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Balibago News Feb-2017

28 Feb 2017 - Gov’t urged to make Clark disaster operations center

ANGELES CITY -- A businessman here has reiterated its call to the national government to immediately prepare Clark as a disaster operations center.

Rene Romero, vice chair of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (PamCham), said Clark is a natural disaster recovery area because of its location.

28 Feb 2017 - Village exec warns residents on illegal garbage dumping

MABALACAT CITY -- Leaders of Barangay Dau here have started enforcing the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act particularly the illegal dumping of waste along the MacArthur Highway.

Several residents, including a man who introduced himself as a journalist, caught dumping garbage along the national highway were invited to the barangay hall for questioning and education.

28 Feb 2017 - 2 more escapees surrender

PAMPANGA -- At least 5 more detainees who bolted out of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency III detention facility in Camp Olivas in the City of San Fernando last Sunday are the remaining subject of a manhunt operation after another two of them surrendered on Monday night.

According to PDEA-3 Director, Juvenal Azurin, those who surrendered were Edilberto Clemente and Roberto Castillo, Jr.

28 Feb 2017 - BIR claims Region III can ‘support’ shift to federal government

PAMPANGA -- Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4’s (RR4) Jethro Sabariaga said that if the shift to the federal government would push through, Region III could well enough support and sustain a regional federal government as it sits on a P2-trillion regional gross domestic product.

Sabariaga made this statement during the weekend's Tax Campaign kick off in this capital city, adding that this is even feasible even if Bulacan is currently not part of RR4.

28 Feb 2017 - PCF-based children, women’s center opens

PAMPANGA -- As part of its program to promote women and children’s protection, the local government on Monday inaugurated the Local Support for Children and Women (LSCW) building at Barangay Sto. Niño.

Mayor Leonora Wong disclosed that the center is a product of the P3-million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) given to the municipality for garnering the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) award in 2015.

28 Feb 2017 - Mayor: ‘No drugs' in Masantol despite priest's claims

PAMPANGA -- Mayor Danilo Guintu of this town recently assured the public that Masantol remains a “drug-cleared” municipality up to now.

This was after San Simon town parish priest Rev. Fr. Homer Policarpio disclosed in a meeting that a supply of illegal drugs is coming from Masantol town.

28 Feb 2017 - 6 of 13 inmates who bolt Pampanga jail surrender

PAMPANGA -- Six of the 13 detainees, who bolted out of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Luzon detention facility at the Police Regional Office in Camp Olivas, surrendered to authorities Monday.

PDEA-Central Luzon Public Information Officer Glenn Guillermo said the six inmates facing drug charges were identified as Erick dela Cruz of Malibay, Valenzuela; Marlon Orezca and Jeric Castillo of Plaridel, Bulacan; Russel Derick De Jesus of Guiguinto, Bulacan; and Rommel Reyes and Renante Reyes of Baliwag, Bulacan.

26 Feb 2017 - DepEd eyes inclusive education for children with special needs

PAMPANGA -- In line with the Department’s thrust of providing quality and inclusive basic education for all, the Department of Education (DepEd) continues to provide the necessary educational interventions for learners with special needs through its Special Education (SPED) program.

The SPED program of DepEd provides a holistic approach in catering to the needs of learners with various exceptionalities.

26 Feb 2017 - BIR launches 2017 Tax Campaign Drive

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region (RR) No. 4, officially launched its 2017 Tax Campaign Drive over the weekend at Kingsborough Convention Center capitalizing on the need to mobilize sector support for the payment of taxes.

The event was led by Regional director Jethro Sabariaga and attended by BIR top officials led by BIR Commissioner Caesar R. Dulay.

26 Feb 2017 - Fallen Candabeño soldier praised

PAMPANGA -- Candaba esidents have paid tribute a fellow Candabeño soldier who was killed by rebels in Marawi City.

Major Jerico Mangalus, a native of Barangay Mapaniqui here and his companion, Corporal Bryan Libot, were shot in an ambush allegedly perpetrated by local terrorist group in Marawi City on February 16.

25 Feb 2017 - Thousands say no to death penalty

PAMPANGA -- Thousands of faithful led by the Pampanga clergy yesterday took to the streets to express their opposition to the death penalty and extra judicial killings (EJKs).

The estimated crowd of 5,000, predominantly Catholics from various parishes, schools, pastoral groups and missionaries converged at around 7:00 am at this city’s old train station compound after the “walk for life” that took off from four points of the province early morning.

25 Feb 2017 - Exec reiterates Clark’s role on Manila’s decongestion

CLARK FREEPORT -- Metro Manila’s horrendous traffic congestion may be eased with the full development of Clark International Airport (CRK).

Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) head Alexander Cauguiran reiterated this during the second leg of the CIAC North Philippines Roadshow in Dagupan City on Friday.

25 Feb 2017 - Angeles government fetes outstanding Angeleño artisans

ANGELES CITY -- Thirty-three Angeleño artists received their Pupul ning Banua award from the local government on Friday, February 24 at the Plaza Angel, this city.

Spearheaded by the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO), the award aims to distinguish the valuable contributions of Angeleño artists in shaping arts and culture in the city, and to give a fitting tribute to those who have excelled in their chosen field of art manifested by their achievements both locally and overseas.

25 Feb 2017 - Lubao Tupad beneficiaries get P1.4-M

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) through the office of former President now Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo released some P1,413,320 for 356 beneficiaries of the government’s Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Disadvantages and Workers Program (Tupad) here.

Mrs. Arroyo, along with Lubao Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab and other town and barangay officials distributed on Thursday personal protective equipment to the beneficiaries from 20 barangays in ceremonies held at the covered court of Barangay San Pablo II here.

