Angeles City News April 2014

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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs. Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Angeles City Catholic Church

Sacrifice of the faithfuls by crucifying themselves.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion. But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened . Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions. Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE? Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace? WHY?? There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance: The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

2 killed in megadike mishap

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/26/2-killed-megadike-mishap-339947
• Saturday, April 26, 2014

By: Ric Sapnu

CAMP OLIVAS -- Two drivers were killed while a passenger was injured when a motorcycle and a sports utility vehicle figured in a collision along the Eastern Megadike road in Barangay San Isidro, Bacolor, Pampanga on Wednesday evening.

In a report here, Senior Superintendent Marlon Madrid, officer-in-charge of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office, identified the fatalities as Adriano Roque, 42, a resident of Barangay Sto. Tomas, Lubao town and Wilson Din, 51, a resident of Sta. Teresita Village, Angeles City.

Mark Manalo, 27, of Pulung Cacutud, Angeles City, the passenger of Din, suffered injuries in the body and was taken to the Sacred Heart Hospital in Angeles City, said Madrid.

Investigation conducted by the Bacolor police said the Mitsubishi Pajero (XJA-251) driven by Din was travelling very fast along the northbound lane of the Mega Dike road while the Honda motorcycle (5583-VZ) driven by Roque, was also travelling at great speed along the opposite lane.

The motorcycle suddenly swerved to the left lane and its left side portion collided with the front left side portion of the SUV, police said.

Madrid said that due to the strong impact, Roque was thrown out and fell at the grassy and cogonal down slope of the southbound lane of the road, about seven meters downhill.

The SUV meanwhile rammed the permanent concrete barriers at the southbound side and then fell down the same slope.

Both drivers suffered severe injuries in the different parts of the body.

Din and Manalo were taken to the Jose B. Lingad Regional Memorial Hospital in the City of San Fernando but Din expired while undergoing treatment.

Roque was taken to the Ricardo Rodriguez District Hospital in Bacolor town but he also died while undergoing treatment, the report said.

San Fernando, ‘Gapo among the country’s most competitive cities

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2661398150325
• Friday, April 25, 2014

By Marie Joy L. Simpao

CLARK FREEPORT, April 25 (PIA) -- San Fernando in Pampanga and Olongapo in Zambales were among the ten cities in the country cited as friendliest places to conduct business by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC).

Out of 122 participating cities in the 2013 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) nationwide, San Fernando placed third with a score of 67.89 points while Olongapo landed eight with 60.63 points.

In an interview, NCC Program Officer Marina Saldana said cities were evaluated on three factors: economic dynamism, government efficiency and infrastructure.

“We rank local government units (LGUs) based on reports they submit which particularly show new and existing business registrations, capital of registered businesses, lowest electricity and water rates, and fastest time processing of business and construction permits among others,” Saldana furthered.

Aside from their overall placement, San Fernando likewise received a special citation for being ninth in terms of economic dynamism while Olongapo was commended for being second in the infrastructure component where Tarlac also made the cut at eight.

CMCI is a data gathering and validation model that aims to strategically make cities and municipalities more competitive vis-à-vis selected Southeast Asian cities.

It also develops a template of standard indicators as a tool for a LGU to evaluate its competitiveness and improve its performance and attractiveness for investments. (CLJD/MJLS-PIA 3)

Organizers vow quality show in 2015 Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta

• Source: http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/index.php/en/sports-news/30741-organizers-vow-quality-show-in-2015-hot-air-balloon-fiesta
• Friday, April 18, 2014

By by Diego de la Paz

THE Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta will mark its 19th edition from February 12 to 15 next year at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

As a testament to the event’s commitment to put up more high-quality air shows in years to come, a three-year memorandum of agreement was signed on Tuesday by Bases Conversion and Development Authority President Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corp. President Arthur Tugade, Clark International Airport Corp. President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Jose Luciano and Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Foundation Inc. President Capt. Joy Roa at the Asian Air Safari hangar in Pasay City.

Last year’s event featured topflight European aerobatics display squad Breitling Jet Team in addition to its numerous regular attractions, including ultralight plane flying, paragliding exhibitions, radio-controlled model aircraft demonstrations, skydiving exhibitions and hot-air balloon flights.

“Basically, we’re [growing] the activities. We’re making it a high-quality event and we always want to put it on a higher level. All the activities are planned better so that it would be better and choreographed properly. It’s now one after another, we’re making it as tight as possible [where] the activities blend together. We’re doing a refinement of activities every year,” said Roa, who has taken the lead of the event since the reins were handed over from the Department of Tourism in 1996.

