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Balibago News Aug-2016

31 Aug 2016 - Fire razes Internet firm warehouse

ANGELES CITY -- Residents in this city and other neighboring towns in Pampanga were shocked upon seeing black smoke billow from a warehouse in Barangay Pulung Cacutud owned by a local Internet cable firm Tuesday.

Cable boxes, fiber optic lines, coax computers, office lines, and office supplies worth more than P30 million were destroyed in the fire, which broke out around 5 p.m.

31 Aug 2016 - Philippines 'rice granary' region heading toward industrialization

PAMPANGA -- Central Luzon, the country's rice granary, is now moving toward industrialization, a reality that will have adverse effects on the region and country's food sufficiency, said the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA's 2015 Gross Regional Domestic Product, based on the 2002 Census of Agriculture (CA 2002), reported that Central Luzon is among the three regions in the country that have become predominantly industrial, along with Cordillera Administrative Region and Calabarzon (Region 4A).

31 Aug 2016 - Bizmen ask DPWH to replace Dolores flyover

PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., led by its chairman emeritus Levy Laus, has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to replace the Dolores flyover in San Fernando.

Laus raised the concern to DWPH Undersecretary Rafael Yabut and Central Luzon Director Antonio Molano Jr. during a meeting with local executives, as he described it as "fragile and an eyesore."

31 Aug 2016 - DepEd to streamline frontline services

PAMPANGA -- Clients of the Department of Education here can now expect faster frontline service transactions with the simplified and convenient processing of permits and other pertinent documents.

The move is in response to President Rodrigo Duterte's order to cut red tape and complete government transactions within 30 days.

31 Aug 2016 - PAF unit, international school forge scholarship program pact

CLARK FREEPORT -- The 2nd Philippine Air Force Reserve Command has forged a scholarship program with an international school in a bid to help select reserve soldiers and their families.

The signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) was led by Brigadier General Enrico Ignacio, commander of the 2nd Air Reserve Center, and Reynante Intal, director of Gentry International School Incorporated.

31 Aug 2016 - DepEd: Sexuality education to protect learners vs exploitation

PAMPANGA -- To equip and empower learners in making informed choices and decisions on issues that affect their personal safety and well-being, the Department of Education (DepEd) integrates and ensures an age-appropriate, developmental, and culture-sensitive sexuality education for learners in the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum.

This is in response to Republic Act 10354 or the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law of 2012. Stated under its Section 14, the State shall provide an age- and development-appropriate reproductive health education for adolescents, which shall be taught by adequately trained teachers in the formal and non-formal educational system.

31 Aug 2016 - 100 students attend first-ever HIV awareness forum in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- OVER 100 students from Colegio de Sebastian recently participated in the first-ever forum in Pampanga focused on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Entitled "HIV 101: Know Your Status, Get Tested with HIV," it seeks to encourage people to test regularly and to correct certain misleading information regarding the disease.

30 Aug 2016 - Suspected drug mule faces raps

CLARK FREEPORT – Suspected drug mule Allan Hoo Soo, the 68-year old American citizen of Chinese descent apprehended by airport authorities here Sunday night after attempting to smuggle in some 2.3 kilos of high grade cocaine, was formally charged by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Tuesday before Angeles City Assistant Prosecutor Marcelino Pineda.

Soo was charged with violation of Section 5 of Republic Act 9165 (Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), a non-bailable offense and if found guilty could face imprisonment for life.

30 Aug 2016 - Mayor Santiago commends ‘habagat heroes’

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago commended on Tuesday volunteers, city and Provincial Government workers and private sector representatives who braved deep flooders brought about by the southwest monsoon rains or habagat two weeks ago.

During the observance of National Heroes Day at Heroes Hall on Monday, August 29, Santiago likened the stakeholders to fallen heroes who offered their lives in pursuit of the country’s freedom.

30 Aug 2016 - Pampanga top cops may be relieved

PAMPANGA -- Chiefs of police or their provincial police directors will be relieved immediately if they could not meet the deadline on putting up reformation centers in their respective area of responsibilities.

This was disclosed by Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO) acting director, during 12th Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting on Tuesday.

30 Aug 2016 - Restos asked to include food nutritional value on menus

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. recently filed an ordinance requiring all restaurants operating within the city to disclose and include the nutritional information of food on their menus.

Restaurants and fast-food chains will be required to secure, as an additional requirement for operation, a Nutrition Disclosure Compliance Certificate (NDCC) from the City Health Office (CHO), within six months when the ordinance was approved and implemented by the city council.

30 Aug 2016 - 100 students attend first-ever HIV awareness forum in Pampanga100 students attend first-ever HIV awareness forum in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Some 100 students from Colegio de Sebastian recently participated in the first-ever forum in Pampanga focused on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) organized by thye Department of Health, Pedal for HIV, LifeWorx, and LoveYourself.

Dubbed “HIV 101: Know Your Status, Get Tested with HIV,” it seeks to encourage people to test regularly and to correct certain misleading information regarding the disease.

30 Aug 2016 - Anakpawis hits fuel firms for price hike

MABALACAT CITY -- The Anakpawis Party-list condemned what it called the “insatiable greed for profit” of oil companies which implemented a price increase on petroleum products for three times this month.

Effective 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Pilipinas Shell and Chevron (Caltex) Philippines as well as Phoenix Petroleum, Eastern Petroleum, Seaoil, and Flying V, have implemented price hike on gasoline, diesel and kerosene by P0.50, P0.15 and P0.20 respectively.

30 Aug 2016 - Local observers see faster travel with new Clark Road

CLARK FREEPORT— Local residents and observers see faster and improved travel time between two cities of Pampanga province once the Clark-Mabalacat-Angeles Road (CMAR) opens to the public.

Motorists will soon feel the ease of travel between the cities of Mabalacat and Angeles and adjoining areas in the northern and southern parts of the province.

30 Aug 2016 - 87 coops attend Central Luzon Agri Congress

PAMPANGA -- Some 291 members of 87 cooperatives in Central Luzon Region trooped to Clark Freeport Zone for the First Regional Agriculture Cooperative Congress themed “Pagbabago sa Kabukiran, Sa Kooperatibang Pamamaraan Laban sa Kahirapan.”

The two-day gathering was co-organized by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC).

29 Aug 2016 - Cocaine seized at Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Airport and anti-illegal drugs authorities seized some two kilos of high grade cocaine worth about P16 million from a 68-year old American who allegedly tried to smuggle the drug at Clark International Airport Sunday evening.

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency III (PDEA-3) Director Emerson Margate identified the suspect as Alan Sohoo, holder of US passport and a resident of New York.

29 Aug 2016 - Duterte misses Pampanga meeting

PAMPANGA -- President Rodrigo Duterte missed his "special" meeting with Pampanga executives at the residence of Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo here on Sunday due to bad weather.

President Duterte was invited by Arroyo to attend the fiesta of their patron Saint Agustine, as well as discuss some issues concerning the province with Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda.

29 Aug 2016 - EdPam: Peace is in the horizon

ANGELES CITY -- League of Cities of the President and GPH peace panel adviser Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said Monday that "peace is in the horizon" for the country after talks with National Democratic Front of the Philippines and the government proved successful.

Arriving from Oslo, Norway on Sunday, Pamintuan said that the first round of peace talks was a giant first leap towards the attainment of peace.

29 Aug 2016 - P216-M crop damage from Habagat

PAMPANGA -- The recent onslaught of the southwest monsoon (habagat) has left P346,609,713 in terms of play crop damages in Central Luzon with the Province of Pampanga incurring most of the damages at P216 million.

In the final report on damages of the southwest monsoon by the Department of Agriculture (DA), Pampanga sustained most of the damages followed by Tarlac province with P52,651,572 and Bulacan province with P39,432,175.

28 Aug 2016 - SBMA, CDC asked to suspend bridge project in Dinalupihan

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Pipeline and Depot Company has asked the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to instruct the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to suspend the ongoing expansion of the Cucubog Bridge in Dinalupihan town, Bataan province.

This after damages were detected in the Subic-Clark Pipeline situated beside the PTT Petroleum in Barangay San Ramon and other parts of said town.

