illegal structures were built on it and residents along the river banks wantonly throw away their garbage in the waterway.

27 Mar 2015 - Launching of Lubao hot air balloon festival successful

PAMPANGA -- The occasionally blowing strong winds were not enough to keep the biggest hot air balloon festival in Southeast Asia from launching Thursday at the Pradera Verde, Barangay Prado in this town.

Event organizer Noel Castro said this year’s Lubao International Balloon Festival exceeded the previous one in terms of the number of tourists and hot air balloons.

27 Mar 2015 - PamCham looking at more infra for pedestrian, road safety

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) is working closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for more infrastructures that would ensure the safety and convenience of motorists and pedestrians.

This was bared recently by PamCham president Jess Nicdao during the groups 48th general membership meeting at King’s Royal Promenade in Bacolor town.

27 Mar 2015 - Senator: Probe corrupt governors, mayors

ANGELES CITY -- Senator Aquilino Pimentel III wants corrupt governors and mayors to be investigated.

Pimented stated that he has had enough of the widespread dishonesty or fraudulent conduct among local government units (LGUs), which emerged as having the most number of graft and corruption cases filed by Office of the Ombudsman last year.

27 Mar 2015 - Legarda: Support Earth Hour

MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda has urged the public to support the global movement to simultaneously switch off lights for one hour on March 28 (Saturday), 8:30 p.m. local time, in observance of the 2015 Earth Hour.

"The Earth Hour campaign shows us what each citizen can do. It tells us that every individual is capable of protecting our planet. Small acts cannot be underestimated because these small acts, when put together, create big changes," Legarda said.

26 Mar 2015 - San Fernando aims to become preferred tourism destination in Asia

PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando is looking at becoming "a preferred tourism destination in Asia" by 2022.

This was bared by Mayor Edwin Santiago during a breakfast forum with mediamen on Thursday at Heroes Hall, where he said that City Government plans to achieve this by conceptualizing better tourism packages and reviving its heritage district, while at the same time "building a livable, ecologically-balanced and economically-viable city through effective and socially inclusive governance" that will enhance local quality of life.

26 Mar 2015 - Police: Frustrated slaying of prosecutor job related

PAMPANGA -- he frustrated killing of Prosecutor Antonio Buan of the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan is allegedly job related due to his handling of several high profile cases reportedly involving Muslim personalities.

Senior Superintendent Ferdinand Divina, Bulacan police provincial director, said this was the result of a thorough investigation conducted by the Bulacan Intelligence Branch and City of San Jose Del Monte police.

26 Mar 2015 - LGUs responsible for land survey fund liquidation

CLARK FREEPORT -- Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council chair Jejomar Binay clarified that it is the responsibility of local government units to liquidate the land survey funds granted to them.

The vice president issued the statement following reports that 28 LGUs have failed to submit liquidation reports of funds transferred by HUDCC amounting to P28,322,107.47 as of December 2013.

26 Mar 2015 - Express exits in NLEx, SCTEx to open for Holy Week

PAMPANGA -- Two express exits will be opened at the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) on Holy Wednesday and Maundy Thursday.

Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) Communication Specialist Francisco Dagohoy said the express exits will address traffic congestion in toll plazas especially during Lent, when the number of motorists going out of Metro Manila to North and Central Luzon is expected to double.

26 Mar 2015 - Guv lauds DILG’s ‘Operation Listo’

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda lauded the launching of the Department of Interior and Local Government's (DILG) "Operation Listo: Tamang Paghahanda, Tamang Aksyon" held at the Oxford Hotel in Clark, on Tuesday.

Integrated in the program is the Disaster Preparedness Manual, a complete agenda of primary planning for local government units to have a systematic and accurate course of action, with aligned and improved local plans and preparations prior to or during a catastrophe.

25 Mar 2015 - BCDA prepares Clark rail reference terms

MABALACAT CITY -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said it is now preparing the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the public tender of the Clark Rail Transit System (Clark Rail) that will link with the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

BCDA president and CEO Arnel Paciano Casanova said BCDA is in the process of drafting the TOR and intends to bid out the Clark Rail as a joint-venture (JV) project.

25 Mar 2015 - Santiago, execs want to know basis of hazard research

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago, business leaders, and the head of the Philippine Institute of Seismology and Volcanology (Phivolcs) want to know the basis of a research, which cited the City of San Fernando as one of the cities around the country, which are disaster-prone areas.

Recently, the 5th annual Natural Hazards Risk Atlas (NHRA) assessed the natural hazard exposure of over 1,300 cities around the world and found that of the 100 cities with the greatest exposure to natural hazards, 21 are located in the Philippines.

25 Mar 2015 - Angeles vice mayor to launch pro-nature moms' group

ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting will lead the launching of a women's movement here that would promote and empower women as prime movers in environmental awareness and protection.

Vega-Cabigting said she will be leading the launch of the "Mothers for Mother Nature" (Mom Na!) Thursday at Francisco G. Nepomuceno Memorial High School (FGNMHS).

25 Mar 2015 - Faulty traffic lights irk road users

PAMPANGA -- Faulty traffic light sequences have been identified as the reason for worsening traffic congestion in the Guagua-Sta. Rita Intersection, according to a councilor, who is pushing for new measures after receiving several complaints from motorists.

Guagua Councilor Howell Torres, who also serves as chair of the town's transportation and communications committee, said the local government is planning to implement measures to ease the congested traffic flow caused not only by the faulty traffic lights but also by different public vehicles, which converge in the Guagua-Sta. Rita Intersection.

25 Mar 2015 - Rotary Clubs donate water filter systems

MABALACAT CITY --- Ten Rotary Clubs have begun providing Angeles City, Mabalacat City, and Magalang town bio sand filters to supply clean water during emergency situations.

Ron Nethercutt, officer of the Rotary Club of Mabalacat, said that five hundred of the filtration systems are made possible by an international grant from Rotary International.

25 Mar 2015 - SM City Clark to highlight panda-themed Earth Hour

CLARK FREEPORT -- SM City Clark will join this year's observance of Earth Hour 2014 with the switching off of its major lighting system and in hosting a promotional campaign in saving and conserving energy through a panda-themed event.

SM City Clark Public Relations manager Venus Manalang told they will be displaying pandas and other related attractions.

24 Mar 2015 - Guv gives P100,000 each to 38 centenariansx

PAMPANGA -- At least 38 Kapampangan centenarians received P100,000 each from the Pampanga provincial government, handed by Governor Lilia Pineda on Monday as incentives for reaching the age of 100 and beyond.

This came as Ordinance 647, which enacted the Senior Citizens Code of the Province of Pampanga, was unanimously approved by the Provincial Board on November 21, 2014.

24 Mar 2015 - PGKM: Abaya name dropper

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) has described Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya as a "name dropper" following the official's recent pronouncement that their direction is to develop Clark International Airport (CRK).

Businessman Ruperto Cruz, who heads the PGKM, said that on the contrary, there is a conspiracy among National Government officials and tycoons in Metro Manila not to develop the country's largest airport in terms of land area.

23 Mar 2015 - Pemberton trial begins

SUBIC BAY -- A court in Olongapo City began the trial of a US Marine charged with murdering a transgender Filipino after allegedly discovering her gender when they checked into a hotel in an emotional case that has tested America's ties with a key Asian ally.