25 Feb 2017 - 10 arrested in series of drug stings

PAMPANGA -- Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region (PDEA) Central Luzon office arrested 10 suspected drug personalities, which resulted in the seizure of 200 grams of shabu in a series of anti-drug operations in Pampanga, Tarlac and Bulacan on February 23 and 24, 2017, respectively.

On February 24, around 8:00 p.m., PDEA agents conducted a buy-bust operations in Villa Classica Subdivision, Barangay Alasas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, which resulted in the arrest of two drug suspects and seizure of 50 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P240,000.

24 Feb 2017 - CIAC officials welcome AirAsia’s return to Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -- Airport officials here have welcomed Philippines AirAsia’s the resumption of flights at Clark International Airport (CRK).

Air Asia will launch thrice weekly Clark-Kalibo-Clark flights starting March 27 and four times weekly flights to and from Davao by April 22, two routes that are expected to boost CRK’s operation.

24 Feb 2017 - CCA celebrates 5th founding anniversary

ANGELES CITY -- “The City College of Angeles remains to be our emblem of hope - a testament of the city government’s effort to provide affordable and quality education for the young Angeleños and the generations to come.”

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan as he addressed the students, teaching and non-teaching personnel of the City College of Angeles (CCA) in line with its fifth founding year, Wednesday, February 22.

24 Feb 2017 - Fil-Chi group to donate classrooms to Sto. Tomas

PAMPANGA -- As its pilot infrastructure program, a Filipino-Chinese group in Central Luzon is donating a school building to an elementary school in this town.

The Amity Club Central Luzon is a Filipino-Chinese group which provides assistance to the people of Central Luzon such as medical and dental missions and relief distribution activities.

24 Feb 2017 - Central Luzon PESOs place 208,000 jobseekers in 2016

CLARK FREEPORT -- Public Employment Services Offices (PESOs) in Central Luzon were able to place around 208,000 jobseekers for local and overseas work in 2016.

“This recorded a placement rate of 88 percent from over 236,500 referred applicants,” Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Technical Support and Services Division for Employment and Welfare head Alejandro Inza Cruz said.

24 Feb 2017 - Power interruption set in Mabalacat February 28

MABALACAT CITY -- The Pampanga Electric Cooperative 2 (Pelco 2) has scheduled a whole day power interruption in this city on February 28.

The power outage, which will affect the whole city, will start at 7:00 a.m., is due to the "correction of misaligned Disconnect Switch tie/middle breaker 52 bay" and other maintenance works by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).

24 Feb 2017 - Kapampangan factory worker wins new car in Jollibee’s drive-thru promo

A 38-year-old factory worker from Mexico, Pampanga was recently hailed as the first ever winner of a brand new Honda BR-V from the nation’s biggest fast food chain, Jollibee.

Edwin Cunanan, together with his wife and two kids, claimed the prize last Wednesday at Jollibee Sindalan branch where he won the first of five SUV units through Jollibee’s Drive-Thru Scratch 2 Win a Honda promo.

24 Feb 2017 - San Fernando bishop warns of scam

PAMPANGA -- San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano “Apu Ceto” renewed Friday his call against scammers using his name for unauthorized solicitations.

In a handwritten note scribbled on the official seal of the Office of the Archbishop Emeritus sent to Sun.Star Pampanga, Aniceto said that a solicitation letter coming from unscrupulous individuals has been going around since January 11, 2017.

23 Feb 2017 - Clark hits $1B investments in 2016

CLARK FREEPORT -– The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has signed 71 lease agreements with investment commitment of $1.02 billion in 2016.

These projects, which will be implemented and completed within the next 10 years, bring the number of locators in the Freeport to some 895.

23 Feb 2017 - De Lima hopes to meet UN Rapporteur on EJK

ANGELES CITY -- Senator Leila de Lima hopes to meet United Nations Special Rapporteur on Summary Executions Dr. Agnes Callamard if she would be allowed to attend the 15th International Film Festival and Forum on Human Rights in Geneva, Switzerland on March 18.

De Lima, who faces possible arrest for alleged “trumped-up drug charges” by the government, is invited to the international event dedicated to cinema and human rights at the sideline of the Annual Session of the UN Human Rights Council.

23 Feb 2017 - Creation of Angeles village human rights committees approved

ANGELES CITY –- The Angeles City Council has unanimously approved an ordinance creating the Barangay Human Rights Committee in every village here.

Ordinance No. 404, series of 2017 was unanimously approved during the regular council session on February 14 and was signed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and acting Vice-Mayor Jericho Aguas on February 22.

23 Feb 2017 - Angeles City hosts NCCA’s Sayaw Pinoy anewk

ANGELES CITY -- The country’s top performing arts companies converged in day of dance spectacle as the city government and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) staged the Sayaw Pinoy 2017 at the City College of Angeles (CCA) campus on Wednesday, February 22, in this host city.

“Sayaw Pinoy” is the flagship project of the NCCA-National Committee on Dance that aims to promote the art discipline of dance and its different forms.

23 Feb 2017 - Mabalacat bags award for ‘excellent’ day care services

MABALACAT CITY -- The component city of Mabalacat has been conferred with a national award by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)---the Gawad Paglilingkod sa Sambayanan (GAPAS)---for its outstanding commitment to the implementation of child development services.

GAPAS is a commendation given to local government units for implementing the DSWD programs and services such as the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan, the Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services and the sustainable livelihood program enterprise.

23 Feb 2017 - PamCham worried over new SM mall rising

PAMPANGA -- Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) has expressed concern over the construction of a new shopping center in Barangay Telebastagan in this city.

During a meeting on Tuesday with city government officials, SM executives and stakeholders, PamCham Chairman Emeritus Levy P. Laus stressed that the project which is now rising may worsen the current traffic situation being experienced in San Fernando.