28 Aug 2016 - CL records 'healthier' 2015

PAMPANGA -- Central Luzon has recorded a healthier 2015 in terms of nutrition status as reported by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute Region III (FNRI-3).

During the 2015 Updating of Nutritional Status of Filipino Children and Other Age Groups, FNRI Chief Science Research Specialist Cecilia Acuin disclosed that the region has recorded a decrease on the underweight and overweight prevalence compared to 2013's record.

28 Aug 2016 - Former DAR secretary, 3 lawmakers in hot water over P220-M CL projects

PAMPANGA -- Former Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Virgilio delos Reyes, Senator Gregorio Honasan II, former Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, former Representative Arturo Robes (San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan) and five officials of the DAR and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) are under preliminary investigation over the P220 million for livelihood and training projects for farmers in 27 municipalities in the provinces that included Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Bataan among others.

The investigation is for possible violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and Malversation through Falsification of Public Documents for their alleged involvement in the DAR scam.

28 Aug 2016 - Nucom wants relocation for residents under bridge

PAMPANGA -- Apalit Mayor Peter Nucom expressed his hopes and willingness to relocate residents living under major bridges here.

Concerned over the safety of his constituents, Nucom said there are at least ten families residing under the Sulipan Bridge and portion of Candaba Viaduct of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) here.

27 Aug 2016 - DOT: Subic Bay, Clark among top 10 destinations in 2015

ANGELES CITY -- Subic Bay and Clark were among the top 10 destinations of the Philippines in 2015.

This was learned from Department of Tourism Central Luzon director Ronaldo Tiotuico.

27 Aug 2016 - To resolve drug problems: Mayor, VM to have holistic approach

PAMPANGA -- In line with the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs, Masantol local executives are creating a local comprehensive drive, which will provide a holistic approach in neutralizing the suspects.

Mayor Danilo Guintu said that community should not discriminate the drug users but rather help them in reforming themselves to get back to their normal lives.

27 Aug 2016 - Foundation helps DTI in training Pampanga MSMEs

PAMPANGA -- AT LEAST 40 Micro Small and Medium Enterprises in Pampanga attended the Basic Business Recording Seminar held on August 25, 2016 at the Prime Asia Hotel in Angeles City.

The training was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pampanga Provincial Office in partnership with BPI Foundation and the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC).

26 Aug 2016 - Kagawad nabbed for drug pushing

PAMPANGA -- A two-term councilman or "kagawad" of Barangay San Matias in Santo Tomas was arrested in a buy-bust operation on Wednesday.

Local police here led by Police Chief Inspector Romwald Basa, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region III, nabbed Jammam James Lugtu, 33, at Paralaya Street in the said barangay.

26 Aug 2016 - Pampanga to experience 16-hour power interruption on Aug 29

PAMPANGA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) on Friday announced that several areas covered by at least three distribution utilities in Pampanga and Zambales will experience power interruption from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm on August 29.

NGCP Central Luzon Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Officer Ernest Lorenz B. Vidal said that scheduled shutdown of some of its transmission facilities will affect consumers served by Pampanga II Electric Cooperative Inc. (PELCO II) and San Fernando Electric Light and Power Company (Floridablanca only) and Zambales I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZAMECO I).

26 Aug 2016 - Execs vow to support megalopolis plan

PAMPANGA -- Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Governor Lilia Pineda vowed to support the plan to develop the province into a megalopolis.

During the recent infrastructure preparedness forum organized by the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. Pineda said that the provincial government is bound to fortify the capabilities of Pampanga through several infrastructure projects that would reinforce its purpose as an alternative portal of the country.

26 Aug 2016 - CL crime index down 35% but murder up 84%

PAMPANGA -- The crime index in Central Luzon in July this year went down 35 percent but murder cases shot up to 84 percent.

This was disclosed by Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office III (PRO-3) director, who noted that the decrease in crime incidents and the increase in murder cases is due to the intensified anti-illegal drugs campaign.

26 Aug 2016 - Nepo: 'We will fulfill our campaign promises'

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Mayor Bryan Nepomuceno said that he and his fellow members in the city council are committed to fulfill their respective campaign promises.

"I always remind the councilors that all their election promises should be realized, their legislative agenda and as their head in the city council, I will put in the ground work or in the structure to assure them," Nepomuceno said.

25 Aug 2016 - San Simon execs, 70 others under Ombudsman probe

PAMPANGA -- The municipal officials of San Simon town are now under an in-depth fact-finding investigation, along with 70 other officials in Central Luzon, by the office if the Ombudsman in their operation of illegal dumpsites.

Investigators from the Environmental Ombudsman Program directed San Simon officials along with those from Abucay, Bataan; Paombong and Hagonoy in Bulacan; and San Isidro and Jaen in Nueva Ecija to attend the series of clarificatory hearings this August to explain "possible violation of the law."

25 Aug 2016 - Comelec issues certificate vs Lazatin's registration transfer

ANGELES CITY -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) office here has issued a certification against the application for transfer of voters registration filed by former Pampanga congressman and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo "Tarzan" Lazatin.

On July 15, 2015, Lazatin filed his transfer from Barangay San Jose to Barangay Balibago where he is planning to run for village chairman during the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) election on October 31, 2016.

25 Aug 2016 - Guv asks DPWH for solutions to Pampanga flooding

PAMPANGA -- "What is your solution to the perennial flooding problem of Pampanga? Do you have a solution for it?"

This was the question of Governor Lilia Pineda to Department of Public Works and Highways Region III (DPWH-3) Director Antonio Molano, Jr. during the Infrastructure Preparedness forum held Wednesday at the LausGroup Event Centre here.

25 Aug 2016 - Vice-Guv wants additional DPWH budget for Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Vice-Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda is set to ask his colleagues at the Pampanga Provincial Board (PB) to pass a resolution requesting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to increase the agency's budget for Pampanga.

The vice-governor is asking the DPWH to increase funding for 2017 to fund additional flood-control measures and infrastructure.

25 Aug 2016 - MNTC to incorporate projects in Pampanga development plan

PAMPANGA -- In line with the foreseen development in the province, the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) is set to augment their road network projects along Pampanga, particularly in this capital city.

MNTC President Rodrigo Franco disclosed that some P200-million projects are lined up for the San Fernando interchange alone which will be incorporated in the province's megalopolis scheme.

25 Aug 2016 - Workers urged to use bicycles

ANGELES CITY -- A city official has encouraged workers to use bicycles when going to work.

This move is in line with the government's campaign to promote health of every Filipino and at the same time protect the environment.

24 Aug 2016 - Pampanga to go ‘medium’ on megalopolis scheme

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga will go "medium term" in developing the province into the next megalopolis outside of Metro Manila.

This was disclosed by Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Tuesday, during the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.'s infrastructure preparedness forum attended by Governor Lilia Pineda, officials from the Manila North Tollways Corporation, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and representatives from various sectoral groups at the LausGroup Event Centre.

24 Aug 2016 - DOLE to assess 235 Central Luzon firms with contractors, subcontractors

PAMPANGA -- Some 235 firms, with contractors and subcontractors operating in Central Luzon will be subjected to a special assessment by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

A directive was issued on Wednesday by DOLE Central Luzon Regional Director Ana Dione at the wake of the Department's efforts to halt contractualization in the region.

24 Aug 2016 - Mayors tagged in illegal drugs surrender firearms

PAMPANGA -- A mayor from Pampanga and one from Bulacan recently named by President Rodrigo Duterte as involved in the illegal drug trade surrendered a total of 12 different kinds of firearms on Wednesday.

Police Regional Office III Acting Regional Director Police Supt. Aaron Aquino said that Mabalacat City Mayor Marino Morales reportedly sent a representative to surrender his four personal firearms which include a caliber .40 pistol, a caliber .380, an AK47 rifle and a 12-gauge shotgun.

24 Aug 2016 - AC council OKs free movie for PWDs, senior citizens

ANGELES CITY -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has approved two ordinances requiring theatres to provide free movies to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Vice Mayor Bryan Nepomuceno said that Ordinance Numbers 394 (Senior Citizens) and 395 (PWDs) were unanimously approved by members of the city council last August 16.

