Angeles City News July 2015

From Philippines
Jump to navigation Jump to search
→ → Go back HOME to Zamboanga: the Portal to the Philippines.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
Create Name's page

Regions | Philippine Provinces | Philippine Cities | Municipalities | Barangays | High School Reunions

Angeles City Photo Gallery

Angeles City Realty

Philippine News

Nophoto.gif
Official Seal of Angeles City
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Angeles City, Pampanga
Angeles city map locator.png
Angeles City Map Locator
Angeles City Hall Building, Mc Arthur Hwy, Brgy. Maragul, Angeles City, Pampanga.jpg
City Hall of Angeles City

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.jpg
Angeles City Catholic Church
Angeles city crucifixion of the faithfuls.jpg
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:
  1. 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.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

CDC exec: Capilion is in Clark

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The location of the P7-billion Capilion project is within the Freeport as defined under Republic Act 9400 or the Bases Conversion Development Act as amended.

This was reiterated by an official of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) in reaction to reports that the Singaporean-based Capilion Corporation Pte Limited’s mixed-use facility is under the territorial jurisdiction of Angeles City.

Noel Tulabut, head of the CDC Media and Public Affairs Office, said, "The location of the project is within the Freeport Zone as defined by Republic Act 9400."

A survey map issued by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) shows the boundaries of the Clark Freeport and it includes Clark Green Frontier (CGF) project of Capilion, Tulabut said.

NAMRIA is the central mapping agency of the government.

RA 9400 has stipulated that a 22-hectare commercial area (SM Clark) and another 7.5 hectares (Bayanihan Park) are not part of the Freeport, according to Tulabut.

These excluded areas do not cover the lands that are being leased by Capilion, he added.

On zoning, buffer

The CDC Board of Directors which sets the policies for Clark Freeport had approved CGF’s area as part of a mixed use commercial district, Tulabut disclosed.

He added that said resolution was approved on February 13, 2014.

The area was formerly designated as an open space, which could be converted into other purposes under existing laws, Tulabut claimed.

On Traffic

Tulabut also clarified that Capilion is required to submit a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) to CDC.

The firm has commissioned the UP National Center for Transport Studies (UPNCTS) to prepare the required TIA.

UPNCTS will work closely with CDC regarding the preparation of this requirement, Tulabut said.

The TIA would include an analysis of traffic situation for the different stages of development of the project. It will identify locations that would be prone to traffic congestion or conflict points.

The TIA will also recommend remedial measures to overcome potential traffic problems, the CDC official added.

In addition to these, the CDC is drawing up a comprehensive transport and traffic plan for Angeles City and adjoining areas.

This “holistic” approach includes the new rotunda that was constructed at Clark’s main gate and the proposed East Perimeter Road in Mabalacat City, Tulabut said.

On economic benefits

Tulabut said that CGF's employment capacity is massive. Initially, it will have about 18,000 jobs.

With 75,000 jobs being created at its peak in about five years, this would be the single largest job generator in Clark and probably in the whole of Central Luzon, he added.

The government also stands to benefit enormously in the payment of lease which rates are believed to be the highest for any investment projects inside Clark.

"There are also direct benefits from payment of Gross Income Earned (GIE) as required of Clark locators," Tulabut said.

For host communities, there are also accrual benefits from payment of business and other permits, income and other forms of taxes, according to him.

"There are also corollary businesses that would arise in hotel, food, transport, tourism and other industries. These are but some of the indirect benefits to the local economy," Tulabut said.

These, he added, are the same benefits that have risen in local communities when other commercial centers and malls have started to come in Metro Clark area.

Angeles is 15th most competitive city in PH

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- This highly-urbanized city was ranked as 15th most competitive in the Philippines based on the 2015 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) released by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) last week.

Cities and municipalities were ranked on three pillars – economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure. With the objective to accurately rank the locality’s competitiveness, LGUs were classified according to four categories: 3rd to 6th Class Municipalities, 1st to 2nd Class Municipalities, Component Cities, and Highly Urbanized Cities.

Out of the 34 highly urbanized cities in the Philippines, Angeles ranked 18th. The city also ranked first among cities in Central Luzon.

“Going against major metropolitan areas like Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao with annual budgets reaching P20-30 billion is tough competition – but Angeles proved that it can stand toe-to-toe with these major cities, placing ninth best in government efficiency and 20th for infrastructure development.” said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, who attended the 3rd Regional Competitiveness Summit held on July 16 in Pasay City.

Angeles also scored 23rd overall in Economic Efficiency, which is a huge jump from rank 80 in 2014.

This year, the index covered 142 Cities and 978 Municipalities out of a total of 1,634 localities, or a 68 percent national coverage versus only 17 percent coverage in the first year of the program (2013), and 33 percent in the second year (2014).

“The data shows that Angeles has stood its ground against several high-income cities – but we have to stay competitive. This means that we need to catch up and update our services, including full computerization of our systems. Otherwise, we might find ourselves in the lower rung next year.” the mayor said.