23 Feb 2017 - DepEd: Field trips not mandatory

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is reminding parents, school officials and personnel that while educational field trips are meant to supplement classroom learning, joining such is not mandatory.

This came in the wake of the fatal bus accident that claimed the lives of 14 college students, a teacher, and the driver following a field trip in Tanay, Rizal.

21 Feb 2017 - Schools, parishes hold masses vs death penalty

PAMPANGA -- Different parishes and Roman Catholic Church-run schools all over Pampanga were asked by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Fernando to hold masses and Eucharistic adoration over the weekend "to ask enlightenment" over attempts to bring back the death penalty.

San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, D.D., in a February 15 letter had asked the Pampanga clergy, directors of Archdiocesan schools and the laity to join in the masses and observance of Eucharistic adoration over the weekend in opposition to the death penalty.

21 Feb 2017 - Delta clearing essential against flooding

PAMPANGA -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) First District Engineering Officer-in-Charge William Bustos has stressed that the clearing of the Pampanga River Delta High Water Channel is essential in keeping floodwaters contained and prevent southern towns from being flooded.

Bustos said that floodwaters from the north need to pass the river channel efficiently and should be freed from obstructions.

20 Feb 2017 - Group to probe cases involving village chiefs

PAMPANGA -- The Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) in the province recently vowed to evaluate the consecutive cases involving village chiefs.

This was disclosed by ABC President and ex-officio Board Member Gerome Tubig during a chance interview at Kingsborough Convention Center.

20 Feb 2017 - 1,000 Porac students undergo anti-drug awareness seminar

PAMPANGA -- More than 1,000 students of the Porac High School Pulung Santol Annex underwent an anti-drug awareness seminar facilitated by Vice-Mayor Dexter David and other resource speakers on Monday.

The event is part of the on-going drive of David to promote awareness against illegal drugs among the young in the light of the national government's program to crackdown on illegal drug activities in the country.

20 Feb 2017 - Pampanga Catholics to stage pro-life walk vs death penalty

PAMPANGA -- The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Fernando will have its "Pampanga Walks for Life" on February 25 in opposition to moves to bring back the death penalty and the recent rampant extrajudicial killings.

The event is expected to bring together Catholics from the different towns and parishes of the Archdiocese in Pampanga in a "festive walk" that will lead to the Capitol Grounds and would later converge in the Metropolitan Cathedral from four assembly points.

19 Feb 2017 - PopCom program tackles Aids prevalence among youth

PAMPANGA -- The Commission on Population (POPCOM) is engaging in a campaign to make younger people aware of the prevalence of the number of HIV/AIDS victims and teenage pregnancy in the country.

This is part of the POPCOM’s H.E.A.R.T. program which stands for HIV/AIDS, Early Sexual Encounter, Adolescent Sexuality, Reproductive Health and Teenage Pregnancy.

19 Feb 2017 - Caragan fest to highlight Mabalacat City's heritage

MABALACAT CITY -- In line with its month-long fiesta celebration, this city will glass-case its rich culture and heritage through honoring its ancestry, the Aetas, on February 17-24 at the Xevera Plaza, Tabun.

Caragan was named after a certain village chief named Haring Garagan who was married to Laureana Tolentino, and believed to have discovered this former town.

19 Feb 2017 - Villagers oppose memorial park near water tank

PAMPANGA -- Residents in Barangay Fortuna of Floridablancare are opposing the construction of the four-hectare Eleganstone Memorial Park (EMP) located beside the tank of the town's water district due to health and environment hazards.

This was learned from Fortuna village chairman Arturo Laxamana said the construction of the EMP, owned by spouses Arturo Navarro and Caridad Sapnu-Navarro.

19 Feb 2017 - Smelting plant closed

PAMPANGA -- The San Simon local government, together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently ordered the temporary closure of a smelting plant located along Quezon road in this town.

This after scores of residents from Barangay San Isidro and nearby villages aired their complaints against Real Steel Corporation which is allegedly emitting hazardous smoke.

18 Feb 2017 - Senator wants drug resistant Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Senator Vicente Sotto conveyed his wish of having a “drug-resistant” Pampanga and a “drug-resistant” Philippines.

The actor turned senator disclosed this during the Action Planning on Anti-Illegal Drug Programs for Barangays attended by Mayors, chiefs of police and the 505 barangay captains held at Kingsborough International Convention Center recently.

18 Feb 2017 - ALCU meet culminates, new regional ambassadors crowned

ANGELES CITY -- The new set of Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ALCU)-Central Luzon ambassadors were crowned on Thursday to highlight the culmination of the regional academic and cultural competitions this year in this host city.

During the grand coronation night held at the City College of Angeles (CCA) Quadrangle, Angela Gene Valdez of the Pambayang Dalubhasaan ng Marilao and Kenn Paolo Dela Cruz of Norzagaray College bested other 16 candidates and emerged as this year’s title holders.

18 Feb 2017 - KKPK to host clean up drive in Guagua town

PAMPANGA -- The Kapampangan Ku, Pagmaragul Ku (KKPK), an organization of Kapampangans on Facebook, is set to host a cleanup drive on February 25 at Barangay Lambac here as part of their social service programs for Kapampangan communities.

The event dubbed "KKPK Clean Up Drive" will feature the participation of KKPK officers and members from various chapters.

18 Feb 2017 - MCWD set to launch P10-M pumping station

MABALACAT CITY -- The Mabalacat City Water District (MCWD) is set to commission a new pumping station worth P10 million in Barangay Mabiga to address the issue on the poor quality of water supply in the area.

MCWD general manager Francis Dimaliwat issued the disclosed this in reaction to complaints regarding “dirty water and low pressure” raised by some residents of Casmor Subdivision in said village.