24 Aug 2016 - Urban planner: Clark has best runway in PH

CLARK FREEPORT -- International master urban planner Architect Felino Palafox, Jr. on Wednesday disclosed that Clark International Airport in Pampanga has the best runway among all airports in the Philippines.

During the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.'s infrastructure preparedness forum attended by multi-sectoral groups at the LausGroup Event Centre here, Palafox said Clark airport remains on top of the hierarchy of airports in the country, with its huge runway, vast track of land and facilities, as well as its logistics.

24 Aug 2016 - FNRI holds regional forum on nutritional status

PAMPANGA -- The Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) of the Department of Science and Technology held recently a regional dissemination forum on the results of the 2015 Updating on the Nutritional Status of Filipino Children and Other Population Groups.

It aims to inform key stakeholders in the government and private sectors involved in food, nutrition, and health programs on the initial results of the updating survey.

24 Aug 2016 - Mayor insists: CSF waterways are clean

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Edwin Santiago on Wednesday insisted that waterways in the City of San Fernando are clean and are maintained regularly, contrary to claims of the Department of Public Works and Highways that rivers, creeks and canals here are clogged with wastes.

During the infrastructure preparedness coordination meeting at the LausGroup Event Centre, Santiago said that the massive flooding last week was a result of clogged tributaries elsewhere, plus the heavy volume of rainfall that pummeled the capital city.

23 Aug 2016 - Mayor moves to declog Santo Tomas waterway

PAMPANGA -- Santo Tomas Mayor Johnny Sambo on Tuesday sought the help of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the declogging of the river in Santo Rosario-Pau here which has been plagued by large growths of water hyacinths.

The clogging has resulted massive flooding in the town during the recent monsoon rains.

23 Aug 2016 - Arroyo to hear concerns on Pampanga development

PAMPANGA -- Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is expected to attend on Wednesday the regular coordination meeting of the private sector and government agencies here at the LausGroup Event Centre along Jose Abad Santos Avenue.

Arroyo will listen to concerns on Pampanga’s development from representatives of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Department of Public Works and Highways, Manila North Tollways Corporation and the National Economic Development Authority among others.

23 Aug 2016 - More cases of HIV, Aids in Pampanga reported

PAMPANGA -- Despite the continuous education and awareness campaigns over the Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (Aids) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the Department of Health Region Central Luzon still recorded additional cases this year.

DOH-Central Luzon HIV Medical Coordinator Eloisa Vidar said Pampanga has recorded two Aids-positive and 16 HIV-positive patients as of the second quarter of the year alone.

23 Aug 2016 - Guintu: Federalism should undergo sectoral consultation

PAMPANGA -- Masantol Mayor Danilo Guintu of this town recently said that the proposed change in the form of government in the country should undergo sectoral consultation to hear the concerns of the people who will be covered by the said move towards federalism.

According to him, several factors should be heard in a Constitutional Convention before implementing charter change because it may affect the whole system of the country, particularly its economy.

23 Aug 2016 - Legarda asks DOTr to strengthen monitoring of vehicle emissions

CLARK FREEPORT -- Senator Loren Legarda has asked the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to strengthen the monitoring of emissions from motor vehicles in compliance with the Clean Air Act (RA 8749).

Legarda, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance and co-author of RA 8749, made the statement after the DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade revealed that none of its smoke emission testing machines is working.

22 Aug 2016 - 75 villages still flooded

PAMPANGA -- Despite the improved weather condition on Monday, some 75 of Pampanga's 505 barangays remain flooded due to moderate to heavy rains last week.

Some parts of the City of San Fernando, Apalit, Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Minalin, San Luis and San Simon are still enduring floods, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) said.

22 Aug 2016 - DPWH starts repairs of JASA after Habagat

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has now started palliative measures to repair the heavily damaged sections of the Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) sections here.

The DPWH First District Engineering Office headed by Engr. Rico Guilas said the engineering works are palliative measures to improve the road conditions in the area.

22 Aug 2016 - Dumped shabu chemicals, equipment recovered at SCTEx

PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region III (PDEA-3) on Monday said that abandoned chemicals and equipment used in the manufacture of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu were discovered by personnel of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) in a five different incidents.

The first incident, PDEA said, was on August 8 when elements of the Porac Municipal Station responded to a report that alleged foul-smelling chemicals were found along the guard-drill of KM 39+640 of South Bound Lane, SCTEX Road, Barangay Babo Pangulo, Porac, Pampanga.

22 Aug 2016 - CSF eyes installation of ‘trash traps’

PAMPANGA -- The San Fernando city government here is eyeing the installation of floating trash traps in waterways along the boundary of Angeles City and the City of San Fernando to prevent the suspected descend of waste from the upstream.

This, after tons of residential waste was collected along creeks, particularly in St. Jude Village during the onslaught of monsoon rains which caused flash floods.

22 Aug 2016 - Pamiyabe 17 now accepts entries

ANGELES CITY- Pamiyabe 17, the Regional Creative Writing Workshop and Fellowship for Kapampangan youth, now accepts entries of budding writers and poets aged 14 to 30 years old.

Those who are interested may submit entries in any of the following categories: short stories, cycle of poems, collection of poems, personal essay and flash fiction.

21 Aug 2016 - Floods leave huge craters along JASA

PAMPANGA -- Persistent flooding brought about by southwest monsoon rains has left Jose Abad Santos Avenue---the province's "Ayala Avenue" badly battered with deep and huge "craters" which pose danger to motorists.

Even the west bound approach of the Dolores Flyover has been scoured, that speeding drivers are surprised by the sudden bump, according to motorists.

21 Aug 2016 - EdPam in Norway for peace talks

ANGELES CITY -- MAYOR Edgardo Pamintuan travelled to Oslo, Norway last Saturday to join the peace negotiation with the National Democratic Front as adviser of the Government Peace Panel. He will be representing the local government units.

"I am humbled by the opportunity to represent the local government units in the coming peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines in Oslo, Norway. As president of the League of Cities of the Philippines and Angeles City Mayor, I believe that my role as adviser involves not only offering insights and the LGU perspective but also to help consolidate the GRP peace panel and achieve unity with the NDF panel even on contentious issues laid on the negotiation table," Pamintuan said.

21 Aug 2016 - DTI-3 to lead in enforcing 'No Shortchanging Act of 2016'

PAMPANGA -- Exact change is coming, as Republic Act No. 10909 known as the "No Shortchanging Act of 2016" had lapsed into law, and became effective last August 16.

It requires sellers or service providers to give the exact change for the goods purchased or services provided.

21 Aug 2016 - High-speed Wifi installed in Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Smart Communications on Friday installed a high-speed internet connection at the Clark International Airport (CRK).

Smart reinforced the data connectivity in Clark airport to address the need for high-speed wireless fidelity (Wifi) in one of Luzon's key gateways outside of Metro Manila.

20 Aug 2016 - PGENRO chief: Dispose waste properly

PAMPANGA -- Provincial Government Environment Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) chief Engr. Art Punsalan over the weekend reiterated the call for proper waste disposal to avert any further flooding brought about by clogged waterways.

On Saturday while helping distribute relief goods to flood victims and supervising the clean-up of Capitol, Punsalan stressed that the indiscriminate disposal of garbage into canals and waterways should stop.

20 Aug 2016 - Rebels groups offer unconditional peace

PAMPANGA -- Amid the misunderstanding between Communist Party of the Philippines founder Joma Sison and President Rodrigo Duterte, several rebel groups in the country expressed their inclination to pursue the peace talks between them and the government.

This was disclosed by former insurgent Arayat Mayor Emmanuel "Bon" Alejandrino on Saturday as he urged President Duterte to communicate with other democratic fronts to successfully pursue the peace process in the country.

20 Aug 2016 - DTI conducts surprise price monitoring in Pampanga, BulacanDTI conducts surprise price monitoring in Pampanga, Bulacan

PAMPANGA -- A team of officials from the Consumer Protection Group (CPG) and the Free Trade and Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted on Friday a random check on the prices and supply of basic goods and prime commodities in several supermarkets, groceries and stores in the flood affected areas in Pampanga and Bulacan.

