Balibago News Nov-2016
30 Nov 2016 - BI to file raps against 1,318 Chinese in Clark
PAMPANGA -- Some 1,318 Chinese nationals who were arrested during a raid at the Fontana Leisure Parks in Clark Freeport Thursday last week will all be charged for violation of their visas, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) disclosed Wednesday.The BI, with a directive from the Department of Justice, swooped down on call center-like facilities in Fontana, based on information that there were huge numbers of Chinese nationals allegedly working there illegally.
30 Nov 2016 - DOLE commences safety awareness seminar for pyrotechnic workers
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Wednesday commenced its safety awareness training for some 130 pyrotechnic companies and their workers from different parts of Bulacan province.This undertaking comes after Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III issued a Work Stoppage Order (WSO) on November 24 on all establishments engaging in manufacturing and selling of firecrackers and pyrotechnics.
30 Nov 2016 - More flights in Clark to serve OFWs in Visayas, Mindano
CLARK FREEPORT - Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Mindanao and the Visayas may now find it more comfortable to fly out here after more local and international airlines have announced increased flights at the Clark International Airport (CRK).Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President Alexander Cauguiran said that Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific and other international airlines will increase their flights this December.
29 Nov 2016 - Preservation of historic ‘Apung Iru’ church set
PAMPANGA -- In a bid to preserve the centuries-old parish church in Apalit, the Parish Pastoral Council and local government here are meeting with renowned a preservations group which will be leading the million-worth project.The St. Peter the Apostle Parish is a Neo-Renaissance-style church built in 1597 and is known as the home of “Apung Iru,” a moniker given by Kapampangans to St. Peter the Apostle.
29 Nov 2016 - Illegal cigarettes hurting tobacco industry, country's revenue
PAMPANGA -- Illegal cigarettes are either smuggled into the country or domestically sourced, but with the discovery of illegal cigarette factories in Pampanga and Pangasinan recently, illegal cigarettes are now made and packed clandestinely in big operations run by foreign nationals.Illegal cigarettes deprive government of revenue and are hurting the country’s legitimate tobacco industry. This recent development poses a serious concern for government and the tobacco industry sector and an urgent realization for the need to further efforts against illegal cigarette trade.
29 Nov 2016 - 14 Candaba villages now ‘drug-cleared’
PAMPANGA -- In line with the ongoing war against illegal drugs in the country, some 14 villages in this municipality have been declared drug-cleared by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.The 14 villages, which represents almost half of the total 33 villages are Sto. Rosario, Lourdes, Barit, Paligui, Bambang, Salapungan, Buas, Magumbali, Tagulod, Barangca, Talang, Cuayang Bugtong, Vizal Sto. Nino and Pangclara.
27 N0v 2016 - San Simon villages 'drug-cleared'
PAMPANGA -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has cleared five barangays here where Quezon Road, the alleged location of illegal drug factories, crosses through.The five villages include Santa Monica, San Isidro, San Pablo Libutad, San Pablo Propio and Dela Paz. Most of the manufacturing plants and warehouses in the municipality, which were earlier suspected as manufacturers of illegal drugs due to lack of signages and signs of employees' presence, are located in these barangays.
26 Nov 2016 - Capitol presents P421-M development fund to PDC
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga headed by Acting Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda on Thursday presented to the Provincial Development Council (PDC) the P421,885,663.80 development fund for priority development projects of Capitol in 2017.During the PDC re-organizational meeting held at Capitol’s Executive House attended by former President now Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Provincial Administrator Andres Pangilinan, Jr., city and municipal mayors and representatives of various civil society groups, Pineda said that of the P421-million development funds, some P340-million would be used for the infrastructure projects of the province.
26 Nov 2016 - LTO Angeles pursues Anti-Red Tape Act
ANGELES CITY -- True to its mandate of eradicating red tape in its processes and fixers in transactions, the Land Transportation Office Angeles City District Office is continuously enforcing and implementing the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) under Republic Act 9485.This was bared by LTO Angeles City Chief Transportation Regulation Officer Aida Santiago during their second semester big clean up and sorting day here on Saturday.
26 Nov 2016 - Capitol distributes livestock to typhoon affected farmers
PAMPANGA -- The provincial government of Pampanga in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) distributed livestock to farmers affected by recent Typhoon Lando.Acting Governor Dennis Pineda along with Board Member Ananias Canlas, Jr. and Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Augusto Baluyut spearheaded the distribution held at the Provincial Veterinary (PVET) Office, PEO compound in barangay Sindalan.
26 Nov 2016 - Winning LGUs with climate, disaster programs lauded
MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Loren Legarda commended the cities and municipalities that were awarded for implementing innovative strategies to manage climate and disaster risks in line with Philippine environmental laws.Ten cities and municipalities are the winners of the inaugural Climate-Adaptive and Disaster-Resilient (CLAD) Awards for Cities and Municipalities, a project of Legarda and the Climate Change Commission (CCC).
25 Nov 2016 - Major infrastructure projects for Clark pushed
CLARK FREEPORT -- Various government agencies, local government units, businessmen, and other stakeholders have presented a comprehensive infrastructure program to support the full development of Clark Freeport, Clark International Airport, Clark Green City and the adjacent communities.This is in line with President Duterte’s 10 point socio-economic agenda including the acceleration of infrastructure spending to account for five percent of gross domestic product, with public-private partnerships playing a key role.