18 Feb 2017 - PAF to continue mission to protect, serve people

CLARK FREEPORT -- A high-ranking military official here said the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is committed to serve and protect the people and the country.

Brigadier General Werner Elpedes, wing commander of the 600th Air Base Wing (ABW), said this during the PAF unit's 24th founding anniversary on February 15.

18 Feb 2017 - 2-hour cross-exam for cop in Mark Fernandez arrest

CLARK FREEPORT -- One of the cops who nabbed actor Mark Anthony Fernandez for alleged drug possession last year underwent two hours of cross-examination at the Angeles City Regional Trial Court Branch 58 on Thursday.

The camp of Fernandez, who was arrested for alleged possession of a kilo of marijuana, wants PO2 Fernando Ladrillo to further undergo cross-examination in the next hearing scheduled next Wednesday.

17 Feb 2017 - ePLDT launches disaster proof data hub in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT --- The ePLDT has inaugurated a disaster-proof data center which is envisioned to support developing businesses in Clark and other parts of Central Luzon.

The Vitro Clark, which is ePLDT’s ninth data center following the recent inauguration of Vitro Davao City, can withstand any disaster.

16 Feb 2017 - Mayor assures safety of Koreans

ANGELES CITY -- A city ordinance which guarantees the granting of discounts and other incentives to solo parents was adopted by the provincial government Bulacan and other local government units in Pampanga and even in Metro Manila.

This was learned from Councilor Amos Rivera, who authored City Ordinance Number 356 Series of 2014 (Solo Parent Ordinance) pursuant to Republic Act Number 8972 otherwise known as Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000.

16 Feb 2017 - Ex-mayor caught with guns, drugs denies accusations

PAMPANGA -- Former Arayat Mayor Luisito “Chito” Espino on Wednesday vehemently denied the accusations thrown against him by joint operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local police who raided his house in Barangay Cacutud here.

At around 4:00 a.m. of Wednesday, personnel of CIDG backed by two V-150 armored trucks, members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) and local police raided the house of Espino while serving search warrant operation 23-2017 issued on February 7, 2017 by Judge Ana Marie Joson-Viterbo of RTC Branch 24 (Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija) against the former mayor for alleged illegal possession of firearms and narcotics.

16 Feb 2017 - Angeles city’s solo parent ordinance adopted by other LGUs

ANGELES CITY -- A city ordinance which guarantees the granting of discounts and other incentives to solo parents was adopted by the provincial government Bulacan and other local government units in Pampanga and even in Metro Manila. This was learned from Councilor Amos Rivera, who authored City Ordinance Number 356 Series of 2014 (Solo Parent Ordinance) pursuant to Republic Act Number 8972 otherwise known as Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000.

16 Feb 2017 - Alejandrino dismisses claims of Espino

PAMPANGA -- Incumbent Arayat Mayor Emmanuel “Bon” Alejandrino on Thursday belied the allegations of his political rival, former mayor Luisito “Chito” Espino on the supposed involvement of the local government unit in his recent arrest.

Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), together with members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) and local police raided the house of Espino while serving search warrant operation 23-2017 issued on February 7, 2017 by Judge Ana Marie Joson-Viterbo of RTC Branch 24 (Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija) against the former mayor for alleged illegal possession of firearms and narcotics.

15 Feb 2017 - DSWD spearheads adoption consciousness week in CL

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with its partner agencies, is spearheading a series of activities for the weeklong celebration of Adoption Consciousness Week in Central Luzon from February 11 to 19.

DSWD Regional Director Gemma Gabuya said this year’s celebration, which bears the theme “Pagmamahal Palaganapin. Legal na Pag-aampon Ating Gawin (Spread Unconditional Love through Legal Adoption)” aims to raise and intensify the public’s awareness on legal adoption of abandoned, surrendered, and neglected children.

15 Feb 2017 - Ex-mayor nabbed for guns, drugs

PAMPANGA -- Former two-term Mayor Luisito “Chito” Espino and a barangay chairman of this town were Wednesday arrested by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local police during a dawn raid in Barangay Cacutud here.

Espino and Cacutud village chairman Rosendo Dizon, along with Romy Mallari, 42 and Rosauro Dillera, who are alleged members of a private armed group allegedly operated by the former mayor, were arrested while operatives were serving search warrant operation 23-2017 issued on February 7, 2017 by Judge Ana Marie Joson-Viterbo of RTC Branch 24 (Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija) against the former mayor for alleged illegal possession of firearms and narcotics.

14 Feb 2017 - Entertainment establishments now under BIR surveillance

ANGELES CITY -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4) yesterday said that it has ordered massive surveillance activities on bars and entertainments in Angeles City.

BIR regional director Jethro Sabarriaga said that the operations were conducted in the Barangay Balibago area and resulted in the closure of one bar for five days.

14 Feb 2017 - San Fernando hosts 17th Phil-China traditional cultural fest

PAMPANGA -- With an aim to showcase the tradition and culture of Philippines and China, this capital city on Monday hosted the Philippine-China Traditional Cultural Festival at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center here.

Event Committee Head Mariano Chua said that Pampanga is the first province in the country to anchor the annual event which is already on its 17th run.

14 Feb 2017 - Angeles city exec amends insurance ordinance

ANGELES CITY -- A city councilor here has underscored that public welfare allegedly pushed him to amend the Commercial/Public General Liability (CGL) ordinance which imposes mandatory insurance coverage to business establishments in the city.

Councilor Amos Rivera issued the statement in reaction to claims that the implementation of the ordinance will open the floodgates of corruption.

13 Feb 2017 - Holy Rosary Parish takes firm stand vs EJKs

ANGELES CITY--The Holy Rosary Parish Church here has taken a rather vocal stand again what it called as "shockwave of abuse and violence" in the country and voiced its formal opposition against extra judicial killings (EJKs).

