Angeles City News

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Angeles City - Archived News

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.
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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 celebrates International Youth Day

(PR)

THE Angeles City Government headed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan through the Angeles City Youth and Development Office (ACYDO) kicked off this year’s celebration of International Youth Day along with youth organizations and supporters gathered at the City Hall on Monday, August 13.

ACYDO head Patrick Cura said the office mandates every youth organization and the young community to help provide a “Safe Space for Youth,” in line with this year’s theme.

A fun-filled celebration dubbed as “Linggo ng Kabataan” is set up in cooperation with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) headed by Chairman Arnoah Prince Mandani, along with youth organizations of different barangays and schools, fraternities and sororities in the city.

Booths of exhibits and items created by the youth organizations will be mounted at the City Hall Lobby on August 14, and on the 15th, the employees of the ACYDO will have their Staff Capability Seminar with discussions about the Localization of the Philippine Youth Development Plan.

The City College of Angeles will spearhead a Youth Heritage Seminar-Forum on Thursday, August 16 to involve young leaders in the city’s heritage and cultural awareness drive. This will be followed by a Youth Consolidation Meeting on Friday, and a simultaneous Katipunan ng Kabataan assembly in every barangay on Saturday to culminate the celebration.

Meanwhile, the city’s launching of the celebration on Monday was met with various performances that showcased talents of young Angeleños. Youth organizations in different barangays received their Certificate of Registration after the mini-concert.

Ferdinand Calma, President of the Sigma Kappa Pi Fraternity Alumni Pampanga Chapter, led 9 members of the ACLYDC in a pledge to keep peace and order in the community, focusing on the prevention of frat wars, and hazing as well as the freedom to voice out the opinion of the youth, and to petition their request.

In his message, Pamintuan mentioned young Filipino heroes who fought for the country and shall inspire the youth. “Don’t belittle the youngsters as they will be our future leaders. Instead, let us help them and support them for this generation needs future leaders who are dedicated to serve and make a progress,” the city mayor said.

Angeles City conducts bloodletting drive

(PR)

THE Angeles City Government headed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan through the Persons with Disability Affairs Office-Angeles City (PDAO-AC) hosted its second bloodletting activity for the year over the weekend at the Legislative hall.

Themed “Give Love, Give Blood, Save a Life. Dugo Mo, Dugtong Buhay,” the activity was organized in cooperation with the Philippine Red Cross - Angeles-Pampanga Chapter, Ospital ning Angeles (ONA), City Health Office (CHO), Angeles City Blood Bank, Angeles City Federation of Persons with Disability, and Bridge to Charity.

“Blood is very much needed especially during cases of emergency. By donating blood, we do not just show our compassion to others but we are also doing something good for our health and body. Donating blood indeed saves lives,” said PDAO-AC head Phillip Pelayo.

A total of 61 bags equivalent to 520 cc units of blood was collected from individuals who volunteered for the said campaign. Participating agencies assisted in screening the donors to determine whether they are fit to donate blood.

Pelayo furthered that the activity also served to empower their sector by passing on resources, services, and assistance that PWDs have been blessed with.

Pamintuan said that the drive also reminds Angeleños to value life and to be of service to others by participating in bloodletting initiatives without anything in return.

“I appreciate the efforts of the PWD sector for helping our less fortunate constituents in need of blood whether they belong to the PWD sector or not,” the mayor said.

Meanwhile, the donated blood units may be accessed without charge through the PDAO-AC office located in Barangay Sta. Teresita. The collected units of blood will be stored at the Philippine Red Cross and Ospital ning Angeles.

Clark locator to install 1st industrial-scale solar panel project

(PR)

A MANUFACTURING company of cellulose, collagen and plastic casings and packaging materials for meat products in Clark Freeport will be a pioneer firm among Freeport locators in the country to install the first industrial-scale solar power rooftop project.

During a recent interview with the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI) at Bale Balita (CDC Media Center) here, Viskase Asia Pacific Corporation (VAPC) plant manager Josh Go said that they already signed a contract to install $680,000 solar panel in their buildings.

According to Go, the project will be installed starting September this year and is slated to be completed by February 2019. He said that Mettle and Grip, a leading contractor and developer of solar energy will be the supplier of the solar panels that will be used for the project.

When completed, the installation of some 1,900 solar panels will help eliminate at least 12.3 million pounds of carbon footprint and will generate 829,580 kwh solar production per annum with a module efficiency of 16.72 percent.

He added that the project is in fulfillment of their thrust to help reduce energy consumption and introduce the benefits of renewable energy to other establishments. He said that this is also a commitment of the company to ensure environmentally sound operations beyond the purpose of reducing their operating costs.

“We are promoting renewable energy and hopefully some other companies inside Clark will also explore this kind of project,” he said.

Meanwhile, Noel Tulabut, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) communications division manager, mentioned that under the Green Building Code, firms that help in the reduction of energy consumption and promotion of renewable energy may get certain incentives from the state-owned firm.

“Under the Green Building Code, companies that will implement renewable energy programs and projects may entitle them to certain incentives,” he said.

Viskase is an American company that manufactures meat product casings. It has introduced the first synthetic sausage casing made from regenerated cellulose which allows large productivity for ready-to-eat meat products.

Quest Hotel and Conference Center, Clark conducts fire drill

(Press release)

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – Quest Hotel and Conference Center, Clark (QHCP) and Mimosa Golf Course General Manager Mr. Patrick Beck and Security Manager Major Angel Aguas led the first ever fire drill (August 3).

The exercise commenced at 10:31 AM when a CODE 2 was raised at the second floor of the hotel.

QHCP’s Emergency Response Team (ERT) immediately took over the scene assisting guests, contractors, and employees for an organized and calm evacuation process at the Acacia Park.

The ERT members also took part in clearing all the guest rooms, function rooms, and had a close coordination with Clark Development Corporation’s Fire Response Team.

Aside from the fire drill, Mr. Beck also shared to everybody a demonstration on how to properly rescue a victim and the basic steps of firefighting using a fire extinguisher: PASS – Pull the trigger, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

“This is a very helpful exercise for everybody here at Quest Hotel and Mimosa Golf Course as you may never know when a fire might occur. It is very important that we get trained about this that is why there will be more drills to be conducted in the future,” Mr. Beck said.

The activity ended at 10:41 AM where a total of 161 participants attended and are now more knowledgeable on what to do during this kind of incident.

UAP: Implement Architecture Act

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

MEMBERS of various chapters of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) in Pampanga have appealed to the local and national government to implement Republic Act Number 9266, or the Architecture Act of 2004.

Architect Andy Gulapa, president of the UAP Angeles Chapter, said that their association, which consists of 40,000 members nationwide, has prepared a position paper for the government to address various concerning the profession.

In 2004, the Congress enacted R.A. No. 9266 or the Architecture Act, according to Gulapa.

“This law categorically provides, without any exemption, that only duly licensed architects can legally sign architectural plans and documents,” he said.

The law further provides that building officers cannot accept architectural plans and documents which are not signed by architects, Gulapa said.

Under the old Architectural Law (R.A. No. 545), civil engineers were expressly exempted from the general rule that only architects can sign architectural documents, he added.

Gulapa stressed that Section 20 (5) of Republic Act 9266 provides that “all architectural plans, design, specifications, drawings and architectural documents relative to the construction of a building shall bear the seal and signature only of an architect.”

“Only architects and no one else, not even civil engineers, can prepare or sign architectural documents,” Gulapa said.

He lamented that some civil engineers are still signing documents classified as architectural documents.

This, Gulapa claimed, is in violation of the Architecture Act of 2004.

The Philippine Councilors League (PCL), which consists of 16,000 members, recently expressed full support for the UAP.

The PCL vowed to initiate an advocacy for the passage of resolution or ordinance enforcing and implementing fully the provisions of RA 9266 and its implementing rules and regulations.

Angeles City council revives bid to rename Clark airport

By Ashley Manabat

ANGELES CITY — Two resolutions have been enacted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of this city requesting President Duterte and enjoining members of Congress to rename Clark International Airport (CIA) into Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA).

The two resolutions, sponsored by Councilor Edgardo “Edu” Pamintuan Jr., said this is in honor of the late President Diosdado Macapagal, the ninth president of the Republic of the Philippines who was also known as “the poor boy from Lubao, Pampanga, who became President.”

The two resolutions, PR-804-08-18 and PR-805-08-18, were unanimously approved during the SP regular session held on Tuesday.

The resolutions were ratified “in keeping with the revised guidelines of the National Historical Commission specifically stating that the proposed names must have historical and of cultural significance and must contribute to the positive development of national pride through the good example exhibited by the name being used.”

On September 28, 2001, during the 91st birthday of Macapagal, the Board of Directors of the Clark Development Corp. approved a resolution renaming CIA into DMIA, only to be reverted back to its former name during the time of former President Benigno S. Aquino.

The resolutions said the right to name our airport is part of our national patrimony, and the Angeleños expressed their disapproval of the decision made by then by the Clark International Airport Corp. to rename DMIA into CIA.

The resolutions said changing the name into DMIA will have no significant bearing on the airport’s current operation, capacity and potential as a premier international airport.

“The name Diosdado Macapagal is important to the people of Pampanga, as it honors one of its respected leaders who became the first Capampangan president of the republic and the father of land reform.”

Pamintuan said Macapagal is one of the better presidents the country ever had and deserved to be honored and emulated by young Filipinos and aspiring leaders for his character and perseverance in overcoming poverty.

Clark is in honor of Harold M. Clark, an American aviation pioneer who had no known ties with the Philippines, he said.

Marriott to open in Clark in September

(PR)

MARRIOTT Hotel will complement the promotion of Clark Freeport as a premiere tourist destination when it opens on September 14.

During the Talk Widus forum of Pampanga Press Club in cooperation with Widus Hotel and Casino held recently in Clark Freeport, Marriott Hotel director for Sales and Marketing Charley Magabo said that one of the goals of their company is to promote Clark as a destination.

“In each of the hotels that I’ve worked with, the first thing that we really promote is the destination. So, of course, whenever we would go out and introduce the hotel, we will sell first Clark and then once they recognized Clark as a destination, that’s the time that we will be presenting the hotel,” he said.

Magabo said the establishment of other hotels here will also help to showcase Clark as a Meetings, Investments, Conferences and Exhibits (MICE) destination. He said that it will also of help to cater to the needs of every guests especially on the influx of investments and tourists here.

“We actually welcome the idea of them coming in to the picture, it’s actually going be helpful for us. It’s very interesting because they know that a lot of investments are being done here in the area and they know that in the future there are a lot of bigger players that are coming in. We are expecting huge conventions and we need help from the, so it will promote not just us but even the entire area of Pampanga,” Magabo added.

Marriott Hotel Clark will be a 16-story building with 260 rooms and will feature various amenities such as ballroom, meeting rooms, interactive-type restaurants, pool and spa facilities. It is owned by the Widus International Leisure Inc.

Marriott is a 5-star hotel brand and currently one of the biggest hotel chains in the world with more than 6,000 hotels and 30 other different brands.

Angeles eateries urged to maintain clean restrooms

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

AN OFFICIAL of Angeles City has urged owners of eateries to provide their customers with clean and fragrant restrooms.

Councilor Jesus “Jay” Sangil said that one way of giving back to the people who visit the city is to provide them with quality services.

The official said that Angeles City is one of the country’s culinary capitals and thousands of local and foreign tourists visit the area to taste local delicacies.

Unfortunately, Sangil said that some business establishments do not even have restrooms with basic needs like soap and tissue.

“We want to show our tourists and guests that comfort rooms in Angeles City are clean and fragrant. No doubt that our food is delicious and world class but some restaurants, sad to say, do not even have CRs,” Sangil said.

He added that he will seek the assistance of local architects to help business owners in the design of a basic restroom.

Sangil a few days ago told SunStar Pampanga that he will ask the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to inspect business establishments violating environment laws.

He said that many restaurants and hotels are discharging and dumping greasy waste into the city roads’ drainage system.

He claimed that this sludge and other waste-clogged canals result to massive flooding.

“We don’t want to experience serious flooding similar to what is happening to the coastal towns of Pampanga and some parts of Metro Manila,” Sangil said.

Student wins over P1 M cash, pilot scholarship in new pageant

By Robert Requintina

ANGELES, Pampanga — A 19-year-old student was crowned Miss Midori Clark 2018 during the inaugural beauty contest perceived by many people as the biggest in terms of prize package given in any national pageants in the country.

Jasmine Omay, a freshman in Tarlac City taking up business administration, won P300,000 cash and P790,000 worth of full private pilot license course at the Omni Airline Training Academy.

“I would like to focus on my reign now because it is very overwhelming. It is not a joke. You really have to work hard for it,” says Omay during an interview after she was crowned at the pageant held at the Midori Clark Hotel and Casino on Sunday.

Omay, who stands 5’8, enjoys watching documentaries, plays the violin and guitar, and is into sports such as volleyball, badminton, chess and swimming.

The freelance model bested 21 other candidates for the national title. During the final question and answer portion, she was asked: “Give your best definition of the phrase the beauty of the new generation.”

Omay says: “We are living in a fast-paced world where we encounter issues and problems. And at this moment, what the generation needs is an inspiration to lead and to inspire other people. And I believe that Miss Midori is not only limited with beauty and brains but also with confidence and also a sense of responsibility. She gives an equal improvement of her responsibilities and she can empower beauty through her advocacy. And let me say this: let us all be Midori-fied and be satisfied.”

First runner-up honors went to Emma Tiglao, also winner of People’s Choice award; Elaiza Dee Elaiza Alzona, 2nd runner-up; Christine Julian, 3rd runner-up; and Anie Uson, 4th runner-up, who won major special awards Miss Photogenic, Best In Swimsuit; and Best In Evening Gown.

Other winners of special awards were: Airish Joy Rivera, Miss Congeniality; Joy Opiaza, Miss Talent; and Mariah Nilo, Aqua Planet’s Choice.

Timmy Diwa, marketing and public relations head of Midori Clark Casino, says the grand winners and qualified candidates of the Miss Midori Clark 2018 contest will be offered employment opportunities by Midori and BBI after the pageant.

The beauty pageant is spearheaded by the Midori Clark Casino which is owned and operated by BB International Leisure and Resort Development Corporation (BBI), one of the prime locators inside Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, BBI is investing billions to develop more than 120 hectares of prime land in Clark.