Pamintuan lauded the efforts of the local government unit in making Angeles City one of the most competitive cities in the country, even besting other cities in Metro Manila such as Pasay, Pasig, Marikina and Las Piñas.

Olongapo City, the only other highly urbanized city in Central Luzon, ranked 65th overall. The City of San Fernando, Pampanga, on the other hand, ranked 25th overall, and is the second best component city in the country.

The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index is a program which encourages LGUs to gather and voluntarily submit data which are used to measure their performance on three pillars anchored on global standards: economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure.

The data submitted by the local government units, through the assistance of a partner academe and the Regional Competitiveness Committees, is used for the final scoring and ranking.

This program is conducted by the NCC, aligned with the goal to improve the country’s overall competitiveness, through collaborative efforts between the national and local government agencies, and the public and private sectors.

Casino Filipino Angeles launches 'We Never Stop' brand

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Tourists and thrill seekers who are looking for more fun are in for a big surprise as the Casino Filipino Angeles City launches its new tagline – "We Never Stop."

Casino Filipino Angeles, the three decades old Kapampangan-themed gaming facility is taking its entertainment and game offers to a new level as it introduces its new tagline.

Redentor Rivera, branch manager of Casino Filipino Angeles, said the tagline sums up what the casino branch can offer to its clients.

"It is a reflection of who we are because we never stop providing our clients with the best that we can give. We want our clients to see that we never stop delivering the best service; we never stop improving our facilities and we will never stop giving our customers, patrons, and guests exciting surprises," he said.

Some of the improvements include the air-conditioning system, additional restaurant at the second level, giant back-to-back LED walls in front of the casino building, construction of a multi-level parking area, sprucing up of the gaming venues, and updating of computer systems and equipment, Rivera said.

The casino branch also lined up shows of celebrities in support of the city’s projection as entertainment capital of Central Luzon.

"Guided by our tagline 'We Never Stop', we have set our goal to transform the casino into a one-stop venue for gaming, leisure and entertainment in the north. Our goal is to go beyond client expectation. We want them to experience more than just gaming. We want our patrons to be able to watch top-notch celebrity performances which are free most of the time," Rivera said.

Some of the celebrities that were lined up to perform are Ann Curtis, Martin Nievera, Erik Santos, Richard Poon, Jose Mari Chan, Aiza Seguerra, Ariel Rivera, Aljur Abrenica, Antoinette Taus, Ray Ann Fuentes, Tillie Moreno, Top Suzara, Jinky Vidal, Sitti Navarro, Jimmy Bondoc, Freddie Aguilar, Sheryn Regis, Ellen Adarna, and Sam Pinto.

“Our patrons can look forward to great to great music and entertainment. It’s not always easy to book a schedule with big celebrities but have taken our entertainment to a new level for our patron,” Rivera said.

Another service the casino branch plans to offer is the free shuttle for its patrons in different parts of the Northern Luzon, including Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, and Baguio.

“Currently, we only have a free 24/7 shuttle service for Korean players in Pampanga. But soon, we will provide more accessible modes of transportation for our local guests,” Rivera said.

Widus signs MOA on responsible gaming

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – In a bid to instil responsible gaming to its clientele, Widus International Leisure, Inc., operator of Widus Casino, has signed a memorandum of agreement with Life Change Recovery Center (LCRC) at the hotel’s Prism Lounge on Wednesday.

Agnes “Neki” Liwanag, Widus director for business development, said the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) has mandated all casinos to develop a program for responsible gaming.

“We are not only promoting gambling but we also have to know the responsibility of the casino in helping our clientele,” Liwanag said during the signing of the MOA.

“We have to be sensitive with the needs of our clients,” she added.

Liwanag explained that LCRC will guide them to identify players who have problems and how to approach them because a lot of them are in denial.

“They don’t want to acknowledge that they have a problem,” she said.

LCRC is a counselling and training center, located at 105 Scout Rallo St., Timog, Quezon City, which caters to persons with psychological problems including addiction.

Agnes Agbayani, LCRC executive director, said clients will fi rst undergo assessment to determine what kind of intervention will be made.

LCRC founder Dr. Randy Dellosa said there is individual and family counselling. “But what is really important is the rehabilitation which can change the mind,” he said.

Dellosa said “it is always better to spend time inside the center because while outside, the temptation will always be there to play so they have to be taken away fi rst.”

He said in some cases medication is introduced because patients don’t sleep or eat well. “They become psychotic, depressed and even suicidal,” he said.

The problem starts when the gaming becomes addictive and an obsession, he said. “So when these problems develop, patients have no disregard for the consequences anymore,” he added.

“Wala na silang pakialam (They don’t care anymore) even if they lose everything including their wives,” Dellosa said.

He said tips on how to prevent gambling addiction include setting your limits by sticking to the budget, make sure to monitor or watch the time while you’re playing or have somebody to remind you it’s time to go.