The parish even organized a prayer rally last February 10 dubbed "Prayer Walk for Life" which was participated by hundreds of people from the religious, academic, and private sectors. The parish is the first in Pampanga to take a much vocal stand against EJKs.

13 Feb 2017 - Minalin officials destroy noisy mufflers

PAMPANGA -- As part of its campaign to against noisy motorcycle mufflers in their community, the local government here and the Philippine National Police destroyed some 35 mufflers recently.

Led by Police Chief Inspector Pearl Joy Gollayan, the officials smashed the devices to show their strong commitment against their use.

13 Feb 2017 - Lubao disaster management team attends risk-assessment workshop

PAMPANGA -- The local disaster risk reduction and management council here is sprucing up its disaster preparedness capabilities.

This was gleaned as members of the Lubao Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (LDRRMC) coming from various departments of the municipal government attended a workshop on climate and disaster risk assessment for local government units at the Subic Bay Peninsular Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport Zone last February 8 to 10.

12 Feb 2017 - DOH claims 1st Central Luzon Drug Abuse Summit an ‘early win’ vs drugs

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Health (DOH) has spearheaded last Wednesday the first Central Luzon Dangerous Drugs Summit, which was described as an early win against the war on drugs.

DOH Assistant Secretary and Central Luzon Regional Director Leonita Gorgolon said the drug forum is aimed at showing the public that things are being done to address the problem on drugs.

12 Feb 2017 - BIR closes 3 establishments in Tarlac

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4) closed down three business establishments in Tarlac province over the weekend as part of their Oplan Kandado program.

BIR regional director Jethro Sabarriaga said that 169 General Merchandise, Seng So General Merchandise and 2015 Motor Parts and Accessories were closed due to failure of payment of value added tax.

12 Feb 2017 - BIR to launch ‘Oplan Tokhang’ vs tax evaders

PAMPANGA -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region 4 (RR4) is set to launch its “Taxpayer Tokhang” mimicking the Philippine National Police’s “Oplan Tokhang.”

BIR regional director Jethro Sabarriaga was quick to clarify that such campaign will not be bloody since those who will show resistance will be meted with the full force of the law following tax compliance verification procedures.

12 Feb 2017 - San Simon Liga president shot dead

PAMPANGA -- The incumbent president of the Liga ng mga Barangay in this town was shot dead near his residence in Barangay Concepcion Friday morning by two men riding a motorcycle.

Concepcion village chairman Sonny Simbulan, who is also an ex oficio member of the Sangguniang Bayan here, was attacked by the gunmen while he was taking his lunch in a canteen together with a companion identified as Jose Yambao.

11 Feb 2017 - Guv urges execs to continue campaign vs illegal drugs

CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia Pineda renewed her call to local officials and executives of front line agencies to continue joining hands in the fight against illegal drugs and unceasingly support President Rodrigo Duterte in the war against the drug menace.

This was the message of the governor during the “Central Luzon Anti Dangerous Drug Abuse Summit: Early Wins on the War against Drugs” held at Royce Hotel, in this Freeport.

11 Feb 2017 - Mabalacat named model LGU for day care services

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently named the city government here model local government unit because of its day care services.

Mabalacat bested other 133 cities and municipalities in the region after being conferred the Gawad Paglilingkod sa Sambayanan (Gapas) award.

11 Feb 2017 - DTI bares new programs for MSMEs

MABALACAT CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently named the city government here model local government unit because of its day care services.

Mabalacat bested other 133 cities and municipalities in the region after being conferred the Gawad Paglilingkod sa Sambayanan (Gapas) award.

11 Feb 2017 - Town exec accuses DPWH of violating SC mandamus

PAMPANGA -- An executive from the Masantol local government lashed Friday at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for their alleged “real objective” over the continuous demolition of dozens of fishpens in Masantol town despite the strong opposition of the public.

Vice Mayor Ralph Nulud criticized the personnel of the DPWH for reportedly “using” the Supreme Court mandamus, which is said to be the basis of the project implementation in their own favor.

11 Feb 2017 - 5 wanted persons arrested

PAMPANGA -- At least five wanted persons were arrested during a series of manhunt operations against criminals in Pampanga and Bulacan recently.

Senior Superintendent Joel Consulta, Pampanga Police Provincial Office officer-in-charge, said the arrest of the suspects is in line with the aggressive campaign of the Philippine National Police to arrest wanted criminals and put them behind bars.

11 Feb 2017 - CCSFP holds human rights seminar for teachers

PAMPANGA -- The City College of San Fernando, Pampanga (CCSFP) on February 9 hosted a seminar dubbed "Teaching peace, human rights, and sustainable development in the 21st century", which was participated in by academic personnel from different colleges and universities in Central Luzon.

CCSFP Officer-in-charge Tricia Gayle Bondoc said the forum seeks to raise awareness on human rights and its importance for the protection of one’s life, dignity and self development.

11 Feb 2017 - Guv wants facility for patients with mental illness

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda bared plans over the weekend for the establishment of a facility that will cater to the needs for patients with mental illness in the province.

Pineda discussed this with relatives of Kapampangans with mental illness at the Lubao Gym in an informal meeting. The event was attended by patients as well as their caretakers.

10 Feb 2017 - Arroyo: Pampanga counter magnet of development

MABALACAT CITY -- Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who is now the representative of Pampanga's second congressional district, said that the province is envisioned to be the counter magnet of development to Metro Manila.

Arroyo disclosed this during the Induction of Officers and Trustees of the Capampangan in Media Incorporated at the Bale Balita inside the Clark Freeport yesterday.

10 Feb 2017 - Peace talks to resolve land issue – Anakpawis

MABALACAT CITY -- Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao reiterated his call for the resumption of the peace talks to resolve the farmers' long time land issue.