US security escorts brought Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, who was wearing handcuffs and a dark business suit, into a heavily secured court room in Olongapo City, Zambales Province, for the trial after a plea bargain negotiation with the family of the victim, Jennifer Laude, reportedly collapsed, lawyers for Laude's family said.

23 Mar 2015 - Pamintuan, GAD support 90-day maternity leave bill

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and the Gender and Development (GAD) office of this city have announced their support to Senator Pia Cayetano's Senate Bill 2710, or the proposed Expanded Maternity Leave Law.

The bill seeks to expand the maternity leave of working mothers—married or unmarried—from 60 days to 90 days. The bill’s aim is to provide working mothers "sufficient time to take care of their newborn babies and regain their full health," said Cayetano, in her explanatory note.

23 Mar 2015 - Police all set for ‘Oplan Sumvac’

PAMPANGA -- Security preparations for the entire summer vacation are now in full swing in the region, according to the Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO).

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, regional police officer-in-charge, said that at least 800 personnel will be deployed in crowd-heavy areas in the region to ensure the success of "Oplan Sumvac" (Summer Vacation) for the summer months and Holy Week.

23 Mar 2015 - Comelec urges voters to update biometrics

PAMPANGA -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Central Luzon Office is reminding all qualified old voters in Central Luzon, particularly those who have yet to have their biometric recorded by the poll body.

Comelec-Central Luzon assistant regional director Emmanuel Ignacio estimated that about 30 percent or 300,000 old voters of the six million voters in the region have not yet updated their registration with biometric data.

22 Mar 2015 - Museum attracts 5,000 tourists in 3 months

PAMPANGA -- This town's Museo Nang Santa Rita de Cascia, under the Santa Rita de Cascia Parish, has managed to attract some 5, 000 tourists in less three months, with organizers steadily placing the facility in the country's tourism map.

Museum Curator Romy Dizon said the tourist figures are from December 2014 to February this year.

22 Mar 2015 - Firm to build $80-M solar power plant in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- An international company will build its first solar power plant in the country, which is seen to benefit residents of six Pampanga municipalities, including this town which has some 16,000 power consumers.

Novosol Power Company, which has offices in Canada, United States and West Africa, is partnering with businessman Jaime “Boy” Tetangco of this town for the establishment of the $80-million solar power plant in Barangay San Juan.

21 Mar 2015 - Cops recover girl abducted by own father

ANGELES CITY -- A two-year-old girl abducted by her own father after reportedly killing his wife, was recovered in a nearby relative's home in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Friday.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said the daughter of Enrique Angeles, 57, who took her while fleeing after he reportedly shot and killed his wife Mylene, left his daughter with relatives and was recovered by policemen Friday afternoon.

21 Mar 2015 - CGC featured in ‘Cityquest’

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Green City (CGC), together with other urban mega projects worldwide, was featured in the Cityquest, a global community of large-scale city builders organized by the New Cities Foundation and the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) of Saudi Arabia.

The report dubbed “Building New Cities: Challenges, Opportunities and Recommendations”, was published on Monday, said officials of the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), proponent of the Clark Green City project.

21 Mar 2015 - Policewoman’s hubby killed in cop headquarters shooting

SUBIC BAY -- The husband of a policewoman was killed by a man who went amok inside the Olongapo City police headquarters in Barangay Barreto, Olongapo City, recently.

Senior Superintendent Predito delos Reyes identified the fatality as Everet Sadaba, 40, husband of Senior Police Officer (SPO) 2 May Ann Sadaba, presently assigned at the City Information Office of Olongapo City Police.

21 Mar 2015 - Businessman mulls joining council race in 2016

ANGELES CITY -- The local businessman-owner of PG Pawnshop in Angeles City is contemplating on joining the city council race in 2016, mainly to contribute to environmental protection, improvement of social services and empowerment of the youth as partners in development.

Joseph Galang, popularly known as "PG," who started to run their family business in 1988 at the age of 16, through registering PG Pawnshop in his name as single proprietor, wants to try his luck as candidate for city councilor in 2016.

20 Mar 2015 - Cops: Robbery, theft top crimes in Angeles

ANGELES CITY -- The local police has recorded robbery and theft as among the top crimes in this highly urbanized city.

During the monthly media forum organized by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Friday, city police director Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale said that they are doubling their efforts to prevent these crimes against properties.

20 Mar 2015 - Vice mayor: Support for teachers, not black propaganda

ANGELES CITY – "Serbisyong maganda, walang black propaganda!"

So stressed Angeles City Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting as she clarified that her recent Facebook post on the Local School Board (LSB) allowance of the public school teachers is an "expression of her support for the teachers" and not a "black propaganda" as alleged by Angeles City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan.

20 Mar 2015 - Police hunt wife killer

PAMPANGA -- Police are now on the hunt for a retired United States Navyman who killed his wife and abducted his two-year-old son at Diamond Subdivision in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Thursday.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, officer-in-charge of Central Luzon Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) said that Angeles City police are now on a manhunt for Enrique Angeles, 57, a resident of Don Adriano Street, Diamond Subdivision who is believed responsible in the killing of his wife, Mylene.

20 Mar 2015 - Kuliat Foundation scrambling to raise P14-M for Angeles museum

ANGELES CITY -- The Kuliat Foundation has set the ball rolling to gather donations of at least P14-million for maintenance, repairs and other operational costs of its Museo Ning Angeles.

The Kuliat Foundation Inc. (KFI) is a non-stock non-profit organization committed to working for the preservation of Angeles City's history, culture and traditions. It is also the official administrator of the Museo ning Angeles. Built in 1922, the Museo Ning Angeles is the original town hall of then town of Angeles.

20 Mar 2015 - Bloodletting drive promotes health consciousness

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) yearly bloodletting program not only gathers blood donations but also promotes the health of employees who regularly donate to the program.

Launched some five years ago, the yearly bloodletting program with the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) aims to contribute to blood-banking efforts and to promote healthy lifestyle among donors.

19 Mar 2015 - Pampanga most peaceful province in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO) said that based on the assessment of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Pampanga is the most peaceful province in the region.

The report was disclosed during the First Quarterly Full Council Meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) presided by Nueva Ecija Governor Aurelio Umali, chairperson of the RPOC, held at King's Royale Resort Hotel, this town.

19 Mar 2015 - Parish asked to stop churchyard project

PAMPANGA -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has called on the Sta. Rita de Cascia Parish here to stop its ongoing churchyard project pending a conference with the commission.

NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon, in his March 16 letter to Archbishop Florentino Lavarias D.D., has called for a conference regarding the project.

19 Mar 2015 - Arsenic contamination yet to be confirmed

PAMPANGA -- The alleged arsenic contamination in Santiago village in Lubao town has yet to be confirmed by the Department of Health Central Luzon (DOH) although further tests it will conduct soon.

Allaying fears from the speculation of residents there, Acting Provincial Information Officer Joel Mapiles said on Thursday that there is nothing to be alarmed of and that residents must wait for the DOH's confirmation.

19 Mar 2015 - Guv announces opening of seniors' ward at Magalang district hospital

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda has announced the opening of a senior citizens' ward at the Andres Luciano Memorial District Hospital in this town.