Diego de la Paz

In Photo: Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta President Capt. Joy Roa, Bases Conversion and Development Authority President lawyer Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corp. President lawyer Arthur Tugade and Clark International Airport Corp. President Victor Jose Luciano announce next year’s event. (Nonie Reyes)

Hot air balloons soar anew for 19th revival at Clark

• Source: http://www.philstar.com/sports/2014/04/17/1313672/hot-air-balloons-soar-anew-19th-revival-clark
• Thursday, April 17, 2014

By Olmin Leyba

MANILA, Philippines - Kites, aircraft, and practically “everything that flies” will hit the Philippine skies again after a one-year break as the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) sets its 19th edition on Feb. 12-15, 2015 at the Phl Air Force Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone.

A gathering of aviation’s finest from the Phl and the world, the PIHABF will feature non-stop flying activities – kite flying, radio-controlled fliers, electric and turbine jets, paramotors doing exhibition and formation flying, sky diving, ultralight and microlight aircraft performing formation flying and doing fun flying competitions, private planes and private helicopters doing a “rally in the air,” and an aerobatic team performing a heart-stopping routine.

The Aviator or the Year award will also be handed to pilots “who have made outstanding contributions in upgrading the standards of safety and aviation interests in their regions.”

“We want to fuel the passion for aviation in the Philippines and to showcase the endless possibilities in this field,” said Capt. Joy Roa, president of the organizing PIHABF foundation.

Last Tuesday, Roa signed a memorandum of agreement with Bases Conversion and Development president Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corp. president Arthur Tugade, and Clark International Airport Corp. president and CEO Victor Jose Luciano making Clark the venue for the Fiesta not only in 2015 but also in the succeeding two years.

“We’re looking forward to another big event and for it to becoming even greater than the previous Hot Air Balloon Festivals,” said Luciano.

Organizers also unveiled the poster for the 19th Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, which was designed by renowned artist Manuel Baldemor and features colorful renditions of Filipino life and culture within a community setting.

The Fiesta is coming off a highly-successful staging in 2013 highlighted by the presence of the Breitling Jet Acrobatic Team, which wowed the crowd with its jaw-dropping stunt.

Without much time to prepare a program that will be at par with the last one, organizers decided to suspend the Fiesta in 2014.

“From our perspective, our 2013 event would be a hard act to follow without allowing sufficient time to plan, prepare and book new and interesting activities,” the PIHABF said.

“We believe that by suspending the 2014 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, allowing our organizing committee more time to secure a suitable venue for the fiesta and investing more time in planning, securing sponsorships and implement enhancements, we can offer our spectators a truly safe and world class event in 2015,” it added.

Though the Breitling Jet Acrobatic Team will not be forthcoming, Roa said they are arranging for Breitling to bring in its Jetman or participate in other activities. They are also working with Russian and Italian groups to come over and perform aerobatic stunts.

PIHABF gears up for 19th balloon fest

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/16/pihabf-gears-19th-balloon-fest-338721
• Wednesday, April 16, 2014

By sunstar.com.ph

MANILA -- The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF), also known as “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” is gearing up for its 19th staging of the established aviation event on February 12 to 15, 2015 at the Philippine Air Force (PAF) ADAC Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

The memorandum of agreement was signed on Tuesday by Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president and chief executive officer Victor Jose Luciano, and Philippine PIHABF president Capt. Joy Roa at the Asian Air Safari hangar in Pasay City.

Earlier this year, the PIHABF Foundation issued an official statement to clarify its dissociation from another organization which staged a balloon event in Lubao, Pampanga, and to explain its decision not to hold a balloon fiesta this year.

“The decision not to hold a Fiesta this year was not undertaken lightly. From the perspective of the PIHABF organizers, our 2013 event (featuring more balloons than ever, the highly impressive Breilting Jet Acrobatic Team, and the myriad of other flying, ground and static events) would be a hard act to follow without allowing sufficient time to plan, prepare and book new and interesting activities,” the statement said.

“We believe that by suspending the 2014 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, allowing our organizing committee more time to secure a suitable venue for the fiesta and investing more time in planning, securing sponsorships and implementing enhancements, we can offer our spectators a truly safe and world-class event in 2015,” it added.

Breathtaking performances

More than just a spectator event, PIHABF is a gathering of aviation’s finest from the Philippines and the world. Attendees next year can look forward to non-stop flying activities from kite flying to radio control fliers from electric to turbine jets coming from regions like Dumaguete, Bacolod and Davao.

There will be paramotors from different parts of the world doing exhibition and formation flying. The public can also look forward to sky diving demonstrations and a chance to do tandem jumping. Ultralight and microlight aircraft will be performing formation flying and hold fun flying competitions.

Just like cars, private airplanes and helicopters will also be doing a rally in the air to hone their flying and navigational skills. An aerobatic formation team will once again be invited to demonstrate a heart-stopping aerobatic show.

There will also be a bigger display of local aviation schools for increased public awareness on aviation opportunities in the Philippines.