25 Nov 2016 - Hearing of actor’s case set December 13
PAMPANGA -- The Regional Trial Court (RTC) here has announced that actor Mark Anthony Fernandez will be arraigned on December 13 and January 12, 2017 at the sala of RTC Branch 58 Judge Meredith Malig where the cases of illegal possession of marijuana and resistance and disobedience to authorities landed when they re-raffled.Previously, the drug case was filed before the sala of Judge Eda Era of RTC Branch 60, who inhibited from the case as her husband is also a member of Guardians Brotherhood to which Fernandez is also affiliated.
25 Nov 2016 - PAL sets 3 flights in Clark
CLARK FREEPORT -- The national flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) will be launching at least three flights at Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), President Alexander Cauguiran announced Friday.Cauguiran said that PAL President Jaime Bautista gave him the green light to announce that starting December 16, 2016, PAL will officially commence the Clark-Caticlan route daily flights at Clark Airport.
25 Nov 2016 - 1,240 Chinese arrested for illegal work in Clark
CLARK FREEPORT –- More than 1,200 Chinese nationals allegedly working illegally for a call center-like operation suspected to be a front for online gambling have been arrested at a resort and casino complex north of Manila, the Philippine immigration chief said Friday.Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the documents of the 1,240 Chinese nationals arrested Thursday were being checked based on reports they illegally entered and worked in the country.
24 Nov 2016 - Balloon fest made Clark ‘destination of the year’
CLARK FREEPORT –- This Freeport has been named the “Destination of the Year 2015” during the first edition of the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards (PTSA) held on November 22 at Resorts World Manila.Clark was given the said award for staging the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF), “the only festival that combines ground event with aviation-related activities in an all-in-one extravaganza for local and foreign enthusiasts,” as written in the souvenir program of the event.
24 Nov 2016 - DTI destroys fake Christmas lights
PAMPANGA -- To avert the purchasing of substandard Christmas lights this coming holiday season, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pampanga on Wednesday destroyed some 300,000 pieces of decorative lights.Led by DTI Pampanga Officer-in-Charge Elenita Ordonio, the agency crushed the confiscated Christmas lights which are considered inferior as they did not pass through the usual standards.
24 Nov 2016 - Village official nabbed for drugs
PAMPANGA -- A high-value target village official was collared by joint operatives in Mexico last Tuesday during a drug sting.PDEA-3 Director Emerson L. Margate identified the suspect as Renier P. Dimacali, 44, a second termer village kagawad of Barangay Parian, Mexico, Pampanga.
24 Nov 2016 - P500k worth of shabu seized from slain suspected pusher
PAMPANGA -- A suspected notorious shabu pusher was killed and authorities confiscated some P543,000 worth of illegal drugs from him during an anti-illegal drugs operation in Barangay San Juan, City of San Fernando, Pampanga on Tuesday.Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) director, identified the suspect as Aplo Kapalan alias Aplo, a native of Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
23 Nov 2016 - Joint venture assures water for San Fernando
PAMPANGA -- Some 300,000 permanent residents and around a million transients in the bustling City of San Fernando are now assured of adequate and good quality water as the City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) and Primewater Infrastructure Corporation (Primewater) on Wednesday inked a P2.9-billion contractual joint venture for 25 years.During the inauguration of the new P22 million, 300 cubic meter capable pumping station at Aurea Subdivision in Sta. Lucia village and the formal launch of the private-public partnership, CSFWD Chairman of the Board Angelo David said: “Given the capabilities and expertise of Primewater, we are confident that CSFWD’s 25-year plan worth P2.9-billion will be fully accomplished in support of the City of San Fernando as the business capital of Pampanga and regional capital of Central Luzon.
23 Nov 2016 - Clark adjudged ‘Destination of the Year’
MABALACAT CITY --- Clark Freeport was adjudged “Destination of the Year” during the First Sports Tourism Award held at Resorts World Manila on Tuesday.Clark has become a favorite venue for several outdoor sports events including the duathlon, triathlon, cycling, fun run, baseball league competition, and others.
22 Nov 2016 - DPWH sets Dec. 15 deadline for JASA roadworks
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways Region III (DPWH-3) on Tuesday bared its target to make Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) in this city more accessible to motorists and commuters before the year ends.DPWH-3 Project Engineer Arnold Ocampo disclosed that their office set the deadline in finishing at least four of the seven lanes in each section by December 15.
22 Nov 2016 - OWWA partners with DTI for Nego Centers to serve as OFW help desks
PAMPANGA -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has partnered with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to aid Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families find alternative means of livelihood.Under the said partnership, all 26 Negosyo Centers in the region will serve as help desks for OFWs who want to start their own businesses by facilitating their entry, registration and training as potential entrepreneurs.
22 Nov 2016 - DOTr wants toll rates hike deferred
PAMPANGA -- Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade on Monday asked the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) to defer the proposed toll fee increase at the North Luzon Expressway to possibly April 2017.In a meeting with officials and members of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and MNTC executives, Tugade asked the MNTC to let the Christmas season pass by and not “punish” motorists from North Luzon with the impending 32-centavo per kilometer toll hike covering at least the newly expanded 25-kilometer stretch of the North Luzon Expressway from Bulacan to the City of San Fernando.In a meeting with officials and members of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and MNTC executives, Tugade asked the MNTC to let the Christmas season pass by and not “punish” motorists from North Luzon with the impending 32-centavo per kilometer toll hike covering at least the newly expanded 25-kilometer stretch of the North Luzon Expressway from Bulacan to the City of San Fernando.