The governor made the announcement during the inauguration of Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao's district office inside the compound of the medical facility on Thursday.

19 Mar 2015 - DA holds market matching in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Luzon through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) and Corn Banner Program conducted the "Corn Market Matching" at Merced's Place here Thursday.

The market matching is an strategic intervention in linking farmer producers/suppliers and food buyers, exporters, processors, manufacturers, institutional buyers, wholesalers/consolidators, supermarkets on a pro-active, mutually beneficial, cost effective and sustainable manner to ensure availability of products at the right volume, time, price and quality.

19 Mar 2015 - Guiao opens office in Magalang town

PAMPANGA -- In his desire to further serve constituents in this town, Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao (Pampanga, 1st district) led Thursday the opening of a district sub-office inside the compound of the Andres Luciano Memorial District Hospital here.

Guiao, who celebrated his 57th birthday Thursday, said that Magalang folks no longer need to travel to the district main office in Angeles City to seek assistance from the lawmaker's office.

18 Mar 2015 - Guv orders officials anew: Fight for zero crime, drugs

PAMPANGA -- "Don't be afraid because lives are at stake." stressed Governor Lilia Pineda on Tuesday as she reiterated her call to mayors and officials of various government agencies to "go for zero crime and zero illegal drugs in Pampanga."

Speaking before members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council during the group's first quarter conference at Benigno Aquino Hall in Capitol, Pineda said that Kapampangans' lives are often on the line if crimes and the proliferation of illegal drugs are not curbed.

18 Mar 2015 - Angeles lines up activities for Lent

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government here through the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) has lined-up activities in observation of the Lenten season done in partnership with socio-civic, performing arts and the religious sector.

Kicking off this year’s Lenten observance is Sinukwan Kapampangan’s “Panata at Panalangin: A Spiritual Journey through Culture and the Arts” which features a mixed-media art exhibit and dance performances depicting the religious practices of the Kapampangan region.

18 Mar 2015 - Kapampangan lass is Bb. Pilipinas Tourism 2015

PAMPANGA -- Kapampangan beauties continue to make raves in the pageant scene as Ann Lorraine Colis, candidate no. 24 in the recent Bb. Pilipinas 2015, was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Tourism.

Colis is a 22-year-old lass from Mexico, Pampanga who is taking up an accountancy course at the University of Santo Tomas.

18 Mar 2015 - Central Luzon farmers support Anakpawis’ land reform bill

MABALACAT CITY -- Farmers in Central Luzon have expressed their support to the House Bill 252 or the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill (GARB) filed by Anakpawis Partylist Representative Fernando "Ka Pando" Hicap and lawmakers from Makabayan bloc.

They also renewed their call to totally "bury" the expired Republic Act 6657 or Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL).

18 Mar 2015 - Gov’t agencies orient Central Luzon village leaders on Manila Bay rehab

Member-agencies belonging to the Information, Education, and Communication group of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Project are currently holding a series of forums that seek to educate and tap barangay leaders in Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, and Tarlac to be part of the crusade.

"The Supreme Court Decision of December 18, 2003 ordered for the immediate rehabilitation and cleanup of Manila Bay and restores its waters to Class SB which is fit for swimming, skin diving, and other forms of contact recreation. To achieve this, the awareness, acceptance, and cooperation of the communities along the Pampanga River of the implemented rehabilitation projects for Manila Bay is necessary. Since the barangays are in the middle of everything, their support and participation in these projects is important," Philippine Information Agency Regional Director and group vice-chair William Beltran said.

17 Mar 2015 - Angeles exec hits ‘black propaganda’

ANGELES CITY -- The Office of the Mayor of Angeles City has described as "malicious and purely black propaganda" the statement from Vice-Mayor Ma. Vicenta "Vicky" Vega-Cabigting, which alleged that the Local School Board (LSB) is planning to remove the monthly allowances of public school teachers charged to the Special Education Fund (SEF).

"Vice-Mayor Cabigting is not privy to the meetings of the Local School Board because she is not a member. If she only bothered to ask members of the LSB, they could have told her that the board has already approved the P1,000 per month allowance for each of the 2,400 public school teachers. The budget for the allowances is part of the approved 2015 Special Education Fund (SEF). Hence, all insinuations to the contrary are pure lies," said City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan.

17 Mar 2015 - Alejandrino: ‘More to come for Arayat’

PAMPANGA -- Following his citation from the prestigious worldwide organization Superbrands Marketing International (SMI) as one of the most outstanding mayors in the country for 2015, Mayor Emmanuel “Bon” Alejandrino said Tuesday that the people of Arayat could expect more developments in the town, including improved peace and order.

Alejandrino, along with Mayor Edwin Santiago of the City of San Fernando and three-time awardee Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan of Angeles City, has been named recipient of SMI’s Most Outstanding Mayors award (MOMA), which pays tribute to the strongest brands in the country.

17 Mar 2015 - Haven kids get teddy bears from QI Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Children under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)'s Haven facility here received teddy bears and were hosted to a day of fun and games by members of the Quota International (QI) of Pampanga.

QI of Pampanga president Joycel Panlilio said that the event is part of the kick-off of their teddy bears program for abused children under the care of the center. The event coincides with the Quota Cares Month. Panlilio said that the teddy bears may seem a simple gift giving gesture but their program has certain psychological benefits for the said children.

17 Mar 2015 - Capitol gives 81 Aeta students educational aid

PAMPANGA -- A total of 81 Aeta college students benefited from the P405,000 worth of educational assistance distributed by Capitol during the flag raising ceremony on Monday.

The distribution was part of the Educational Financial Assistance Program (EFAP) of the Provincial Capitol, which is one of the basic social services intended for underprivileged youth.

16 Mar 2015 - Vice mayor supports wage hike for day care workers

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting has expressed support to a resolution filed by a neophyte city councilor calling for an increase in the salaries of day care workers here.

The resolution, which was authored by Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr., was approved on first reading during the City Council's regular session last February 3 with an amendment to include the barangay health workers.

16 Mar 2015 - Capitol, Malaysian trader eye pact for Kapampangan migrants’ welfare

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government, through the Pampanga Action Center for OFW Concerns (PACOC), and some businessmen from Malaysia pledged a partnership for the protection of Filipino --particularly Kapampangan -- migrant workers during the latter’s visit in the province last week.

The group led by K. Sudhagaran Stanley, chairperson of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants under the Bishops' Conference of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, aims to identify causes which motivates Filipino workers to seek employment opportunities abroad.

16 Mar 2015 - Village officials turn-over suspects in school theft

PAMPANGA -- Two suspects in a robbery incident at San Matias Elementary School here were turned-over to the local police, Chief Inspector John Clark said.

Clark said that Barangay San Matias officials turned over Noel Castro, 37, a resident of Santo Rosario Pau here along with another suspect who was identified as a minor to the Sto. Tomas municipal police office over the weekend.

15 Mar 2015 - Clark Green City project seeks IFC support

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is set to engage in a series of negotiations with the World Bank’s investment arm, International Finance Corporation (IFC), to support development plans for the Clark Green City project.

“IFC is looking at working with the BCDA in determining the business case for key utility services such as power generation, power distribution, water supply distribution and sewerage services and solid waste management,” state-run BCDA said in a statement.