Meanwhile, Liwanag said for Widus, they will start training their staff especially on how to spot and approach potential individuals with problems.

Group to CDC: Be transparent on Capilion project

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- An advocacy group, calling for the full development of Clark International Airport (CRK), is urging the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to observe transparency on the controversial P7-billion Singapore-based Capilion development project in Clark Freeport.

This was echoed during a multi-sectoral consultative meeting, which was called by the Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) to thresh out several issues regarding the construction of a mixed-use facility at the main entrance of the Clark Freeport.

PGKM head Ruperto Cruz, owner of the Grand Pallazo Royale, said that CDC should show the group the contract the state-owned corporation forged with the Singaporean firm, which is set to construct the multi-storey commercial complex inside a three-hectare property situated along the Freeport's MA Roxas Avenue.

"CDC president Arthur Tugade cannot show us the contract for transparency’s sake," Cruz said.

The businessman also pointed out that the contract should be properly documented and authenticated by Singapore and the Philippine Embassy.

"We believe that the move of CDC to put Capilion at Clark’s main gate is a sabotage to the full development of Clark airport," Cruz said.

He described the project as “illegal because it has no public consultation and public bidding.”

The Capilion project will only create traffic congestion in Dau, Mabalacat City; Balibago, Clark South Perimeter Road (Don Juico Avenue); and Friendship Avenue in Angeles City.

Councilor Max Sangil said that the facility is located within a “buffer zone” which is no longer part of the Clark Freeport as declared by Republic Act 9400 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act as amended.

Angeles City Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting expressed full support to the group.

She however said that the city council will also hear other sides including that of the barangays concerned, CDC and the proponent of the project.

Korean businessmen, executives of several hotels and restaurants, and representatives from the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (Maccii) attended the meeting.

Noel Tulabut, head of the CDC Media and Public Affairs Office, said the corporation has been transparent about the project.

He said that CDC addressed all the issues raised by local officials and businessmen.

Tulabut added that several village leaders, including Malabanias Chairman Reynaldo Gueco, and other businessmen are in favor of the project.

The project is expected to spur development in the area and provide employment to the people of Angeles City and Pampanga, he said.

Cayetano’s PTK reaches out to another TODA in Pampanga

(NEWSCENTRAL.PH)

Angeles City PUV drivers and operators are now a step closer towards improving their livelihood and reaping the benefits of the country’s growing economy, all thanks to Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano’s PTK (Presyo, Trabaho, Kita/Kaayusan) program.

The Abakan Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (ABATODA) received a cash grant of P100,000 from Sen. Cayetano’s PTK program.

“We want to create real changes, make Filipino families’ lives easier, and help them benefit from our growing economy,” Cayetanosaid. “We hope that this PTK program will draw away the tricycle operators and drivers in Angeles City from the clutches of 5/6 loan sharks,” Cayetano said.

Dubbed “Kontra 5-6,” a project of PTK, provides a cash grant to market vendor, transport, farmer and fisher groups. It serves as a start-up capital for their business venture or seed money for ABATODA’s micro-financing scheme.

In response, Rolly Bautista, association president, thanked the senator and assured the fund will be used to help cash-strapped members.

“Sa tulong ng PTK program ni Kuya Alan, alam naming mapapaunlad namin ang aming hanap-buhay at bubuti ang aming buhay,” Bautista said.

“Salamat kay Kuya Alan, may dagdag-kapital na para makatulong sa pagpapalago ng aming hanap-buhay.”

The group’s initiative, Cayetano says, is what inspires him to help more farmers, fishers, transport groups, and small entrepreneurs win the battle against poverty and lack of opportunity.

The senator said he will strongly push for policies and programs that will promote micro-financing using PTK as model all throughout the country, so more sectors can benefit from the growing economy in the country.

“We need to see our government to be more proactive in making real changes in our people’s lives.

Clark Customs simplifies import, export procedures

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Clark has simplified the processing of import and export permits in a bid to create a sound investment climate inside the Freeport.

Customs Commissioner Alberto D. Lina has granted the request of investors to simplify the procedures including X-ray inspections at the Customs Clearance Area (CCA) in Clark.

Lina announced the approval during the Second General Assembly of Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) at the Convention Hall of Widus Hotel and Casino recently.

The simplification of customs process was endorsed by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) in consultation with investors here. CDC president Arthur P. Tugade thanked the BOC chief for granting the request saying this is part of the program of the state-run agency to implement policies to better serve locators.

Included in the program is the issuance of a rationalized policy on bring in and bring out and its full process automation. The policy is targeted to be issued at the end of August 2015 while full automation is expected to be implemented by 2016.

Lawyer Noelle Mina D. Meneses, manager of the CDC Trade Facilitation Department, said that part of the enhancement program is the conduct of x-ray inspections of incoming shipments in Clark. This would be helpful in avoiding port congestion in Manila, according to Meneses.