Included in BBI’s multibillion-peso investments in Clark is the Midori Clark Casino, said to be the most technologically advanced gaming property in North Luzon which uses full RFID gaming tables and top-of-the-line electronic gaming machines; the Midori Clark Hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a five-star experience to guests traveling north; and Aqua Planet, touted as the most modern and one of the biggest water theme parks in Asia.

Sangil asks DENR to check restos, hotels violating env’t laws

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Jesus Sangil has urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to check restaurants, hotels and other business establishments violating environment laws.

Sangil underscored the need to inspect the business establishments to prevent massive flooding similar to what happened in several areas in Pampanga, Bulacan, and Metro Manila.

The councilor said that many restaurants in the city are dumping grease into the road drainage.

Other establishments with full septic tank dump elsewhere, according to Sangil.

"In the wake of massive floodings. One of the reason why our drainage are being clogged because many establishments are indiscriminately dumping their waste," Sangil said.

"At the wee hours, tinatapon sa ilang bahagi ng Abacan River or Sapangbalen Creek yung kanilang grease," he added.

According to Sangil, sludge is one of the major cause of floodings. "This is waste and grease oil mixed together," he said.

Sangil also asked the DENR to assign a regular monitoring team checking hundreds of restos and hotels if they are compliant with environment law. "Yung hindi naaareglo!"

"May mga pagkakataon kasi na yung ibang mga business establishments ay inaareglo ang mga ibang inspector or monitoring team at binibigyan ng clearance kahit wala ng inspection," said Sangil.

Restaurants and hotels are mostly located in Barangay Balibago, Malabanas, Anunas while scores of eateries are situated at the city proper.

Pursuing accessibility for PWDs

By Ariel Avendaño

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga – The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) said the implementation of Batas Pambansa 344 which promotes the welfare of persons with disability (PWD) should be seriously given attention by the government and all other private stakeholders.

During the daylong accessibility audit training dubbed as “Building a better world for all” which was held at the SFJ multipurpose hall in Holy Angel University here, architect Arnel Agustin, UAP – Alaya chapter chair, said there were lots of government and private structures, and similar establishments, particularly in rural areas, that have no ramp facilities for PWDs.

Agustin said it’s about time to comprehensively observe the accessibility law citing section 1 of BP 344 stating that “in order to promote the realization of the rights of disabled persons to participate fully in the social life and the development of the societies in which they live and the enjoyment of the opportunities available to other citizens, no license or permit for the construction, repair or renovation of public and private buildings for public use.

The Act was passed by the Batasang Pambansa on December 7, 1982 which was signed and made into law by the late President Ferdinand Marcos on February 25, 1983.

Corresponding penalty was to be imposed for violators upon the discretion of the court, as stated in the Act.

Participated in mostly by young architects, the training has also highlighted modern and state-of-the-art concepts of facilities for offices such as bathrooms, toilets, ramps and even grab railings which will be conducive for working condition and convenience for PWDs.

On November 22, 2013, former President Benigno Aquino III has signed Proclamation 688 declaring the period of 2013-2022 as the Philippine decade of “make the right real” for persons with disabilities in support of the 3rd Asian and Pacific Decade of Persons with Disabilities.

“By that time, all buildings in the National Capital Region (NCR) should be PWD-accessible,”Agustin said.

EdPam underscores importance of participative governance, thanks AC benefactors

(Angeles City Government Official Website)

ANGELES CITY – Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, through his State of the City Address (SOCA), took the opportunity to finally express his appreciation to all the people who have contributed to the city’s development and those who are instrumental to the success of his 9-year leadership in this highly urbanized city.

On his 9th Ulat sa Bayan, a sentimental Pamintuan attributed the completion of various programs and projects in the city as products of participative governance and harmonious public-private partnership.

“Nais ko pong bigyang diin na ang anumang pagkilala sa akin at sa ating syudad ay hindi dahil sa akin lamang. Dahil po sa inyong lahat, dahil sa mga kasama ko sa pamahalaang lungsod,” Pamintuan said.

The mayor thanked the Sangguniang Panlungsod headed by Vice Mayor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno for instituting legislative reforms that brought order and development to the city.

Pamintuan doffed his hat to former president now House of Representatives Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda who have extended support to the MediKalinga Center of the city.

The five-termer mayor expressed his gratitude to the support extended by George Samson of World Medical Relief for various hospital equipment, Dennis Uy for his assistance to the City College of Angeles, Freddie So and the members of the Angeles City Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce for the construction of numerous school buildings, and the Renal Care Unit.

Pamintuan also acknowledged the Partido Abe Kapampangan, and people’s organizations who have backed and supported all city government activities such as the One Million Trees Project, Linis Sapang Balen, and many more.

The city’s cultural workers and artist’s organizations, the Culture and Arts Council of Angeles, the Kuliat Foundation and Angeles City Jaycees, were also acknowledged for helping Angeles shed its ‘sin city’ image into a haven for heritage, arts, culinary and hospitality.

His long-time friend and political ally now President and CEO of Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), Alexander Cauguiran, also placed a special part in his speech.

“Our nine-year leadership proved that we are all in for the development of our beloved city. We showed that every Angeleños have roles to play in the development process- this is our brand of governance,” Pamintuan said.

As he ends his speech, the mayor vowed that he would never abandon the city to make sure that all the P3 billion-worth infrastructure projects set here will be implemented. Pamintuan, who is the incumbent Chairperson of the Regional Development Council in Central Luzon and the National President of the League of Cities of the Philippines, is yet to divulge his future political plans.

AC extends assistance to Bataan flood victims

(Angeles City Government Official Website)

ANGELES CITY – The local government here headed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan is donating relief goods to the residents of the City of Balanga, municipality of Hermosa in the province of Bataan, which was heavily devastated by last week’s heavy downpour.

Mayor Pamintuan instructed the city’s disaster and emergency response team to immediately extend the aid last Wednesday, July 25.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and the Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ACDRRMO) will jointly spearhead the said relief operation.

A total of 500 goods are to be distributed to the victims of the calamity in the province of Bataan which was put under the state of calamity last Sunday after Typhoon Josie have caused heavy rains and flash floods.

CSWDO Head Joy Duaso assured that the city government will readily offer its assistance to their city.

“They can expect that the Local Government of Angeles will not turn a blind eye, this aid is a way of giving back and letting them know that we are here for them in times of need,” said Duaso.

Mayor Pamintuan extended his support to the city of Balanga, recalling the outpouring of aid from neighboring provinces when Mt. Pinatubo erupted in the early 90s. He was then seated as Vice Mayor of Angeles City.

“My sympathy goes to the victims of the typhoon. Rest assured that we will prioritize the extension of aid, as well as hope, to our fellow men in Baataan, in perpetual gratitude to their kindness in our unfortunate moments,” the city Mayor said.

The ACDRRMO was tasked to supervise the transport of the goods, while the local government will remain to be in contact with its neighboring province for further support and assistance.

Angeles City celebrates Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week

(Angeles City Government Official Website)

ANGELES CITY - In observance of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) week, the city government here kicked-off the celebration with a flag raising ceremony hosted by the Persons with Disability Affairs Office- Angeles City (PDAO-AC) held on Monday at the City Hall.

With the theme “Kakayahan at Kasanayan Para sa Kabuhayan Tungo sa Kaunlaran”, this year’s 40th celebration of NDPR week, which will run from July 17-23, aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the upliftment of their economic and social conditions.

According to PDAO-AC Head Philip Pelayo, the weeklong celebration is observed annually to promote public awareness and to address issues concerning the PWD sector.

On the other hand, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan assured his full support to the PWDs of the city and he is looking forward to more projects that are beneficial to their sector.

Pamintuan also referred them as valuable assets and that their participation signifies that all of them believe in their capabilities.

“Do not let your disabilities limit you. Being handicapped does not mean that you are less capable. Because in our city, we are making sure that you are granted equal rights and opportunities,” Pamintuan added.

Activities lined up for the NDPR week include: Lecture on Understanding and Exceptionalities and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder which was held last July 17, 2018 at Marquee Mall Activity Center.

The activity gathered in 300 teachers, health workers, barangay population workers and PWDs to participate in the forum facilitated by Dr. Olga Angelica P. Tulabut, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences at Angeles University Foundation.

On July 18 and 19, Blood Typing services will be extended to PWDs and non-PWDs in the city to be held at Salapungan Elementary School and Department of Education (DepEd) – Angeles City.

To culminate the celebration, the Central Luzon Federation of Persons with Disabilities (CLFPD) will be having a motorcade and a singing contest intended for PWDs in the whole of Region 3 at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center on July 23.

Executive Order No. 33 Series of 2018, which renamed the Angeles City Office for Person with Disability Affairs (ACOPDA) to Persons with Disability Affairs Office- Angeles City (PDAO-AC) took effect on July 1, 2018.

To date, the city has 4,300 registered PWDs enjoying various incentives and privileges.

Urban gardening beneficial, wise investment, mayor says

(PR)

ANGELES CITY -- “I would like to invite every Angeleño to start now. Urban gardening is a wise investment that we can provide our families on our own.”

Thus said Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan during the culmination of the city’s month-long celebration of the 44th Nutrition Month over the weekend at the Angeles City Hall.

Pamintuan called on every Angeleño household to kick-start their own backyard gardens and avail of the city’s services like free gardening tutorials and seedlings distribution.

During the event, three activities were held to highlight the benefits of having a vegetable garden through this year’s Nutrition Month theme, “Ugaliing Magtanim, Sapat na Nutrisyon Aanihin!”

A poster-making contest, decoration of booths and a cooking competition were organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and the City Agriculture Office (CAO) enjoining the participation of various sectors in the city.

CAO Urban and Greening Program Coordinator and Agriculturist Rea Dizon welcomed the guests with a motivational speech encouraging every household and the community to implement vegetable gardening that promotes a healthy lifestyle.

“This practice will create a generation that is healthy and wise. Implementing vegetable gardening would give us a safe and healthy food consumption,” Dizon said.

She also mentioned that this practice could help Angeleños financially, as not only is it thrifty, but it could also provide additional income. The use of recyclable materials such as used tires, and plastic bottles serve as pots.

It was a fruitful event as CSWDO head Joy Duaso said: “There are more participants this year and we are very grateful for their presence and support. We all deserve healthier selves and a better environment.”

In relevance to last year’s Task Force One Million Trees and Gulayan sa Barangay Project, urban gardening is expected to generate local products that provided families nutritious and quality vegetables while earning as well.

Special Olympics held at SM Clark

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – In observance of the 40th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, the Angeles City Learners’ with Special Education Needs held a Special Olympics at the SM City Clark here on Friday.

Ronnie Tiotuico, former regional director of the Department of Tourism, organized the event in cooperation with Department of Education Angeles City District School Superintendent Leilani Cunanan and SM.

It’s all about fun, fun, fun and a day in the life of children with special needs, said Tiotuico who has been organizing the event annually for three years now.

Some 300 children with special needs gathered at the Activity Center of the mall where they competed in friendly games in the special Olympics.

Lending support to the affair were the Alliance of Travel and Tours Association of Pampanga, Pampanga Agents Travel Society, Greater Clark Visitors Bureau, Hotels and Restaurants Association of Pampanga, Bridge to Charity, Taisho Pharma, Phyllies Sports Grill, El Kabayo Riding Stables, My Tooth Goodies, Care Travel and Bayad Center, Patio Miguelito (Chef Don Edward Quito), Godspeed Business Center, Cris Pecjo, Prisca Castor, Maribel De Guzman, Ela Pascual, Christine Yap-Zamora, Integrated Bar of the Philippines - Pampanga Chapter and Punto Central Luzon.

Korean firm eyes retirement village in Angeles City

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

A KOREAN firm is planning to develop a retirement village in Angeles City, an official of the Philippine Investors and Retirement Industry Council (PIRIC) said.

PIRIC chairman Albert Dela Cruz said that PHICO Corporation, a South Korean company, is considering to build a retirement village at the Korea Town in said city for its members.

PHICO Corporation officials, including Vice President Yoon Si Hyeon, led the ground-breaking ceremonies for the construction of P300 million Water Park Resort and Hotel at the Korea Town, Angeles City.

Dela Cruz, who is also the chairman of the Philippine Globe Ventures Realty and Construction Corporation (PGVRCC), told SunStar Pampanga that some 200 villas, 6,000-square meter swimming pool, 27-foot man-made falls, hot and cold spa, and other attractions will be built inside the facility.

Dela Cruz said that the resort, once completed, is expected to generate 3,000 tourist arrivals every month.

The PGVRCC, the project developer and contractor, has scheduled the completion of the project by December this year.

Dela Cruz was recently appointed as director of the North Luzon Railways Corporation (Northrail) by President Duterte.

He is an environmental and urban planner, realtor and real estate consultant, and a developer engaged in various development and housing projects.

Dela Cruz is also a consultant of the Sanggunian Tribung Aeta of CADT 025 in Mabalacat City in Pampanga province and Bamban town in Tarlac province.

MSME exporters get intensified support from DTI

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT — Micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (MSMEs) will continue to get intensifi ed support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Export Marketing Bureau (EMB).

The DTI said MSMEs are accessing export markets through its Regional Interactive Platform for the Philippine Exporters (Ripples) Plus Program.

The DTI said for the full year 2017, Ripples Plus assisted a total of 408 exporters and implemented 33 marketing and promotional activities geared toward strengthening Philippine exporters’ capacities in support to increasing economic revenues for the country.

Through Ripples Plus, Philippine exporters are being assisted to penetrate markets by updating them on latest trends and market requirements.

“For the Track 2 project, the conduct of the product development included the translation of the text of the chichacorn labels in Arabic language. This will open new export markets of my chichacorn products specifically in the Middle East,” said Clemencia Padre, a program participant from Region 1.

For 2018, the program aims to undertake targeted and more aggressive export promotion for priority industries, such as food and agri-marine, services and industrial sectors.

“Our participation to the various trade and exhibitions and fairs allowed our cooperative to open new markets and new opportunities. Orders have increased from Manila- and Cebu- based exporters and converters. We generated a total of P6.40 million for 2016 and P5.06 million for 2017 through Ripples Plus,” said Ma. Trina V. Sumayang, general manager of Tubigon Loomweavers Multipurpose Cooperative.