15 Mar 2015 - No competition between NAIA, Clark -- Honrado

CLARK FREEPORT -- Manila International Airport Authority General Manager Jose Angel Honrado said that there is no competition between the country’s main airport in Manila and the Clark International Airport (CRK).

The national policy states that Clark and NAIA should maximize their network and that the two airports should grow together, according to Honrado, who is also a member of the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) Board.

15 Mar 2015 - Quota donates equipment to Pampanga SPED classes

PAMPANGA -- High School's special education class (SPED) for deaf and hearing-impaired students received carpentry tools, cooking and sewing equipment from Quota International of Pampanga to help students acquire skills and adapt with the new K to 12 curriculum.

Quota Pampanga president Joycel Panlilio said the donations, presented over the weekend, will greatly help in providing the SPED students with skills for better employment chances. She added the K to 12 is silent on curricular programs for SPED students in terms of skills training.

15 Mar 2015 - Fashion show to benefit AC museum

ANGELES CITY -- The Kuliat Foundation is hosting a benefit fashion show on April 25 at the Holy Angel University Quadrangle to raise funds for this year’s restoration project of the Museo Ning Angeles.

The fashion show dubbed “Pidayit” will showcase the works of renowned Angeles-based fashion designer Phillip Torres.

15 Mar 2015 - Malasa Jaycees treat GK Mabalacat residents

MABALACAT CITY -- Officers and members of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Mabalacat Malasa has treated the residents of Gawad Kalinga (GK) Tabun here during a recent gift-giving and feeding program.

Children inside the community which is being maintained by the Couples For Christ, received clothes during the event dubbed “Operation Hapiness.”

15 Mar 2015 - 276 complete manpower courses in Porac

PAMPANGA -- A total of 276 trainees graduated from the different courses and skills programs of the Porac Manpower Training Center in cooperation with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) over the weekend.

The new graduates where formally presented during the 80th Commencement Exercises of the training center in Barangay Babo Sacan. The event was attended by Mayor Condralito dela Cruz, Vice-Mayor Dexter David, Tesda Region III Director Teodoro Gatchalian and Widus Hotel and Casino Human Resources Manager Fernando Manalang.

14 Mar 2015 - Policewomen push for healthy lifestyle

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Police Office (PPO) is taking a more active interest in the promoting good health among its female officers as part of the country's celebration of the National Women's Month.

This year's women empowerment drive is dubbed "Juana, Desisyonmo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na!” (Juana, your decision is important to the future of everyone).

14 Mar 2015 - P240.3-M allotted in Central Luzon for anti-poverty program

PAMPANGA -- Secretary Manuel Roxas II announced that a total of P240.3 million has been allocated in Central Luzon for the anti-poverty program of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) under the Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) this 2015.

The Secretary said the DILG will open some 119 new projects in the provinces of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, and Zambales that will surely help alleviate the sufferings of the people in the region.

14 Mar 2015 - DepEd to hire 2,000 kindergarten teachers

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) office in Central Luzon is in need of additional kindergarten teachers as part of the implementation of the K to 12 basic education program.

Rosalinda Ibarra, DepEd-Central Luzon Supervisor-in-charge of the Kindergarten Education, said the region will open applications to accommodate about 2,147 permanent kindergarten teachers.

14 Mar 2015 - Akbayan's statement insult to peasant martyrs – Anakpawis

MABALACAT CITY -- The militant Anakpawis Partylist reacted on a statement of Akbayan Youth accusing the Makabayan bloc at the House of Representatives of an unholy alliance with landlord lawmakers against extension of Republic Act 6657 or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) that expired last June 30, 2014.

"Gusto naming maging mahinahon dahil may mga nilagay silang mga grupo o asosasyon ng mga magsasaka bilang signatory sa kanilang pahayag," Anakpawis party-list Representative Fernando "Ka Pando" Hicap said in a statement.

13 Mar 2015 - Guiao to DOTC: Pressure airlines to operate in CRK

CLARK FREEPORT – Government has to put some pressure on the airlines to operate in Clark International Airport (CRK), said Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao (Pampanga, 1st district).

The lawyer relayed this message to officials of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), led by Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, during a recent consultation meeting held at Widus Convention Center here.

13 Mar 2015 - Santos lauds Pamintuan’s efforts for city’s peace and order

ANGELES CITY -- During the blessing of the newly renovated Police Station 6 along Jake Gonzales Boulevard in this city, the officer-in-charge of Police Regional Office 3, Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, acknowledged the efforts of Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for his boundless support to the Philippine National Police and its campaign against criminality.

In his speech, Santos encouraged Pamintuan to continue his deeds in maintaining the peace and order situation in the city. Santos admitted that the current police roster is no match with the population of the city. “We need everybody’s cooperation from the mayor to the barangay officials to the concerned citizens to prevent and solve crimes in our community,” Santos added.

13 Mar 2015 - DAR asked to bare status of cancelled land awards

MABALACAT CITY -- The Anakpawis Partylist renewed its call for Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to disclose the status of cancelled certificate of land ownership awards (CLOAs), certificate of land transfer (CLT) and emancipation patents (EP) as demanded under House Resolution 914 on March 4 last year.

"Nilabas na rin lang ng DAR ang list ng mga mambabatas na kontra-CARP, ilabas na rin nila ang tunay na status ng mga cancelled na CLOA, CLT at EP, matagal na naming hinihingi ito para malaman kung tagumpay nga o bangkarote ang CARP," Anakpawis Representative Fernando “Ka Pando” Hicap said.

13 Mar 2015 - Police arrest couple for drugs

PAMPANGA -- A couple suspected to be shabu pushers were arrested by anti-illegal drugs operatives in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Sto. Tomas, Pampanga, Wednesday.

Chief Inspector John Clark, Sto. Tomas police chief, identified the suspects as Erwin Garcia, 28, a resident of Barangay Sta. Maria; Minalin town and his live-in partner Rosemarie De Leon, 38, of Malibay, Pasay City.

13 Mar 2015 - Pampanga women cops hold unity walk

PAMPANGA -- A women's unity walk was conducted Thursday by the Pampanga Police in line with the celebration of Women’s Month this March.

The unity walk started at the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) parade grounds.

12 Mar 2015 - Guv taps ‘purok’ leaders for delivery of programs

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda tapped Wednesday the assistance of the more than 1,000 purok leaders initially in the six municipalities of the second congressional district such as Lubao, Porac, Floridablanca, Guagua, Sta. Rita and Sasmuan to comprehensively deliver the socio-economic development programs of the Provincial Government.

The governor said she wants to empower all sectors in the province like the purok chairmen and leaders in the fulfillment of the provincial government’s continuing objectives of a healthy and secure population who are fully and decently employed, and enjoying the fruits of economic prosperity.

12 Mar 2015 - Angeles council lauds Pagcor for P56-M funds for schools

ANGELES CITY -- Members of the city council recently approved a resolution commending the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corp. (Pagcor) chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat Jr. for funding the construction of classrooms at two public high schools here.

Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, who initiated the passing of the resolution, said that it was sponsored by Councilors Max Sangil and Alex Indiongco.