The Aviator of the Year Award will once again be awarded to pilots who have made outstanding contributions in upgrading the standards of safety and aviation interests in their regions.

“We want to fuel the passion for aviation in the Philippines, and to showcase the endless possibilities in this field,” Roa said.

Proceeds of the PIHABF is funneled to a scholarship program which helps underprivileged but deserving youth to pursue a career in aviation. Since 2008, 15 young men and women have been recipients of the scholarship grant, enrolled in different aviation schools.

For the love of aviation

The Asian Air Safari hangar where the MOA signing was held is an aviation enthusiast’s dream. Parked in the hangar are different types of fixed wing and rotary aircraft. Displayed alongside the aircraft are radio-controlled aircraft models, balloon baskets, paramotors, as well as kites brought in by members of the organizing committee.

The PIHABF, according to the organizers, was borne out of love for aviation. What began as a “passion project” has now evolved into the longest running balloon event in Asia flocked by aviation enthusiasts and professionals from all over the country and around the world.

Captain Joy Roa introduced the members of the PIHABF organizing committee, many of whom have been volunteering since the first balloon fiestas held in Clark. Made up of highly experienced aviators in each of their fields, the committee has worked together to maintain a carefully planned and safety-oriented activity.

The organizers expressed that their longtime objective for the fiesta is to instill discipline in participating young pilots so they can develop into safe aviators, as well as to impart a spirit volunteerism and cooperation to the community.

PIHABF’s new poster for its 19th year was designed by no less than renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. The poster features colorful renditions of Filipino life and culture within a community setting. An internationally recognized artist known for being frequently featured in UNICEF cards, Baldemor specializes in simplified geometric forms with elements of folk art.

Ambassador Jose Zaide, a fiesta volunteer in charge of external affairs, says “The fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and traditions with visiting pilots from all over the world. They are given a taste of Filipino hospitality and the fiesta spirit, and the visiting pilots become contributors to chosen beneficiaries of the foundation.”

“By creating aviation awareness, educating the young about flying machines, teaching discipline to current and aspiring aviators, and encouraging people to work from the heart and do things with passion, we will strive to bring back the Philippine aviation industry’s good standing in the international community, ” Roa said.

The 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta will surely continue with these traditions. For more information and updates on the 19th PIHABF, visit www.philballoonfest.net. (Chris Navarro)

TPB, CDC help turn North Phil into MICE center

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/13/tpb-cdc-help-turn-north-phil-mice-center-338112
• Sunday, April 13, 2014

By sunstar.com.ph

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) have vowed to turn Central and Northern Luzon into a preferred destination for meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibits/events (MICE).

The two entities cited North Philippines’ emerging facilities and attractions for the domestic and international MICE requirements.

An agreement forged between TPB chief operating officer Domingo Ramon Enerio III and CDC chief executive officer Arthur Tugade signaled the start of activities toward reaching that goal.

“The TPB and the CDC will jointly promote North Philippines as a MICE destination beginning with the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, which hosts the Clark International Airport and a prime segment of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), both to bring in the people from various parts of the country and the world,” Enerio said.

“The promotional campaign is envisioned to create the demand for increased investments in MICE facilities and other support infrastructure -- from Clark to other MICE hubs like Subic and Baguio and spreading to the rest of Northern Luzon,” he said.

The region accounted for nearly 14 percent or over 1.5 million of the country’s foreign and domestic tourist volume of 11.7 million in 2010.

That number is expected to surge significantly as the Clark International Airport now handles almost a million passengers bound for the various surrounding destinations.

Clark’s popularity got a boost from a survey by the FDI magazine of the London-based Financial Times Group naming it the third best airport freeport zone in the world.

The Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone hosts many facilities that cater to the needs of visiting MICE participants, who are estimated to account for a big chunk of visitors in the area.

Aside from MICE facilities, there are many leisure, wellness and lifestyle centers and cultural, historical and natural attractions for the MICE delegates’ pre- and post-event tours.

Tourism destinations in the surrounding provinces up to the northernmost part are also accessible by land and offers both mountain and marine destinations and everything in between.

The TPB-CDC agreement starts with the staging of MICE Conference (MICECON) 2014 at the Fontana Hot Spring Leisure Parks in Clark on June 4 to 7.

Under the agreement, the CDC will provide all ground and special arrangements, including safety and security, for MICECON 2014.

The CDC will also form an organizing committee to provide the physical and technical requirements and the support staff to the TPB for onsite activities, including the design and execution of the promo campaign for MICECON’s pre-, proper and post-event activities.

The other MICECON 2014 organizers are the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Exhibitions/Events Philippines Inc. (MITE Philippines) and the Philippine Association of Convention and Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS).

“The MICECON 2014 will provide a platform to strengthen and integrate all sectors of the MICE industry into one cohesive and comprehensive educational program. It will tackle a wide range of topics from issues and trends in travel and tourism to industry-specific workshops on MICE marketing,” Enerio said.