DTI said Ripples Plus is a focused program developed and being implemented by DTI-EMB that aims to expand the supply base of internationally competitive Philippine export products and services and to provide intensified, purposive and practical assistance geared toward the internationalization of Philippine MSMEs and expand the global export-market opportunities for large corporations.

Ripples Plus develops both products and exporters through four modes of assistance: training and capacity building; marketing and promotion; support for innovation through product development and design; access to markets through mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) and certifications.

In 2017, the country’s merchandise export recorded a 9.5 percent increase compared to 2016. Total exported goods amounted to $62.87 billion with significant growth in non-electronic products, a reflection of the country’s efforts to diversify its export products.

Last week, the DTI central Luzon regional office hosted for the first time the National MSME Summit held here which was keynoted by President Duterte.

Various Clark locators participate in mass CPR event

(CDC CommDep)

CLARK FREEPORT— Some 276 representatives from various locator companies here and outside this Freeport participated in the recent Mass Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for Lay held at SM City Clark Event Center.

The Philippine Heart Association Inc. (PHA) – Central Luzon together with Philippine College of Cardiology, Council on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, and in cooperation with Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine National Red Cross, Department of Education, American Heart Association and SM Malls spearheaded the said event to raise awareness on cardiac arrest and the importance in knowing how to perform CPR.

PHA-CL Chapter President Dr. Josephus Sibal said that the activity is an initiative of the PHA in educating every individual about how they can use CPR as an emergency life-saving procedure for a person who suffers from a cardiac arrest.

“The initiative of the PHA is to educate the lay or every individual regarding cardiac arrest, and if we are able to educate the people on how to do hands-on CPR then we can at least help them if they witness this certain incident and if we can institute CPR to any individual who goes into cardiac arrest, we can increase the chances of survival for that individual,” Sibal said.

Sibal furthered that the event is a nationwide simulation where the same activity was performed in different parts of the country.

“This is a nationwide simulation and we have different sites across the Philippines. In Central Luzon we have different sites, we have sites in Tarlac, in Cabanatuan City and in Bataan. This is done across the Philippines,” he said.

During the event, trainers who specialize in the field of CPR gave demonstrations and guided each participants to perform the same.

Meanwhile, CDC Health and Sanitation Division Manager Dr. Clemencita Dobles encouraged the participants of the said activity as this is an opportunity for them to learn and save lives.

“Kinagagalak kopo na magkaroon ng ganitong activity para sa mga empleyado sa Clark. Gusto po nating magparticipate dito sa nationwide CPR para yung mga regular citizen ay matuto ng CPR at kahit saan, kahit kailan pwede po tayong magligtas ng buhay,” Dobles said.

Some of the locator-companies who participated in the said event are representatives from Aderans, Global Gateway Development Corporation (GGDC), Luenthai Philippines, La Rose Noire, Sutherland, Sambon and Xenia Hotel among others.

AC to have new P580-M city hall Plus P380-M sports, socio-civic center

By Ding Cervantes

ANGELES CITY- Amid criticisms that the city hall here is “one of the country’s ugliest,” Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan announced yesterday the construction starting in September of a P580-million new city hall and sports complex “fit for a highly urbanized city.”

This would be on top of a P320-million sports complex and socio-civic center near the Pampang market, the city’s biggest public market.

City Engineer Donato Dizon said Pamintuan’s plans “are in the pipeline to complement developments at the Clark Freeport Zone.”

“A five-floor modern and green city hall will be built in front of the existing government edifice. The building will feature parking lots and rentable commercial spaces for the first and second floors,” Dizon said.

He said the new building would house new offices for the mayor, vice mayor, members of the sangguniang panlungsod and other city government agencies.

Dizon added that the building would occupy 15,795 square meters and also feature an auditorium and a multipurpose function hall for bigger government events and activities.

“The old city hall is quite small and congested already. It also needs plenty of repairs. The new city hall will bring together all our offices and services to make our compound a compact walkable government complex,” Dizon said.

The current city hall, built by one of Pamintuan’s predecessors, has been described by local folk as “probably the ugliest city hall in the Philippines.”

Dizon said the P320-million sports complex and socio-civic center would accommodate 2,500 people in its convention center with complete sports amenities, multipurpose halls and parking areas.

“The mayor wants the facilities to be green and eco-friendly that is why we are infusing bigger windows as part of the initial designs for energy-saving lighting and ventilation. We can also go as far as making them solar powered but studies are still underway,” Dizon said.

The Angeles local government and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) led by chairman Alberto Romulo recently entered into a loan agreement to fund the projects.

Pamintuan said construction is expected to start this September for completion in 600 days.

He said “this is on top of the P1.3-billion big ticket infrastructure projects for Angeles City, which are set to be implemented in 2019 under the DTI-DPWH Convergence program, the Roads Leveraging Linkages of Industry and Trade.”

UP Aguman holds College Entrance Exam Review

(INQUIRER.net BrandRoom)

Are you feeling scared, excited, or all mixed up on your nearing college admission tests? Got what it takes to study in your dream universe-ity? No worries because we got you to the moon and back!

Held by one of the most prestigious organizations in the University of the Philippines — Diliman, UP Aguman, the College Entrance Exam Review (CEER) has helped high school students from various schools in Pampanga prepare for their upcoming entrance examinations.

July 14 – University of the Assumption ( San Fernando, Pampanga)
July 21- Don Bosco Academy (Mabalacat, Pampanga)
July 28- Angeles City Science High School (Angeles, Pampanga)
August 4- Holy Family Academy (Angeles, Pampanga)

With the students’ anticipation, CEER assists by providing a simulation of tests in the morning, and a review in the afternoon from esteemed lecturers. This year, together with UP Aguman’s sponsors, Hawkbag, Adarna House, and Murakeni, there will be four days of CEER scheduled for July 14, July 21, July 28, and August 4. The event will be conducted in cooperation with the organization’s partner schools: University of the Assumption, Don Bosco Academy, Angeles City Science High School, and Holy Family Academy.

Visit UP Aguman’s pages for more information:

fb.com/AguCEER
fb.com/upaguman

Go Lokal store what? DTI boasts of project before Duterte

By Ding Cervantes

CLARK FREEPORT — Who has ever heard of Go Lokal stores? But this was what Trade and Industry Sec. Ramon Lopez boasted as a major accomplishment of his agency before Pres. Duterte during the recent annual National MSME Summit held here.

The project, said Lopez, is his agency’s “marketing platform for helping small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) for mainstreaming market access incubation, marketing and branding.”

“Through this, our MSMEs have a 365 day exposure not just on weekends, and in prime location retail markets to be able to attract potential buyers,” he said.

To date, there are already 56 Go Lokal stores nationwide with 332 MSME suppliers.

Lopez also reported that these stores were able to generate P33 million sales from December 2016 to May 2018.

Some participants in the summit questioned the project, wondering how the DTI chooses beneficiaries.

“How can the project be fair to all if most MSME’s are not given the chance to apply for it simply because they do not know it exists,” said one participant who asked not to be named.

The government-run Philippine Information Agency (PIA) said in a press release that “With the Go Lokal stores, DTI and its partner institutions were able to give free market access incentives to small entrepreneurs as long as they have quality products,”

Lopez said project beneficiaries were given “free shelf space thus, they were able to save up to P7 million in terms of rental space. They were also able to save the listing fee of P3 million per product and their products have every day mainstream exposure.”

Angeles City to build new city hall, sports complex

By Ric Sapnu (PNA)

ANGELES CITY -- The city government will soon start construction of a new city hall and sports complex to complement the ongoing development of the Clark Freeport Zone.

City engineer Donato Dizon on Monday said that the construction of the two projects in the pipeline will start by September this year and will last for 600 calendar days.

These are on top of the PHP1.3-billion big ticket infrastructure projects for Angeles City, which are set to be implemented in 2019 under the Department of Trade and Industry-Department of Public Works and Highways (DTI-DPWH) convergence program, the Roads Leveraging Linkages of Industry and Trade (ROLL-IT).

Dizon said that a five-storey modern and "green" city hall will be built in front of the existing government edifice.

“The building will feature parking lots and rentable commercial spaces for the first and second floors,” he said.

He noted that the PHP580-million city hall annex will mainly house the new offices for the mayor, vice mayor, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) and other city government agencies.

Dizon also said that the 15,795-square meter city hall building would feature an auditorium and multi-purpose function hall to serve bigger government events and activities.

“The old city hall is quite small and congested already. It also needs plenty of repairs. The new city hall will bring together all our offices and services to make our compound a compact walkable government complex,” the city engineer said.

Meanwhile, the PHP320-million sports complex and socio-civic center is being eyed to be constructed in Barangay Pampang, a 2,500-capacity convention center with complete sports amenities, multi-purpose halls and parking areas.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the two projects are important facilities.

“I am grateful to the support that the SP headed by Vice Mayor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno has been extending to us to finally have all our projects realized. Our prompt implementation of programs and projects manifests the good relationship between the executive and legislative branches of the city government,” he said.

Dizon said the mayor has also suggested the facilities to be environment-friendly.

“The mayor wants the facilities to be green and eco-friendly that is why we are infusing bigger windows as part of the initial designs for energy-saving lighting and ventilation. We can also go as far as making them solar powered but studies are still underway,” Dizon said.

The City Government of Angeles and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), led by chairman Alberto Romulo, have recently entered into a loan agreement to fund the construction of the said facilities.

CDC’s ‘Brigada Eskwela’ 2018 project benefits 14 schools

(PR)

FOURTEEN public schools from communities surrounding Clark Freeport Zone recently benefited from Clark Development Corporation’s (CDC) “Brigada Eskwela 2018” under its Clark Cares Program.

As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, CDC provided various materials and equipment to different schools. Some of these are emergency kits, learner’s kit, cleaning materials, maintenance materials, school equipment, toiletries, medicine and other emergency supplies.

Recipients include Mauaque High School, Bonifacio Romero High School, Claro M. Recto Information and Communication Technology High School, Mabalacat Elementary School, Villa Teodora Elementary School, Northville 15 Integrated School, Lourdes Northwest Elementary School, Anupul Elementary School, Lourdes Elementary School-Dapdap, Mainang Resettlement Elementary School, Layak Day Care Center, Angeles City Science High School, Malabanias Integrated School and Angeles National High school.

The state–owned firm also created different programs on health, education and livelihood and fulfillment of its mission to bring about inclusive development to neighboring communities of the freeport.

The programs by CDC include dental and medical mission, feeding programs, jobs fair, trainings, distribution of pangkabuhayan mobile carts, retractable tents and other special projects for communities.

Mutya ning Angeles alumna to represent PH in Miss Freedom of the World

(Angeles CIO)

ANGELES CITY – Mutya ning Angeles 2017 Youth Ambassadress Ma. Francesca Taruc will represent the country in this year’s edition of the Miss Freedom of the World to be held in Kosovo.

Miss Freedom of the World (MFW) is a post-war beauty pageant that started in Kosovo, a former war-torn European country.

The pageant’s core advocacy is to raise a message of love and struggle for freedom, the empowerment of women, and the importance of promoting their rights.

Taruc will be competing against participating candidates from different countries all across the globe during the pageant culmination day on August 17.

During her courtesy call with Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, the 20-year old Communication Arts student from Holy Angel University expressed her excitement to finally represent not only the Angeleñas and the Kapampangans, but the Filipinas as a whole in an international beauty pageant.

When asked about her motivation in joining the beauty pageant tilt, Taruc said that the “fight for freedom runs in our blood”.

Francesca is a native of San Luis Town and was raised in Angeles City.

She is the granddaughter of the founder of the biggest peasant-based resistance movement of the Philippines during the World War II, the Hukbong Bayan Laban sa mga Hapon (HUKBALAHAP) Supremo Luis Taruc.

“I would want to dedicate this pageant to Angeles City, my native town of San Luis, and to my grandfather Luis Taruc who is a patriot and has dedicated his life in pursuit for true freedom,” said Taruc.

“I think it is my generation’s time to continue this legacy. MFW beauty pageant is an opportunity for me to spread a message of equality and peace, and that war or any form of violence is never acceptable,” the beauty queen added.

Mayor Pamintuan lauded Taruc for her eagerness to win the crown that will introduce Kapampangan courage, beauty, and wit to the rest of the world.

“We are indeed honored that another Kapampangan, an Angeleña by heart, will again raise our country’s name in the international stage. We hope for a fruitful outcome on her journey to the crown. Rest assured that the city government will be extending assistanceto her in ways possible,” said the mayor.

Pamintuan urged the Angeleños to support Taruc through online voting which will be announced and launched any time soon in MFW’s official facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MissFreedomOfTheWorld2014/

For many years, the Philippines chooses and sends an MFW candidate through a manner of selection or appointment. Taruc is the first ever Filipina to be crowned Miss Freedom of the World- Philippines through a competition. T

he Angeleña beauty hopes to contribute to the continued winning streak of Filipinas who have made their respective marks in various international beauty pageants.

DSWD allots P8.4-M supplemental feeding aid to Angeles City kids

By Ric Sapnu (PNA)

ANGELES CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office here will allot some PHP8.4 million for the supplemental feeding of 4,700 children in 78 day care centers across this highly-urbanized city.

The feeding programs will be held from Mondays to Fridays and will run for 120 days starting this July.

In fulfillment of Republic Act 6972 or the “Barangay-Level Total Development and Protection of Children Act” which requires the establishment of at least one day care center in every village, a total of 4,700 children aged 3 to 4 years old are being cared for in centers across the 33 barangays of Angeles City.

Joy Duaso, head of the City Social Welfare and Development Office, said that an average of 50 children are being looked after in each of the city’s day care centers.

“We have even surpassed the requirement of one center per barangay in order to meet the needs of children in bigger villages,” Duaso said.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, meanwhile, thanked the DSWD for its productive and long-standing partnership with the city towards fulfilling the social welfare mandate of the local government unit.

Pamintuan cited the relevance of values formation for children.

“These formative years are the highlight of our youth’s identity. We must guide them through their young years so they grow up to be accountable residents of the community,” the mayor said.

Midori Clark Hotel features All American Buffet this July at Toscana Dining

(Editor)

WHETHER you are longing for the best hamburger, pork ribs or even the confectionery version of an American pie, Midori Clark Hotel and Casino is set to satisfy your U.S. cravings with the All American Buffet at Toscana Dining for the weekends of July.