21 Nov 2016 - Capitol officials, staff test negative for drugs
PAMPANGA -- Capitol elected officials led by acting Governor Dennis Pineda and five provincial board members, department heads plus 285 Capitol employees have tested negative for dangerous drugs during last week’s random drug testing.Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chemist John Patrick Dela Cruz, in a five page report disclosed that the tests showed negative results.
21 Nov 2016 - Tugade: I love Clark, Pampanga
PAMPANGA -- MABALACAT CITY -- Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said Monday that he loves Clark and Pampanga.Tugade issued the statement during the formal opening of the Mabalacat Clark Angeles Road (MCAR).
21 Nov 2016 - Masantol's reformation program lauded
PAMPANGA -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Luzon recently lauded the ongoing reformation and rehabilitation program of this municipality for the self-confessed drug users who surrendered to authorities under the Philippine National Police's Oplan Tokhang program.PDEA-Central Luzon Public Information Officer Glenn Guillermo made the commendation during the ceremonial declaration of 18 drug-cleared barangays which is recognized as one of the municipalities with the highest percentage of cleansed villages.
21 Nov 2016 - PRO-3 gets new motorcycles
PAMPANGA -- To further boost anti-criminality drive in the region, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3) acquired Monday more than a hundred motorcycle vehicles from the Directorate Logistics.A total of 168 Kawasaki Rouser 135 brand new motorcycles were presented and blessed during yesterday's flag raising ceremony at the PRO-3 parade grounds.
21 Nov 2016 - Angeles hosts Piyestang Luzon 2016
ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City hosted over the weekend Piyestang Luzon 2016 which was co-organized by National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and Arte Bulakenyo Foundation Inc.“The three-day event, which was held at MarQuee Mall and Angeles City Library and Information Center, aims to highlight the facets of Luzon culture towards fostering cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity,” NCCA Public Affairs and Information Office head Rene Sanchez Napenas said.
20 Nov 2016 - Lazatin to run for mayor in 2019
ANGELES CITY — Former Angeles City Mayor and Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin is planning to seek the city mayorship again in 2019.Lazatin revealed his plan during a meeting with some village chiefs here recently.
20 Nov 2016 - Canadian found with bullet wound in his head
SUBIC BAY -- A 79 year old Canadian man was found dead inside his house in Barangay (village) Sto. Tomas here on Saturday night, police said. Edward George May had a gunshot wound in the head and in the right foot, said Chief Insp. Leonardo Madrid, head of the Subic police station.19 Nov 2016 - Archdiocese of San Fernando told: ‘No to commercialism’
ANGELES CITY -- A group of parents and alumni at the Chevalier School (formerly Sacred Heart Mission Seminary, Incorporated) has expressed strong opposition to the plan of the Roman Catholic’s Archdiocese of San Fernando to lease out some 4,961 square meters of the three-hectare school campus.The parents and alumni yesterday carried placards and held a lightning rally in front of the bust of the Blessed Jules Chevalier – a French Catholic priest who founded the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC).
19 Nov 2016 - Lawmaker hits town officials anew
PAMPANGA -- Fourth District Representative Juan Pablo Bondoc recently assailed local officials of this town for allegedly favoring Chinese businessmen over residents here.Bondoc, who represents this fourth district town in the Lower House, said that this municipality is "slowly progressing compared to its neighboring towns due to misaligned programs and projects created by the current local government."
19 Nov 2016 - Mayor to lawmaker: ‘Do your research first’
PAMPANGA -- San Simon Mayor Leonora Wong questioned Fourth District Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc's knowledge on the economic activities of this town which has been progressing over the years.She stressed that the factories, which Bondoc consecutively questioned, have been providing development and created opportunities for Simonians.
19 Nov 2016 - Sambo vows support for shared service facility
PAMPANGA -- Mayor Johnny Sambo of this town on weekend vowed support for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)’s Shared-Service Facility (SSF) for Kabuhayan ng mga Kabarangay tungo sa Tagumpay (KKT) under the Wearables and Homestyle and GDH Priority Cluster.Sambo bared this during the SSF-KKT inauguration launch on weekend in the City of San Fernando where the said project was noted as a strategy adopted to achieve the goal of the National Industry Cluster Capacity Enhancement Program (NICCEP) which is to improve the priority industry cluster’s competitiveness consequently affecting contribution to the national economy.
19 Nov 2016 - Provincial gov't provides oral medicines to 33 leukemia patients
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government continued its health program for the 33 leukemia inflicted children presently undergoing chemotherapy at Jose B. Lingad Regional Memorial Hospital (JBLRMH).Ruby San Miguel, head of the Nurse sa Nayon of the Provincial Health Office (PHO) said these children are in need of oral medicines for their chemotherapy session to augment the healing process which would last for three years.
19 Nov 2016 - MSMEs get disaster risk reduction training
PAMPANGA -- The City Government of San Fernando and the Department of Trade and Industry conducted a disaster risk reduction training for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to strengthen the disaster resiliency of the business sector.Participated by more than 60 local entrepreneurs, the event was the first business continuity planning for the MSMEs held in the city.