The BOC also approved the exemption of Clark locators from BOC’s Client Profile Registration System (CPRS). With the granting of the CPRS exemption, CDC locators need not apply with BOC’s registration system. The Certificate of Registration and/or Tax Exemption issued by CDC to locators shall be recognized by BOC in activating the import and export transactions of Clark-based enterprises. CDC is set to issue comprehensive guidelines in the CPRS exemption for guidance of Clark locators.

Lina is set to issue Customs Memorandum Order to effect the agency’s approval to remove underguarding on import and export shipments and removal of fees for bonds on imports.

The BOC also requested Clark Locators to clear their shipments in the Port of Manila on Fridays so that the shipments can be pulled out and delivered to Clark on Saturdays and Sundays. Lina also informed the locators that offices of BOC in Clark and Subic will are open on Saturdays.

During the event, CILA president Danilo Abad also inducted 12 new members from the various firms operating inside the Freeport.

The newly inducted members were Durban Realty Corporation, Kosmic Clark Medical Co. Inc., Corporate Guarantee and Insurance Company, Wellform Human Resources and Trading Corporation, Asian Sports Apparel Philippines, Inc., Global Clark Assets Corporation, Koko Buri Restaurant, Rondayvu Manufacturing Corporation, Post 10 Worldwide Inc., Energygold Corporation, Iqor Philippines Inc., and Clark Nature Park.

Pamintuan on water crisis: ‘It is time that we act’

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- "The recent Iloilo City water crisis was a wake-up call to our government. The water shortage they experienced is alarming, and supporting studies show that the entire country might experience this feared shortage of water supply. It is time that we act."

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan as he delivered his welcome address for the 10th National Annual Convention of the Water Environment Association of the Philippines, Inc. (WEAP) held on Thursday inside Clark Freeport.

WEAP is a non-profit organization that provides information and tools to address water environment protection and preservation in the country.

The mayor shared the programs and interventions the local government has established to address the issue.

"Since 2010, we have been conceptualizing and implementing programs in order to anticipate and mitigate the crisis. With our strong ties with the private sector, we have planted 200,000 trees around the city and continue to develop the Sapangbato watershed," Pamintuan said.

The mayor also plans to call on government stakeholders and partners in the private sector for a water summit, so that the city can formulate a proper response towards the impending water crisis.

For its part, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) strictly enforces Ordinance 343 or the Water Quality Septage Management System Ordinance of Angeles City. Passed in 2014, the ordinance ensures that the city is able to utilize and manage local water resources in a sustainable manner. It also allows the city government to issue citation tickets and fines to violators, including citizens and/or businesses who indiscriminately throw their garbage or waste in any of the city’s waterways.

The city also partnered with various organizations and civic groups for the monthly clean up of the city’s major waterways, including Sapang Balen.

Cenro also constantly tests the city’s local water sources for cleanliness and potability.

According to Greenpeace.org, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Philippines reported that, after sampling 127 freshwater bodies in the country, only 47 percent were found to have good water quality.

However, 40 percent of those sampled were found to have only fair water quality, while 13 percent showed poor water quality. Additionally, 50 of the 421 rivers in the Philippines are already considered "biologically dead."

Central Luzon is also one of the regions identified by the Philippine Environment Monitor and the EMB that had unsatisfactory ratings for their water quality criteria.

Entrepreneurship book to feature CDC president

(Sun.Star Pampanga)

CLARK FREEPORT -- One of the country’s best-selling book series will be featuring Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade for his contributions in business and entrepreneurship.

In a Philippine Star column Go Negosyo by Joey Concepcion, Tugade’s business success story will be featured on the 10th anniversary edition, "Go Negosyo: 50 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Stories" that will be launched on July 28.

Tugade joins an impressive list of prominent businessmen in the country dubbed by Concepcion as “entrepreneurship advocate.” Others are Sen. Bam Aquino, JJ Atencio (8990 Holdings Inc.), Laura Bertotto (VMV Hypoallergenics), Carlos Chan (Liwayway Marketing Corp.), Renen de Guia (Ovation Productions), Philippe Lhuillier (PJ Lhuillier Group), Nix Nolledo (Xurpas), William Sy (Primer Group), Tommanny Tan (FERN Inc.), Antonio Tuviera (TAPE Inc.), and Glenn Yu (Seaoil).

The author, Joey A. Concepcion, said the 10th anniversary edition of Go Negosyo is a reinvention of their first book plus a number of new champion entrepreneurs who have been making waves in the business industry in the past decade.