The DTI team was led by DTI CPG OIC Undersecretary Ann Claire Cabochan and FTEB Head Ferdinand Manfoste.

20 Aug 2016 - PLDT boosts connectivity in Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- PLDT and wireless unit Smart Communications on Friday reinforced the data connectivity in the Clark International Airport to address the need for high-speed internet in one of Luzon’s key gateways outside of Metro Manila.

The Clark International Airport inside the Clark Special Economic Zone in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, is the seventh airport to be installed with Smart Wifi nationwide, and the first in Luzon.

20 Aug 2016 - Clark airport has new head

CLARK FREEPORT -- President Duterte has appointed a close aide of Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan to head the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC).

Alex Caugurian, Pamintuan’s chief of staff who is a former vice president of CIAC, was appointed as the corporation’s president and chief executive officer, few days ago.

20 Aug 2016 - Damage to agri, infra in Central Luzon due to 'habagat' reaches P256.91-M

PAMPANGA -- Damage to agriculture and infrastructure in areas devastated by recent monsoon rains in Central Luzon has been estimated at P256.91 million.

The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) said agriculture suffered about P256.89 million in losses, while damage to facilities used for fishing was initially reported at P11,000.

20 Aug 2016 - Pagcor donates P41-M building to PHS

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga High School (PHS) has become among the last recipients of school buildings from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).

This was revealed by Andrea Domingo, Pagcor Chairwoman, during Saturday's inauguration of a P41-million school building at PHS, Pampanga's oldest and largest public secondary school.

20 Aug 2016 - Seniors taught social media, use of smart phones

CLARK FREEPORT -- Scores of senior citizens were taught the easy way to use smart phone and social media to communicate with their relatives during a workshop at SM City Clark the other day.

The seminar, dubbed Oldies but Techies, was initiated by SM Cares in cooperation with Globe Telecom.

19 Aug 2016 - Another 9 Manila-bound aircraft diverted to Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Another nine domestic flights bound for Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) were diverted to Clark International Airport (CRK) due to bad weather Friday morning.

The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) Airport Command Center (CIAC-ACC) said that the prevailing bad weather in Metro Manila prompted officials of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) to divert the aircraft.

19 Aug 2016 - DTI freezes prices in 4 Pampanga towns, city

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry Central Luzon (DTI-3) on Friday disclosed it is imposing a price freeze on basic commodities and prime goods in four Pampanga towns and one city after they were declared under a state of calamity.

DTI-3 continues to monitor prices in the City of San Fernando after it was placed under a state of calamity on August 16, and the towns of Sto. Tomas, Macabebe, and Minalin on August 16 and 17 respectively.

19 Aug 2016 - Shabu chemicals found along SCTEx

MABALACAT CITY -- A personnel of the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) on Thursday found several bottles of chemicals and equipment used in manufacturing methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.

This was learned in a report prepared by the Mabalacat City police, who stated the elements of the SCTEx patrol unit reported the incident to the police station.

18 Aug 2016 - Towns, city under state of calamity

PAMPANGA -- Two towns and one city were placed under state of calamity following the destructive effects of heavy rains brought about by the southwest monsoon which is lashing Pampanga for almost a week now.

This capital city, together with Sto. Tomas and Minalin towns, on Wednesday simultaneously made the announcements after assessing the damages of continuous rains in their respective localities.

18 Aug 2016 - Former Mabalacat police chief, others in hot water over PB probe

MABALACAT CITY -- The former police director of Mabalacat City and his men, including a police "asset" are now the subject of an investigation as the Provincial Board (PB) led by Vice Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda launched a probe to look into complaints of alleged extortion and abuse.

Businessman Rogelio Yangco of Madapdap Resettlement, Mabalacat City and his driver, Arsenio Belleza, Jr. of Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga disclosed before the PB regular session on August 12 that a certain Jerry Villanueva, a police "asset" had allegedly asked them to give P100,000 in exchange for the release of some P500,000 worth of gasoline confiscated from the driver by the "asset" on August 3 in Barangay Dolores.

18 Aug 2016 - Lazatin proposes 'waterways cleanup day'

ANGELES CITY -- With the perennial flooding problem, Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin recently filed an ordinance institutionalizing a city-wide waterways cleanup day at least once a month.

In his proposal, Lazatin said the first Saturday of every month will be declared as "Barangay Waterways Cleanup Day" in the city.

18 Aug 2016 - 26 Masantol villages still flooded

PAMPANGA -- Some 26 villages in this municipality are still submerged in floodwaters for almost a week now brought about by the onslaught of monsoon rains around the province.

According to Mayor Danilo Guintu, the villages along the left bank of the municipality are those that are severely affected partly caused by the broken Pandan Creek check gate in Barangay Bagang.

18 Aug 2016 - Pampanga town declares state of calamity due to 'habagat'

PAMPANGA -- THE municipality of Minalin was placed under the state of calamity on Thursday, August 18, following the onslaught of monsoon rains (habagat) that hit Pampanga province in the past days.

The resolution was approved by the Municipal Council of Minalin after a thorough evaluation of the extent of damage caused by the non-stop rains.

17 Aug 2016 - 26,299 families displaced by 'habagat' in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- Floods caused by "habagat" or monsoon rains displaced a total of 26,299 families or 116,604 persons in Central Luzon.

Data from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) showed that 172 villages in the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales were submerged in floodwaters due to continuous moderate to heavy rains spawned by the southwest monsoon that hit the region the past four days.

17 Aug 2016 - After feuding and finger pointing: Execs unite vs flooding

PAMPANGA -- After a series of severe floodings which almost paralyzed this capital city and the towns of Sto. Tomas and Minalin, the provincial government of Pampanga, together with concerned local government units agreed to finally desilt Federosa River to let floodwaters flow directly to Manila Bay and stop "finger pointing."

During an emergency meeting held at the Heroes Hall here, Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda, City of San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago, Sto. Tomas Mayor John Sambo and Minalin Mayor Edgar Flores formulated and agreed on a plan to immediately avert flooding in major roads of the province.

17 Aug 2016 - Habagat hits 41,408 families

PAMPANGA -- The habagat or southwest monsoon hit some 41,408 families or 182,730 individuals as rains submerged more than 151 out of 505 barangays in Pampanga.

Based on the report released by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), 151 barangays in one city and 13 municipalities were flooded with depths ranging from one foot to four feet as of 10:00 am Wednesday.

17 Aug 2016 - Vice-Guv lauds DPWH on bridge elevation

PAMPANGA -- Vice Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda on Wednesday lauded the Department of Public Works and Highways Central Luzon (DPWH-3) for considering his recommendation to raise the level of the Sta. Ursula Bridge at the boundary of Minalin and Guagua towns.

The recommendation noted that the bridge's concrete girders blocked the flow of floodwaters toward Pasac River last Tuesday.

17 Aug 2016 - UP slams alarming surge in EJKs

PAMPANGA -- Faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the University of the Philippines are condemning in the "strongest terms" the alarming surge in the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) of drug suspects.

Dr. Sylvia Estrada-Claudio, chair of UP's Department of Women and Development Studies-College of Social Work and Community Development said that the 17 signatories of their manifesto "cannot accept the utter disregard for human dignity and rights."

17 Aug 2016 - Lazatin thanks Pamintuan for city workers’ pay hike

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. on Wednesday thanked Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for granting the salary adjustments of the City Hall workers through the supplemental Budget No. 2, amounting to P153,482,282.79.

Lazatin said the City Council has approved the Supplemental Budget No. 2 during Wednesday’s regular session.

17 Aug 2016 - Habagat displaces 25K families in Central Luzon

PAMPANGA -- The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) disclosed on Wednesday that the prevailing "habagat" or southwest monsoon rains which resulted to flooding has displaced some 25,851 families or 113,529 individuals in 173 barangays in Central Luzon.

OCD-3 Director and RDRRMC Josefina Timoteo said 3,140 families or 13,485 persons are currently sheltered temporarily in 104 active evacuation centers across the region.