19 Nov 2016 - De Lima bats for funds for DSWD protection program
MABALACAT CITY -- Senator Leila de Lima has pushed for adequate funding to support the Protective Services Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to assist individuals and families affected by unexpected crisis or calamities.During the deliberations of the proposed 2017 P127.8-billion budget of the DSWD in the Senate, De Lima inquired about the sustainability of the funds meant for the department’s protective services program.
19 Nov 2016 - Fetus found in fast-food chain
MABALACAT CITY -- A janitress found a fetus placed inside a bag which was left at a popular fast-food chain in this city on Wednesday.Dr. Oscar Aurelio, chairman of Barangay Dau and an ex-officio member of the city council, said the fetus is about 26 weeks or seven months old.
19 Nov 2016 - Negosyo Centers to help OFWs under DTI-OWWA partnership
ANGELES CITY -- All of the 26 existing Negosyo Centers in Central Luzon will now serve as Help Desks for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families who want to find alternative means of livelihood. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to implement joint programs for OFWs.While there is a downtrend in the number of jobs in the international market, DTI is optimistic that OFWs will contribute to the local economy by investing back in the Philippines.
18 Nov 2016 - Illegal cigarette factory shut down
PAMPANGA -- Police operatives and officials from the Provincial Government of Pampanga led the shutdown the other day of a suspected illegal cigarette factory in Lubao manufacturing counterfeit brands.Acting Governor Dennis Pineda has issued a public warning to foreigners involved in illicit activities to leave Pampanga as village folk show heightened vigilance in helping stop crimes in their areas.
18 Nov 2016 - Bacolor unveils new official seal, hymn
PAMPANGA -- After centuries of having no proper distinctive identification, this municipality finally unveiled before Bacoloreños their official seal and hymn on Thursday.The local government here, led by Mayor Jose Mari "Jomar" Hizon, in coordination with Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University launched the official seal and hymn which bared the municipality's history and culture.
18 Nov 2016 - Arroyo sees Porac as new township development
PAMPANGA -- Former president and now Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo yesterday said that with this town's bustling development and eco-tourism potential will likely be the next biggest township development project North of Luzon.Mrs. Arroyo, who was guest of honor in the 11th Binulo Festival kick-off celebrations said that the developments in Porac town makes it one of the most exciting places for business in Pampanga. Arroyo went far as to compare the development with Nuvali in Laguna. Nuvali is a 1,700-hectare development by Ayala Land envisioned to be the country's first eco-community development in the Philippines.
18 Nov 2016 - CEB launches 3 Visayas flights
CLARK FREEPORT -- Cebu Pacific (CEB) has further reinforced its position in the Visayas region following the launching of three additional flights from Cebu to Calbayog, Ormoc, and Roxas.Starting November 19, CEB will officially be the only carrier flying daily between Cebu and Ormoc and Cebu and Roxas; and four times weekly (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday) between Cebu and Calbayog using the ATR 72-500 aircraft.
18 Nov 2016 - Midori exec bullish on Clark potentials
CLARK FREEPORT -- A locator here has underscored what he described as the “inevitable development” in Clark and its surrounding areas in the provinces of Pampanga and Tarlac.Dr. Irineo Alvaro Jr., president of Midori Clark Hotel and Casino, stated this when he addressed the Filipino Community in a recent gathering of the Circulo Pampangueno in Michigan, USA.
18 Nov 2016 - Delta distributes P3-M educational grants
PAMPANGA -- Thousands of indigent students from different public schools in the province yesterday received financial assistance from the provincial government.The 3,000 students are the first batch of beneficiaries to receive grants under the scholarship program sponsored by the Office of Vice-Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda.
16 Nov 2016 - 70% of Masantol town declared drug-cleared
PAMPANGA -- As the six-month deadline of President Rodrigo Duterte nears, more than half of the 26 villages of this town are now declared drug-cleared by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).During the ceremonial declaration held Wednesday, village chiefs of the 18 barangays were commended and were given certificates for successfully eliminating the drug menace in their respective communities.
16 Nov 2016 - Mayor: Bacolor church bell tower tilting not possible
PAMPANGA -- A shocked Mayor Jose Maria "Jomar" Hizon yesterday stressed that the report that there is reported "tilting" of the bell tower of San Guillermo parish church here is highly impossible adding that the lahar deposits that have submerged the structure have in fact strengthen the edifice.Hizon said that whoever made the pronouncement that the structure has tilted has not informed municipal officials.
16 Nov 2016 - Plaza Angel Fountain formally opened
ANGELES CITY -- In a bid to further beautify this city’s culture and heritage district, the local government headed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, has formally opened the P16 million-worth water fountain at the Plaza Angel on Tuesday.Cultural promotion and heritage preservation have been two of the priority programs of Pamintuan since he assumed office for his third and last term.
16 Nov 2016 - 18 ladies vie for Ms. Bacolor 2016 crown
PAMPANGA -- Some 18 ladies from the different barangays of this municipality are set to for the crown of Ms. Bacolor 2016 on Saturday, November 19.Representatives from barangays Cabetican, Maliwalu, Dolores, Cabambangan, Parulog, Mesalipit, Cabalantian, Talba, San Antonio, Sta. Barbara, Balas, Tenejero, Sta. Ines, Concepcion, Calibutbut, Potrero, San Vicentr, Duat and San Isidro will be showcasing their beauty and talent to snatch the prestigious title.