This particular edition has also retained stories of entrepreneurs Jay Aldeguer, Araneta Family, Dado Banatao, Vicky Belo, Tony Tan Caktiong, Joselito Campos Jr., Ben Chan, Boni Comandante, Raul Concepcion, Gaita Fores, Julie Gandionco, Tony Gloria, John Gokongwei Jr., Felipe Gozon, Joey Gurango, Roland Hortaleza, Pacita Juan, Johnlu Koa, Henry Lim Bon Liong, Lopez Family, Guillermo Luchangco, Manny Pangilinan, Cecilio Pedro, Ronald Pineda, Marixi Prieto, Socorro Ramos, Les and Ricky Reyes, Rodrigo Rivera Sr., Henry Sy, Vivienne Tan, Tantoco Family, William Torres, Orlando Vea, Myla Villanueva, Manny Villar, Alfredo Yao, and Zobel de Ayala Family.

Concepcion is the chairman and CEO of RFM Corp. He is also the presidential consultant for entrepreneurship and the founding trustee of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneur icon John Gokongwei Jr., had written the foreword for the 10th edition of Go Negosyo while “Entrep Guru” and ‘angelpreneur’ Andy Ferreria shares his entrepreneurial lessons.

In 2012, Tugade assumed the post as CDC President and Chief Executive Officer.

Tugade is the founder of Perry’s Holding Corporation, the management arm for Perry’s Group of Companies which includes Transglobal Equipment Leasing, Perry’s Technology, ATP Travel, Perryome, Perry’s Farm, Transglobal Trucking, and Transglobal Consolidators, Inc.

His career includes the chairmanship and presidency of several firms, notably Yusen Air & Sea Services, Transnational Diversified Group, Inc., TDG Asia Corporation, and Harmony Organic Farms, Inc., among others.

Strictly adhering to the policy of President Benigno Aquino III on “tuwid na daan” (righteous path), Tugade continues to uphold strong business ethics inside the Clark Freeport Zone.

Jin Air to start Busan-Clark flights

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – Starting July 27, Jin Air, the low cost carrier (LCC) of Korean Air, will begin a new route with its Busan-Clark-Busan flights.

This was announced here on Tuesday by Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) President- CEO Emigdio “Dino” Tanjuatco III who also said the frequency of Jin Air’s Incheon-Clark flights will become daily.

“We went to Korea last month, we spoke with Jin Air and we were able to convince them to open their Busan route.

They will start flying July 27 to August 27 for one month. Then they’ll stop for winter to be able to find out the economic aspects… including personnel requirement,” Tanjuatco said.

“Then they will resume in October for their regular Busan-Clark flights,” he added.

Jin Air has a regular four times a week Incheon-Clark flights. ButTanjuatco said Jin Air has also agreed to increase this route to daily flights.

“That’s how strong the activity of our Korean passengers,” he said.

Tanjuatco said Korean arrivals in Clark average 2,000 per week with the combined Asiana Airlines and Jin Air flights.

Busan, officially Busan Metropolitan City, romanized as Pusan before the year 2000, is Korea’s second largest city after Seoul. It is the cultural, educational and economic center in the region and is considered the largest port city in South Korea and the world’s fifth busiest seaport by cargo tonnage, according to its English website www.english. busan.go.kr.


Honda invests P125M in Clark showroom

Voltaire Palaña (Reporter)

Honda Cars Angeles-Clark (HCAC), an automotive dealership sales and service center for Honda cars, is investing P125 million in building a specialty showroom at Clark Freeport to showcase its brand new models.

HCAC chose the Freeport because of the site’s continued growth and sound business climate.

Clark Development Corp. (CDC) President Arthur Tugade and Eriberto Gomez, chairman and chief executive officer of HCAC, recently signed a 25-year lease agreement on a 2,500-square meter area within Clark Freeport Zone.

HCAC, which is a sister dealership of Honda Cars Pampanga, has a commitment to employ about 50 workers. Under the special conditions of the lease agreement, the investor is enjoined to also hire persons with disabilities (PWDs) or Aetas, on a best-effort basis.

CDC has said the Honda car dealership will start operating in July 2016.

Eriberto Gomez 3rd, HCAC chief operating officer and general manager, said that the robust business in Clark attracted them to invest inside the Freeport.

“We wanted to start as soon as possible and that Clark would be a very good site for our project. We’ve heard that Clark has a lot of plans for the next years and that it will be a major business center in the next three years and so we decided, why don’t we take a look at Clark?” he said.

Gomez also said they want to take advantage of the growing number of Freeport locators.

“We wanted to target the locators inside Clark. It has a growing number of locators. For so long we hadn’t be able to tap the locators inside Clark, so we want to target the corporate accounts but also the individual buyers in Angeles and also in Mabalacat,” Gomez said.

“Honda has been in the Philippines since 1991. It’s a good product and we believe in the brand. And we want to bring our services closer to our customers,” Gomez added.

Also present during the signing of the lease agreement were Pearl Sagmit, CDC vice president for legal services; Eloisa Gomez, HCAC chief finance officer; and Evangeline Tejada, CDC vice-president for business development and enhancement group.

DENR, industries forge pact for green program

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has forged an understanding with various industries in Central Luzon for the propagation of trees in line with the National Greening Program (NGP).

Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), industries commit in the protection and maintenance of plantations, production of seedlings as determined by the DENR, and other activities required to sustain the growth and survival of the trees planted.