Casilao at the same time urged President Duterte to breakout from the issue of armed clashes between the New People's Army (NPA) and government forces and address landlessness.

10 Feb 2017 - DOH now pushes porn sites ban

CLARK FREEPORT -- Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial is now pushing for blocking pornographic websites in the country as part of the measures to avoid the spread of HIV-AIDS especially among the youth.

This was after the Department of Education (DepEd) did not favor the planned distribution of condoms to senior high school students, an act seen to prevent the spread of the viral disease among students.

10 Feb 2017 - 688 attend Lubao orientation for South Korea job opportunities

PAMPANGA -- Some 688 locals from the province's second district trooped to the municipal gymnasium here to attend an orientation on possible employment in companies located in South Korea.

Durin the orientation, they learned more about the Employment Permit System (EPS), a government to government employment scheme between the Philippines and South Korea, wherein Lubao was chosen as a pilot area.

10 Feb 2017 - San Fernando bags excellence award for health anew

PAMPANGA -- The Local Government of San Fernando was once again recognized by the Department of Health (DOH) for its exemplary health care programs during the 5th Central Luzon Excellence Awards for Health held Thursday at the Royce Hotel Casino in Clark Freeport Zone.

The Local Government of San Fernando was once again recognized by the Department of Health (DOH) for its exemplary health care programs during the 5th Central Luzon Excellence Awards for Health held Thursday at the Royce Hotel Casino in Clark Freeport Zone. This year, the city bagged the Outstanding Healthy Lifestyle Advocacy award which was received by Mayor Edwin Santiago, together with City Health Officer Dr. Eloisa Aquino and Rural Health Physician Dr. Emerito Mercado.

10 Feb 2017 - Carworld Fuso breaks ground in Pampanga

PAMPANGA -- Carworld Fuso, the newest dealership under the LausAutoGroup, broke ground for its facility in Barangay Macabacle, Bacolor, Pampanga yesterday.

Through the partnership between Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) and the LausAutoGroup, the said facility shall be the first Fuso dealership in Central Luzon.

10 Feb 2017 - Town exec accuses DPWH of violating SC mandamus

PAMPANGA -- An executive from the local Masantol government lashed Friday at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for their alleged “real objective” over the continuous demolition of dozens of fishpens in Masantol town despite the strong opposition of the public.

Vice Mayor Ralph Nulud criticized the personnel of the DPWH for reportedly “using” the Supreme Court mandamus, which is said to be the basis of the project implementation in their own favor.

9 Feb 2017 - Drug surrenderers in Central Luzon reach 129,217

CLARK FREEPORT -– Dr. Benjamin Reyes, chair of Dangerous Drug Board (DDB), disclosed that some 129,217 drug users and pushers surrendered in Central Luzon since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed the presidency in July last year.

Bulacan leads the number of drug surrenderers with a total of 37, 266, followed by Nueva Ecija with 27, 552; Pampanga, 22,479; Tarlac, 15,329; Zambales, 8,025; Bataan, 9,911; Aurora, 3,356; Angeles, 3,107 and Olongapo with 2,192.

9 Feb 2017 - CIAC eyes North America route

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) is set to hold talks with airlines with long-haul flights to connect Clark to the North American region.

CIAC President and Chief Executive Officer Alexander Cauguiran said they are currently in negotiations with air carriers aimed at connecting Clark to North America.

9 Feb 2017 - DOH to continue treatment of drug surrenderers

CLARK FREEPORT -– Despite the suspension of the campaign against illegal drugs, the Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday stressed that they will continue the rehabilitation program of drug suspects who have already surrendered to authorities.

This was disclosed by Health Secretary Paulyn Rosell-Ubial during the Central Luzon Dangerous Drug Summit held at the Royce Hotel here.

9 Feb 2017 - Balloon pilots ‘experience’ Filipino culture

ANGELES CITY -- Pilots and international delegates to this year's 21st International Hot Air Balloon Festival took a few hours off from this year's activities as they visited Malabanias Integrated School in this city to meet locals and have a cultural exchange of dances.

The pilots also shared school supplies and books in an event of intercultural exchange. Dancers from the said school as well as from Angeles City National Trade School and Banaue wowed balloonists from Western countries.

9 Feb 2017 - Capitol spends P267.7M for infra projects in 2016

PAMPANGA -- Some P267,780,907.95 has been spent by the provincial government here for various infrastructure projects in 2016.

The Office of the Provincial Engineer, in a report, stated that 159 infrastructure projects, programs, and activities were implemented in the four districts of the province.

9 Feb 2017 - Friends of 'suicide' victim call for justice on Facebook

PAMPANGA -- The friends of a 17-year-old student who was found dead in an apartment here took to social media to call for justice for the death of their friend, dismissing the autopsy report done by police operatives.

It could be remembered that the body of the victim, John Nelson “Puti” Yumul, was found inside his dormitory in Barangay Sindalan in this capital city on January 22.

9 Feb 2017 - Over 100,000 expected to attend hot air balloon festival

CLARK FREEPORT -— More than 100,000 foreign and local visitors are expected to attend the 21st Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) inside the Freeport starting Thursday.

This was learned from Captain Joy Roa, event director and head of the PIHABF organizing committee, who also disclosed that 31 hot air balloons from 14 countries from Asia, Europe and North America will participate in this four-day event to be held at the Omni Aviation center from February 9 to 12.

7 Feb 2017 - CDC to embark on new master development plan for Clark

CLARK FREEPORT -— The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is set to embark on a new Master Development Plan (MDP) in order to usher in a new business landscape inside the Freeport, one of the country's top economic sites.

The new master plan was conceived as several lease contracts of pioneer locators signed during the formative years of CDC are set to expire in the next few years.