American foods are best known for the stuff that’s described by words suited to greasy, crushing industrial output, massive and sugary. These foods are surely loved maybe not all but most of the nations around the globe.

Slathered or smoked – Midori Clark Hotel and Casino’s All American Buffet will highlight US Angus Beef and Prime Roast Beef. Two iconic American foods that even need more napkins for greasy feels. United States being home-grown of the Rib ‘Cue Capital – All American Buffet will also feature a meaty and tender Baby Back Ribs.

After reading about every U.S.’s iconic dishes featured at Toscana Dining, you’ll want to take a road trip based solely on dessert. While you’ve likely had your state’s fair share of the dessert it’s known for, you’re about to discover a whole new realm of confections that you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

The U.S.’s national favorite – American Pie, is available with the version of Key Lime Meringue Pie. Also charmingly called slump, grunt, and buckle, a Peach Cobbler is also available ramekins. Other famed American desserts that will be served are Campfire Smores, Banana Foster, Giant Chocolate Chip and Apple Caramel Upside Down.

All American Buffet comes with UNLIMITED BEER and WINE at a price of P1,099+ for adults and P550+ for kids 4 ft. below. Dinner Buffet opens every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 PM to 10 PM and Brunch Buffet every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM.

Treats for Diners

Here’s another treat! If you are celebrating your birthday, just bring someone and you can dine for FREE! You can also bring a group of three or more and get a chance to win an Aqua Planet Tickets.

Make sure you have your seats reserved! For reservations, email restaurants@midorihotel.com or call 0917 868 2217 / 045 308 8888.

Keep social with us! Visit www.midorihotel.com or stay connected, like Facebook.com/midoriclarkhotel, follow @midoriclark on Twitter and @midorihotelcasino on Instagram.

Global mobile group supports disaster response program

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

SMART Communications and Nokia have announced that they have received funding from the GSMA, the organization representing mobile operators globally, for a disaster response drone system.

The Nokia Saving Lives drone project, which will operate on Smart’s frequencies during times of emergency, has been selected as a grantee by the GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund.

The Nokia Saving Lives program seeks to provide communications technology and technical assistance to emergency response teams. In the Philippines, Smart will provide high-speed connectivity for a drone-based system to help boost the disaster response efforts of the Philippine Red Cross.

The system consists of drones, a portable data center, a mobile broadband network, and applications like video streaming, gas sensing, mapping, and analytics, which can help Red Cross responders assess current status of lifelines and analyze immediate needs and gaps. This will enable Red Cross to provide emergency assistance to communities in more timely, effective and efficient ways.

Using Smart’s high-speed LTE connectivity and the portable Nokia Ultra Compact Network, the system can also create a secure communication between drones, other equipment, and rescue team members.

The drone can be equipped with different types of cameras, sensors and speakers, and can also be used to carry first aid kits. The portable data center, meanwhile, is a computing and storage unit that can be used for immediate data analysis. The initiative was presented to the delegates of the GSMA Humanitarian Connectivity Charter (HCC) Regional Workshop for Asia-Pacific during a visit to the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation emergency operations center. Representatives from the GSMA and other telecommunications providers all over Asia attended the HCC meeting, held July 10-11 in Angeles, Pampanga.

“We are proud to present this collaboration with our colleagues here in Asia and the rest of the world,” said PLDT and Smart public affairs head Ramon R. Isberto. “Disaster preparedness is one of our priority advocacies. At Smart, we provide continuous network service, as well as multi-platform technology and training, as we work with the government and other partners. We believe our communications support for the drones will help enhance disaster response and, ultimately, save lives.”

“The GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund is proud to be supporting projects that use mobile technology to assist and empower individuals or communities who are building their resilience to natural disasters, or who are affected by humanitarian emergencies,” said Kyla Reid, head of digital identity and mobile for humanitarian innovation at the GSMA. “This project from Nokia and Smart Communications is an excellent example of collaboration and highlights the positive role the private sector can play in strengthening response in the face of disaster.”

Christina Cabrera, head of Nokia Technology Center Philippines, said: “Nokia creates the technology to connect the world. The collaboration between Smart, Nokia Technology Center Philippines and the Philippine Red Cross brings the innovative Nokia Saving Lives solution for emergency situations into use—right here in the Philippines. To do this we build on the strength of Nokia’s engineering capabilities worldwide and especially on the expertise and motivation of our engineers in the Nokia Technology Center Philippines.”

Smart is one of the three founding signatories of the GSMA Human Connectivity Charter, which aims to provide increased access to communication and information for those affected by calamities, helping reduce loss of lives and contribute to humanitarian response.

Smart’s disaster preparedness programs have been cited in the GSMA HCC annual reports. These programs include Smart’s Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS), which sends out location- and hazard-specific alerts; its ICT Bayanihan series of regional summits to institutionalize emergency telecommunications teams; and the Batingaw disaster management app, which has been replicated in the Horn of Africa.

Smart’s support to the Red Cross and commitment to HCC are part of the company’s #SafePH advocacy, which aims to help build resilient communities and reduce disaster-related casualties through technology.

Angeles City gets P8.4-M supplemental feeding aid

(PR)

THE Angeles City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) here was awarded an P8.4-million check by the Department of Social Welfare and Development Central Luzon (DSWD-3) for the supplemental feeding of 4,700 children in day care centers across the highly-urbanized city.

During Monday’s flag raising ceremony at the city hall, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan formally received the said amount from DWSD regional director Gemma Gabuya, which will fund the city’s supplemental feeding programs across the 78 day care centers here.

The feeding programs will be held from Mondays to Fridays and will run for 120 days starting this month of July.

In fulfillment of R.A. 6972 or the “Barangay-Level Total Development and Protection of Children Act” which requires the establishment of at least one day care center in every village, a total of 4,700 children ranging from 3 to 4 years old are being cared for in centers across the 33 barangays of Angeles City.

“We must continually support our social welfare office as it serves as the voice for the indigent, vulnerable, as well as the women and children of our community,” said Gabuya.

According to CSWDO Head Joy Duaso, an average of 50 kids are being looked after in each of the city’s day care centers. “We have even surpassed the requirement of one center per barangay in order to meet the needs of children in bigger villages,” said Duaso.

Aside from supplemental feedings, day care workers regularly host activities such as play dates, arts and crafts and storytelling, which aid in the mental and social development of the children.

For his part, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan emphasized the relevance of values formation for children. “These formative years are the highlight of our youth’s identity. We must guide them through their young years so they grow up to be accountable residents of the community,” said the mayor.

Top 10 students in Central Luzon feted

By Manny Balbin (PNA)

CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan -- The 10 outstanding students of Central Luzon for this year were given due recognition on Monday as they were challenged to continuously make a difference in their generation to become better leaders in the future.

The 10, who were awarded in a ceremony held at the Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center here, are: Kenneth J. Miranda from Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc. in Bocaue; Shaina Mae T. Coronel from Baliuag University; Ezayra D. Dubria of Angeles University Foundation; Francis Edward A. Blanco from the Bataan Peninsula State University; Gabriel B. Lorenzo from the Pampanga State Agricultural University.

Relynne L. Miranda from Baliuag University; Oliver Z. Manarang from the Mabalacat City College; John Adrew Louis M. Vergel from the Mondriaan Aura College; Alvin C. Guinto from the Centro Escolar Universit y-Malolos and Kerwin R. Bañas from the Aurora State College of Technology.

They will represent the region in the 57th Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) 2018 national search.

These students were selected from 20 finalists from the different colleges and universities in Central Luzon.

The finalists entered into the venue accompanied by the guest of honor, movie actor Jose Sixto “Dingdong” G. Dantes III.

Dr. Christina Nuque, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 3 supervisor, in her speech, said that “it is not every day that we celebrate leadership and excellence. Today’s occasion, therefore, is extraordinary as well as beyond the ordinary.”

She expressed belief that through TOSP, the meticulously chosen finalists can make a difference in the society as they are the young leaders of today.

Meanwhile, Kenneth J. Miranda, who represented the Batch Bagwis of the 2018 TOSP, delivered his batch's response.

“We are the Batch Bagwis, we are the group of youth that will not be afraid, that has a flap in our wings towards the true progress, we will advance and shout that every single one of us can contribute to the society and all of us are the new generation of the brown race, who are free and that has love for you, Philippines. In every journey, there will always be a spark and flow of hope in flying towards the sky that we are yearning and with courage and joy, we will show our wings,” Miranda said.

Dantes, meanwhile, shared a story about his own life, his past experiences which helped him become the man that he is now.

The renowned actor also said he believed that the journey of the outstanding students is truly extraordinary and the opportunity that they have now is an achievement that they really worked hard for.

“When everyone is sitting down, stand up, when everyone is standing up, stand out and when everyone is standing out, be the leader that you are, be the model, be someone that everyone is not,” Dantes added.

Contour of 2019 polls takes shape in Angeles

By Ding Cervantes

ANGELES CITY–The contour of the 2019 mayoral elections in this chartered city has taken form, as Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, already in his third and last term, announced plans to run either for congressman or senator.

This, amid reports from local politicians that his former chief of staff Alexander Cauguiran, veteran politician Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin, and former councilor Irineo Alvaro would seek to replace him.

Cauguiran is now the acting president of the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) while Lazatin, an octogenarian who had been mayor and congressman for several terms in the past, was elected chairman of commercial Barangay Balibago in the last polls.

On the other hand, Alvaro had served several terms as city councilor and is now president and chief executive officer of BBI, the corporate entity behind upscale Midori Hotel and Casino, water-theme park Aqua Planet, and Eaglesky at the Clark Freeport.

Cauiguiran had already announced his mayoral plans, while Lazatin and Alvaro have yet to announce theirs.

Cauguiran will reportedly have incumbent Vice Mayor Bryan Nepomuceno as running mate, while Lazatin will have former vice mayor Vicky Vega. Alvaro has yet to give hint on who could me his running mate.

In a statement last week, Pamintuan announced his “plans to run for Congress in 2019 to ensure the completion of more than a billion worth of projects for the city that he was able to get approvals for from the national government.”

“I will not leave you,” declared Pamintuan, during a meeting with newly-elected barangay offi cials. He said he will seek “higher national position as congressman, or even a senator, in the 2019 elections.”

Pamintuan cited his accomplished projects worth P1. 5 billion, including the ₱236-million NLEX-SCTEx Connecting Road (Abacan Expressway) in support to the furniture, ITBPO, hotels, garments and textile industries of Angeles City; the ₱66-million widening of the Philippine Export Zone Road and construction of road connecting Angeles-Magalang Road to East Circumferential Road; the ₱103-million improvement of Zeppelin Street and Clark Perimeter Road; the ₱212-million construction of Angeles City Toll Exit connecting NLEx and SCTEx.

He also cited the ₱67.9-million improvement and construction of road connecting West Circumferential Road to East Mega Dike and the ₱644-million construction of East Circumferential Road connecting MacArthur Highway to Angeles Magalang Road.

Pamintuan, who was the 2012 Top 8 World Mayor, also announced projects he wants done, including a new 5-storey city hall with a sports complex and a 2-storey steel parking building; the acquisition of heavy equipment for the city engineering office; 33 dumptrucks; vehicles for the city government and the Philippine National Police; and the installation of 1,000 units of LED streetlights in the city.

“I would like to see through the completion of these projects, and work for better representation of the city in Congress in the face of the expected onslaught of development centered on the Clark Freeport Zone and the Clark International Airport,” he said.

“I will not leave Angeles City until these projects are completed. All roads lead to Clark and its environs insofar as development is concerned,” Pamintuan said.

Pamintuan stressed “the need for progressive and forward- looking local leadership,” urging barangay officials to “think big and out of the box.”

During the meeting, Cauguiran lauded the decision of Pamintuan to continue serving city folk.

Angeles City forms youth development council

(PR)

THE Angeles City Government through the Angeles City Youth Development Office (ACYDO) convened this city’s Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) with the formal installation of new officers and election of sectoral representatives on June 29 at the City Hall.

According to Patrick Cura, ACYDO officer-in-charge, the assembly is in line with the provisions of the Republic Act (RA) 10742 or the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Act of 2015.

Section 23 of the law states that the LYDC shall “ensure wide and multi-sectoral youth participation in local governance, there shall be in every province, city and municipality.”

The LYDC shall assist the planning and execution of projects and programs of the SK, and the Pederasyons in all levels.

RA 10742 further states that the LYDC shall be composed of representatives of youth and youth-serving organizations in the provincial, city, and municipal level.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded all the members of the LYDC stressing their importance in the city’s development process through the Local Youth Development Plan.

“I feel ecstatic about the future programs and activities of our youth leaders. Clearly, this is a manifestation that they are taking their first steps as we enjoin their participation in doing public service and government work towards a sustainable and inclusive local governance,” said Pamintuan.

The LYDC will be chaired by SK Federation President Arnoah Prince Mandani and will be assisted by Vice Chairman Renzo Carlo Santiago, SK Federation Vice President.

Meanwhile, the newly-elected LYDC representatives and organizations include: Harvey Santiago, Youth for Empowerment and Progress Inc for City Wide Youth Organization; Christian Jeff Pangilinan, Pulung Cacutud Power Youth Club and Sta. Teresita Youth Organization for Community-based Youth Organizations; Richard Canlas, Dabarkadz for Culture and Arts; Jayson Torres, PWD Youth Organization for Differently-Abled; Sarrah Mae Capiz, ICON- Aeta Tribal Youth Organization for Indigenous People; Imee Jean Regala, ECPAT Philippines for Advocacy-oriented; Jessa Mae Ariscon, Systems Plus College Foundation and City College of Angeles for School-based Organizations; and Ricky Ventura, PYAP Federation for Out of School Youth Organization.

Angeles City is the first local government unit to form an LYDC in Central Luzon according to Cura.

Sectoral groups to support Pamintuan’s congressional bid

(PR)

MULTISECTORAL groups in Angeles City have expressed their support over the earlier pronouncement of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan that he is eyeing a higher government position in the 2019 polls.

Barangay Captain Jeremias Alejandrino of Pandan cited the impact of the flagship projects of Pamintuan to the city that introduced a new brand of public service not only in the region but also in the whole country.