16 Nov 2016 - Casilao leads commemoration of Hacienda Luisita massacre
MABALACAT CITY -- Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel “Ka Ayik” Casilao led the commemoration of the 12th anniversary of “Hacienda Luisita Massacre” by joining the solidarity vigil and witnessing the theatrical re-enactment of the violent incident in front of the gate of the Central Azucarera de Tarlac (CAT) mill on Wednesday.The re-enactment was the culmination of the three-day cultural caravan that kicked off Monday in front of the office of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
16 Nov 2016 - Year-end job fair offers 882 job vacancies
PAMPANGA -- Some 882 job positions were made available to applicants of this city and from neighboring towns during the Year-End Job Fair hosted by the City Government of San Fernando over the weekend at Waltermart.With 16 participating companies, 682 unfilled local jobs and 200 positions for overseas employment were offered to jobseekers.
16 Nov 2016 - Pampanga newsmen asked to promote Hong Kong tourism
CLARK FREEPORT -- A Chinese travel executive has asked Pampanga-based newsmen to promote Hong Kong as tourist destination for Filipinos.Paul Y.L. Leung, managing director of the Holiday World Tours Limited (HWTL), urged a group of Pampanga journalists who visited Hong Kong recently to invite more Filipinos to travel to the shopping capital of the world.
16 Nov 2016 - Legal Education Board awards AUF law school
ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles University Foundation School of Law (AUF-SOL) was recently awarded as one of the 15 Best Performing Law Schools in the 2015 Bar Examinations by the Legal Education Board (LEB).The awarding was held last November 11, at the New World Hotel Manila Bay, Metro Manila.
15 Nov 2016 - Police discovers 3rd suspected shabu lab in Pampanga
PAMPANGA -- After authorities discovered mega shabu laboratories in the towns of Magalang and Arayat last September, another suspected clandestine methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu laboratory allegedly operated by Chinese nationals was found in a residential area in Barangay San Juan in Apalit on Saturday.In the abandoned residence owned by Robert Ngan Yiu Ting, also known as Robert Gan, located at Sitio San Niño, several equipment, controlled precursors and essential chemicals used in the production of methamphetamine hydrochloride were found.
15 Nov 2016 - Zumba tilt marks San Simon's 245th founding anniversary
PAMPANGA -- As San Simon marked its 245th anniversary as an independent town, residents of all ages showcased their dancing skills in a zumba competition organized by the local government.Themed "Aslag naku ning Balen," students, parents and teachers from various public elementary schools in this town danced to the beat of lively music alongside their own twists and surprises.
14 Nov 2016 - Capitol execs, personnel subjected to drug tests
PAMPANGA -- Some 300 Capitol employees including elected officials on Monday underwent random drug testing celebration of Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Month.PDEA-3 Director Emerson Margate said that he is expecting 100 percent negative and drug-free results from the tests of the provincial government officials and personnel.
14 Nov 2016 - Mayors, guv aim to save P536-M in Pampanga flood control
PAMPANGA -- Acting Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda has initiated talks with mayors and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials on his proposal to desilt and clear the waterways of Sapang Labuan through non-commercial quarrying saving P536 million and easing the province's flood woes.Sapang Labuan is fed by the Pasig-Potrero River through Gugu River and by rivers from San Fernando and Sto. Tomas.
14 Nov 2016 - Manhunt for gunmen in Nueva Ecija execs ambush intensified
PAMPANGA -- The Philippine National Police Arayat Station has intensified the manhunt operation against the assailants of Nueva Ecija town executives who were ambushed recently.Cabiao Mayor Ramil Rivera and Vice-Mayor Angelito de la Cruz were attacked by unidentified gunmen while travelling in separate cars going to the City of San Fernando in Pampanga.
13 Nov 2016 - P100-M gov't center to rise in San Simon town
PAMPANGA -- A P100 million local government center will soon rise in a government property along the strategic barangay of Sto. Niño here.This was disclosed by Mayor Leonora Wong who is the prime mover of the legacy project she will be leaving to her constituents before she steps down from office in 2019.
13 Nov 2016 - Pampanga's overall quarry revenues now at P2-B
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga's overall quarry revenues have now reached P2,086,969,797 based from the records of the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO). This includes the province's quarry collection, weighing scale fees, accreditation of motor vehicle fees and fees from gravel and sand permits. The Provincial Government of Pampanga's overall quarry revenues have now reached P2,086,969,797 based from the records of the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO).This includes the province's quarry collection, weighing scale fees, accreditation of motor vehicle fees and fees from gravel and sand permits.
12 Nov 2016 - Excise tax on Pampanga sand to affect end-users
PAMPANGA -- Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) head Art Punsalan said the other day that the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4)’s plan on the collection of excise taxes from quarry operators in the province may invariably affect the end users of the province's lucrative sand resource.Punsalan said that any imposed taxation is likely to affect the industry and its prevailing prices and would certainly affect end-users.
12 Nov 2016 - DSWD cites Capitol’s P100,000 grants to elderly as ‘best practice’
PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga government’s provision of P100,000 incentives to 95 years old and above was recognized as among the nine awardees for the recently concluded Awarding of 2016 Central Luzon Regional Search for Best Practices given by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).Held at Walter Mart in this city, the theme for this year’s search is “Aktibong Pamahalaan at Mamamayan Tungo Sa Pagpapaunlad ng Bayan.”