12 Mar 2015 - Pampanga culture goes global

CLARK FREEPORT -- Pampanga has once again proven its rich culture as foreign delegates witnessed the celebration of the Arts Month festival of the province.

The festival, which was organized by the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTOP), showcased the rich culture of the Kapampangan to the 900 delegation of the Kiwanis International-Asia Pacific.

11 Mar 2015 - Lubao preps up for balloon fest

PAMPANGA -- Lubao town is prepping up for what is dubbed as the biggest hot air balloon festival in Southeast Asia.

Noel Castro, Lubao International Balloon Festival organizer, said that workers and security teams have nearly completed the preparations for this year's balloon festival, which will held from March 26 to 29.

11 Mar 2015 - CIAC passes ISO surveillance audit

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has passed this year's Surveillance Audit on ISO-9001:2008 Quality Management System conducted by the TUV Rheinland Philippines Inc. on March 4, 2015.

The scope of the audit involves the efficiency of the corporation’s International Passenger Facilitation and internal operating processes.

11 Mar 2015 - Angeles LGU fetes loyal employees

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan led the recognition rites of this city's outstanding and loyal employees held Wednesday at the City Council Session Hall.

Spearheaded by the City Human Resources and Management Office (CHRMO), a total of 134 awardees were recognized for having rendered continuous and unparalleled service to the government and to the people of the city.

11 Mar 2015 - Capitol vows to assist OSYs

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government headed by Governor Lilia Pineda vowed on Tuesday to seek and send to school Kapampangan youth deprived of education due to poverty and lack of resources.

During the awarding of educational financial assistance to some 4,777 college students from the four districts of the province at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center here, Governor Pineda said, "Ang Capitol ngayon ay hahanapin at pag-aaralin ang mga hindi nag-aaral para gumanda din ang kinabukasan nila tulad ninyong mga scholars ng provincial government."

11 Mar 2015 - CDC launches excellence awards for graduating college students

CLARK FREEPORT -- The state-run Clark Development Corporation (CDC) launched the first-ever academic excellence award for outstanding graduating students on March 2015.

Highest ranking and well-rounded students nominated by their respective schools shall receive cash prize, custom made medal/trophy with the CDC symbol of academic excellence award and a certificate.

11 Mar 2015 - San Fernando’s most wanted nabbed

PAMPANGA -- The number one most wanted person in the City of San Fernando was apprehended by joint operatives of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) and city police during a manhunt operation at the New Public Market in Barangay Del Pilar on Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, RPSB commander, identified the arrested suspect as Marcelino Magtuloy, 19, a resident of the same barangay.

11 Mar 2015 - Guv enjoins LGUs to work for higher RPT collections

ANGELES CITY -- Governor Lilia Pineda enjoined all Pampanga local government units (LGUs) to help work in increasing Real Property Tax (RPT) collections for this year.

The governor appealed to municipal and city mayors, treasurers, assessors and the planning and development coordinators to work hard for higher RPT collections and achieve their respective targets.

11 Mar 2015 - Bike for a cause for 44 slain SAF troopers held

PAMPANGA -- At least 600 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail and Penology (BJMP3) and civilian bikers joined on Tuesday the bike for a cause for the 44 slain Special Action Force (SAF) troopers, which marked the 44th mourning day last Sunday.

"Bike for a cause" was conducted by Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO) headed by officer-in-charge Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, said Chief Inspector Chery Lou Donato, Regional Public Information officer.

10 Mar 2015 - Guiao to CAB: Stop granting flights to NAIA

CLARK FREEPORT -- Pampanga First District Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao has asked the Civil Aviation Board (CAB) to stop granting flights to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Guiao revealed this during a consultative meeting regarding the development of Clark International Airport (CRK) conducted by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) here on Monday.

10 Mar 2015 - Guv wants ‘My Lubao Central MRF’ model in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda wants to turn the "My Lubao Central MRF" to become the model materials recovery facility (MRF) in the province.

This was pronounced by the governor as she visited the said MRF facility yesterday together with Mayor Mylin Pineda Cayabyab, who showcased their projects such as production of organic fertilizers, recyclable materials, micro-organism, organic farming and bamboo furniture production.

10 Mar 2015 - Lubao native wins quiz bee contest

PAMPANGA -- A native of Lubao, Pampanga emerged as champion of the quiz bee competition recently held at the University of Batangas in Batangas City.

Paulene Vitug, a BS Tourism Management student at the Far Eastern University (FEU) in Manila, topped the quiz bee competition of the Union of Tourism Students Cup (UTSP) 2015.

10 Mar 2015 - Fil-Chi chamber turns over school buildings to Pampanga towns

PAMPANGA -- The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. turned over on Monday four school buildings with eight classrooms to elementary schools in the towns of Porac, Guagua and Sasmuan, all in the second District of Pampanga.

The school buildings were donated by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the San Fernando Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (SFFCCII).

10 Mar 2015 - Mid-quarter quarry collections reach P62-M

PAMPANGA -- Barely half-way through the first quarter of the year, the province's revenues from its quarry operation has reached P62,620,000 marking a steady growth in quarry revenues.

Reports from the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) reveal that the province was able to collect P27,820,000 for January and another P28,460,000 for February. March collections, as of March 6 alone, have reached P6,340,000 and is expected to grow more as the month revenues are registered.

10 Mar 2015 - Pampanga cops join unity walk for ‘Fallen 44’

PAMPANGA -- embers of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPO), in cooperation with the Central Luzon Police Regional Office and graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), recently participated in the nationwide unity walk for 44 elite cops who were slain during the ill-fated operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January 25.

The said unity walk was intended to observe the 44th day since the clash between elite members of the Philippine police and Moro rebels that also left 18 rebels and three civilians dead.

9 Mar 2015 - Abaya: Develop CRK is DOTC's direction

CLARK FREEPORT -- Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya Jr. said the direction of the agency is to develop Clark International Airport (CRK).

During a consultation meeting here Monday, Abaya revealed various programs the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is currently implementing at Clark airport.

9 Mar 2015 - Guv lauds Kiwanis International

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda lauded over the weekend the shift of Kiwanis International's focus to the welfare of the children with their slogan "Serving the Children of the World".

The governor served as guest of honor and speaker during the 40th Kiwanis Asia Pacific Convention held here recently.

9 Mar 2015 - Angeles council okays salary increase of day care workers, BHWs

ANGELES CITY – Members of the Angeles City Council unanimously approved a resolution calling for a P5,000 increase in the salaries of day care workers in the city.

Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin said the resolution he authored was approved during the city council’s regular session last February 3 with an amendment to include the Barangay Health Workers in the city.

9 Mar 2015 - BIR offices win 3 excellence awards from CSC

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 was recently conferred the Citizen's Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award for its three revenue district offices by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for their excellent frontline services.

This was bared by Revenue Region 4 (RR-4) OIC Regional Director Conrado Lee who said that Revenue District Office No. 21A (North Pampanga), BIR-RDO 23A (Talavera, Nueva Ecija and BIR-RDO 17B were awarded the seal by the CSC. Lee added that the awards entailed cash incentives of P100,000 for the winning offices.

9 Mar 2015 - 5 Pampanga towns increase RPT income

CLARK FREEPORT -- San Luis town and four other municipalities increased its Real Property Tax (RPT) income by a minimum of 20 percent last year compared to 2013, according to a report presented during a consultative meeting here initiated by Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda.