16 Aug 2016 - EdSa: Flooding in CSF result of 'backflows'

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago on Tuesday asserted that the deep flooding being experienced by this city is being brought about by clogged channels along the towns of Santo Tomas and Minalin which resulted to the "backflowing" of water here.

Santiago pinpointed the "heavily silted and saturated" Federosa River which, according to him, has not been desilted for a long time and has been full water lilies which block the flow of water towards Manila Bay.

16 Aug 2016 - Pamintuan: LCP supports peace negotiations with NDF

ANGELES CITY -- The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) has expressed full support to the resumption of the peace negotiations with all armed groups in the country specifically the leftist National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF).

The LCP, under the leadership of Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan (president) and Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano (chairperson), stated that the attainment of peace in the country is one of the priority policies of President Duterte.

16 Aug 2016 - Arroyo elected deputy speaker

PAMPANGA -- Former President and now Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is among five law makers who have been elected House deputy speakers in the 17th Congress.

According to majority floor leader Rudy Farińas, Arroyo will join Taguig Representative and former senator Pia Cayetano, Cebu Representative Gwendolyn Garcia, Davao Representative Mylene Garcia-Albano, and Aambis Owa Representative Sharon Garin.

16 Aug 2016 - CSF marks August with twin celebration

PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando headed by Mayor Edwin Santiago on Monday marked the month of August by celebrating its 262nd founding anniversary and 112th transfer of the provincial capital from Bacolor town.

The twin celebration kicked off with an exhibit dubbed "Kalalangan, Kasalesayan," which features the works of 14 renowned Kapampangan artists highlighting Kapampangan history, heritage and culture at the historic train station in Barangay Sto. Nińo.

16 Aug 2016 - International NGO cautions CL agencies over sexual exploitation

PAMPANGA -- The International Justice Mission (IJM) has called the attention of government agencies in Central Luzon over the said prevalence of online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC).

Speaking to members of the Regional Interagency Council against Trafficking, IJM Pampanga Field Office Director Rey Bicol defined OSEC as the production or depiction of live or recorded images, video and audio, of child sexual abuse or exploitation for online publication.

15 Aug 2016 - Alert still up vs habagat: Pampanga PDRRMC on standby 24/7

PAMPANGA -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Monday maintained the alert level for possible flooding in some low-lying and flood prone areas in Pampanga and Central Luzon as the “habagat” or southwest monsoon continues to affect most parts of the region, despite occasional sunny breaks.

OCD Regional Director Josefina Timoteo, who also chairs RDRRMC said that disaster councils all over Central Luzon have been ordered to closely monitor the weather situation and conduct disaster response and rescue, particularly in the provinces of Pampanga, Zambales and Bataan, which have been placed by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) under yellow rainfall warning until the end of the week.

15 Aug 2016 - Pagasa: Pampanga River still in normal condition

PAMPANGA -- Despite the continuous rains brought by the southwest monsoon in the province, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astrological Services Administration (Pagasa) on Monday declared that the Pampanga River is still normal and is far from its spilling level.

This was disclosed by Pagasa Central Luzon Pampanga River Flood Forecasting and Warning Center Chief Hilton Hernandez as he assured the public that the river is still not posing threats to nearby communities.

15 Aug 2016 - Mayor assures folks: No breach in Sto. Tomas taildike

PAMPANGA -- Mayor John Sambo on Monday assured the public of the intact structure of the Santo Tomas portion of the tail dike.

This, after reports spread over the weekend on the alleged rupture of a segment of the 10-kilometer tail dike which alarmed residents around the area.

15 Aug 2016 - Angeles City councilor wants updates on workers' salary adjustments

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, Jr. on Monday refiled his resolution asking Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan through the Local Finance Committee to update the City Council on the status of salary adjustments and additional bonuses of government employees stated in Executive Order 201 Series of 2016.

The resolution first filed on July 27, 2016 was held in abeyance in the City Council, upon the request of Majority Floor Leader Councilor Alexander Indiongco "since the Chief Executive will be submitting the Supplemental Budget No. 1 in a week's time."

15 Aug 2016 - PCL prexy takes ex-officio board member seat

PAMPANGA -- Philippine Councilors' League (PCL) Pampanga Chapter president Porac Councilor Olga Frances "Fritzie" David-Dizon formally took his post as ex-officio member of the Pampanga Provincial Board (PB) over the weekend.

David-Dizon was welcomed into the PB through the motion of Third District Board Member Rosve Henson. David-Dizon qualified for the seat in the PB after winning in the recent PCL elections.

15 Aug 2016 - 3,670 workers in CL get P150-M from DOLE

PAMPANGA -- About 3,670 workers in Central Luzon have received around P150-million in monetary claims through the Department of Labor and Employment’s Single Entry Approach (SEnA) during the first half of 2016.

“The total money claims represent a 98 percent rate in the settlement of 873 out of 888 requests for assistance handled by the Regional and Field Offices,” DOLE Regional Director Ana Dione said.

15 Aug 2016 - Central Luzon remains on alert vs monsoon rains

PAMPANGA -- The Central Luzon Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) on Monday sustained the alert level for possible flooding in some low-lying and flood prone areas as monsoon rains (habagat) continue to affect most parts of the region.

Josefina Timoteo, chairperson of the RDRRMC and regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Central Luzon, said all members of the disaster councils have been ordered to continuously monitor the weather situation and undertake disaster response activities, particularly in the provinces of Zambales and Bataan.

14 Aug 2016 - Lazatin: Reserve parking spaces for PWDs, seniors

ANGELES CITY - City Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin appealed to the public not to use parking spaces reserved for senior citizens and persons with disability (PWD).

Lazatin issued the statement after filing on July 27 a proposed ordinance that seeks to provide free parking spaces for senior citizens and PWDs in all business establishments and hospitals here.

14 Aug 2016 - Monsoon rains flood Pampanga towns

PAMPANGA -- The strong rains brought by the southwest monsoon affecting Luzon and Western Visayas over the weekend had flooded major towns and cities in Pampanga, prompting some towns to suspend classes Monday, August 15.

The City Government of San Fernando had suspended classes Monday in all levels, public and private, while the Municipal Government of Mexico had issued suspension of classes for pre-school, elementary and high school as of Sunday.

13 Aug 2016 - 19 flights diverted to Clark int'l airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Heavy rains brought about by the southwest monsoon forced at least 19 aircraft bound to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to land at Clark International Airport in Pampanga late Friday.

The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) said the passengers of the Cebu Pacific Flight from Tacloban and Etihad Airlines flight from Abu Dabi disembarked at Clark airport.

13 Aug 2016 - Residential wastes caused flash floods

PAMPANGA -- Despite the City Government's constant clean-up drives aimed at mitigating floods, this city was submerged on Saturday in deep flood waters due to waterways clogged with residential wastes on its.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Officer Raymond Del Rosario reported that aside from heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, garbage and debris jammed the city's major water channels which obstructed the supposed swift flow of floodwaters which engulfed most major roads and almost the entirety of the city.

13 Aug 2016 - Vice guv wants barangay leaders to sustain anti-drug drive

PAMPANGA -- Vice-Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda told some 10,000 barangay leaders of the need to sustain the momentum of the anti-illegal drugs campaign "Dalan ning Pamagbayu (Road to Change)" in the province's 505 villages.

The vice governor made the call during the last leg of orientation on the tasks of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (Badac) for leaders in the first and fourth districts at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center here on Thursday.

13 Aug 2016 - DOE taps USAID for review of energy mix

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Energy (DOE) is tapping technical experts to discuss possible collaboration in coming up with a responsive and dynamic energy mix for the Philippines.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi recently met with members of the USAID’s Building Low Emission Alternatives to Develop Economic Resilience and Sustainability (B-Leaders) to discuss the formulation of an optimal energy mix and look into local reserve requirements.

13 Aug 2016 - Top drug suspect in San Fernando arrested

PAMPANGA -- The top nine most wanted drug suspect in San Fernando was recently arrested by local authorities here in an anti-illegal drugs operation.

The suspect, identied as Alexander Macapagal, 47, was captured through a buy-bust operation conducted in Barangay Sto. Nińo here. His sisters, Mirasol and Esmirol were likewise arrested during the operation.