“Most importantly, MICECON 2014 will showcase the MICE capabilities of the host destinations, hone the skills of practitioners, upgrade their services and facilities, and develop a continuing strategy for the industry,” Enerio added.

Constituting the MICECON 2014 are the two-day MICE Conference for all the industry discussions on knowledge resource, the MICE Mart for the one full-day of business-to-business transactions between the foreign buyers and local sellers, and the MICE Marketplace for the four-day exhibits of the domestic industry players.

With the theme MICE in 4D (Driving Passions, Developing Minds, Defying Limits, Designing the Future), MICECON 2014 will bring in around 40 select MICE buyers from Australia, China, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland and Russia.

The official participating hotels in the MICECON 2014 include Fontana Hot Spring Leisure Parks, Widus Hotel and Casino, Holiday Inn Clark and Montevista Villas - Mimosa Golf & Country Club.

Clark to host 2nd aviation conference

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/11/clark-host-2nd-aviation-conference-337834
• Friday, April 11, 2014

By sunstar.com.ph

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Freeport Zone will host an aviation conference on May 16, 2014 at the Holiday Inn Grand Ballroom dubbed: "Clark: Reshaping Philippine Aviation - The Aerotropolis Concept."

The conference will highlight the Freeport Zone's -- anchored by the Clark International Airport -- compelling case as an Aerotropolis and identify the infrastructure and policy developments which will enhance its growth potential and economic impact. The Aerotropolis model is an urban development placing airports in the center with cities growing around them.

Keynote speaker of the conference is Greg Lindsay, a world-renowned journalist, urbanist and co-author of the highly acclaimed and best-selling book "Aerotropolis: The Way We'll Live Next" who will explain how airports are becoming anchors for new cities and its role for a country's national development.

The Clark Aviation Conference 2014 features a diverse roster of expert speakers which includes Atty. Arnel Paciano Casanova, president and CEO of Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Urban Planner Arch. Felino Palafox Jr., Pampanga 1st District Rep. Joseller Guiao, Economist Dr. Roberto de Ocampo, Clark International Airport Corporation president and CEO Victor Jose I. Luciano, and other key decision-makers and economic experts from both the public and private sectors who will examine the Clark International Airport's critical role in driving economic expansion in the Philippines and Asia.

The Clark Aviation Conference 2014 gathers more than 300 senior government officials and C-level executives from Aircraft Manufacturers, Airport and Airline, Aviation and Third-Party Service Providers, Aviation Training Schools, Civil Aviation Regulators, Financial Institutions, Global Distribution Systems, Legal Practitioners, Logistics and Supply Chain, Maintenance, Repair and Operations, Property Developers and Urban Planners, Tourism Authorities, Travel and Hospitality and other relevant sectors.

The Clark Aviation Conference 2014 is in partnership with Global Gateway Logistics City - a state-of-the-art 117-hectare aviation oriented business and logistics hub, designed and developed as the very first Aerotropolis in the Philippines, Aerospace Industries Association of the Philippines, Aircargo Forwarders Association of the Philippines, Inc., Asia Pacific Real Estate Association, German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Investment House Association of the Philippines, Korean Chamber of Commerce Philippines, Inc., Management Association of the Philippines, Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Metro Clark ICT Council, Inc., Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Philippine Exporters' Foundation, Inc., Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce, Subic-Clark Alliance Development Council, Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines, US-ASEAN Business Council, Inc. and is organized by the Pinnacle Group International with ASEAN Times, Bloomberg, Businessworld, Clarkisit.com, and Philippine Star as its official media partners.

Magalang exec to support Angeles lone district proposal

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/09/magalang-exec-support-angeles-lone-district-proposal-337417
• Wednesday, April 9, 2014

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Magalang Mayor Romulo “Romy” Pecson vowed to support the move to convert highly-urbanized Angeles City into a lone congressional district.

Pecson said he will endorse the creation of another district in Pampanga, a move he described as a “win-win” situation.

He said that if the lone district proposal pushes through, Mabalacat City and Magalang town will no longer share funds with Angeles City.

Aside from this, Pampanga will have two representatives in the House of Representatives.

“Midinan lang chance reng pulitikung manambisyun maging congressmen a manibat kareng mangalating balen kalupa na ning Magalang (Politicians coming from small towns like Magalang who have ambitions to become congressmen are given a chance),” he said.

He expressed optimism that the Sangguniang Bayan will also endorse the move, saying majority of its members are known allies of Representative Joseller "Yeng" Guiao, who recently vowed to propose the lone district bill in Congress.

"Palage ku naman buri re reng constituents mi ini uling dakal ya maging advantage kareng atlung lugar a sakup ning First District (I think our constituents would like it because of the many advantages it would bring the three areas of the First District)," said Pecon.