The five-term barangay captain mentioned the modernization of the Ospital ning Angeles (ONA), the construction of the City College of Angeles (CCA) and the public cemetery, among others, as Pamintuan’s key projects that can be replicated in neighboring towns in the first district of Pampanga.

“He has drawn a peaceful, orderly and progressive Angeles City that is why we support the mayor in his quest to continue what he has started,” said Alejandrino.

“We barangay captains are looking for a leader with a clear foresight of the future and the desire to serve his beloved city that is why we manifested our support,” the five-term barangay captain added.

The five-term mayor has also earned the appreciative nods of sectoral leaders citing various projects that he was able to accomplish in just a span of nine years.

Nelson Caranto, overall chairman of the Angeles City Pampang Public Market Vendors Association, expressed the elation of the public market sector on the renovation of the Pampang Market.

“We thank him for not forgetting us and for upgrading the market so we can be abreast with competition. The members of the association are supporting him,” said Caranto should Pamintuan continues with his plan to run for congressman.

Meanwhile, Youth Development advocate Patrick Cura expressed his excitement over the P1.5 billion worth proposed projects for Angeles City which Mayor Pamintuan has requested from the national government.

“We are very happy that our mayor will be able to serve not only our city but our neighbors in the first district. We are grateful to hear his intention in continuing his legacies up to the congress should he be elected,” said Cura.

The 3,000-strong women group, the Kapisanan para sa Kaunlaran ng mga Kababaihan sa Angeles (KKKA) headed by Marie Canlas of Claro M. Recto, has also expressed their support to Pamintuan’s congressional bid.

Canlas, who have been dedicating her life in service of the women sector for more than ten years, said “Pamintuan has been generous at providing livelihood opportunities to their sector and educational assistance to their children, especially those who are indigent.”

“He does not only perform his mandate as mayor of the city but as president of all city mayors in the Philippines as well. We believe he can do it as a congressman, too,” said Canlas citing Pamintuan’s great chance to earn the congressional seat.

During his re-election in 2010, his administration has launched the many firsts in terms of public service and local governance that famed the city in the national scene, and even gaining numerous awards and recognitions for it.

Among others are the Heritage District and Urban Renewal Project, ONA’s Renal Care Unit, Chemotherapy Infusion Unit, Intensive Coronary Care Unit, the MediKalinga Center for Minor Surgeries, the state-of-the-art Emergency and Disaster Command Center, the Million Trees Project and clean-up drives, and many more.

Pamintuan is serving his last term as the local chief executive of this highly urbanized city.

Pamintuan to expropriate Camp Tomas Pepito

(PR)

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has made known to the officers of the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) of his plan to expropriate Camp Tomas Pepito from the Catholic Church.

The message has been relayed by Pamintuan's Communications Officer, Jose Pelayo IV, when he delivered his keynote speech during the 23rd Police Community Relations Month at the ACPO. Pelayo was the guest of honor and speaker during the event.

"The Angeles Police don't need to worry about your stay here for Mayor Ed Pamintuan has informed me that he has a plan to expropriate the property," Pelayo said.

It has been a concern for the local police here about their tenure at Camp Tomas Pepito, which is known to be a property of the Catholic Church.

Pelayo added: "ACPO will stay here in Barangay Sto. Domingo. And after the property has been expropriated, the city mayor wants to build a new headquarters for our PNP."

City Director PSSupt. Enrico Vargas expressed his appreciation to the full support of the city government to the local police. Vargas has also informed his men and women in uniform about the purchasing of additional firearms by the city government including the purchasing of brand new service vehicles for ACPO.

"I would like to express my appreciation to the support of the city government headed by our city mayor," Vargas said in his message after the flag ceremony.

Just recently, Pamintuan led the inauguration of the bunk houses for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to help decongest the facility from overcrowding detainees.

Pamintuan also led the opening of Bahay Pagbabago within the same compound.

Lazatin vows to provide free medicines to constituents

ByREYNALDO G. NAVALES

ANGELES CITY -- Newly-installed Barangay Balibago Chairman Carmelo Lazatin has vowed to provide free medicines to his constituents, especially the indigent ones.

Lazatin issued the statement during his first Monday flag raising ceremony as top leader of the city’s entertainment village.

Lazatin said that he will look into the existing barangay funds to provide basic services, particularly medical assistance and health programs, to the people.

“First we have to look at the funds so we know how we will allocate them for the improvement of Balibago and one is free medicines for the people,” Lazatin said.

The new village chief said he will also implement education program for indigent students.

Lazatin appealed to the people of Balibago to support his administration which is aiming to be transparent and corruption-free governance.

Lazatin’s two sons, Angeles City Councilor Carmelo Pogi Lazatin and Pampanga First District Congressman Carmelo Jon Lazatin, who were present during the ceremony, vowed to support the programs of their father.

“We’re 100 percent in support especially it’s for the village,” Councilor Lazatin said.

Former Balibago Chairman Tony Mamac, who was elected first councilor, told SunStar Pampanga that his administration left P3.6 million surplus funds deposited at the Land Bank of the Philippines.

Angeles City kicks off nutrition month

(PR/With Chermary Panga)

THE Angeles City Government, headed by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, launched the 44th Nutrition Month celebration themed "Ugaling Magtanim, Sapat na Nutrition Aanihin!" on July 2 at city hall.

A three-day food fair kicked off the city's month-long celebration at the city hall lobby, featuring fresh and healthy assortments of food.

Nutrition Action Officer Arnel T. Calaguas also presented other events and activities anchored on the city's Nutrition Month observance.

For the whole month of July, the City Agriculture Office will hold seedlings distribution to schools around the city.

To encourage Angeleños to kick-start their own vegetable gardens, the agriculture office has opened its doors for walk-in residents who would also want to avail of the free vegetables and fruit-bearing seedlings.

The City Nutrition Office, meanwhile, will hold seminars on Infant and Young Child Feeding to be held on the respective dates and villages: Barangay Cuayan on July 10, Barangay Sto. Domingo on July 12, Barangay San Jose on July 17, Barangay Cacutud on July 19, and Barangay Malabanias on July 24.

Meat Processing workshops will also be conducted to guide homemakers and business owners alike on production and food safety management. These will be done alongside feeding programs and traditional gaming events in Barangay San Jose on July 25 and Barangay Malabanias on July 18 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Also in line with the celebration, the Department of Education-Division of City Schools will conduct an On the Spot Poster Making Contest on July 26 at the Robinson Balibago Event Center, and a Nutri Jingle on August 3 at SM Clark.

Pamintuan pointed out the relevance of willful healthy-living. "We should be wise, utilize whatever strength we have at the moment and invest in it, so we can continue to work and serve well," he said.

The mayor also reiterated the importance of backyard/urban gardening on the pursuit of the Angeleños for good nutrition.

"The launch of our Task Force One Million Trees and the Gulayan sa Barangay Project years back allowed our people to generate their own local produce and provide for themselves and their family some quality and nourishing vegetables and fruits while earning. This year's theme affirms the importance of our project," Pamintuan said.

Kapampangan students win international science tilt in Hong Kong

By IAN OCAMPO FLORA

ANGELES CITY -- Neil David Cayanan and Lucia Dizon of Angeles City Science High School (ACSHS) brought honor to the country, as they won in the Hong Kong Students Science Project Competition (HKSSPC) held in Hong Kong.

The Department of Education (DepEd)-Central Luzon said in a Facebook post that the students were awarded first prize in the International Division for their project "Verde: An Edible Alternative to Plastic Cutlery."

"We are thankful to our students, as well as their teachers, for bringing pride and honor to the country especially in the field of science and technology. Your innovations and inventions are proof that our schools do not only teach you to memorize facts and formulae, but to think critically and logically so that you will be able to analyze and provide solutions to the problems that plague our society. Our warmest congratulations," DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said.

The DepEd said the event is jointly organized by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, the Education Bureau, and the Hong Kong Science Museum, and supported by the Innovation and Technology Commission and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.

The competition has been one of the core government-supported programs for fostering innovation and technology culture in Hong Kong since 1998.

On its 20th year, HKSSPC added the International Division fosters academic exchange between global and local young Science talents. With the theme "From theory to practice: Develop Science potential," the competition enabled budding scientists to demonstrate investigative and inventive projects which shall be original, innovative, and applicable in real life.

The Philippine delegates bested their competitors from Thailand, USA, Singapore, Turkmenistan, Macau China, and other participating countries.

Two other teams from ACSHS also participated as finalists: Shaira Gozun and E'van Relle Tongol, and Francine Icban and Ana Sofia Diaz with their projects "Urban Vertical Farming: An Automated Hydroponics System for Vegetable Crop Production," and "Screening of the Anti-Quorum Sensing Property of Bioluminescent Bacteria Against Hospital-Acquired Pathogen Pseudomonas Aeruginosa," respectively.

Angeles City launches activities for Nutrition Month

By Ric Sapnu (PNA)

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga — A three-day food fair was opened here on Monday as part of the various activities lined up for the 44th Nutrition Month celebration.

With the theme “Ugaling Magtanim, Sapat na Nutrition Aanihin,” fresh and healthy assortments of food are now on sale at the City Hall Lobby here.

During the event opening, nutrition action officer Arnel T. Calaguas presented the other events and activities anchored on the city’s Nutrition Month observance.

Calaguas said that for the whole month of July, the City Agriculture Office will hold seedlings distribution to schools around the city.

“To encourage the Angeleños to kick-start their own vegetable gardens, the City Agriculture Office has opened its doors for walk-in residents who would also want to avail of the free vegetables and fruit-bearing seedlings,” he said.

The City Nutrition Office, on the other hand, will hold seminars on infant and young child feeding to be held in Barangay Cuayan on July 10; Barangay Sto. Domingo on July 12; Barangay San Jose on July 17; Barangay Cacutud on July 19; and Barangay Malabanias on July 24.

Also in line with the celebration, the Department of Education – Division of City Schools here will conduct an On the Spot Poster-Making Contest on July 26 at the Robinson Balibago Event Center, and a Nutri Jingle Contest on August 3 at SM City Clark.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan cited the relevance of willful healthy-living.

“We should be wise, utilize whatever strength we have at the moment and invest in it, so we can continue to work and serve well,” he said.

The mayor also reiterated the importance of backyard/urban gardening on the pursuit of the Angeleños for good nutrition.

“The launch of our Task Force One Million Trees and the Gulayan sa Barangay Project years back allowed our people to generate their own local produce and provide for themselves and their family some quality and nourishing vegetables and fruits while earning. This year’s theme affirms the importance of our project,” he added.

Angeles City MSMEs showcase products in trade fair

By Ric Sapnu (PNA)

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga -- A trade fair that showcases the products of this city’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) opened here Tuesday.

The "Buy Angeles Trade Fair", now on its second year, was organized by the Angeles City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (ACEDIPO), in partnership with the provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Vice Mayor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno, ACEDIPO head Bernadette Galinato, and DTI-Pampanga Director Elenita Ordonio led the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, signaling the formal opening of the local trade fair.

Galinato said the activity serves as the local government’s support to city-based entrepreneurs to boost the promotion of Angeleño-made products.

She said the city has been tapping MSMEs and enjoining them in various national and regional business expositions to widen the scope of their market.

A total of 24 stalls were installed at the City Hall main lobby for the trade fair, which runs until June 29.

The four-day fair showcases Angeleño-made organic and processed food, pastries and delicacies, home-made beverages and condiments, arts and craft, home decors, cosmetics, fashion accessories and jewelry, and other health and wellness products.

Ordonio, for her part, congratulated the city government, citing the success of the first Buy Angeles Trade Fair in 2017.

“The staging of the second year of this trade fair goes to show that the local government is successful in its first attempt in 2017. We hope that the city will continue with this program, which is a viable venue to showcase the best of Angeles City,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ordonio also reminded the participating MSMEs to accomplish and have for themselves a license to operate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines has also placed a help desk at the trade fair to extend information on the agency’s patent services, copyright registration, and trademark services.

Nepomuceno, meanwhile, cited the vital role of MSMEs in the local economy, urging them to remain persistent with their businesses and assuring them that the city, through the ACEDIPO, will always support the sector.

“It only takes one successful business to change one’s life forever. Keep on being determined, time will come, you will all succeed. The city government is always here to help you in ways possible,” the vice mayor said.

Nepomuceno also asked DTI-Pampanga to hold a mentoring session at the city’s legislative building regarding ways MSMEs could market their products.

To date, Angeles City has two DTI Negosyo Centers -- one in Robinsons Place Angeles and the other at the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industries (MACCI) Building.

The city will soon have its own permanent outlet for Angeles City-made products and souvenirs with the “One Town, One Product” (OTOP) Store to be situated at the city’s heritage district.

DTI-3 preps up for nat’l MSME summit in July

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon office is now in the thick of preparations for its first ever hosting of the National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit here next month.

During the media forum “News@Hues” organized by the Pampanga Press Club in cooperation with Park Inn Hotel Clark by Radisson here on Tuesday, DTI regional information officer Warren Serrano said the National MSME Summit will be held at the ASEAN Convention Center here on July 10 and 11.

Serrano also said President Duterte will be the guest of honor during the summit as well as top businessmen in the country. This is in line with President Duterte’s priority of “inclusive business,” he said.

Serrano said the Central Luzon region has the highest number of MSMEs in the country which means that “the informal economy is moving on to the formal economy.

“And this is what we want to happen and that’s what we are modelling here in Central Luzon. We are helping the small enterprises in the countryside to go to the mainstream,” he added.

Serrano said among the menu of services for MSME includes the “mentoring program” which is called the “Kapatid Mentor Micro Enterprises.” He said under the program, DTI-3 is “getting 20 micro entrepreneurs per province” which translates to 140 for the whole region.

“We will be mentoring them to a 12-course mentoring program which is equivalent to a master’s degree,” Serrano said.

“Parang nag masters kana doon sa 12 module course na ito (As if you have already taken a masters in this 12-module course),” he said.

Serrano said the mentoring program has been in practice since 2015 “and we have very good results, so most of them have levelled up from micro enterprise to small enterprise.”

Serrano said “the mentors are really experts from the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship.”

He said among the teacher-mentors are the owner of Tokyo Tempura Rowena Vallesteros and Sheryll Quintana, owner of Oryspa Spa Solutions, Inc.