13 Aug 2016 - Arroyo nominated House deputy speaker

ANGELES CITY -- Former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is set to represent Central Luzon after being nominated as deputy speaker of the House of Representative in the 17th Congress.

Arroyo will be one of the seven deputy speakers, who will represent Central Luzon.

13 Aug 2016 - PAF unit inks scholarhip pact with Jocson College

ANGELES CITY -- The 2nd Air Reserve Wing of the Philippine Air Force stationed in Clark Freeport has forged a scholarship agreement with the Jocson College Incorporated in a bid to provide reserve soldiers and their spouses and children educational opportunities.

Brigadier General Enrico Ignacio, commander of the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC), and Jocson College Vice President Maria Felisa Jocson led the signing of the four-year memorandum of agreement (MOA) at the school campus on Friday.

12 Aug 2016 - New convergence road project set in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- A new road convergence project is set by Santo Tomas officials here led by Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc which will connect some of the fourth district towns to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx).

Bondoc, together with this town's Mayor John Sambo and Minalin Mayor Edgar Flores, the other day presented to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) the location of the proposed new NLEx interchange at Barangay Sto. Rosario Pau here.

12 Aug 2016 - Guintu on Flores' claim on supporters' death: ‘It’s drugs, not politics’

PAMPANGA -- Masantol Mayor Danilo Guintu of this town Friday lashed out on former Mayor Peter Flores' claim regarding the death of his supporters who were allegedly killed by vigilantes protected by powerful individuals.

Flores earlier denounced the series of killings of his followers, Jayson Brizuela and Johnsbermine Rodriguez. He asserted that the victims were not a result of the police's anti-illegal drive but insisted that the incidents might have been politically motivated.

11 Aug 2016 - Suspected drug pushers killed in police ops in CL

PAMPANGA -- Suspected drug pushers were killed on Thursday during separate armed encounters with anti-illegal drug operatives from Bulacan and Angeles City police.

Bulacan police acting provincial director Senior Supt. Romeo Caramat said the four suspected drug pushers were slain in his area of responsibility.

11 Aug 2016 - Lazatin: Protect children from stray bullets

ANGELES CITY -- A city councilor here has filed a proposed ordinance that seeks to provide children protection from irresponsible gun owners and manufacturers.

Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr. said he is alarmed by the rising deaths of children due to accidental firing and irresponsible handling of guns.

11 Aug 2016 - BCDA lauds SEC opinion on Clark Green City land use

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) lauded the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for recognizing the contribution of its development and usufructuary rights (DUR) over the land covering Phase 1 (288 hectares) of Clark Green City as equity or capital share in its joint venture corporation (JVC) with Filinvest Land, Incorporated (FLI).

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano Casanova described this as a "breakthrough in unlocking the economic value of lands."

11 Aug 2016 - 3,670 workers receive more than P150-M through DOLE's SENA

PAMPANGA -- As of July, some 3,670 workers have received P159,018,420.04 monetary claims through the Single Entry Approach (SEnA), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said.

This is DOLE Central Luzon's first semester SEnA scorecard for the year reported by DOLE Regional Director Ana Dione to Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III.

10 Aug 2016 - EdPam to drug users, pushers: 'Reform now'

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Tuesday urged some 1,192 identified drug users and pushers who surrendered to the city government to "reform themselves before it's too late."

Speaking before the surrenderees at Barangay Cutcut People's Gym here, Pamintuan stressed that President Rodrigo Duterte means business, and that everyone linked to the illegal drugs trade will have to face the law if they do not voluntarily reform or change their ways.

10 Aug 2016 - DPWH: No demolition of Macabebe fishponds until 2018

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways Region III (DPWH-3) assured that no demolition of fishponds would take place until 2018 along the high water channel of Pampanga River located in Macabebe town.

However, Engineer Lita Manalo, DPWH project manager pointed out that Pulo, an islet within Pampanga River, is set for scraping. Currently, the islet blocks the flow of water going to the downstream of the Pampanga River.

10 Aug 2016 - De Lima redefines 'illegal recruitment' with bill

MABALACAT CITY -- In a bid to add teeth to the government's campaign against illegal recruitment, Senator Leila M. de Lima has filed a bill seeking to lower the number of perpetrators from three to two to qualify as large-scale illegal recruitment.

De Lima, chairperson of the Senate justice committee, filed Senate Bill No. 961 redefining the crime of illegal recruitment committed by a syndicate as a group of three or more persons formed to carry out illegal deployment of Filipino workers abroad.

10 Aug 2016 - Legarda: More support for indigenous peoples

CLARK FREEPORT -- In observance of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples and the Philippine National IP Day, Senator Loren Legarda renewed her call for stronger support and protection for indigenous peoples.

"As we celebrate the rich and vibrant culture of our indigenous peoples, I encourage everyone to provide the needed support for our IPs to strengthen their part in nation building," said Legarda, who sponsored the law (RA 10689) that declared the 9th day of August as National IP Day to coincide with the international celebration.

10 Aug 2016 - CIAC orders review of airport security

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president Emigdio “Dino” Tanjuatco III has ordered a review of the security procedures following a security breach last week.

Tanjuatco ordered a review of the Airport Access Control Security Procedures after an unauthorized individual managed to reach the airport ramp by evading security personnel.

9 Aug 2016 - CIAC orders review of airport security

9 Aug 2016 - Ex-mayor wants justice for supporters' death

PAMPANGA -- Former Masantol Mayor Peter B. Flores on Tuesday denounced the series of killings allegedly committed by "protected vigilantes" victimizing his loyal supporters.

Flores is referring to the death of certain Jayson Q. Brizuela, a pedicab driver from Barangay San Isidro here and shooting incident involving one Johnsbermine Rodriguez of Barangay Sta. Lucia Anac who supported the former mayor during the recent local elections.

9 Aug 2016 - Guv forms 33,075-member Cabalen Drug Watch

PAMPANGA -- Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda formed some 33,075 barangay officials, bantay bayan, health workers and Nanay community workers as members of the province-wide Cabalen Drug Watch tasked to monitor and oversee the activities of the self-confessed drug users and pushers in their respective villages.

This Cabalen Drug Watch will also play a major role in the creation and promotion of a healthy drug-free culture in the province and make sure that that drug surrenderees will never go back to their old habits.

9 Aug 2016 - Police nab drug suspect

PAMPANGA -- Candaba police on Tuesday arrested a suspected pusher in an anti-illegal drugs operation conducted in Barangay Talang.

The suspect, identified as Romeo Tolentino, 28, of Barangay Barit at around 9:00 pm proved positive with drugs after a poseur-buyer was able to purchase two small heat sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected methampethamine hydrochloride or shabu.

9 Aug 2016 - SBMA distributes P141.4-M to nearby LGUs

SUBIC BAY -- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) recently released P141.4 million in revenue shares to eight local government units (LGUs) adjacent to the Freeport.

According to SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia, the total revenue shares to be distributed among eight LGUs amounted to P141.397 million is 18.5 percent higher than P115.23 million distributed on second semester of 2015.

9 Aug 2016 - 7 Manila-bound aircraft diverted to Clark airport

CLARK FREEPORT -- Seven commercial aircraft were diverted yesterday to Clark International Airport due to bad weather and poor visibility at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila.

The Clark International Airport Corporation command center stated the four Cebu Pacific flights from Tagbilaran, Ozamis, Zamboanga, and Mactan; and Airphil Express flights from Butuan and Catarman; and an ATR private plane from Palawan were all diverted to Clark Airport.

9 Aug 2016 - Drug pusher slain in Angeles City

ANGELES CITY -- A drug pusher was killed during an armed encounter with policemen in Barangay Pulong Bulo on Sunday.

Senior Superintendent Sidney Villaflor, Angeles City police director, identified the fatality as Edwin Perez Jr., alias Totoy, 36, and a resident of the said barangay.

9 Aug 2016 - New PCL execs take oath before GMA

The new set of officers of the Philippine Councilors’ League (PCL) Pampanga Chapter took their oath of office on Monday before Second District Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Governor Lilia Pineda.