Earlier, members of the Sangguniang Panglunsod of Angeles City recently asked the support of their counterparts in Mabalacat and this town to support the creation of a lone district.

Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting, together with Councilor Danica Lacson, attended a session in Mabalacat council where they aired their intention. She said that Councilor Maricel Morales proposed a resolution to Congress calling for the creation of the lone district of Angeles City.

After the resolution was approved, Cabigting said they immediately presented it to Guiao, who showed openness to the idea.

In 2004, there were move to create Angeles City as a separate district but it did not materialize because of overwhelming opposition from the people, Cabigting said.

She disclosed that during that time, there was a question on other requirement particularly on the city’s population. “So there was a great opposition from both Mabalacat, Magalang and Angeles City.”

The city has a population of 300,000 and the requirement for the creation of a lone district is only 250,000, it was learned.

Cabigting said “today is a different situation” considering that Mabalacat had been converted into a component city and Magalang is now a progressive municipality.

She said the three areas have distinct and special concerns and that Angeles City needs to have a separate district. “Iba po yung concerns ng Angeles at iba po yung nagiging concerns ng Mabalacat at Magalang.”

“Hindi naman po hinihiwalay and Mabalacat at Magalang, ito po ay pagbubukod lamang ng sa ganoon po ay we will not share the funding [na makukuha nila] from the national government kung sakali man maibalik ang PDAF,” Cabigting added.

She also cited the attention that the congressman or representative may provide to the two areas.

“Natutuwa po tayo na si congressman (Guiao) is really doing his best pero it will be quite difficult for him as years would go by kasi po ang Mabalacat and Magalang alam naman natin ay lumalaki na rin.”

The vice mayor asked the Mabalacat councilors, headed by Vice Mayor Christian Halili, to support and endorse Morales’ resolution.

She revealed that the city government of Angeles City already asked the opinion of its constituents and barangay leaders expressed no objection to the move.

“They agree that it’s high time to have our loan district,” Cabigting said.

Despite this, Cabigting said there is a need to underscore the relationship of the three areas even if Angeles City is created as a lone district.

“Kailangan tamu pung pasikanan ing kekatamung linkages and kailangan pu ma-retain ing kekatamung relationship,” she added.

Guiao advised the Angeles City officials to get similar endorsement from the Pampanga provincial board.

Cabigting said Guiao committed to file a corresponding bill when Congress resumes on May 5.

Halili lauded the initiative saying they like to see a separate congressman for Mabalacat and Magalang.

Gaga over Pampanga

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/opinion/2014/04/08/tulabut-gaga-over-pampanga-337277
• Tuesday, April 8, 2014

By Noel G. Tulabut

AM NOT borrowing the term from the name of a lady singer. That word has always been there. Merriam-Webster says it is an adjective that means "extremely enthusiastic about or interested in something or someone."

Just in case, someone needs a refresher his or her vocabulary. Myself included.

Few days from now, Pampanga will be in the tourism spotlight once again.

First, for the staging of Pilipinas International Hot Air Festival in Lubao, Pampanga from April 10 to 13. The venue is at Barangay Prado Siongco at the western end of Lubao, just near Pampanga-Bataan boundary.

The organizers headed by Noel Castro Jr., who used to figure prominently in the hot air balloon inside Clark as head of the Angeles City Four Wheelers Club which served as chase crew, said that there will be 35 dirigibles that will dot Pampanga’s skies just before the start of Holy Week.

The balloons will include especially-shaped ones like Angry Bird, Superbike, Simba and the Lion.

This spectacular event where thousands troop on a yearly basis is courtesy of Pampanga Governor Lilia Baby Pineda who saved the province’s face after the organizers for the Clark balloon fest decided to shelve the event “due to lack of preparations.”

Governor Pampanga actually saved not just Pampanga’s tourism face but also the reported “longest running hot air balloon event in Asia.”

It was also through the effort of DOT Central Luzon Director Ronnie Tiotuico that Pampanga (and the Philippines in general) is having this annual event back. It was actually Tiotuico and former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor who had started this grand spectacle in Clark about 19 years ago.

Thank goodness that Governor Pineda has taken the cudgels this time, making sure that this event won’t be missed in Pampanga. Of course, Lubao Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab is all out in this affair that guarantees tourist arrivals not only in Pampanga but also the neighbor areas like Bataan (where hotels are now fully booked, one newspaper reported) and Zambales.

Tourists, spectators, media and Pampanga’s stakeholders do not mind actually why it is being taken to Lubao. In fact, it is a welcome event too as it is still being held inside Pampanga.

Lubao’s hosting of an event that makes use of air space is also an answer to a possible headache for aircraft that fly in and out of the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport inside Clark. Sooner or later, the airport will really become busy with more airlines mounting increasing number of flights.