The agency formulated the MOU in order to attain the objectives of the NGP beyond 2016.

The DENR, through its provincial offices, shall identify the areas to be adopted by the private sector and industry partners.

DENR Central Luzon Director Francisco E. Milla, Jr. said the MOU is “probably the first of its kind in the Philippines, wherein private industries adopt NGP established sites.”

The DENR will provide technical assistance to the private sector, Milla said.

He stressed the important role of forests in addressing climate change.

Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Central Luzon Director Lormelyn Claudio said the bureau is tasked to ensure that the private sector will on the government call.

Tree planning is now one of the requirements in securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), according to Claudio.

“Our task here is to monitor the progress of the implementation of the project being undertaken by our partner industries in coordination with the DENR,” she added.

DENR Undersecretary and concurrent EMB Director Jonas Leones, who was the guest of honor during the recent inauguration of the new EMB building in Central Luzon, commended the industry leaders in their initiative to protect the environment.

Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Director Danilo Uykieng; Bataan Provincial DENR Officer Raul Mamac; Bulacan Provincial DENR Officer Celia Esteban; Pampanga Provincial DENR Officer Rafael Otic; Nueva Ecija Provincial DENR Officer Leovino Ignacio; Zambales Provincial DENR Officer Laudemir Salac; and Camiling Community DENR Officer Joselito Blanco joined the MOU signing.

The Medical City Clark offers state-of-the-art dialysis unit

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Medical City (TMC) Clark introduced on Wednesday its state-of-the-art dialysis facilities with the opening of the hospital's Haemodialysis Unit.

Dr. Cenon Alfonso, chief executive officer and director of The Medical City, said that they are giving patients in Pampanga and nearby provinces the choice of having first-rate renal care closer to home with the opening of the dialysis center.

With its slogan "Where Patients are Partners", The Medical City is committed to provide quality medical services to the seven million residents of Central Luzon, said Alfonso.

The haemodialysis unit of TMC Clark, which operates morning, afternoon, and evening sessions from Monday to Saturday, is equipped with facilities that can treat six patients at a time.

The unit is run a "multidisciplinary team" composed of board-certifies nephrologists, neuropsychologists, dialysis nurses, haemodialysis technicians, and dieticians, working together to ensure quality personalized care, Alfonso said.

Aside from this, the HDU is observing several systems to keep patients safe, he added.

The hospital has also launched its Hybrid Catheterization Laboratory, the first facility of its kind in North and Central Luzon.

Dr. Ramon Jose Suarez, head of TMC Clark Section of Nephrology, said that the medical center is one of the few hospitals in the country to establish a Hybrid Cath Lab, a state-of-the-art room that brings together traditional diagnostic functions of a full catheterization lab and surgery into one flexible space.

On May 5, 2015, a 26-year old resident of Pampanga, Al Ian Cayanan underwent an open-heart surgery at the hospital’s hybrid cath laboratory.

Before the operation was conducted, Cayanan was suffering from a congenital heart defect Atrial Septal Defect which is commonly known as a hole in the heart.

After two months, Cayanan has recovered well from the surgery and has been advised to continue his rehabilitation at the hospital in an out-patient scheme.

The patient thanked the doctors and the hospital management for “giving back” his life, health and dreams.

TMC Clark, which is situated at the Clark aviation complex, provides an excellent platform for building international customer base.

It is the official medical facility and trauma or burn center of Clark International Airport (CRK).

The hospital provides urgent care center, intensive care unit, medical and surgical care, obstetric and gynecology unit, pediatrics care unit, neonatal intensive care, ophthalmology and ENT clinic, Alfonso said.

Vice Mayor: Do public cemetery, fountain at minimal cost

By Joey Pavia (Contributor)

ANGELES CITY -- "I never regret good things I do. On the contrary, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan might regret his action."

Thus said Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting on Monday after Pamintuan issued statements that she would feel sorry and regret her opposition to the planned establishment of a P110-million memorial park in Barangay Sapa Libutad designed to help poor residents.

Vega-Cabigting also assailed Pamintuan for his plan to construct a P16-million fountain at the Heritage Park in Barangay Sto. Rosario.

"I propose that we push through with a fountain and cemetery at minimal costs and put more priority to education, environment and livelihood," said Vega-Cabigting in a statement.

"Let me reiterate that I am not against the public cemetery project of the city government. What I am up against is the exorbitant amount they will use for it. P110 million is too much! They are buying a new land when there is already an existing donated land in Sapa Libutad which was given to the city for the purpose of making it into a public memorial park," said Cabigting.

Cabigting and Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin recently made an ocular inspection of the area where the donated lot is.

"According to the mayor's representatives during the Sanggunian regular and special session, the donated land is now eroding since it was near the river. The reason why it is slowly eroding is because of the quarry operations in the area. To top it all, it is now a dumpsite where garbage is even being thrown on the slope of the land near the river," said Cabigting.