12 Nov 2016 - Public school teachers briefed on new Kapampangan orthography
Teachers using Kapampangan in the Mother Tongue–Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) in Kindergarten up to Grade 3 were given a lecture and orientation on the new Kapampangan orthography recently.The event was led by the Department of Education Regional Office III and the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF) last November 8-11.
12 Nov 2016 - Pampanga, 10 towns, 2 cities receive Seal of Good Local Governance
PAMPANGA -- The provincial government of Pampanga, two cities and 10 municipal local government units (LGUs) have been conferred with Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) recently.Myrvi Fabia, provincial director of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) said SGLG is an award given to any province and its municipalities that have reached the standard measures of compliance of the Full Disclosure Policy particularly in the areas of budget, revenues, procurement and having no adverse audit findings.
11 Nov 2016 - Nueva Ecija town execs ambushed in Arayat
PAMPANGA -- Local executives from a town in Nueva Ecija province were ambushed by an armed group while in Arayat town Wednesday morning.Police Regional Office III Director Aaron Aquino disclosed that Cabiao Mayor Ramil Rivera and Vice-Mayor Angelito de la Cruz were travelling in separate cars in a convoy going to the City of San Fernando when Dela Cruz's vehicle was hit by unidentified assailants in Barangay Tabuan here.
11 Nov 2016 - 2 Sto. Tomas villages declared drug-cleared
PAMPANGA -- Two of the seven barangays of this municipality were recently declared drug-cleared by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).The villages of Poblacion and Sto. Niño Sapa were cited as the first two barangays to eradicate the use and selling of prohibited drugs in their respective communities.
10 Nov 2016 - Excise tax eyed over local quarry industry
PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4) on Thursday said that it is moving for the possibility of implementing the collection of excise taxes from quarry operators in the province.BIR Regional Director Jethro Sabarriaga said that they have communicated with the Pampanga provincial government for the various data on the quarry operations here.
10 Nov 2016 - Pampanga execs finalize 3-year executive-legislative agenda
PAMPANGA -- Provincial government officials together are now on the process of finalizing the provincial executive legislative agenda (ELA) - their “social contract with the Kapampangans”– which contain and converge the development thrusts and priorities of the local chief executive and the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.During the ELA meeting headed by acting Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, Capitol department heads identified issues and concerns in the administrative, economic and social sector that need to be addressed for the next three years.
10 Nov 2016 - 12-hour power outage to hit 5 Pampanga towns on Nov. 12
PAMPANGA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has scheduled a power interruption this Saturday, November 12 in five municipalities which are under the coverage of the Pampanga I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Pelco I).The power outage is slated to start at 6 am and ends at 6 pm and shall affect the towns of Arayat, Candaba, Mexico, San Luis and Sta. Ana under the power supply distribution jurisdiction of PELCO I.
10 Nov 2016 - NGO leaders hail Angeles City's SGLG award
ANGELES CITY – Officers of various non-government organizations (NGOs) in this city hailed the City Government of Angeles for receiving this year's Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)."The SGLG award represents good governance and financial transparency. Patunay ito na dito sa Angeles City wala nang under-the-table na transaksyon, hindi katulad noong late 1990s hanggang mid-2000s," said Mario Balgos, president of the Angeles City Anti-Crime Watch.
10 Nov 2016 - Angeles City vital road loop opened
ANGELES CITY – In line with the city’s traffic decongestion program, a new road loop along the busy MacArthur Highway in Balibago on Wednesday was formally opened to light vehicles.Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan led other city officials during the inauguration of the Abacan Loop which is expected to solve traffic decongest traffic in front of the Robinsons Mall, Systems Plus College and other commercial shops in the area.
9 Nov 2016 - Water supply restored in Sto. Tomas villages
PAMPANGA -- Officials from the Balibago Waterworks System Inc. (BWSI)-operated Crystal Liquid Philippines Inc. (CLPI), the local service provider of this town, on Monday confirmed that water supply in this town’s villages was restored on November 4.Water shortage gripped several of the seven barangays here after one of the four water pumps of BWSI-CLPI installed in the town broke down last October 28 due to entry of large pebbles in the machine which caused the water well underneath to collapse.
8 Nov 2016 - Water supply restored in Sto. Tomas villages
PAMPANGA -- Officials from the Balibago Waterworks System Inc. (BWSI)-operated Crystal Liquid Philippines Inc. (CLPI), the local service provider of this town, on Monday confirmed that water supply in this town’s villages was restored on November 4.Water shortage gripped several of the seven barangays here after one of the four water pumps of BWSI-CLPI installed in the town broke down last October 28 due to entry of large pebbles in the machine which caused the water well underneath to collapse.