7 Feb 2017 - Drones banned during hot air balloon festival

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) committee will prohibit the use of camera drones to fly during the whole period of the festival which will held at the Omni Aviation here from February 9 to 12.

Drones, which are also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), can cause air and ground disasters by colliding with hot air balloons and aircraft and hitting people on the ground in cases of malfunctions.

7 Feb 2017 - Armed with SC order: DPWH proceeds with demolition of fishpens

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is continuing its demolition of the hundreds of fishpens along the Pampanga River in Macabebe and Masantol towns.

Earlier, hundreds of residents and local officials including Mayor Danilo Guintu of Masantol town have openly expressed their strong opposition to the project which, allegedly, did not pass through careful study and public consultation.

7 Feb 2017 - DPWH3 starts priority projects for 2017

PAMPANGA -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) newly minted District Engineer William Bustos disclosed on Monday that engineering projects are all set for 2017 as the department had set construction programs for the district.

Bustos said that the sections of Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) are set for reconstruction as well as areas along the Manila National Road (MNR). The MNR repairs include a network re-blocking along the approaches of the bridges from the town of Santo Tomas to the town of Macabebe.

6 Feb 2017 - Angeles City, private medical group hold free surgical mission

ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan along with the volunteer medical team from the Philippine American Group of Educators and Surgeons (PAGES) launched on Monday, the weeklong special surgical mission in Ospital ning Angeles (ONA), this city.

The special medical mission aims to provide reconstructive operations for children living with facial deformities such as Harelip and Cleft Palate.

6 Feb 2017 - Clark's OFW processing center served over 22,400 clients

CLARK -- Over 22,400 clients were already served by the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) One-Stop Processing Center (OSPC) inside the Clark Freeport Zone four months since it started its operation.

“The existence of the OFW OPSC at Clark Polytechnic was able to cut down the process cycle time for most of our (and our partners) services making it convenient for our OFW-clients traversing through the Clark International Airport and other clients residing from nearby areas,” Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Regional Director Ana Dione said in a statement.

6 Feb 2017 -- Folks bewail quarrying, tree cutting in Floridablanca town

PAMPANGA -- Concerned citizens in Floridablanca town are up in arms against the unabated quarrying activities at the Porac-Gumain River and the cutting of some 200 old acacia trees along the provincial road.

Former Mayor Tito Mendiola and Cenen Tungol, both representing the Floridablanca Environment Association, sought the help of media in a meeting with Capampangan in Media Incorporated (CAMI) in Clark over the weekend.

6 Feb 2017 - Alejandrino urges Duterte to include all rebel groups in peace talks

PAMPANGA -- Arayat Mayor Emmanuel “Bon” Alejandrino on Monday reiterated his request to President Rodrigo Duterte to organize a new peace talk process with communist rebels including all groups who fought against the government before.

This was after President Duterte announced the suspension of the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People's Army, and the National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) led by Jose Mari “Joma” Sison.

6 Feb 2017 - DTI continues to support CL bamboo industry

PAMPANGA -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to support the development of bamboo industry in Central Luzon through programs that enhance the productivity and income of stakeholders.

They include technology trainings on engineered bamboo, novelty item making, support in marketing and promotion, and provision of Shared Service Facilities (SSF) for the processing of bamboo.

5 Feb 2017 - Unions to fight for Yokohama workers’ rights

ANGELES CITY -- The two labor unions of Yokohama Tire Philippines Incorporated (YTPI) have vowed to continue fighting for the rights of the firm’s workers.

The Alliance of Yokohama Employees (AYE) and Alliance of Yokohama Supervisors (AYS) issued the statement during the unions’ first joint general assembly held at the Bayanihan Park Salakot area last February 1.

5 Feb 2017 - Suicide victim's prof not off the hook yet

PAMPANGA -- The professor and alleged lover of the 17-year old student who was found dead inside an apartment recently is still considered a person of interest in the crime.

This was stated by Police Superintendent Jean Fajardo, City of San Fernando police chief.

5 Feb 2017 - Bamboo propagation in full swing

PAMPANGA -- Pampanga officials said that the bamboo propagation is now in full swing.

This is expected to lower the production cost of bamboo products including chairs, tables, house building materials, and others.

5 Feb 2017 - PAGCOR shuts down another Clark casino

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation on Friday shut down another gaming center inside the Freeport and this time, it’s Casablanca Casino after its new operators reportedly failed to settle the remaining escrow amount of P255 million.

Pagcor Chief Executive Officer Andrea “Didi” Domingo said that “after several extension, they were not able to meet the escrow requirements.”

4 Feb 2017 - Pineda, Arroyo inaugurate deep well pump, health facility in Aeta community

PAMPANGA -- Governor Lilia Pineda and former president and now Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led the blessing and inauguration of the deep-well pump and health and sanitary facility in Sitio Pidpid, Sapang Uwak this town Friday.

The P175,000 worth of facility was the result of the joint project of the Holy Angel University (HAU) and Kkottongnae University (KU) in Korea through the grant of the Academy Partnership Program of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), an international overseas development agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea.

4 Feb 2017 - Residents complain of noisy music bars

ANGELES CITY -- A group of residents in Barangay Balibago are complaining against noisy music bars which allegedly cause them “sleepless nights and anxiety.”

Balibago Chairman Tony Mamac said that the residents along Arayat Avenue aired their complaint before the Office of the Punong Barangay.

4 Feb 2017 - Central Luzon teachers' group protest removal of allowances from LGUs

PAMPANGA -- The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Central Luzon is protesting a joint circular issued by three agencies, which “removes” the allowances given by local government units (LGUs).