"Kaya lalaki ang gastos ng gobyerno, dahil din sa kapabayaan ng gobyerno!"

Cabigting said the city does not need a “Rolls Royce” of a memorial park. She added that what the city and its people need is a “decent” place for indigent constituents without spending an “indecent” amount of money.

Cabigting said she had asked engineers and architects about the memorial park pushed by Pamintuan and members of the majority bloc of the city council.

“I was told by experts that P25 million for the project is enough. They even told me that the design presented is not even 'world class',” she added.

Asked about the proposed P16 million fountain, Cabigting said: “We also had an ocular inspection in the proposed area where it was supposed to be built. The side of the Museo ning Angeles is just very small for a dancing fountain. There are also concerns among heritage groups if the fountain should be placed in the Museo since it is made of wood.”

“Constant contact with the water might exacerbate the damage it can cause to the wooden parts of the building. I believe there was not even a consultation with all stakeholders,” she added.

City councilors support Capilion project - Sangil

(Sun.Star Pampanga)

ANGELES CITY -- An official here said that members of the city council fully supports the long-term lease and development of a P7 billion mixed-use facility by Singaporean firm Capilion Corporation Pte. Limited located inside a three-hectare property along the main entrance of the Clark Freeport.

Councilor Max Sangil, who is also a veteran newsman, however said that the local officials and businessmen are opposing the project because of its location which is along the Manuel A. Roxas Avenue that runs parallel to Clark’s south perimeter road or Don Juico Avenue in Barangay Malabanias here.

“Nobody in his right mind will refuse a P7.5-billion investment. And don't get us wrong. Me and the whole Angeles City Council is all for it. Total support to the Capilion project, that is. Only there are certain issues to be addressed. One of the objections is where it will be located,” Sangil said, who is set to deliver a privilege speech at the city council session on Tuesday.

He added that there were several land use plans instituted over the years, and in all these master plans, this particular area fronting SM Mall was freed from development because of “good reasons.”

Officials of Clark Development Corporation ( CDC) allegedly came out with their own policy and declared the area as a residential and commercial area, according to Sangil.

The city official assailed CDC officials for stating that the project will become a major tourist attraction. “Say that again please? Those CDC officials are pulling our legs to say the least. Kailan ba naging tourist attraction ang isang shopping mall at call center buildings?”

Sangil said that the Global Gateway Logistics City (GGLC) inside the Clark International Airport aviation complex is an alternative site for the Capilion project.

“They are trying to compare the Capilion project to Bonifacio Global City which is more than 300 hectares. The Capilion project on lot near the Clark main gate is only three hectares,” Sangil said.

The city council is questioning the agreement the CDC forged with the Singaporean company because the land in question is now under the territorial jurisdiction of Angeles City, Sangil stressed.

He cited Section 15 of Republic Act Number 9400 (An Act Amending RA 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992) which declares that “the Clark Air Base proper with an area of not more than 4,400 hectares with the exception of 22 hectares commercial area situated near the main gate and Bayanihan Park consisting of seven and half hectares located outside the main gate of the Clark Special Economic Zone is hereby declared freeport zone.”

“That’s why Capilion secured a barangay clearance from Barangay Malabanias,” Sangil said.

He added that still available areas inside the freeport where the CDC can locate Capilion.

“Why insist on a small area under the jurisdiction of Angeles City and a preserved area since the time of the Americans. Even the past many administrations of CDC that changed hands since 1993 saw to it that buffer zone should remain untouched,” Sangil said.

On the other hand, a CDC official told SunStar Pampanga that the proposed site of the Capilion project falls outside the almost 30 hectares commercial area now under the city’s territory as declared under RA 9400.

Angeles City is PH 3rd income generating city – Pamintuan

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES City is the country’s third income generating city next to Metro Manila and Cebu City.

This according to Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan’s statement during the launching of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) service caravan dubbed “Service Beyond the Metro: Lakbay-Ugnayan sa Aming Ika-75 Kaarawan”.

As one of the highly urbanized cities with big revenues, the mayor said Angeles is also one of the places in the Philippines with a large foreigner population like Koreans, Americans, Australians, Chinese, and Malaysians.

Pamintuan lauded the bureau for launching the program saying that the foreign nationals, particularly those who are engaged in illegal activities, will be controlled.

The bureau issued a new ruling requiring foreign national clearance from local government units before they can start doing business.

“Meron pa kaming nakukuhang information before you can even start your business here, you must first join a syndicate. Ito po totoo ito, this is an open secret here,” Pamintuan said.

The caravan is also scheduled to visit other key cities in the country to provide services like long stay visitor visa extension, extension and implementation of student visa, updating of stay, alien registration program, and application and issuance of Alien Certificate of Registry card.

P16-M fountain, P110-M public cemetery in Angeles opposed

By Joey Pavia (Contributor)

ANGELES CITY -- Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting opposed on Thursday the planned construction of a P16-million fountain at the Heritage Park here and the P110-million public memorial park in Barangay Sapa Libutad.