Some of the mentors also come from the academe and the business sector, he said. “It’s like an intensive training,” he added.

Serrano said DTI-3 also has a “one-town, one-product (OTOP ) Next Generation Project which is essentially a mark exposure program for MSMEs.”

He said among the participating entrepreneurs are peanut butter and banana chips makers.

“But now we are levelling that up and the OTOP next gen project is expanding,” he noted.

Serrano said last year, DTI-3 had more than 700 entrepreneurs which means that every entrepreneur that was enrolled in the OTOP project got a good brand and design experts that were paid by DTI to help MSMEs with their branding, logo, packaging and design as well as all the services that made their products saleable.

“We will also help them with their trademark and registration with the Intellectual Property Office which is an attached agency of the DTI,” he said.

Serrano said this is important because it is a requirement for exporters.

“So you have a trademark ,brand name and business name so we will help our micro entrepreneurs to complete these requirements,” he said. Serrano said DTI-3 is also training MSMEs with good manufacturing practices by acquiring proper certifications “because more than 50 percent of those that we help for the OTOP next generation project are food processors.”

Serrano said when local products are brought to other countries or hotels here with international guests, they easily get qualified because they have certifications like “Halal” which refers to food certified and permissible under Islamic law.

There is also the hazard, analysis and critical control points (HACCP) certification for local products to be accepted as safe abroad, he said.

Serrano said another project that DTI-3 had last year for marketing exposure was twice attending the Tokyo International Trade Fair in Japan with 10 MSMEs.

He said among the MSMEs that went to Japan were furniture makers, but most of the saleable items in the trade fair were fashion jewelries.

“We sold about Y1 million for the two days fair,” he said. Serrano said also last year, DTI-3 had the biggest five-day trade fair for 2017 at the SM Mega Mall Trade Hall where around 110 exhibitors from the seven provinces joined.

It was dubbed “Likha Ning Central Luzon” which was able to raise P14 million, he said. Among them was the popular “Evelyns’ Homemade Nuts” which was able to generate a sales of P2 million, he said.

Widus Foundation adopts two public school libraries in Pampanga

(Press release)

AS IT celebrates its first year anniversary, Widus Foundation Inc. (WFI), Widus Hotel and Casino Clark’s corporate charity arm, turned over newly rehabilitated public school libraries to San Isidro Elementary School and Justino Sevilla High School on June 19, Tuesday, during the completion of its annual Adopt-a-Library campaign.

The WFI signature project which aims to rebrand, recalibrate, and restore learning spaces by fostering existent and non-existent libraries through rehabilitating, equipping and supplementing existing public school libraries partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) to determine the most fitting beneficiaries for its signature project.

“Adopt-a-Library project is our simple yet profound way to help equip public schools with a functional and dynamic library setting where students can get decent amount of daily reading time and free access to computers. We believe that these school-maintained learning venues play a vital role in the intellectual and economic development of the people and also helps in developing an information-rich society,” WFI Manager Ronnel Golimlim said.

He further said that it is about time for libraries to take forefront of school rather than just being a usually outdated and neglected facility.

The turn-over ceremonies led by WFI Director Neki Liwanag, WFI Manager Ronnel Golimlim, Widus Human Resources Director Ana Cristi Galura, Widus Marketing Manager Sheryl Mamangun and DepEd Pampanga Superintendent Dr. Leornardo Zapanta.

Speaking before the guests, Liwanag also acknowledged the continued efforts of every Widus employee who volunteered to help make the project a success by cleaning the library facilities, painting walls with artworks, setting up desktop computers.

“We have a very challenging work as hoteliers and yet through this foundation we are given the opportunity to give back to community while relieving our stress and sharing our abilities to the best that we can,” Liwanag added.

For her part, Mamangun recalled the fond memories their dedicated team had during the campaign alongside requesting students to preserve their newly-awarded library.

“Your libraries are also essential information hubs which can be sustainably utilized to nourish and nurture our youth. Our only request to the school and most importantly to our students is that they keep their libraries neat and orderly so that the succeeding and incoming pupils could also enjoy it.” Mamangun added.

The newly upgraded libraries will cater to more than 5000 Junior and Senior High School in Justino Sevilla and about 200 elementary students in San Isidro Elementary School.

Angeles City commemorates 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption

(Politiko Central Luzon)

The city government of Angeles in Pampanga led by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has remembered the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption and how its people rose from the tragedy.

Dubbed as the “Pamamangun,” the event was held Friday, June 15, at the Abacan Loop.

“We are gathered not to mourn over what we have lost, but to commemorate the heroism and resilience of our people and the individuals who helped us bounce back from the ashes,” said Pamintuan during the event.

Pamintuan was the acting mayor of the city when the disaster took place.

He said the commemorative program was also intended for the young generations of Angeleños to deepen their appreciation and understanding on the significance of the catastrophe to what the city has attained today.

Over 700 people died due to Mt. Pinatubo eruption. But most of those who perished were due to the diseases at the evacuation centers.

More than 1.2 million Filipinos were also affected by the calamity.

Reformation center for drug offenders opens in Angeles City

By Ric Sapnu (PNA)

ANGELES CITY — A new drug reformation center has been opened here as part of the continuing efforts of local authorities to strengthen the program on drug rehabilitation.

The Bahay Pagbabago, which is a joint project of the city government and the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO), aims to help drug surrenderers and drug dependents in the city to withdraw and recover from drug abuse.

The facility, located at the Camp Tomas J. Pepito in Sto. Domingo, is the city’s answer to the call of President Rodrigo Duterte to immediately address the country’s drug problem by tapping the barangays in accelerating the drive against drug abuse and trafficking through community participation.

The community-based program will be run by the Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ACADAC) and the ACPO, with the support of various non-government and faith-based organizations.

Drug reformists will undergo a 30-day rehabilitation program, which includes the provision of proper guidance and counseling, education about drug addiction, health and wellness through physical activities, skills training, and various community service activities.

They will also be provided with a 15-day post-treatment service after the 30-day reformation cycle.

“We at the local government are doing our best to give people who fell into drug abuse a chance of changing their lives with our program,” Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan on Monday said, citing the facility as part of the city’s fight against illegal drugs.

“As we help our people heal and recover, we are also helping our city in obtaining peace and securing safety to the people,” he added.

Japanese exec cites Filipino workers skills in Clark

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT— An executive of a Japanese manufacturing company of interior components and sub-assembly parts for aircraft here cited the competencies of Filipino workers as one of their reasons for establishing a facility in this freeport.

JAMCO Philippines director Katsushige Hasumi said the skills and attitude of Filipino workers have met the expectation of their company. “JAMCO decided to establish a facility in the Philippines because the Philippines have people with above-average English language ability, higher academic achievement or educational level, higher industrious spirit and good work ethics,” Hasumi said referring to his companys employees.

Hasumi made the statement during the plenary conference of the Aeromart Summit here last week. He added that the “stability of the workforce” here and the ideal pyramids of population have also contributed to the efficiency of their production to achieve the goals of the company.

“JAMCO Philippines employees gained the confidence from Jamco Tokyo that they can do more than what is expected. They can produce product on quality, on time and at the proper cost,” he said.

“As a result, Jamco Philippines became one of the key suppliers to achieve our mission,” he added.

JAMCO Philippines established its facility here in 2011 starting the business with only 22 employees and expanding it after six years with a total of 317 current workers.

The Japanese company is a premier supplier of commercial aircraft interiors, seats, galleys and lavatories as well as interior components of Airbus and Boeing aircrafts.

Its operation in the country is an AS9100C multi-site certified company which supports the JAMCO group in the manufacturing of parts and assemblies for its US and Japan operations which are eventually fitted to Boeing planes.

Kapampangan historian holds lecture on importance of preserving heritage churches

By Gladys Mae Gonzales

ANGELES CITY — The importance of preserving heritage churches was underscored by a noted Kapampangan historian in a lecture held at the country’s first museum on social history here.

Lord Francis Musni, archivist and professor as well as curator at Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University in Bacolor, held a lecture at the Museum of Social History of the Philippine (MSHP) recently where he featured the importance of conserving churches in Pampanga.

“Lubao and Betis, the oldest settlements in Pampanga, were the first kumbentos and parishes in Tondo being the mother parish. Pampanga was to become a favorite province of Spain and a most coveted mission territory of the Augustinians,” Musni said.

Heritage religious structures in Pampanga include the San Agustin Church in Lubao, Santiago Apostol Church in Betis, Santa Lucia Church in Sasmuan, San Nicolas de Tolentino in Macabebe, La Purisima Church in Guagua, San Guillermo Aquitania Church in Bacolor and Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion or more popularly known as the Metropolitan Cathedral in City of San Fernando.

“Begin calling the churches by their original titles. We do not just call it Lubao Church, but San Agustin Church,” he stressed. Musni’s lecture entitled, “Pisamban da Ring Ibpa Mi (The churches of our fathers), Directions and Challenges in Kapampangan Church Heritage Preservation” is one of the highlights of the National Heritage Month celebration.

In line with the celebration, Department of Tourism acting regional director Carolina Uy led the opening of “Sanctuario: Pampanga’s Colonial Churches” at the MSHP also known as the Pamintuan Mansion. The exhibit is open to the public.

Huk Supremo to be interred in hometown

By Ashley Manabat

ANGELES CITY – The remains of “Huk Supremo” Luis M. Taruc will finally be interred in his hometown of San Luis.

Robby Tantingco, director of the Center for Kapampangan Studies at the Holy Angel University here, said Taruc’s remains will be exhumed at the Loyola Memorial Park in Manila on June 19 followed by his cremation.

Tantingco said Taruc will be interred in San Luis on the occasion of his 105th birthday on June 21.

“Dr. Romy Taruc expressed to us his father’s wish to be eventually buried in his land of birth and so, on the Huk Supremo’s 105th birth anniversary, his exhumed mortal remains will be permanently enshrined at the Freedom Park of his hometown San Luis,” Tantingco said.

“The exhumation at Loyola Memorial Park will occur on June 19, followed by cremation there,” he added.

Tantingco said the ash will be initially taken to the Luis Taruc Museum in San Luis for a twonight vigil.

“On the morning of June 21, his birth anniversary, we will reinter it at the shrine,” he said.

Tantingco said the proponent of all the activity is historian Francis Musni. Mayor Venancio S. Macapagal said the event will coincide with the celebration of their town fiesta, the feast of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga. Macapagal said Taruc’s ashes will be put on a carriage and brought to the San Luis Church.

Various activities are also lined up for the occasion, he added.

According to readily available information from the internet, Taruc is the leader of the Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon (Hukbalahap), the Nation’s Army Against the Japanese Soldiers) or Hukbong Laban sa Hapon (Anti-Japanese Army), a Communist guerilla movement formed by the peasant farmers of Central Luzon. They were popularly known simply as “Huks”. They were originally formed to fight the Japanese, but extended their fight into a rebellion against the Philippine Government, known as the Hukbalahap Rebellion, in 1946. It was finally put down through a series of reforms and military victories by Filipino President Ramon Magsaysay.

“Taruc became aware of the unjust situation of tenant farmers and the poor in 1935 and decided to leave his haberdashery business to his wife so he could help, protect and serve the poor, maltreated and suffering peasants. Influenced by his idol socialist Pedro Abad Santos of San Fernando and inspired by earlier Katipunan revolutionaries such as Felipe Salvador, Taruc joined the “Aguman ding Maldang Tala-pagobra” (AMT, Union of Peasant Workers) and in 1938, the “Partido Socialista.” The latter merged with the Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas as part of the Common Front strategy, and Taruc assumed the role of Commander- in-Chief of the military wing created to fight the Japanese.”

After the war against Japan, the Hukbalahap continued their demands for agrarian reform. Taruc and seven colleagues were elected to the House of Representatives but the government of Manuel Roxas did not allow them to take their seats in Congress. The Taruc faction opposed the parity rights that the U.S. required from post-independence Philippines as a condition for rehabilitation funding. In the next five years, Taruc would give up on the parliamentary struggle and once more take up arms. At the height of its popularity, the Hukbalahap reached a fighting strength estimated at between 10,000 and 30,000.”

On March 29, 1950, Taruc’s men led by a certain Commander Alibasbas raided the villages of Sta. Ines and San Francisco in the town of Mabalacat in Pampanga.

Records from the Supreme Court, People of the Philippines versus Luis Tarucet al said: “On or about March 29, 1950, an armed band of about 200 HMBs under Commander Alibasbas, taking advantage of nighttime, and with evident premeditation and treachery, raided and attacked the barrios of Sta. Ines and San Francisco, Mabalacat, Pampanga, resulting in the killing of one civilian, Ana Pasamonte, the wounding of two civilians, Jose Manabat and Jose Hipolito, the capture and torture of Seditio Manabat, a civilian, and the burning of ten civilian houses, more or less.”

On May 4, 2005, Taruc died of a heart attack at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City at the age of 91. Many political figures went to his wake to pay respect and give support to his family.

‘MusiKalayaan’ highlights pride for youth in Angeles

(SunStar Pamoanga)

ANGELES CITY -- The youth of this highly-urbanized city were served with a venue to express their creativity and advocacies as the local government here stages the 3rd MusiKalayaan Youth Arts Festival, on June 8 at Plaza Angel, this city.

The event dubbed as “KKK: Kule ning Katimauan Da Ring Kayanakan” is spearheaded by the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) and the Culture and Arts Council of Angeles (CACA).

Tourism Officer John Montances said that the event is part of the week-long celebration of the Philippine Independence Day.

“This activity is dedicated to the youth for it allows them to showcase their diverse expressions of freedom. We hold this every year before the Independence Day celebration which is a more formal celebration,” said Montances.

Fun-filled activities such as art exhibits, on-the-spot mural painting, theatrical plays, poetry reading, and musical and dance performances from various young Angeleño performers filled the one-day youth arts gala.

For his part, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that the activity also aims to educate the youth about the culture and arts of the city, and the role that the city has played in weaving the history of the country.

“This youth arts fest furthers our goal of inculcating to the youth the valuing of the city’s rich history and the ingenuity of its people. Our youth will inherit all the legacies of our beloved city so it is necessary to enjoin their participation in activities like this,” said Mayor Pamintuan.