San Simon collected P2,537,221.44 million in 2014, or an increase of P43.93 percent compared to 2013. The others: Minalin, P7,913,699.90, or an increase of 30.95 percent; San Simon, P12,179,710.56, or an increase of 22.67 percent; Guagua, P14,439,279.94, or an increase of 22.13 percent; and Sta. Ana, P1,504,199.06, or an increase of 20.61 percent.

9 Mar 2015 - ‘Extorting’ rookie cops in hot water

ANGELES CITY -- Two police rookies are in trouble and may be dismissed from the service after they were caught in the act of extorting money from an American national.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, said Police Officer 1 (PO1) Herbert Sicat, 25, a resident of Barangay Salapungan, Angeles City; and PO1 Ryan Villanueva, 34, a resident of Barangay Camias, Magalang, Pampanga were already charged with grave misconduct following their involvement in extortion.

9 Mar 2015 - Former Mimosa payroll master indicted with theft

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Angeles City Regional Trial Court has issued arrest warrants to Jester Machinal, former payroll section head of Clark Development Corporation – Special Project for Resorts Operations (CDC-SPRO) after allegedly "payroll padding" over P5.2 million from Mimosa employees, authorities said.

Angeles RTC branch 60 Judge Eda Dizon Era has issued two warrants of arrest against Machinal on October 10, 2014 for "unlawfully withholding" some 5,233,051.23 pesos from the salaries of the CDC-SPRO rank and file employees for his "personal gain".

9 Mar 2015 - George Clooney’s wife takes Arroyo’s case to UN

PAMPANGA -- Incumbent Pampanga second district Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's case will soon get the attention of the United Nations (UN), as lawyer Amal Alamuddin Clooney has filed a case against the Philippine government for the continuing detention of the former President.

Clooney is a human rights lawyer and the wife of actor George Clooney.

8 Mar 2015 - Kapampangan to share artisty in Singapore

PAMPANGA -- Master portrait artist Rafael Maniago is set to share his craft before international audience in a public workshop this month at the Mandala Fine Art Gallery in Singapore.

The United States-based artist is back in Pampanga for a month-long vacation and will fly to Singapore on March 21 to 25 for workshops in still life, portrait and landscape. The Kapampangan artist was chosen among the lecturers of the gallery's regular international workshops.

8 Mar 2015 - Central Luzon included in top tourist destinations

MABALACAT CITY -- Central Luzon is one of the leading regions in the country in terms of domestic visitor arrivals with 3.1 million tourists last year.

Ronnie Tiotuico, Department of Tourism Central Luzon director, said this indicate an increase of 21 percent compared to 2013 with 2.7 million tourists.

7 Mar 2015 - Cops nabbed for extortion

ANGELES CITY -- Two rookie policemen were arrested by combined operatives of the Angeles City Intelligence Branch and Tracker Team during an entrapment operation in Barangay Malabanias, Angeles City on Saturday.

Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, identified the arrested cops as Police Officer (PO) 1 Hebren Sicat, 25, a resident of Barangay Salapungan, Angeles City; and PO1 Ryan Villanueva, 34, a resident of Barangay Camias, Magalang, Pampanga.

7 Mar 2015 - Hundreds served in San Fernando ‘barangayan’

PAMPANGA -- More than 500 Fernandinos residing in Barangay Telebastagan benefited from the medical and dental mission held by the City Government led by Mayor Edwin Santiago during his regular outreach mission dubbed as Serbisyong Barangay on Friday.

The regular “barangayan” program is conducted every Friday and includes services like the issuance of Fernandino Access Cards, applications for educational scholarship assistance program and City College scholarship, anti-rabies vaccination, distribution of solo parent and PWD identification cards, skills registry system, issuance of senior citizen identification cards and purchase booklet, free hair cut, manicure, and massage, among others.

7 Mar 2015 - Legarda calls for increased protection of women

MABALACAT CITY -- In observance of the International Women's Day on March 8, Senator Loren Legarda reiterated Saturday her call for increased protection of women, as well as children, the elderly and persons with disabilities, around the world in emergency situations such as disasters caused by natural hazards.

Legarda, United Nations Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for Asia-Pacific, noted that disasters affect about 200 million people all over the world yearly, half of them women or girls whose special needs and concerns are not properly addressed, putting them at greater risk during disasters.

7 Mar 2015 - San Fernando launches SPES program

PAMPANGA -- Some 500 Fernandino students are set to become part of the City Government's workforce in line with the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES), which was launched on Friday at Heroes Hall here.

A joint program between the City Government under the leadership of Mayor Edwin Santiago and the Department of Labor Employment, SPES aims to give employment opportunity to students.

6 Mar 2015 - Ex-Mabalacat vice mayor bares mayoralty bid in 2016

MABALACAT CITY -- Former vice mayor Noel Castro has bared plans to run for mayor in this component city during the 2016 elections.

Castro said several groups and individuals are pushing him to seek again the city's mayorship in next year's polls.

6 Mar 2015 - Kapampangan music teacher bags top prize in songwriting tilt

PAMPANGA -- A Kapampangan music teacher claimed all the marbles Thursday as he was crowned the first winner of LiKhALIKASAN: Likhang Awit para sa Kalikasan Regional Songwriting Competition of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Jay Garcia Gopez, 43, took home P30,000 and plaque with his entry entitled “Tayo na sa Pagbabago.”

6 Mar 2015 - NLEx-North Harbor Link to open March 18

Motorists going to Metro Manila may soon see lower travel time due to the impending opening of the newly built North Luzon Expressway (NLEx)-North Harbor Link, which will allow the passage of cargo trucks from Manila North Harbor to Central Luzon and vice-versa.

The first phase of the road will be open to the public on March 18 despite the ongoing truck ban, according to the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC).

5 Mar 2015 - Prelates join call for CARP extension

PAMPANGA -- Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto and Archbishop Florentino Lavarias were among the 81 Catholic Church leaders who appealed to President Benigno Aquino III and Congress to "give new life and glorious finish" to the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) by allowing the passage of two proposed bills that strive for the extension of and improvement of the country's land reform program.

Based on the recent letter posted in the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) website, some 15 archbishops, 59 bishops, and seven Church administrators reiterated their position that the executive and legislative bodies of the government must immediately certify as urgent and pass House Bill 4296 and House Bill 4375, which are presently in "various stages of consideration in the Senate and the House of Representatives."

5 Mar 2015 - Pamintuan gets 3rd most outstanding mayor award from Superbrands

ANGELES CITY -- Multi-awarded and World No. 8 City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has been chosen as one of the recipients of the 2015 Most Outstanding Mayors Award (MOMA) by the prestigious worldwide organization Superbrands Marketing International (SMI).

This is the third time that SMI has voted Pamintuan for the said award since 2012.

5 Mar 2015 - Korean execs vow aid for Munting Tahanan kids

MABALACAT CITY -- Officials of Busan City, South Korea, who visited the Munting Tahanan ng Nazareth in Barangay Mawaque here Thursday, vowed to assist in providing the basic needs of special children under the care of the institution.