Joint Circular (JC) 1, series of 2017 was issued by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

4 Feb 2017 - Cebu Pacific installs ultralight aircraft seats

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Cebu Pacific (CEB), through its wholly owned subsidiary, Cebgo, has chosen the world’s lightest aircraft seat, Expliseat, for its ATR 72-600 aircraft.

The titanium seat will be installed on all 16 aircraft, two of which are already being utilized by CEB.

4 Feb 2017 - Popcom backs RA 10354 to reduce teen pregnancy

PAMPANGA -- The Commission on Population (Popcom) has expressed full support for Republic Act 10354 or Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law (RPRH) in a bid to reduce cases of teenage pregnancy in the next five years.

Popcom Regional Director Eleanor M. Cura emphasized the vital role of RPRH Law in decreasing the swelling increase of cases of teenage pregnancy among 10-19 years old adolescent in Central Luzon.

4 Feb 2017 - San Fernando officials urged to check on parking of mall on the rise

Officials of the City of San Fernando are being urged to check on the parking spaces and passageways of a new SM mall along MacArthur Highway, Barangay Telabastagan here.

The new mall, dubbed “SM Aura North,” is currently being constructed and is on the rise to become the city’s third SM mall after SM City Pampanga along Jose Abad Santos Avenue and SM City San Fernando Downtown at the poblacion area, upping further investments in the capital San Fernando.

3 Feb 2017 - Kin of 'suicide' victim doubt autopsy report

PAMPANGA -- The family of a 17-year-old student who was found dead in an apartment expressed suspicion over the autopsy results released by police.

The body of the victim, John Nelson “Puti” Yumul, was found inside his dormitory in Barangay Sindalan in this capital city on January 22.

3 Feb 2017 - Angeles police intelligence personnel relieved

PAMPANGA -- All the Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel assigned at the Intelligence Branch of Angeles City police were relieved on Thursday in connection with the kidnapping of Korean nationals.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 director, said all 17 PNP personnel of the Intelligence Branch headed by Superintendent Noli Asuncion were ordered relieved.

3 Feb 2017 - AirAsia restarts Clark–Kalibo with 3x flights weekly

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Philippines AirAsia has announced that it will recommence flights from Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga with three flights weekly to Kalibo (Boracay) effective March 27.

Captain Dexter Comendador, Philippines AirAsia chief executive officer, said AirAsia has constantly dedicated itself to make air travel more affordable, convenient, and accessible to all.

3 Feb 2017 - Joint task force formed to probe Korean's death

CLARK FREEPORT -- A joint task force has been created, involving the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), to fasttrack the probe in the killing of Korean trader Jee Ick-joo.

The task force will be led by Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) chief Senior Superintendent Glenn Dumlao.

2 Feb 2017 - Porac women pilot beneficiaries of DOH food supplementation program

PAMPANGA -- Some 50 women from a second district town in this province were chosen as pilot beneficiaries in the newest program of the Department of Health (DOH) against low birth weight prevalence in the country.

DOH regional Director Leonita Gorgolon said the pregnant women from Porac town were chosen as initial recipients of the Rise Against Hunger along with 50 more mothers-to be from Candelaria town in Zambales.

2 Feb 2017 - BCDA chief: Develop Clark and Central Luzon

CLARK FREEPORT --- The direction of the government is to develop Clark and Central Luzon.

Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) head Vince Dizon said that President Duterte clearly acknowledges that Metro Manila has to be decongested.

1 Feb 2017 - Electricity consumers elect Pelco I BODs in Arayat, Sta. Ana towns

PAMPANGA -- New members of the Board of Directors (BODs) were elected recently by member-consumers of the Pampanga I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Pelco I) in Arayat and Sta. Ana towns.

Director-elect Rodrigo Santiago of Barangay Poblacion, Arayat, Pampanga garnered 1,333 votes over his rival, incumbent Myrna Calma who got 1,152 votes.

1 Feb 2017 - Pampanga Peso employs 34,751 kabalens in 2016

PAMPANGA -- The Pampanga Government, through the Provincial Employment and Services Office (Peso), placed a total of 34,751 kabalens both for local and overseas employment in 2016.

Peso manager Luningning Vergara said that some 34,238 applicants were hired for local employment and 513 were deployed overseas.

1 Feb 2017 - Koreans urged to file raps vs rogue police

PAMPANGA -- Police Regional Office III (PRO-3) Director Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino on Tuesday appealed to the Korean community to file complaints at their nearest police station against rogue policemen who have robbed or harassed them.

The appeal was made by Aquino during the conduct of the Korean Community Consultative Meeting held here at the multi-purpose hall inside the PRO-3 headquarters.

1 Feb 2017 - Duterte meets with slain Korean's wife; apologizes for trader's 'untimely death'

ANGELES CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday met with the wife of slain Korean Jee Ick-Joo, offering his condolences for the businessman's "untimely death while in police custody".

Choi Kyung-jin, wife of slain Korean, was accompanied in the meeting by South Korean Ambassador Kim Jae-Shin.

1 Feb 2017 - LGU, DENR forge pact for land titling program

MABALACAT CITY --- The local government of Mabalacat City has forged a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MoPA) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), environment authorities for a land titling program recently.

DENR Central Luzon Director Francisco Milla, Jr. said the local government unit (LGU) has committed to integrate land administration in the LGU activities to fast track the processing and distribution of land titles in city.

1 Feb 2017 - San Fernando cop wants Korean kidnap-slay case expedited

PAMPANGA -- Police Regional Office III (PRO-3) Director Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino said they will be expediting the court hearing on the administrative charges filed against the suspects in the kidnap-slay of Korean businessman Jee Ick-Joo.

Aquino issued the statement following the order of President Rodrigo Duterte and Police Director General Ronaldo "Bato" Dela Rosa to shift their focus from the anti-illegal drugs campaign into cleansing their organization first.