PCL president Porac Councilor Olga Frances “Fritzie” David-Dizon led her team during the oath taking right after the flag raising rites held at the Capitol grounds.

9 Aug 2016 - PDEA-3 seizes P220K worth of ecstasy; nabs 2 lady pushers

PAMPANGA -- Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region III (PDEA-3) seized handful of pieces of tablets of ecstasy and arrested two lady pushers in a drug sting inside a mall in Makati City on August 08, 2016.

In a report submitted to PDEA Director General Isidro S. Lapeńa, PDEA-3 Regional Director Emerson L. Margate identified the suspects as Carmencita R. Rogar aka Chuchay, 47 and Glaiza Mae T. De Asis aka Ivy, 29 both residents of #4481 Calatagan Street, Barangay Palanan, Makati City.

8 Aug 2016 - 2 chief cops relieved

PAMPANGA -- Two police chiefs were ordered relieved Monday following the alleged involvement of their mayors in the illegal drug trade.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office-3 acting director, said those relieved from their posts were Chief Inspector Gil Domingo, chief of police of Mabalacat City, Pampanga and Superintendent Orlando Castel, Jr., chief of police of San Rafael, Bulacan.

8 Aug 2016 - 3 rebels yield arms

PAMPANGA -- Three alleged members of the Rebolusyonaryong Hukbong Bayan (RHB) yielded their arms and surrendered to Governor Lilia "Nanay" Pineda yesterday through the initiative of Sta. Ana Mayor Norberto "Ka Ross" Gamboa, a former rebel commander.

The three rebels were comrades of the first 44 rebel-returnees also assisted by Gamboa on July 18.

8 Aug 2016 - Popcom denies promo material on HIV, AIDS

PAMPANGA -- The Population Commission (POPCOM) here denied having anything to do with the promotional material which was trending on social media due to one of its tips on how to prevent HIV/AIDS by avoiding "sexual intercourse" with a homosexual.

"And though the said promotional material bore the logo of the Commission on Population particularly that of POPCOM Region VI, we are one with our fellow POPCOM regional office in strongly denying the production of the said material which included the misleading information offensive to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer (LGBTIQ) members," POPCOM Region III head Leonor Cura said in a statement.

8 Aug 2016 - Korean national gets jail term for non-remittance of SSS dues

SUBIC FREEPORT -- The Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Olongapo City has convicted the president of a fishing rod manufacturer for failure to comply with the company's legal obligation to pay over P1.6 million in employees' contributions to the Social Security System (SSS).

SSS Assistant Vice President for Operations Legal Department Renato Jacinto S. Cuisia said that Hong Yeul Kim, a Korean national and President of the Jyung Myung Fishing Rod Manufacturing Corporation, was ordered to serve a jail term of six years and one day up to eight years.

8 Aug 2016 - Mayors on Duterte list should explain side

PAMPANGA -- League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) president and Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that he is in support of the recent actions of President Rodrigo Duterte in naming alleged† drug protectors adding that officials who were named should now come to explain their side.

"As President of the League of Cities of the Philippines and Mayor of Angeles City, I am fully supporting the President's actions in this unrelenting campaign and all-out war to eliminate the illegal drug menace. This is both our passion and part of our campaign promise, and we shall fulfill this promise," Pamintuan said in a statement.

8 Aug 2016 - NCCA opens proposals for 2017 grants

PAMPANGA -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) on Monday announced the opening of submission for proposals of grants to arts and culture projects in the region.

With an aim to continuously preserve and promote the country's heritage, NCCA will be providing financial and technical assistance to artists and cultural workers who want to share their projects or creations to the government.

8 Aug 2016 - Thousands join 2nd Pampanga Big Latch On

PAMPANGA -- More than a thousand breastfeeders and supporters from different sectors here joined the second run of the Big Latch On Pampanga Leg held at SM City Downtown and Robinsons Starmills over the weekend.

The event is part of the advocacy of both the city government and the private sector to educate parents and soon-to-be parents of breastfeeding's importance and benefits to them and their babies, said organizer and City Tourism Officer Ching Pangilinan.

7 Aug 2016 - EdPam: Drug protectors must face consequences

MABALACAT CITY -- Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that protectors of drug pushers must face the consequences of their actions.

Pamintuan, president of the League of Cities of the Philippines, issued the statement following the naming of some mayors, including Mabalacat City Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales, involved in the illegal drugs trade.

7 Aug 2016 - Lazatin: Provide medical, burial aid to city workers

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, Jr. recently filed an ordinance that seeks to provide city government employees financial assistance for hospitalization and burial.

Under the proposed ordinance, Lazatin said the city government shall extend financial assistance to any employee who suffers from sickness or injury and is in need of medical assistance.

7 Aug 2016 - Pampanga emerging as megalopolis

PAMPANGA -- Urban master planner Palafox Associates disclosed recently that Pampanga is fast emerging as a megalopolis and one of the best alternatives in decongesting Metro Manila.

Felino Palafox, Jr. said that Pampanga is three times the size of Singapore and two times the size of Hong Kong, while Clark Freeport is bigger than Makati, Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Fort Bonifacio combined!

7 Aug 2016 - Mabalacat mayor to face probe; says he is not 'protector

MABALACAT City Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales denied Sunday any involvement in the illegal drug trade after he was named as "drug protector" by President Rodrigo Duterte.

"I am not a protector of illegal drug (syndicates)," Morales said. "I am willing to undergo any investigation to prove my innocence para naman ma-proteksiyonan natin ang integrity of my family, myself, and the people who had trusted me and voted for me for the past years.”

7 Aug 2016 - P103-M shabu seized from Chinese national

ANGELES CITY -- A Chinese national was arrested while at least 30 kilos of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu amounting to P103- million was confiscated during a raid in a suspected warehouse at Hensonville Subdivision, Barangay Malabanias, Angeles City.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) acting director, identified the arrested as Yiye Chen, a Chinese national and an alleged big-time drug lord.

7 Aug 2016 - Comelec decision not final, says Boking's counsel

MABALACAT CITY -- THE decision of the Comelec First Division which cancelled the Certificate of Candidacy of Mabalacat City Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales is "not final and executory."

Thus said Atty. Romulo Macalintal, legal counsel of Morales.

6 Aug 2016 - Boy, 9, steals motorcycle

ANGELES CITY -- A nine-year-old boy was arrested by officials of Barangay Balibago after being suspected of stealing a motorcycle yesterday.

Balibago Barangay Chairman Rodelio Mamac said that the owner parked the motorcycle in front of his house located near the barangay hall before the boy took it away.

6 Aug 2016 - Surrender or face full force of the law

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda appealed on Friday to the remaining suspected drug peddlers and users who failed to submit themselves to voluntarily surrender or face the full force of the law.

Pineda also urged them to join the “Dalan Ning Pamagbayu” (Road to Change) program for their reformation and integration into the mainstream of society without fear of being apprehended.

6 Aug 2016 - CDC bares various road projects to lessen traffic in Clark area

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) pursues various road projects meant to improve traffic surrounding the Freeport Zone.

CDC Assistant Vice President for Technical Services Teresito Tiotuyco said construction is now ongoing for the Php176 million-bridge along Clark-Mabalacat-Angeles Road.

6 Aug 2016 - Mufflers smashed in San Simon

PAMPANGA -- Police authorities confiscated and smashed some 59 modified mufflers on Saturday in front of town folk at municipal hall compound here.

Chief Inspector Jose Gundaya, town police chief, said the confiscation of the mufflers from motorcycles was in implementation of Municipal Ordinance 15-003 that regulates the use and operation of motor vehicles with noisy modified mufflers within the municipality of this town.

6 Aug 2016 - PopCom highlights responsible parenthood in Family Planning Month

PAMPANGA -- The Population Commission (Popcom) is set to highlight the importance of responsible parenthood this August in commemoration of the Family Planning (FP) Month.

As part of the government’s goal to address unmet needs for modern family planning in the country, Popcom continues to support the celebration of the FP month to promote awareness about programs of the government in FP and actions parents can take if they want to plan for the number and spacing of their children.