The Korean officials, led by Busan City Board Member Kyung Chum Lee, were assisted by officials and employees of Punta Group of Companies, which is setting up a manufacturing firm inside the Clark Freeport.

5 Mar 2015 - Porac town to avail of P15-M from BUB

PAMPANGA -- This town is looking at availing itself some P15-million in funds for various social and government programs and projects here under the Grassroots Participatory Process (GPP), formerly Bottom-up Budgeting (BUB) of the national government.

Mayor Condralito dela Cruz said they are now finalizing processes to avail of the funds for the town. He added that different sectors will be involved in the program which is also expected to help in the overall development of local programs here.

5 Mar 2015 - Pampanga police arrest 3 suspected shabu pushers

PAMPANGA -- Three suspected shabu pushers were arrested in two separate buy-bust operations conducted in the town of Guagua and Mabalacat City, Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono, Jr., Pampanga police provincial director, identified the arrested suspects as Moises Bucu, 42; and Geron Nalux, 36, both residents of Barangay San Rafael, Guagua town; and Ervin Nuguit, 36, a resident of Madapdap Resettlement in Barangay Dapdap, Mabalacat City.

5 Mar 2015 - Lubao balloon festival ‘biggest in Southeast Asia’

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Lubao International Balloon Festival, which will be held on March 26 to 29 in Prado Siongco, Lubao town, is the biggest hot-air balloon event in South East Asia, officials of the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.

Noel Castro, Jr., president of the Pilipinas International Balloon Festival Incorporated (PIBFI), said that balloonists from 18 countries will participate in this annual event, which started last year.

4 Mar 2015 - Pampanga villages to get computer sets

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda vowed Tuesday to provide computer units to the province’s 505 barangays for local data gathering and civil registration.

"We need to know how many people are born and how many die each year, and the main causes of their deaths, in order to have well-functioning health systems. The only way to count everyone and to track all births and deaths is through civil registration," Pineda said.

4 Mar 2015 - Sto. Tomas starts hearings on MRF

PAMPANGA -- The Municipal Government here has started a series of public hearings on the establishment of the town’s own materials recovery facility or MRF.

Municipal Administrator Edwin Manalese said yesterday that the first public hearing was held on February 20, with majority of stakeholders manifesting their support for the creation of the MRF in an area to be purchased by the local government unit through a P6-million loan.

4 Mar 2015 - Pamintuan bares program for Angeles youth

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan bared in a forum recently a package of programs for the youth and students of this city, including an expanded scholarship program, free wi-fi connection in all education centers and the opening of more courses at the City College of Angeles (CCA), even as he challenged the youth to also invite Senator Lito Lapid in a similar event to hear about his plans for the youth.

Pamintuan was responding to a question posed by one of the more than 600 youth and student leaders who attended the forum held at the Shanghai Restaurant, asking him to differentiate his plans for the youth with that of Lapid's, who early on announced his plan to run for mayor of the city.

4 Mar 2015 - PRO3 launches ‘Lambat-Sibat’

PAMPANGA -- The Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) launched Wednesday Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) "Lambat Sibat" to combat crime incidents in Central Luzon.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Santos, Officer-In-Charge of PRO3, said the launching of "Lambat-Sibat" is the innovative data-driven strategy of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to address the rising number of crimes in the region.

4 Mar 2015 - Groups want balloon festival out of Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Some groups, which started the Clark hot air balloon festival, are urging the current organizers to transfer the international event to other places in Pampanga province due to the danger the festival poses to the Clark International Airport.

Noel Castro Jr., chairman of the Pilipinas International Balloon Festival Incorporated (PIBFI), said during the media forum "Talk Widus," organized by the Pampanga Press Club, that ballooning hinders the development and operation of an airport.

4 Mar 2015 - P1.7-M shabu seized from 4 suspected pushers

PAMPANGA -- Four suspected shabu pushers were arrested by combined operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Luzon and PDEA-National Capital Region in two separate buy-bust operations in Quezon City and Manila that resulted in the confiscation of 500 grams of suspected shabu on Monday.

PDEA3 Regional Director Jeoffrey Tacio identified the suspects as Joseph Marcelo, 37, a resident of Makati City; Russel Penamora, 24, of Lucena City; Saldy Hadji, 27; and Fahad Mikawayan, 29, both residents of Palanca Street, Quiapo, Manila.

3 Mar 2015 - Nepomuceno: Support to Pamintuan for Angeles’ sake

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Bryan Nepomuceno, who is planning to run for the city's vice-mayoralty post in 2016, said that he is supporting Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for the best interest of the city.

The city councilor issued the statement following reports that he will be Pamintuan's running mate in next year's polls.

3 Mar 2015 - Women’s role in society underscored

ANGELES CITY – "The true essence of this annual celebration is to highlight the role of the women in society, which we are doing in the city every day. We have been fighting for women equality through the years."

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan as he led the city's kick off ceremonies of the 2015 National Women’s Month with the theme, "Juana, desisyon mo ay mahalaga sa kinabukasan ng bawat isa! Ikaw na!" on Monday.

3 Mar 2015 - Kiwanis convention gets guv’s support

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda expressed full support on Monday to the holding of Kiwanis Asia Pacific Convention 2015 from March 5 to 7 this year at the Clark Freeport with a theme, "Toward another century of growth and service."

"I wish you all the success for the 40th Kiwanis Asia Pacific Convention 2015," the governor said.

3 Mar 2015 - Militant group to bishops: Support genuine agrarian reform

MABALACAT CITY – A militant group urged the members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to support House Bill (HB) 252 or the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill (GARB), instead of pressing President Benigno Aquino III and Congress to enact HB 4296 that would extend the land acquisition and distribution component of the already expired Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL).

"Napakabuting nanawagan ang mga bishop para sa interes ng mga magsasaka, kaya ngayon ay umaapela kami sa kanila na suportahan ang Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill o GARB na nagpapanukalang libreng ipamahagi ang lupa at inasyunalisa ang lupang agricultural," Anakpawis Representative Fernando "Ka Pando" Hicap said in a statement.

3 Mar 2015 - 1-M coconut trees for Central Luzon underway

PAMPANGA -- The "One Million Coconut Tree Planting Project" now goes into full swing as more nursery centers are being put up and more non-government organizations are joining the project, said Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) trustee Sylvia Ordonez.

The program was launched in Pampanga and Central Luzon on June 6, 2014 at the Benigno Hall in the City of San Fernando.

3 Mar 2015 - Kapampangan collector shares fossil discoveries

PAMPANGA -- For avid fossil collector Jorge Cuyugan, it all started with a strong interest in the history of things, which has turned into a life-long commitment of collecting fossilized shark teeth, ammonites, and a number of different geodes.

His vast collection of species covers fossil history of over 300 million years.

3 Mar 2015 - DTI posts 11% increase in new Central Luzon businesses

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) noted Tuesday an 11 percent increase in new business name registrations in Central Luzon last year, higher than the 32,620 new registrants for 2013, with the province of Bulacan having the most number of business name registrations at 8,343 in 2013 and 9,092 for 2014.

DTI OIC regional director Judith Angeles said that an important factor for the increase in the number of new business registration is the simplification of the procedures and faster transaction time.