SANDBOX. The Ayalas are already in Porac. No wonder the town officials have already coined for their place as “the next Makati of the North”.

The lahar-ravaged town is host to a new place for outdoor fun in Pampanga.

The SandBox at Alviera, a mixed-use land development project by Ayala Land Premier at Hacienda Dolores in Porac, Pampanga.

Starting this April 12, Sandbox will open its doors to the public with its features like the first ever Roller Coaster Zipline, Aerial Walk, Adventure Tower (for wall climbing, rappel and free fall), Giant Swing and ATV/UTV rides. On the same day, Bamboo will also rock the place with his concert.

The place is easy to find. You won’t miss it as it is located right at the Porac exit of the SCTEX. It is part of the 1,125-hectare Alviera, that is being developed by Ayala Land in partnership with Leonio Land, Inc.

Sandbox already has the following: The Giant Swing, the country’s tallest swing. Each swing can accommodate three guests at a time and creates the back and forth movement at 10-meter above the ground

The Aerial Walk Challenge is a high rope adventure course of nets and rope walkways. The Aerial walk is a series of activities that will test each users’ agility, balance and flexibility. An active guest can make his way through this course in about 30 minutes.

There’s also Avatar One, the Philippines’ first roller coaster zipline. One doesn’t just zip down the 180-meter (length) course but zigzags along starting from 12 meters high.

The Adventure Tower is a 5-storey structure that consists of various activities such as rappelling, wall climbing, jump off for the free fall, jump off for the roller coaster zip line and the view deck.

The SandBox also offers ATV and mini-ATV rides, a themed kiddie playground with picnic areas, mini-golf, camping sites, a courtyard and an open field for field sports and other outdoor activities.

Bikers will also be in for a treat as they enjoy Alviera’s 5,000 sqm pump track.

The Sandbox is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For booking guidelines, visit the Alviera website at http://www.alviera.ph/ and on http://www.facebook.com/AlvieraPH.

SAFE AND CONVENIENT TRAVEL. I can’t wait for the implementation of an integrated electronic payment system at both the NLEX and SCTEX.

It is really convenient and fast taking the NLEX. There is no doubt about it. But that almost perfect driving condition is hampered when motorist connect to the SCTEX where the toll fee payment is still on manual basis. Thus, the long lines of vehicles even on ordinary days. I should know that as I am from the area.

Just the same, the debonair Mon Fernandez, president of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation which oversees all the tollways (SCTEX, NLEX and Cavitex) said that the MVP-led group of companies will be implementing soon an integrated payment system.

That will be a welcome development as the provision of electronic gadgets for payment (like EZ Pass) will make entry and exit points smoother and faster. For what good does fast and prompt driving and exit at NLEX have when a motorist, all of a sudden finds himself, in a long line of vehicles when interconnecting to the SCTEX?

Just the same, I believe that the improvements at these toll roads are continually being done by Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC). Its president Rod Franco has always been on his toes, coming up with more and more innovations not just to make motorists happy and convenient. His primary concern has always been safety of travelers and motorists at both SCTEX and NLEX which are under MNTC. And that is really commendable.

For this coming Holy Week, MNTC will again active role in “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot KO” an annual pro-active measure and program that is geared at having safe travel vis-à-vis the surge of motoring public.

This year, the Cavitex, which is also under the MPTC banner, will already be a part of it.

NLEX will deploy additional personnel to major toll plazas specifically Balintawak, Bocaue, Mindanao Avenue, Dau, and Mabalacat. On the other hand, SCTEX will also have manual lanes at Tarlac and Tipo exits to help ease traffic and CAVITEX will beef up its manpower by deploying additional traffic patrol officers. It will also provide hydration, portalets, and drums of water to serve overheated vehicles.

Franco said additional lanes will be open to speed up the passage of vehicles through the toll gates. The MNTC will also deploy traffic personnel and would also be required to work extra hours to ensure efficient traffic management. Additional patrol cars and traffic enforcers would be dispatched on April 16 to 21.

This is to “help guarantee immediate response to emergency situations and assist distressed travelers,” he said.

Korean slain in Angeles

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/07/korean-slain-angeles-337146
• Monday, April 7, 2014

By sunstar.com.ph

CAMP OLIVAS -- A Korean national was shot death in front of his wife while inside Hansang Mini-Mart and Restaurant along Friendship Highway in Barangay Anunas, Angeles City, Sunday night.

In a text message here, Senior Superintendent Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, identified the fatality as Sin Jae Hu, 43, a Korean national.

The victim, together with his wife arrived at the said mini-mart and after a few-minutes ordered food, Ugale said.

While the two were eating, an unidentified gunman entered the mini-mart and went towards the back of the victims, he said.

The gunman, armed with unknown caliber, without any reason, shot the Korean national twice at the back of his head and died on the spot, Ugale said.