Performers in the youth arts festival include the Angeles City National High School Dance Troupe, Anak Bale-balayan, Shane Lumanog, Robynn, On Stage School for the Arts, Aslag Teatro SPCiño, The Dance Conservatory, Teen Information Center, Angeles City Dance Athletes, Sunlag Ensemble, Vien Russel, Sinukwan Kapampangan Center for the Arts, Pot Sembrano and Dr. Flavor.

Pampanga-based developer to build a retail strip within The Infinity project

By Arra B. Francia

PAMPANGA-BASED developer AC Beautiful Island Realty Development Corp. (ACBI) recently launched it first project in the province, consisting of retail and commercial spaces targeted toward employees working in the area.

In a statement issued Tuesday, ACBI said it will be developing The Shoppes at The Infinity, a 15,600-square meter retail strip that will feature both local and global brands.

The project is located inside ACBI’s mixed-use development in Pampanga called The Infinity. The 40-hectare estate covers the boundaries of Angeles and Mabalacat and is envisioned to link Pampanga to the rest of Luzon.

“We envision The Shoppes to complement the trade and investment prowess of The Infinity. As business and leisure are industries that now work side by side, we want to make sure that we are offering a complete and one-stop-shop destination at par with central business districts here and abroad,” ACBI General Manager Byron John T. Siy was quoted as saying in a statement.

ACBI said construction for The Shoppes will start by the middle of this year, with the first phase to be fully operational by the second quarter of 2019. It has tapped style firm LG+V Architects to give the project a modern contemporary design.

“(ACBI) conceptualized the commerce district not only to open prospects for Pampanga but to serve as a commerce link of the region to the rest of Luzon. This can be owed to the strategic location of The Infinity at the gateway of Central Luzon and its direct connection to the North Luzon Expressway via the Angeles Exit,” the company said.

Aside from The Shoppes, ACBI has also announced the development of The Pacific Drive, a 290-meter four-lane lighted road inside The Infinity which is part of its road network. The Pacific Drive aims to be an alternative access point to and from Barangay Balibago to Magalang town and the North Luzon Expressway toll exit.

ACBI is the real estate arm of the JENRA Group of companies, which owns a chain of malls, supermarkets, and fastfood restaurants in Central Luzon. It also owns the Sacred Heart Medical Center in Pampanga.

The Pampanga-based company joins the roster of property developers seeking to take advantage of the province’s growth prospects in the coming years.

A study released by real estate consultancy Colliers International Philippines noted that firms should maximize Pampanga’s potential, as several infrastructure projects including the Clark Airport Expansion, Subic-Clark Cargo Railway, and Manila to Clark Passenger Railway are slated to improvement connectivity between Metro Manila and Pampanga.

“Colliers also encourages local players with sizeable landbank but with limited experience in building master-planned townships to partner with national players in developing large integrated communities. The enhancement of the country’s infrastructure backbone should unlock land values in urban areas outside of the country’s capital including Metro Clark,” according to Colliers.

Kapampangan appointed as Northrail director

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

ANGELES CITY -- A former vice mayor in Mexico town, Pampanga province was recently appointed director of the North Luzon Railways Corporation (Northrail).

Albert Dela Cruz, a consultant of an Aeta group named Samahang Tribung Ayta, thanked President Duterte and Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade for appointing him as Northrail board member.

The Kapampangan people have waited for a long time for the project to be realized and it’s about time it should be completed under the Duterte Administration, according to Dela Cruz.

“Of course, magpasalamat tamu keng presidenti. One thing is dumalan ya kekatamu ing tren then number two maluat ta neng para-pareung paninap ita. So metung a maragul a bage na ating Kapampangan a atyu keng Northrail uling metung ya kareng flagship project na ning presidenti,” he said.

Because of that train, Pampanga will be having the status as the capital center not only of Central Luzon but also of Northern Luzon because the plan is to have the central station within the area of Clark, Dela Cruz added.

“So we have Clark New City to Tutuban and then Clark New City to Subic, then Clark to far North up to San Fernando La Union. So that is the mandate [of the Northrail]. In so far as the board is concern, we need to wait for other investors to come in specifically for the areas na ala pang meg siginify investment,” the new Northrail official said.

“We have now Tutuban to Clark and then Clark to Subic. So we are exploring the possibility to connect Clark with the rest of the Northern Luzon area,” he added.

Dela Cruz admiited that there are minimal issues related to the project but said that everything is smooth sailing with Tugade’s leadership.

He said the project, once completed, will really change the landscape of Pampanga especially with the [Clark] airport.

“I think in so far as comparing it to other past administration, there is a clear picture at the end of the tunnel under Duterte’s leadership,” Dela Crus added.

The railway system is very important to the development of Central Luzon in terms of fast and mass transport.

“All modern cities and highly industrialized countries they rely more on mass transportation. It will solve our problems on traffic congestion, infrastructure and at the same time global warming and others,” he said.

Duterte enjoins village heads to help in war vs. drugs

By Marna Dagumboy Del Rosario (PNA)

CLARK, Pampanga -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte has called on barangay officials to help in his fight against illegal drugs as he vowed to end the menace until the end of his term.

Duterte made the call after he administered the oath of office of 2,843 newly-elected punong barangays in Central Luzon at the ASEAN Convention Center here Tuesday.

In his speech during the Dialogue for Barangay Good Governance, he urged barangay officials not to engage in illegal drug activities, especially during his “watch”.

“Tatapusin ko ito sa panahon ko (I will end this during my term). Publicly, I will tell you, if you destroy my country, I will kill you,” he said.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Officer-in-Charge Eduardo Año also directed the new barangay leaders to arrest those who are involved in illegal drugs.

Año also warned the new village heads to stop corruption at their level.

For his part, DILG Assistant Secretary for Barangay Affairs Martin Diño urged newly elected punong barangays to create their respective Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADAC) in two months’ time, right after their oath-taking.

“If after two months you fail to create your respective BADACs, we will file a complaint against you,” Diño warned.

He also urged barangay officials to focus on cleaning the community, particularly sidewalks and waterways.

Data from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Central Luzon showed that of the 3,102 barangays in the region, 2,837 are affected while 265 are unaffected by illegal drugs.

Of the 2,837 drug-affected villages, 2,498 were cleared as of January last year.

The President, in the same speech, vowed to fulfill his other campaign promises, namely to stop corruption in government and the resumption of peace talks with the enemies of the state, particularly the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army- National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

He reiterated his invitation to CPP founding chairperson Joma Sison to return home, with assurance of his safety and security.

However, Duterte said Sison should guarantee that his group would stop its extortion and taxation activities.

He also said that the CPP-NPA-NDF members should stay in a particular area and will not be allowed to carry firearms outside that area.

Prior to the oath-taking ceremony, the newly elected officials were given an orientation on the various campaigns of the DILG against Illegal drugs, criminality, violent extremism, and corruption. The fundamentals of federalism were also discussed.

Barangay leaders who joined the oath-taking rites came from Aurora (151 punong barangays); Bataan, 237; Bulacan, 569; Nueva Ecija, 849; Pampanga, 505; Tarlac, 511; Zambales, 230; Angeles City, 33; and Olongapo City, 17.

Some 92 percent or 2,843 out of the total 3,100 punong barangays in the region took their oath before the President.

History corrected: Church venue of 1st Independence Day Party

By Tonette Orejas (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

ANGELES CITY — For the first time since 1898, the Holy Rosary Church here has been included in Independence Day celebrations on June 12.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) had installed markers stipulating that this old Augustinian church was where the first anniversary of the 1898 declaration of Philippine independence from Spain had been celebrated.

Previous accounts erroneously named the Pamintuan Mansion here, where Emilio Aguinaldo stayed, as the venue of the celebration.

For Independence Day rites on Tuesday, a unity parade will start at the Pamintuan Mansion and proceed to Holy Rosary Church.

Relevant

To honor the relevance of this part of the city’s heritage district, a city council resolution approved the installation of a flagpole at the Sapang Balen Bridge.

The 1899 activities at the church would be replicated, said John Montances, city tourism officer.

Mass to mark the first anniversary in 1899, a speech given by Aguinaldo and luncheon for soldiers were held at the church courtyard, according to reports in La Independencia, the newspaper of the Philippine Revolution.

Venancio Concepcion gave the same accounts, which justified the corrections that NHCP made in 2017 at the request of Francis Musni, archivist of the Holy Angel University’s Center for Kapampangan Studies.

The Pamintuan Mansion had served the headquarters of Antonio Luna.

Aguinaldo witnessed a military parade from the mansion on the eve of the anniversary celebration. He had planned to make Tarlac the seat of the Republic in June 1899. ADVERTISEMENT

Wrong venue

Independence Day rites had been held at the Pamintuan Mansion for 17 years but national leaders started gracing these events only in the last six years.

In 2012, Musni found accounts in the June 14 and 15, 1899 editions of La Independencia about the celebration in the church.

The June 14, 1899 story, titled “La Fiesta Nacional (National Holiday),” reported: “On Monday morning (of June 12, 1899), a solemn outdoor Mass was celebrated in the town of Angeles commemorating the anniversary of the proclamation of national independence.”

The paper said people cheered and “a lot of enthusiasm and cordiality reigned on that day among the participants.” The troops were served “an extraordinary feast.”

The next day, La Independencia featured a letter written by an editor that described the eve of June 12, 1899 as “a golden date that must not be forgotten.”

Old accounts

Marching bands from the Pampanga towns of Porac, Magalang, Sta. Rita and Angeles arrived on June 11, 1899, to greet Aguinaldo at his residence (the Pamintuan Mansion) and play the national anthem before marching on the main streets of Angeles, according to the editor’s account.

There was no mention of the unfurling of the flag, which was among the highlights of reenactment at the mansion.

Instead, the letter reported: “As they passed through the streets, the banner of the Motherland was warmly cheered by the immense crowd that overflowed the streets and by the marching bands that launched into the air the gallant melodies of our national march.

“Before being taken to the headquarters, the flag was taken to the palace of the President, and was once again greeted by the music and by a picket line of soldiers.”

Two bands, positioned in front of the Pamintuan Mansion, played the “most exquisite repertoire of selected pieces” until 10 p.m.

Both accounts suggested that the venue of the first anniversary celebration was larger than previously thought and was not confined to the mansion built by Mariano Pamintuan in the 1890s as a gift to his son, Florentino.

Cops nab Korean drug ring leader in Angeles City

By TONETTE OREJAS (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

ANGELES CITY — The police on Saturday (June 9) reported the discovery of a newly formed drug syndicate led by a South Korean man who was arrested in Angeles City on Friday (June 8).

Kim Sangsu, 24, was apprehended in a drug bust in his house in Barangay (village) Pampang together with a supposed cohort, Eclarina Danila, 27, said Chief Supt. Amador Corpus, Central Luzon police director.

Korean agents assisted the police, which reported seizing from Sangsu and Danila about four grams of shabu (crystal meth) packed in eight sachets and valued at P120,000.

Three mobile telephones and the marked money were also found among the suspects’ items.

Corpus said the Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, which led the sting operation, has yet to identity the gang that Sangsu purportedly heads.

Cases for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (Republic Act 9165) were filed against the suspects.

Sangsu’s arrest followed the seizure of a kilogram of shabu from a man in Angeles City last Thursday (June 7).

Police did not say if the two arrests were related.

Police release over 400 Pinoys nabbed for alleged online stock trading scam

By MARLLY ROME BONDOC (RSJ, GMA News)

Authorities have released over 400 Filipinos who were arrested in Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles City, Pampanga for their alleged involvement in a multi-million dollar online stock trading, Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said Friday.

The 474 Filipinos were released "upon the recommendation of the inquest prosecutors of the Department of Justice to refer their case for further investigation."

The Filipinos were employees of International Brandings Development Marketing, Inc. (IBD), where the suspected "boiler room" is operating.

"The charge against them remains and they will be given a chance to file their counter affidavits," PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group director Chief Superintendent Marni Marcos Jr. said in a text message.

The Filipinos were released before midnight Thursday after they were brought to Camp Crame, Quezon City for inquest proceedings, said Marcos.

The PNP-ACG on June 6 conducted simultaneous operations in three buildings of the IBD which resulted to the arrest of 482 individuals who were involved in a fraudulent online trading.

However, the eight Israelis who were caught in the act of managing, operating and manning the operations of their fraudulent online activity will remain detained with no bail recommended.

"Lahat ng mga Filipinos, 'yung mga employees were all released for further investigation. That is based on the findings of the five prosecutors from DOJ kagabi. Lahat ng Israeli nationals are all detained with no bail recommended," Albayalde said.

Marcos said the suspects are supposedly operating as a call center defrauding victims for around two and a half years.

"Their modus operandi is like a stock trading scam, meaning they invite investors through online. So again after that they will get details of your bank accounts, credit cards," Marcos said.

The Filipino suspects were caught while in the "act of communicating and doing online transactions with foreign 'clients' from Europe, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Russia."

The suspects were able to reap $1 million USD each day from their foreign victims.

They will face charges for violation of Sections 4 (a)(5) and 5(a) of the Republic Act No. 10175 or the "Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012” and charges in relation to Article 315 (Syndicated Estafa) of the Revised Penal Code.

June 15 a non-working day in Angeles City

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

ANGELES CITY -- Malacañang has declared June 15, 2018 a special non-working day in Angeles City in “remembrance of the ruinous volcanic eruption” of Mount Pinatubo 27 years ago.

This was gleaned in Presidential Proclamation Number 500 signed by Acting Executive Secretary Michael Ong dated May 24, 2018.

“By the authority of the president, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, do hereby declare Friday, June 15, 2018, a special (non-working) day in the City of Angeles,” Ong stated.

The same proclamation stated that the eruption of Mount Pinatubo on June 15, 1991, which is the second largest in the 20th century, caused massive destruction to the provinces of Zambales, Pampanga, Bataan, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija.

“In view of rationalizing and integrating the government’s rehabilitation efforts in the aftermath of the eruption, then President Corazon C. Aquino created a task force on the rehabilitation of areas affected by the Mount Pinatubo eruption,” Ong stressed.

He added that the proclamation was issued to render appropriate tribute to those who perished, as well to those who survived, and to those who helped in the relocation, rehabilitation, and recovery of families affected by the disaster.

“It is but fitting and proper that the people of Angeles City be given full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies,” Ong stated.

DTI launches first Aeromart summit in Clark

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT—The first “Aeromart Summit Clark” hosted by the Board of Investments (BOI) of the Department of Trade and Industry was launched here on Monday.