6 Aug 2016 - Authorities looking into airport security breach

CLARK FREEPORT -- Airport authorities are now investigating an alleged security breach at Clark International Airport after an unidentified man reportedly managed to board an aircraft bound for Singapore sans boarding pass and other travelling documents on Wednesday.

Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President and Chief Executive Officer Emigdio "Dino" Tanjuatco said they are conducting an investigation as of press time to determine the veracity of the report.

6 Aug 2016 - Santiago: No misuse of education funds

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Mayor Edwin Santiago on Friday clarified that there was no “misuse” in the city’s Special Education Fund (SEF) when the local government unit let 2,479 public school teachers watch a musical in Metro Manila last year, contrary to a Rappler report that said the huge expenditure was allegedly “misspent.”

Rappler said in its report that the Commission on Audit (COA) noted that the city government spent P5,528,170 or P2,230 per teacher from its SEF to have educators from the city’s public schools watch the musical “Bituing Walang Ningning” at Resorts World Manila in October 2015 as part of the celebration of Teachers’ Day.

5 Aug 2016 - Authorities looking into airport security breach

5 Aug 2016 - Notorious drug peddler surrenders to EdPam

ANGELES CITY -- A notorious drug pusher on Friday surrendered to Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan after an undetermined unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) reportedly raided his residence while he was away.

Henry Cura, 33 of Barangay Pandan, who sought the help of Councilor Joseph Ponce, Friday went to Fortune Restaurant where Pamintuan led the Peace and Order Council meeting.

5 Aug 2016 - Roxas couple thanks Pampanga; discloses plan to have a baby

PAMPANGA -- Despite failing in his presidential bid, former Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas and wife Korina Sanchez-Roxas expressed gratitude to Kapampangans for their support during the recent 2016 national and local elections.

In the statement of Sanchez-Roxas, she thanked the 141,617 Kapampangan voters who supported and trusted the credibility of Roxas until his first presidential journey ended.

4 Aug 2016 - After attempted killings: Fear gripping Masantol folk

PAMPANGA -- Residents in Masantol town are fearing for their lives after a series of still unsolved attempted killings allegedly perpetrated by unidentified "killers on the loose."

Documents furnished by Barangay San Isidro Matua village chief Jose Ocampo yesterday show that the attempts started on June 30, when one Jayson Q. Brizuela, a pedicab driver from Sitio 1st of the same barangay was shot by unidentified gunmen while having an afternoon snack with some people in a sari-sari store.

4 Aug 2016 - GMA, Guv lead vegetable training in agri-school

PAMPANGA -- Former president and now Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's first official activity after being released from hospital arrest was to join Governor Lilia Pineda in the launching of the Season-long Training on Vegetable Production for the indigenous peoples (IPs) at Floridablanca National Agricultural School (FNAS) on Wednesday.

The event was a partnership with the provincial government and Allied Botanical Corporation, a leading supplier of seedlings in the Philippines, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) and the Department of Agriculture to conduct a 12-day training and actualization of modern farming for Aeta farmers.

4 Aug 2016 - Boking: Drug-free barangays to get P1-M

MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales has vowed to give P1-million each to drug-free barangays in the city.

The mayor relayed this to the barangay officials when he met with officers and members of the Mabalacat City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Madac) and Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Badac).

4 Aug 2016 - DILG-3 warns possible narco execs on charges

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Interior and Local Government Region III (DILG-3) on Thursday reminded public officials who might be involved in illegal drugs on the possible charges and consequences they will face if proven guilty.

On Tuesday, Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said that President Rodrigo Duterte's will identify the 27 alleged local government officials who are linked to illegal drug trade in the country. Panelo said that most officials in the list come from provinces outside Metro Manila including some prominent names.

4 Aug 2016 - Clark to host ANCOP Global Walk 2016

CLARK FREEPORT--The Couples for Christ Philippines (CFC) is set to hold another ANCOP Global Walk (AGW) dubbed: "Beyond Your Walk Their Dreams" at the Clark Parade Ground on August 14.

The walk for a cause of CFC is part of the year-round activities to promote Clark as a destination for sports, religious and other events.

4 Aug 2016 - Consumers asked to be vigilant in buying cellphones, gadgets

ANGELES CITY--Consumers are now being reminded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to be vigilant when purchasing their cellphones, tablets and other electronic gadgets.

DTI Central Luzon Director Judith P. Angeles gave this reminder as gadgets-related concerns remain to be the top consumer complaints lodged in the different provincial and regional office of DTI-3, despite advocacies made by the agency through seminars and dialogues with cellphone retailers and service shops.

2 Aug 2016 - PSA: Agriculture left out by industrial sector

PAMPANGA -- Central Luzon, which is popularly known as the "Rice Granary of the Philippines," seems to be moving towards industrialization after a report from the Philippine Statistics Authority Region III (PSA-3) showed that the 2015 Gross Regional Domestic Product was dominated by the industrial sector.

Based on data, Central Luzon is among the three regions in the country which is predominantly industrial, aside from the Cordillera Administrative Region and Region IV-A. Of the 5.3 percent region's growth rate, the industrial sector contributed 2.3 percent compared to the Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry and Fishing sector's 0.1 percent.

2 Aug 2016 - Anti-Distracted Driving Act now a law

PAMPANGA -- This, as the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA) lapsed into law last July 21 after it was not signed by President Benigno Aquino III during the 30-day period before he stepped down from office last June 30. ADDA serves to help avoid accidents caused by driver distraction.

Under ADDA, it is illegal for a driver to use mobile devices like phones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets while the vehicle is in motion or while temporarily stopped at a red light, subject to a few exemptions like safely stopping where permissible and use a mobile device only while on "stop."

2 Aug 2016 - CDC starts P34-M Clark transport hub

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has started the construction of the P34.4 million transport depot at the Freeport's main gate.

The public utility vehicle terminal, which is located at the back of SM City Clark, is expected to provide an efficient public transport facility and ease traffic congestion at the main entrance of Clark.

2 Aug 2016 - Cacao Congress convenes key stakeholders in CL

PAMPANGA -- More than a thousand key and prospective players, shareholders and stakeholders of the cacao industry across the region convened Monday for the first Region III Cacao Congress.

"Kakao Konek Congress" aims to gather those who are already involved, as well as those who are interested in the industry to reinforce linkages, share updates on technologies, trading and marketing; and discuss the industry's prospects in Central Luzon, giving emphasis on the increasing global demand and how we can help supply gaps, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Integration, credit financing, and climate change.

2 Aug 2016 - Body of suspected drug pusher found in Apalit

PAMPANGA -- Amid the explicit objection of the Philippine National Police on use of vigilantes, Apalit authorities found the body of a suspected drug pusher at a remote part of this town recently.

The suspected drug pusher, which is still unidentified, was found at the Sitio Dudurut here at around 5:30 a.m. Friday, police said.

1 Aug 2016 - After 30-day grace period: Bon declares all-out war vs illegal drugs

PAMPANGA -- After the 30-day grace period for illegal drug users and pushers to voluntarily surrender, Arayat Mayor Emmanuel "Bon" Alejandrino yesterday declared an all-out war against suspects who refused to turn themselves in to authorities.

On July 1, Alejandrino vowed to "cleanse" this municipality and make it drug-free in the span of 30 days only in support of President Rodrigo Duterte's campaign against prohibited drugs.

1 Aug 2016 - Capitol to DA: Provide free irrigation to farmers

PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga on Monday asked new Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Emmanuel "Manny" Pińol to provide Kapampangan farmers year-round free irrigation with a commitment to allocate a financial counterpart from the departmentís annual budget.

During the "First Kakao Konek Congress" held at the Heroes Hall here, Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda initiated the presentation of the said proposal in a bid to minimize the production expenses of small time farmers in the province.

1 Aug 2016 - AC gov't, DOST launch Tech4Ed center

ANGELES CITY - The local government in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched the city’s first Tech4Ed facility, over the weekend at the Angeles City Library and Information Center.

Tech4ED which stands for “Technology for Education, to gain Employment, train Entrepreneurs towards Economic Development,” is a project that aims to expand free ICT services to more Filipinos thus giving every citizen an equal opportunity of learning and employment.

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