The suspect fled towards an unknown direction while a hot pursuit operation was launched immediately by Police Station 4. (Ric Sapnu)

Bar girls’ smear tests should be in gov't agencies

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/06/bar-girls-smear-tests-should-be-govt-agencies-336967
• Sunday, April 6, 2014

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Bar owners are required to have their women employees regularly subjected to gram staining or smear test to be conducted by government health agencies.

Balibago Chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac said their barangay social hygiene clinic is authorized to conduct pap smear test under Sangguniang Panglunsod Ordinance Number 43-10 Series of 1995.

“Malinaw na nakasaad sa Ordinance Number 43-10 na authorized ang barangay social hygience na mag-conduct ng smear sa mga bar girls. Tutulungan namin ang city government na magpatupad sa ordinansang ito,” Mamac said.

The ordinance disallows the charging of payment of bar fine or escort’s fee or similar activity commonly imposed on customers or privilege to take out women employees of night clubs, cocktail lounges, bars, pub houses, beer houses, sing along pubs,karaoke pubs and sauna baths, hotels, motels, and other entertainment recreational establishments.

Section 4 of said ordinance states “notwithstanding the prohibition mentioned in the preceding paragraph, all owners, proprietors, managers, or operators of establishments mentioned in Section 1 hereof are mandatorily required to have their women employees regularly subjected to gram staining and other related health tests to be conducted by government health agencies.”

Mamac cited Section 6 of the same ordinance which states that “persons found violating any provision of this ordinance when found guilty shall be sentenced to an imprisonment of not more than one year or a fine not more than P5,000 or both upon the discretion of the court.”

According to Mamac, the barangay council has asked the city council if the ordinance was repealed.

In its reply, the city council stated that Ordinance 43-10 still exists.

Mamac said the barangay council is working hard to prevent the spread of sexually-transmitted diseases and stop human trafficking in the city’s entertainment and commercial district.

Angeles all set for Lent

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2014/04/05/angeles-all-set-lent-336771
• Saturday, April 5, 2014

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- City Tourism Officer Richard Daenos of the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) said Saturday that the City Government is all set for observance of the Lenten Season.

Daenos said that one of ACTO’s main thrusts is to actively support activities being held in the city for the promotion of Angeles’ history, tradition, arts and culture.

Slated to be staged is "Ang Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio" by John Jurado, "Panata and Panalangin" and "Siete Palabras," a reenactment of the passion and death of Christ.

On April to 14 to 16, Kapampangans will be treated to a spiritual journey through culture and the arts with "Panata at Panalangin" (vows and prayers) at the Marquee Park, 5:30 pm. The event is presented by the Sinukwan Kapampangan Training Center for the Arts through the direction of Peter de Vera.

"Panata" is described as a distinct and vivid expression of the Kapampangan devotion to Christ. Several exhibit pieces made of flagellation tools will be in place as “stations”, which symbolize a prayer for several challenges that our society faces today. An interactive presentation and “Magdarame” (flagellation) dance performance is also set to captivate audiences. Admission is free.

The city is also set to stage the graphic re-enactment of the passion, crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ this Lenten week. Now on its fourth year, “Siete Palabras” which means “seven last words”, returns with its two-day presentation format, starting with the portrayal of the “Last Supper” on April 17, Maundy Thursday at the Arevalo Basketball Court in Barangay Lourdes Northwest, to be followed by the traditional passion and crucifixion re-enactment on Good Friday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event is highlighted by the nailing of three penitents.

The presentation will feature Kapampangan local artists from On Stage School for the Arts under the direction of Jayson Pabalan.

Finally, on April 14 to 18 at the Center for Children and Youth Wholistic Development (CYWD) Mini Black Box Theater in Barangay Malabanias, a Lenten presentation called "Ang Paglilitis kay Mang Serapio" (The Trial of Serapio), which will feature a beggar (Serapio) who was accused and punished for a considered "serious" crime, which forces him to reveal his ultimate secret of survival.

The play, written in the 1960's, is a masterpiece of Professor Paul Dumol, a playright and Don Carlos Palanca Awardee. It will be presented by the Teatro Angeleño by the direction of John Jurado.

Proceeds of the show will benefit the children and youth living in the streets of Angeles City and beyond through the facilitation and cooperation of the Center for Children and Youth Wholistic Development, Inc.-End Child Hunger Philippines projects.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed appreciation of the efforts of the event proponents, and believes that such events would help in the promotion of the city’s vast traditional and historical wealth.

“We admire the efforts of the organizers of the events, and we extend our gratitude to them in coming up with these meaningful activities which manifest our reverence for the Lenten Season,” the mayor said.

Pamintuan is known as an ardent supporter of various causes to help revive arts and culture in the city.