8 Nov 2016 - Legarda: Help LGUs craft climate change action plans
MABALACAT CITY --- Senator Loren Legarda has encouraged the Climate Change Commission (CCC) to strengthen its efforts, particularly capacity-building programs to help local government units (LGUs) craft their local climate change action plans (LCCAP).This as the Senator lauded President Duterte for deciding to ratify the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
8 Nov 2016 - Mabalacat areas to experience 8-hour power outage on Nov. 11Mabalacat areas to experience 8-hour power outage on Nov. 11
MABALACAT CITY – The Pampanga II Electric Cooperative Incorporated (Pelco II) and Comstech Management have scheduled a power interruption in some residential and commercial areas in this city on November 11.Two hospitals including Mabalacat District Hospital and the Saint Raphael Hospital will be affected by the power outages set from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
8 Nov 2016 - Pamintuan: Misuari ‘respite' good for peace process
ANGELES CITY -- League of Cities of the Philippines National President and GRP Peace Panel Adviser, Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that the temporary "respite" of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari from his pending case can provide opportunity to further discuss the important and greater picture of the Muslim rebellion in Mindanao.Pamintuan said the current situation may lead to the final solution to the Muslim rebellion.
8 Nov 2016 - Pampanga earns P1.9-B on quarry
PAMPANGA -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga has reached a collection of P1.919 billion in quarry revenues as of October.Based on the initial report of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), the province has a total collection of P1,919,925,000.
7 Nov 2016 - Former, incumbent mayors fight over ONA remark
ANGELES CITY –- Ex-mayor Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin on Monday hit Mayor Edgardo “EdPam” Pamintuan over his message about the state of the Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA).Lazatin said he was reacting to Pamintuan’s pronouncements during the Monday flag raising rites where the incumbent mayor reportedly said that the former did nothing to improve the state of ONA.
7 Nov 2016 - 300 Fernandinos get scholarship grants
PAMPANGA -- Some 300 students received scholarship grants from the City Government of San Fernando through the Educational Scholarship Assistance Program (ESAP) last November 5.The 300 college students are part of the new set of scholars coming from the city’s 35 barangays.
6 Nov 2016 - ‘Rebidding exercise may not be possible’
PAMPANGA -- The rebidding exercise over the Joint Venture (JV) proposal of the City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) and Prime Water as requested by Balibago Waterworks Systems, Inc. or BWSI “may not be possible” due to technicalities and legalities surrounding applicable and established government guidelines.This was disclosed by CSFWD General Manager Jorge Gumba over the weekend, as he reacted to the request of BWSI president Tito Panlilio who earlier said “BWSI wishes to clarify that it is not asking for any special favor or vested privilege in trying to seek a remedy to the perceived irregularities of the CSFWD mode of bidding their joint venture project. All we request is for a rebidding exercise under a transparent, fair and applicable government guideline which is the Competitive Selection Mode.”
6 Nov 2016 - Morales denies drug issue anew
MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales has reiterated that the report naming him as a protector of the illegal drugs in this city is politically-motivated.The mayor told participants about this during the launching of the Drug Free Workplace Program initiated by the local government.
6 Nov 2016 - Judge won't hear Mark Anthony Fernandez's illegal drug cases
PAMPANGA -- Regional Trial Court branch 60 Presiding Judge Eda Era has backed out from hearing the two cases filed by authorities against actor Mark Anthony Fernandez, who was arrested last October 3 for possession of a kilogram of dried marijuana in Angeles City.The judge inhibited herself from the cases as her husband reportedly belongs to the Guardians Brotherhood in which Fernandez is also a member.
6 Nov 2016 - Honest guard returns lost cellphone
ANGELES CITY -- A security guard received commendation after returning a cell phone, which was left at the SM Cinema last week.SM Supermalls officials commended Rolit Cuenca, nightshift supervisor of SM City Clark Customer Relations Service (CRS), for his honesty.
6 Nov 2016 - PamCham sets 37th orientation for prospective members
PAMPANGA -- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. will hold its 37th orientation for prospective members and those who want to join the local business group on November 8, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Mitsubishi Carworld Building along Jose Abad Santos Avenue, this city.The PamCham disclosed that an orientation is regularly conducted to provide information and share details on the benefits of becoming a part of the business group, the services each member gets to take advantage of, and the advocacies the chamber strongly promotes and supports.
6 Nov 2016 - Quest Hotel's 'liquid chef' to bring Molecular Mixology to Pampanga
CLARK FREEPORT -- Science has found it's place here at Quest Hotel and Conference Center-Clark, as its specialty outlet, Charley’s Bar, will soon be host to a motley of drinks and cocktails prepared through a more modern, chemical, and “scientific” approach.New Charley’s Bar Manager and Liquid Chef Neil Ocampo invites everyone to discover a new world of flavor as the establishment will now bring in the subtle science of Molecular Mixology into the mix.
6 Nov 2016 - SM City Clark kicks-off Yuletide celebration with centerpiece lighting
CLARK FREEPORT -- SM City Clark formally kicked-off its celebration of the Yuletide season with the ceremonial lighting of its traditional Christmas centerpiece designed to delight mall-goers and excite children with the coming Christmas season.The ceremonial lighting was led by SM Regional Operations Manager Engr. Junias Eusebio, Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, Mabalacat City Mayor Marino Morales and Department of Tourism Regional Director Ronnie Tiotuico. The event featured performances from the Angeles University Foundation Concert Chorus.
6 Nov 2016 - Unveiling of new GLF hymn set November 7
PAMPANGA -- A new hymn for this city’s Giant Lantern Festival (GLF) or “Ligligan Parul” will be unveiled on November 7, Monday, during the traditional flag raising rites.The new hymn was composed by Irwin Nucum, a local culturati, book author, composer of original Kapampangan music, an outstanding Thomasian in the field of arts and culture and an outstanding Fernandino in the field of civic service, who was commissioned by the Giant Lantern Festival Foundation for the “obra.”