2 Mar 2015 - Prime Clark areas venues for sports training center

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Technical Working Group (TWG) of the House of Representatives youth and sports committee agreed Monday that the Clark airport aviation complex and the Clark Green City (CGC) will be the next venues of the National Training Center.

Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao (Pampanga, 1st district), vice-chair of the youth and sports committee, said that this decision will be recommended to the committee.

2 Mar 2015 - Angeles exec sets social service programs for women

ANGELES CITY -- Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting will usher in the celebration of the Women's Month this March here with a series of social service programs aimed at promoting the well-rounded development of women in different sectors of the community.

"We have lined up activities that promote the well-rounded development of women. We have diversified this year's events to cater to diverse needs of our women in the city," Vega-Cabigting said, urging Angeleño women to participate in the events.

2 Mar 2015 - Execs: Gender equality foremost in San Fernando

PAMPANGA -- As the City of San Fernando kicks off its celebration of Women's Month this March, Mayor Edwin Santiago stressed Monday that "gender equality has been attained and remains foremost in the city government’s agenda."

During the press conference and media launch at city hall highlighting women’s participation in development, Santiago also lauded the “ladies in purple” for their contributions to the city’s dynamic local economy. The city has 36 organized women’s groups, including one from Northville 14 Resettlement, which join in advocating for their rights. The city is the only one in the region celebrating the “moments for women” in March and Women’s Week in September.

2 Mar 2015 - Pampanga towns to experience 9-hour power outage on March 4

PAMPANGA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced Monday the scheduled shutdown of some of its transmission facilities in parts of Sta. Cruz, Guagua; Bacolor, Sta. Rita, Sasmuan, Porac, Lubao; and Floridablanca, Pampanga Pampanga on March 4, Wednesday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

According to NGCP Corporate Communications Officer Ernest Vidal, the affected distribution utilities are Pampanga II Electric Cooperative Inc. (PELCO II) and San Fernando Electric Light and Power Company (SFELAPCO-Floridablanca).

2 Mar 2015 - DPWH: No more delays on Camp Dau road widening project

MABALACAT CITY–The Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) on Monday clarified that the government will push through with the implementation of the Camp Dau Road widening project despite the opposition of some residents who said that Mayor Marino Morales has already ordered for the temporary suspension of the project.

Engineer Jay Salvador of the DPWH Pampanga 3rd District Engineering Office cleared the name of Morales, belying a tarpaulin installed near the project site, which stated that the local chief executive approved of the delay in the implementation of the road widening project.

2 Mar 2015 - Songwriting grand finals set March 5

PAMPANGA -- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will hold the grand finals of “LiKhALIKASAN: Likhang Awit para sa Kalikasan” at The Event Center of SM City Pampanga on March 5.

“The contest seeks to instill awareness on positive behaviors and perspectives as resiliency safeguards against the effects of climate change; promote environmental awareness, protection and preservation; and recognize people empowerment and involvement towards measures leading to preserving the well-being of the environment as act of protecting not just it but more so protecting people’s lives,” PIA Regional Director William Beltran said.

2 Mar 2015 - Angeles mayor on public spaces: ‘Political will is key’

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan highlighted the role of political will in the establishment and beautification of public spaces, plazas and parks as he spoke before local chief executives, members and guests of the League of Cities of the Philippines during the Interactive Conference on Public Place and the New Urban Agenda held Friday at the Hotel Jen, Manila.

"What actually started the ball rolling with the establishment of these parks was when we saw how dark and decrepit the old Philippine National Railways station in our city was. We saw it as a place of opportunity. My wife suggested that we had to clean the station up – and we just did," said the mayor.

2 Mar 2015 - Nepo Mall features works of Kapampangan artists

ANGELES CITY -- Several Kapampangan artists teamed up with Nepo Mall for the National Arts Month celebration exhibit, featuring the province's visual arts and culture.

The art exhibit, which took place from February 27 to March 1, showcased the works of award-winning visual artists, sculptors, and painters, including Norman Tiotuico and Arnel Garcia.

2 Mar 2015 - Pagcor allots P20-M for Angeles high school

ANGELES CITY -- Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corp. (Pagcor) chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat Jr. led Monday the ground-breaking ceremony for the P19.9 million school building at the EPZA resettlement here.

Naguiat, who is a native of this city, said Pagcor gave the funds to the Bonifacio V. Romero High School in Barangay Pulung Cacutud as "part of our advocacy to help improve an advance public education."

2 Mar 2015 - Angeles school tops Tesda provincial video tilt

ANGELES CITY -- The St. Peter's College of Angeles City took home the top prizes of the 2015 Tatak Tesda (Technical Education and Schools Development Authority) provincial video making contest, claiming the honor of representing Pampanga at the regional level.

Alumnus Jerry Manaloto, who now works as an assistant cook in a restaurant, placed first in the individual category and got P5,000 and a plaque.

1 Mar 2015 - Camp Dau Road widening project starts

MABALACAT CITY -- Construction works for the P29-million widening project of the Camp Dau Road, which was delayed for three weeks after strong opposition from some residents, has finally started.

Dau Chairman Oscar Aurelio said the road leading to the old Dau Gate of the Clark Freeport will be expanded by about 15 meters including one-meter drainage systems and 0.5 meter easement on both sides.

1 Mar 2015 - Traffic aides maul Xevera residents

MABALACAT CITY -- The head of the Mabalacat Traffic Enforcement Group (MTEG) is in hot water for allegedly asking at least four MTEG enforcers to disrupt a peaceful gathering of newly-elected homeowners association officials and residents of Xevera Subdivision here last February 25.

In a letter-complaint to Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales on Saturday, Xevera homeowners officials Edwin Lazatin, Kathleen Sabado, Edwin Roque, Joyce Katungal and Jessie Rivera and other residents said “we firmly believed that he (Santos) together with his followers have abused their power and has misappropriated government funds and resources.”

1 Mar 2015 - Angeleno artist gets Pupul ning Banua award

ANGELES CITY -- Maverick visual artist Arnel Garcia received over the weekend the Pupul ning Banua (Harvest of the Year) for the field of visual arts in the awarding ceremonies at the Museo Ning Angeles here.

The Pupul Ning Banua is an honor accorded to residents of the city who have brought honor and prestige to the city in their respective fields. The honorees are people who have distinguished themselves through awards and citations that further promote their crafts and ultimately the city that honed them.

1 Mar 2015 - LGUs should develop public spaces – Binay

MABALACAT CITY -- Vice President and housing czar Jejomar Binay urged local government executives to develop more public spaces, saying that "more public spaces mean better people’s lives."

"The challenge is upon us to protect and improve on existing public spaces and to bring public-private partnership in developing new ones. We must continue to fight for their development and we need champions who can push to protect, create, and make useful such public spaces."

1 Mar 2015 - More green parks to rise in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan promised to build more green parks and beatification projects in Angeles City.

In a meeting with the press last week, he said it is part of his advocacy to make the city eco-friendly and promote a livable environment.

1 Mar 2015 - Drug peddler nabbed in Santo Tomas town

A suspected drug pusher was apprehended by elements of the Sto Tomas town police during an anti-drug operation recently.

Suspect Alberto Digman, 38, fell into the hands of the Municipal Anti-illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group (Maidsotg) under the supervision of Police Chief Insp. John Clark in a but bust operation here over the weekend.