Clark Dev’t Corp, locators complete P1.6M hanging bridge in Mabalacat

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2431396408002
• Thursday, April 3, 2014

By Rosa Bianca R. Pamintuan

CLARK FREEPORT, April 3 (PIA) -- Around 100 Aeta families in Sitio Haduan in Mabalacat City are now easily connected to Clark Freeport and the rest of Pampanga and Tarlac following the completion of a P1.6 million hanging bridge.

“The 120 meters long, 1.2 meters wide structure will be vital in transporting agricultural products as well as during emergency medical cases such as childbirth and accidents among others,” Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Arthur Tugade said.

It will also serve as an easy access for tourists visiting the area’s falls and those who want to hold medical missions.

“More importantly, this will totally eliminate the danger of crossing by foot during rainy season,” Tugade added.

Construction was possible through the joint efforts of CDC and locators Fontana Hot Spring and Leisure Parks and BB International, which is set to develop a P2 billion theme park inside the Freeport. (CLJD/RBRP-PIA 3)

Haduan Falls in Pampanga now accessible to tourists

• Source: http://balita.ph/2014/04/02/haduan-falls-in-pampanga-now-accessible-to-tourists/
• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

By balita.ph/2014

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, April 1 — The Haduan Falls which is situated in Barangay Marcos in Mabalacat City is now accessible to tourists following the construction of a hanging bridge. The Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Fontana Hot Spring and Leisure Parks and BB International funded the completion of the Haduan Hanging Bridge to help improve the lives of the indigenous peoples (IPs). The hanging bridge links the Aeta community to Clark Freeport and the rest of Pampanga and Tarlac which is the only way used by the tribesmen to transport their commerce outside their community. The construction of the bridge is part of CDC’s Corporate Social Responsibility and its commitment to alleviate the lives of the IPs living in the contiguous areas of the Freeport. The hanging bridge, constructed by the CDC's Engineering and Maintenance Department, has a total budget of P1.658 million wherein the Fontana Hot Spring and Leisure Parks has contributed P500,000 and the BB International has donated another P500,000. The hanging bridge is 120 meters long and 1.2 meters wide. CDC president Arthur P. Tugade is optimistic that with the completion of the hanging bridge, more local and foreign tourists would be inclined to visit the Haduan Falls. "We expect more tourists to come and visit Haduan Falls as it is now can be accessed through the new hanging bridge," Tugade said. But most of all, he said the bridge is vital in transporting agricultural products as well as in emergency medical cases like childbirth and accidents, among others. "It will also render an easy access for donations, medical missions from various agencies and will totally eliminate the danger of crossing by foot during rainy season," Tugade said. At present, there are more than 100 families residing in Sitio Haduan. (PNA) LAP/ZST/RKM/PS

Lubao hot-air balloon festival filling up hotels in Bataan

• Source: http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php/en/news/regions/29891-lubao-hot-air-balloon-festival-filling-up-hotels-in-bataan
• Tuesday, April 1, 2014

By Joey Pavia / Correspondent

CLARK FREE- PORT—The more than 150 hotels in Balanga City and others in Bataan are almost all booked next week in time for the staging of the Philippine International Balloon Festival in Prado Siongco, Lubao town, Pampanga.

Gov. Albert S. Garcia of Bataan, who was recently interviewed, said the celebration of Bataan Day on April 9 prompted those who want to attend the hot-air ballon festival to book early in the hotels and inns in the area.

The hot-air balloon festival is set from April 10 to 13 at a 250-hectare world-class tourism estate with a wakeboard in Barangay Prado Siongco. The venue is some 3 kilometers away from Dinalupihan, the only landlocked town of Bataan.

Garcia said tourism officials of the provincial government reported to him that the hotels are fully booked for the event.

“I don’t mind where the venue of the hot-air balloon festival is as long the tourists are happy and comfortable,” Garcia said.

“But I am glad that it’s near Bataan because we will get some of the tourists to see and stay at our beautiful province,” he added.

The event—described as one of the biggest tourism events in Luzon by the Hotel and Restaurants Association of Pampanga—made Garcia asked for prominent investors to establish “bigger hotels” in Bataan.

“Our hotels are not enough as the hot-air festival is nearing. We must complement our beautiful beaches with big hotels,” Garcia said.

In nearby Zambales province, Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino said the decision to transfer the venue of this year’s hot-air balloon festival from the Clark Freeport to Lubao town proved to be more advantageous as it will spread the benefits from Pampanga to the neighboring provinces of Bataan and Zambales.

Paulino made the assessment after the city’s tourism department reported an increase in hotel bookings in time for the festival next week.

“Our city would be one of those that will benefit directly from the hot-air balloon festival because of our proximity to venue,” Paulino said.

SM Supermalls joined this year’s festival by setting up ticket booths in all its branches nationwide. Each ticket costs P200.