6 Nov 2016 - Morales: No peace and order, no progress
MABALACAT CITY -- Mayor Marino Morales has underscored the importance peace and order in order to have a progressive city.The mayor relayed this message to the participants of the Drug Free Workplace Program launched by local government yesterday.
6 Nov 2016 - DOT: Support Angeles City craft beer festival
ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Tourism urged the people of Pampanga and Central Luzon to support the first annual Angeles City Craft Beer Festival which was set on December 2 to 4 at the Ayala Marquee Mall.The festival is expected to be an ultimate showcase for the fast growing craft beer market in the Philippines.
6 Nov 2016 - Masantol to hold free viewing of Pacquiao-Vargas fight
PAMPANGA -- In support to the comeback of "Pambansang Kamao" Manny Pacquiao, the local government here will hold a free public viewing of the senator's fight against Jessie Vargas on Sunday.Sponsored by Mayor Danilo Guintu and Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda, the municipality will set up an LED widescreen at the municipal gym to accommodate fans and supporters of the pound-for-pound king on Sunday.
4 Nov 2016 - Abandoned Muslim settlement in Dagupan demolished
PAMPANGA -- Using backhoe and other heavy equipment, the city engineer's office on Thursday demolished at least 35 abandoned houses at the now deserted Muslim community in Sitio Tondaligan in Barangay Bonuan Gueset in Dagupan City.The occupants of these houses have decided to go back to Mindanao at the height of the war on drugs by the Philippine National Police in early September this year, according to Superintendent Neil Miro, chief of police.
4 Nov 2016 - 63 fish pens in Dagupan City to be dismantled
PAMPANGA -- At least 63 fish pens scattered along the banks of rivers in various coastal villages here, said to be standing on titled lots, are due for dismantling after they are validated by the city assessor's office and the city agriculture office.This was gleaned from a list submitted by city agriculture officer Emma Molina, indicating the lot number where the fish pens are standing, their total land area, the total area of their properties under water and their respective locations.
3 Nov 2016 - CSFWD comes to the rescue of waterless town
PAMPANGA -- The City of San Fernando Water District (CSFWD) swiftly reacted Thursday and is now poised to help address the water shortage gripping the seven villages of Sto. Tomas town.This developed after Sto. Tomas Mayor John Sambo officially requested the CSFWD to lend the Municipal Government its water truck to ration and distribute potable water to affected residents who have been waterless for a week now.
3 Nov 2016 - DTI to MSMEs: Megalopolis an advantage, not a threat
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently assured micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) on the advantage of the ongoing urban planning in the province on their respective businesses.This, after groups of MSMEs in Pampanga expressed fear over the possible effect of the foreseen development in the province on their small-scale businesses.
3 Nov 2016 - Consumers cite cellphones, appliances as top complaints
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon disclosed Thursday that consumers consider defective cellular phones and appliances as top complaints on their lists.Consumers in Central Luzon listed defective cellphones and appliances like refrigerators and television sets as subject of their complaints for the third quarter of 2016.
3 Nov 2016 - CDC sets recycling event
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to conduct the 15th Annual Recyclables Collection Event (RCE) on November 7 at the parking lot of CDC Building 2127 along Ninoy Aquino Street here.The environment care-geared RCE is a commitment of CDC in cooperation with the accredited waste collectors on recyclable and hazardous waste materials.
3 Nov 2016 - DepEd pushes boundaries of education through summit
PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is pushing the boundaries of learning through its Education Summit 2016.This is aimed at helping make the Filipino dream of a simple and comfortable life more accessible for all.
3 Nov 2016 - Trader encourages OFWs to start business
CLARK FREEPORT -- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) should try starting their own business for the future of their family.Mekeni Food Corporation President Pruds Garcia encouraged OFWs to engage in entrepreneurship stressing that working abroad is just the first for a better future.
2 Nov 2016 - Undas in Central Luzon peaceful
PAMPANGA -- The traditional observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day was generally peaceful after thousands of people flocked to the different public and private cemeteries in Central Luzon to pay their respects to their dearly departed.Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3) Director Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino said All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in the region was generally peaceful and orderly.
2 Nov 2016 - Media seen as partners in education
PAMPANGA -- Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones on Wednesday urged the media to step up its role as partners of the education sector for change.During DepEd’s press conference with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Briones encouraged the members of media to participate in and beyond the Education Summit 2016 on November 3 and 4.
2 Nov 2016 - Halloween fire guts house in Apalit town
PAMPANGA -- A fire gutted a portion of a residential house in Barangay Sulipan of this municipality shortly before Halloween on Monday evening.Bureau of Fire Protection Officer-in-Charge Inspector Gilbert Romero said that incident transpired around 6:00 pm while the house owners were said to be out to attend to something.
2 Nov 2016 - DOT hosts 6th Central Luzon health, farm tourism expo
The Department of Tourism Region III (DOT-3) recently hosted the Sixth Central Luzon Health and Wellness and Farm Tourism Expo at Robinsons Starmills here.Themed “Spring into Wellness through Agriculture,” the expo was co-organized by DOT-3 in partnership with the Spa and Wellness Association of Pampanga, it aims to educate, promote and showcase products and services in the health and wellness industry by highlighting major trends and great potentials that contribute to the development of the economy.