In her opening statement during the city council’s special session, Cabigting said: “I am strongly against building a P16-million fountain when thousands of young people of Angeles City are in dire need of classrooms and equipment for the K to 12 program. I believe that there should be a decent place for indigent individuals who have passed on. But a P110-million cemetery in not the answer.”

Opposition Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin queried: “Is the P16-million fountain more important than classrooms for our public students and medicines for our sick and less fortunate constituents?”

“I am not against progress but we should know our priorities. Besides, there is no memorandum of agreement or specific plans for the cemetery yet and how come the city government is already asking us to approve the ratification?” added Lazatin.

Lazatin was the lone member of the city council who voted against the ratification of the P287,710,000 loan pushed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and members of the majority bloc of the council.

“Let it be clear that this representation is not, I repeat, is now against progress. I fully agree with the present administration that we should have a heritage district, a public cemetery, barangay halls, a command center and vehicles for each and every barangay. However, may I gently remind the mayor and the people around him that this is the very reason why he made a great comeback in 2010,” said Vega-Cabigting.

“He (Pamintuan) fought against ostentatious display of governance like the P900 million-peso sports complex among others. Today, history might just repeat itself. What will Angeleños gain from a P16-million water spout? Will the dead among the poor be ever at peace in knowing that they now forever will be in a P110-million memorial ‘haven’!,” said Vega-Cabigting.

“The American preacher and poet Edwin Hubbel Chapin describes it best, ostentation is the signal flag of hypocrisy. Let us be true and honest to our constituents. Let us be responsible catalysts of change and progress! Let our stand be,” she stressed.

Australian BPO firm expands operations in Clark

By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu (CLJD-PIA 3)

CLARK FREEPORT, July 2 (PIA) -- Australian Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) firm Beepo has expanded operations in Clark after only a year since it opened an office in the Freeport.

From 15 when it started April of last year, it now has 160 employees as of May.

This led to its transfer of operations to a new building along M.A. Roxas highway near Philexcel Business Park.

Beepo Chief Executive Officer Aimee Engelmann, in a press statement, said their company’s growth is a testament to amazing talent available in Central Luzon.

“We chose Clark for a number of reasons; the streamlined incorporation process, great facilities both commercial and leisure, and ease of travel,” she said.

“The convenience of airport, hotels and office all within minutes is brilliant…plus, companies in this economic hub enjoy governmental support such as tax incentives and other privileges of Freeport Zones,” Engelmann furthered.

Beepo’s services include graphic design, digital marketing, social media, and sales and lead generation.

It also offers sales support, human resources support, administration and bookkeeping, and business start-up.

BI: Good guys in, bad guys out

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Siegfred Mison assured Wednesday that the agency is doing its best to rid the country of undesirable aliens.

Mison issued the statement during the launching of the bureau’s nationwide caravan dubbed “Service Beyond the Metro: Lakbay-Ugnayan sa Aming Ika-75 Kaarawan” at the Marquee Mall here.

Mison said they decided to launche the program in Angeles City because of the large number of foreigners in the Metro Angeles area which covers Clark Freeport, Mabalacat City, City of San Fernando, Porac town, and others.

“In this part of the Philippines, we have a large concentration of foreign nationals who may need a lot of assistance in terms of immigration laws. We might as well start of this ‘Service Beyond The Metro’ program here in the city.”

Mison lauded Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and Pampanga Third District Congressman Oscar Rodriguez for supporting the project.

“Why Angeles City? Why Pampanga? The mere presence of our two guests (Pamintuan and Rodriguez) here simply shows that they really care and want to express support and work with us in terms of making sure that good guys in and bad guys out,” Mison said.

BI has evolved into an agency that is “more efficient, innovative and effective,” according to Mison.

“This, we can claim not just because we are the Bureau of Immigration but because we have the help of all well-meaning Filipinos, all partner agencies, all key leaders in government to make sure that our country is safe from the bad guys and we welcome the guys here in our country,” Mison said.

The event is aimed at renewing the renewing and enhancing the agency’s relationship with its stakeholders, Mison said.

“We are present here to showcase our services that foreign nationals and our local government units would need such that we can have a collective effort in terms of enforcement of immigration and registration laws,” Mison said.

Immigration officers are ready to answer questions in order to maintain BI’s policy of “no hidden agenda.”

“Everything will be transparent. Everything will be above-board in the spirit of closed cooperation and teamwork,” Mison said.

The agency is planning to acquire more equipment and hire more personnel to help foreign nationals comply with immigration laws, Mison said.

The caravan offers services including long stay visitors visa extension, extension and implementation of student visa, updating of stay, alien registration program, and application and issuance of Alien Certificate of Registry card (ACR I-Card).

Retrieved from "https://zamboanga.com/z/index.php?title=Angeles_City_News_July_2015&oldid=860301"