In her welcome remarks, DTI Assistant Secretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba said the Aeromart summit features the growing capabilities and potential of the Philippines in aerospace manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul and aviation training.

“We are pursuing the development of an integrated aerospace supply chain by further enhancing our capabilities in various segments of the industry and promoting the participation of our automotive, electronics and IT-BMP [information technology-business process management] industries in aerospace,” Aldaba said.

“We wish to replicate the successes of our companies that have diversified from other industries to aerospace and now they are our key partners in and stalwarts of the Philippine aerospace industry,” she added.

According to the DTI, the Philippines is projected to grow more than five times its current economic size to become the 24th biggest economy in the world by 2030.

“We are confident that the Philippine aerospace industry will play an important role in achieving this, especially with aerospace exports posting 42-percent growth from 2010 to 2016,” Aldaba said.

“From our end, we will continue to invest in the development of necessary infrastructures and in the development of our people to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth,” she said.

“Our government has also placed emphasis on the implementation of an Inclusive, Innovation, Industrial Strategy (I3S) which seeks to create globally competitive and innovative industries such as the aerospace industry, Aldaba said.

Two panel discussions were featured in opening day of the summit beginning with “Building a stronger Philippine aerospace industry” and “How to manage supply chain in Asia.”

Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo, DTI undersecretary and BOI managing head, also delivered a message as well as other speakers on the first day of the three-day summit.

Widus Foundation joins Brigada Eskwela 2018

(Manila Standard)

Widus Hotel and Casino Clark, through its corporate charity arm, Widus Foundation Inc. (WFI), geared up to give back by extending its support during the recent Brigada Eskwela Cleanup campaign in Pampanga.

Empowered by the company’s “Care Beyond Compare” philosophy, atleast 30 Widus employees volunteered in the annual back-to-school event by providing services to Justino Sevilla High School in Arayat last May 29, 2018 and, in San Isidro Elementary School in Magalang on May 30, 2018.

The group led by WFI manager, Ronnel Golimlim, came out to clean the library facilities, paint walls with artworks, set up desktop computers, refurbish leisure reading areas, and arrange books.

Golimlim believes that engaging the Widus Group employees in WFI activities creates a venue for our their workforce to give backthethe to commthe unity by cultivating volunteerism alongside efficiently carrying out and sustaining the company’s education-related projects which embodies its advocacy to help put a premium on education.

“Aside from our participation in Department of Education’s week-long cleanup and maintenance volunteer program, WFI will also rehabilitate these schools’ libraries as a continuation of what we have started with our signature “Adopt-a-Library” campaign,” Golimlim said.

He further added that the campaign will greatly benefit the more than 5000 Junior and Senior High School in Justino Sevilla and about 200 elementary students in San Isidro Elementary School upon its completion and turnover in June.

WFI’s Adopt-a-Library project which started in October 2017 aims to promote quality education by fostering existent and non-existent libraries in public schools through renovating, equipping and supplementing existing school libraries.

The newly established foundation who achieved the certification from Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC) hopes to build more beautiful and functional libraries whereby students can have an easy access to conducive and colourful learning spaces which can promote their lifelong passion to reading, intellectual curiosity and independent learning.

PH to host 2019 Asia Sudoku Championship

(PR)

MANILA -- The Philippines will host the 2019 Asia Sudoku Championship (ASC) in January next year.

This was bared during the signing of a new memorandum of agreement on Wednesday for the holding of five math contests in the country by the Mathematics Trainers Guild-Philippines (MTG), represented by president Dr. Isidro Aguilar, Dr. Simon Chua and Myrna Agtarap, and sponsor SM Supermalls represented by Millie Dizon, SM senior vice president for marketing.

According to Aguilar, the 2019 Asia Sudoku Championship will be held on Jan. 25 and 26 next year at the SM City Clark in Angeles, Pampanga. The contest is sanctioned by the World Puzzle Federation, which organizes the World Sudoku Championship (WSC). This year, the ASC was held on Jeju Island, South Korea.

“We’re looking forward to the international contest. We were able to see one in Iloilo and we were amazed at how the parents and the children got together for it. This is something we look forward to this time in the country,” said Dizon.

Aguilar said this will be the first time that the country will host the Asia Sudoku Championship, which is expected to attract the best Sudoku players in the region.

Under the agreement, besides the ASC, selected SM Supermalls will also be the venue for the 13th Philippines Super Sudoku Challenge (PSSC), MTG-SM-Department of Education (DepEd) Family Math Quest, National Mathematical Olympiad for Senior High School, 2018 MTG-SM-SHARP-DepEd Math Trail and Problem Solving Competitions.

The 13th PSSC regional elimination rounds will be held on Sept. 29 at SM Supermalls in Cebu, Pampanga, Cagayan de Oro, Dasmarinas (Cavite), Iloilo, Lucena, Baliwag, Bacolod, Lipa (Batangas), Rosales (Pangasinan), Tarlac, Davao, Naga, Olongapo and Marikina. The PSSC national finals will be held on Nov. 24.

In addition, the Math Trail contest is on Oct. 14 and the Family Math Quest and National Mathematical Olympiad for Senior High School will be held on November 10.

“We are very happy and privileged to be partnering again with MTG. We’ve been partners for many years. We’ve seen how these children have grown and they really brought much honor to the country,” said Dizon.

Clark, Labor office conduct training on ‘Ergonomics’

(PR)

CLARK FREEPORT -- To optimize worker’s comfort, health and productivity here, the Health and Sanitation Division (HSD) of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole)-Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), recently conducted a training on “Ergonomics in the Workplace.”

According to CDC-HSD manager Dr. Clemencita Dobles, the said activity aims to match the design of equipment or work stations with the capabilities, limitations and needs of a worker.

The principle of ergonomics suggests that the implementation of this program in a working environment will reduce the risk of developing diseases concerning muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons that may affect the productivity of every employee. Some of the work-related diseases that may be prevented include carpal tunnel syndrome, muscles strains and low back injuries among others.

Dobles also said that the activity will help the workers in this Freeport to interact most efficiently and safely once the ergonomic program was integrated in the workplace.

During the event, Dr. Beatriz Villanueva shared some insights on how the participants can incorporate the concept of ergonomics in their respective businesses and workplace.

In the activity, they highlighted that the ergonomics program concentrates on what kind of work you do, tools and the over-all nature of the job. It is directed in making changes in the work place that will make an employee safe, comfortable and less prone to work-related injuries.

Some 55 participants from different companies here and outside the Freeport attended the said training. Twenty- two attendees from various locators here participated in the event, they include representatives from The Medical City–Clark, Foton Phils. Inc., Honda Cars Angeles–Clark, Luenthai, Sutherland, Midori Clark Hotel and Casino, Dornier Technology Inc., UPS International Inc., and Global Gateway Development Corporation among others.

Angeleño SK officials take oath

By REYNALDO G. NAVALES

NEWLY-ELECTED Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) or youth council officials and federation officers in Angeles City on Monday took their oath of office before Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan at the legislative building here.

The young leaders were sworn into duty through a solemn ceremony organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Angeles City Youth Development Office (ACYDO).

The mass oath-taking serves as the first after the eight-year hiatus of SK elections due to reconsiderations on the SK Law and mandate.

In his inspirational message, Pamintuan, also League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) president, stressed the relevance of the SK in local governance as they remain to be a vital catalyst and role model to the youth and the rest of the city.

“The youth is the most prized sector in the society. They can influence what will become of society in the future, which is why it is important that they introduce programs that go beyond the simple; plans that are intentional and intelligent,” he said.

The city’s new set of SK Federation Officers include SK President Arnoah Prince Mandani of Barangay Capaya, Vice President Renzo Carlo Santiago of Cutcut, Secretary Aris Pamintuan of Malabanias, Treasurer Karlo Sicat of Sto Cristo, Auditor Jay Edward Pineda of Sta. Teresita, PRO Kyra Christine Licup of Lourdes Sur, and Sergeant-At-Arms Emmanuel Arceo of Cutud, Christian Caligagan of Cuayan, and Erwin Dimalanta of Salapungan.

DILG-Angeles City Director Martin Pores Moral expressed his optimism on the youth council’s comeback saying he is “confident that they will embody the ideals of a public servant who is “Mahusay, Matino at Maaasahan”, which is in line with this year’s nationwide campaign.

“The youth council is granted the role to survey and act on the needs of the young people. I think these newly elected officers will do their duty, but we should wait and see how they will prove that they are indeed the pag-asa ng bayan,” said Moral.

Meanwhile, SK Federation president Mandani assured that the youth leaders are ready for their mandate.

“To my fellow SK officials, let’s show our seniors that we are not here for nothing, that the Sangguniang Kabataan is valuable, so let us always be wise,” stated SK President Mandani.

Under the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, the SK is expected to serve for a three-year term as the highest policy-making body to decide on matters affecting the youth in the barangay, with the duty to develop a Comprehensive Barangay Youth Development Plan.

Hungary opens Cebu, Angeles City consulates

(BusinessMirror)

THE honorary consulate general of Hungary in Angeles City, Pampanga, opened its doors on May 11 to provide a live and local connection between the said country and “one of the most dynamic parts of Luzon.”

It will be led by Consul General Ad Honorem Alfonso S. Yuchengco III, who has been representing Hungary for more than 20 years in the Philippines as consul general.

During the absence of a resident diplomatic mission, Yuchengco looked after the interests of Hungary and its citizens in Manila. Recognizing his dedication and achievements in his 20 years of service, Hungary decided to task the consul general with another important region after the reopening of its embassy.

Meanwhile, another honorary consulate of Hungary was inaugurated on May 16 to establish ties between the European country and the Visayan region. It also marked the appointment of Enrilen Joy Benedicto-Tan as the area’s new honorary consul. Advertisement

Well known in local circles, the Cebuana businesswoman holds several managerial and directorial positions in real estate, construction, furniture and agricultural firms. She actively participates in the bustling business and tourism activities of the island.

The daughter of Consul Ad Honorem of Belgium Enrique L. Benedicto and niece of Ambassador Francisco L. Benedicto, Benedicto-Tan carries a long and distinguished family tradition of diplomatic and consular service.

The embassy of Hungary in the Philippines reopened in March 2017, bridging a gap of more than two decades since it closed in 1995.

PHL’s reliable partner

HUNGARY is a country in Central Europe founded in the 11th century, defined by its long history, distinct language and unique culture of art, music and innovation. After a storied past of sporadic contacts, its embassy operated between 1991 and 1995 in Manila and reopened in 2017 after a 21-year hiatus.

Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó visited the Philippines in March 2017 to reopen the embassy. It highlighted the growing importance of the Philippines and its potential for Hungary as a reliable partner in trade and investment, research and education, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Szijjártó then signed several cooperation pacts, including an Agreement on Economic Cooperation establishing the Philippines-Hungary Joint Economic Commission.

Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol and Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez both have visited Hungary since the reopening of its embassy, which proves that the bilateral relations between both countries are in continuous expansion.

Ambassador Dr. József Bencze leads the Hungarian embassy in the Philippines. He previously served as envoy of Hungary to Skopje, Macedonia between 2011 and 2016, and was his country’s National Chief of Police between 2007 and 2010. He presented his credentials to President Duterte on December 6, 2016.

More hotels, industrial spaces needed in Clark — Colliers report

By Arra B. Francia (Reporter)

PROPERTY developers should take advantage of the government’s implementation of more infrastructure projects in Pampanga, as real estate consultancy services Colliers Philippines urged companies to build more hotels, convention halls, office towers, retail strips, and industrial spaces in preparation for the expected influx of residents and tourists in the area.

There are currently five infrastructure projects set to be completed in Clark, Pampanga in the next few years. This includes the Clark Airport Expansion, which is expected to bring capacity to 12 million annually by 2020, triple its current capacity.

Connecting Clark International Airport to Subic Port will be the Subic-Clark Cargo Railway, which seeks to maximize the underutilized Subic Port and effectively decongest Metro Manila. This railway is targeted to be completed by 2022.

The other projects are the 106-kilometer Manila to Clark Passenger Railway; the Skyway Stage 3 which will facilitate travel from San Fernando, Angeles City, and Clark through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx); and the NLEx-South Luzon Expressway Connector Road.

“Colliers believes (these) should play a significant role in transforming Metro Clark into the country’s next major economic corridor. We see these infrastructure projects boosting office, residential, retail, hotel, and industrial demand in Metro Clark,” according to a report authored by Colliers Research Manager Joey Roi Bondoc.

To-date, dominant national players have already established their presence in Clark. The Filinvest group is building the New Clark City alongside the redevelopment of Mimosa Leisure Center. The Gotianun-led company is also poised to build a $200-million casino with an international partner in the future.

Businessman Dennis A. Uy’s Udenna Corp. will also be developing its own mixed-use estate in Pampanga called Clark Global City. The group earlier said it will pour in P6 billion to redevelop the area.

The SM Group of country’s richest man Henry Sy, Sr. has also been expanding its footprint in Clark, adding office buildings and a 154-room Park Inn Hotel to its mall there. The company will be building a convention center within its complex by 2019, in a bid to capture the growing market for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in Clark.

Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) and Megaworld Corp. are both developing their own townships in Pampanga, with the former’s 1,800-hectare Alviera in Porac and the latter’s Capital Town in San Fernando.

With more developers cashing in on Pampanga’s growth, Colliers noted that companies should differentiate their projects from others. This means being able to respond to the needs of both tenants and investors, beyond the usual office, residential, retail, and hotel projects.

“Developers should incorporate institutional uses such as education and health care. Other developers have been more aggressive in differentiating their communities by integrating entertainment and recreational facilities. Moving forward, developers need to be more innovative to be steps ahead of the competition,” the real estate consultancy said.

The company also encouraged the development of more industrial spaces and warehouses in Clark, as it sees the industrial hubs in the Cavite-Laguna-Batangas area spilling over to Clark. It highlighted the need for more standard factory buildings to support the growth of the country’s exports and imports.

More hotels and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) facilities should be built as well, as Clark International Airport’s expansion is set to attract more people into the area.

“We recommend that developers cash in on this opportunity by building more three to four-star hotels particularly as these facilities mainly cater to Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Taiwanese tourists, who are the major visitors to the Philippines,” Colliers said.

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