Angeles City News January 2015

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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Angeles city catholic church.jpg
Angeles City Catholic Church
Angeles city crucifixion of the faithfuls.jpg
Sacrifice of the faithfuls by crucifying themselves.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

HAU announces Founders Day awardees

(Press Release)

ANGELES CITY -- Holy Angel University has announced the recipients of this year’s Founders Day awards.

The awardees are Ambeth R. Ocampo, popular historian, book author, lecturer, and associate professor of the Ateneo de Manila University, recipient of the Juan D. Nepomuceno Cultural Award (Research and Scholarship category); Andy P. Alviz, musician, writer, choreographer and founder of ArtiSta. Rita, ImaArti and Teatru Kapampangan, recipient of the Juan. D. Nepomuceno Cultural Award (Arts category); Felicidad Tan Sy, co-founder and trustee of SM Foundation, Inc., whose advocacies include education, health and community development, recipient of the Laus Deo Semper Award for outstanding community service; Florina F. Castillo, first lay principal of the St. Scholastica’s College grade school department, recipient of the Order of St. Michael the Archangel given to Catholic lay educators; Ferdinand D. Lapuz, independent film producer and advocate of quality Filipino films, recipient of the Order of St. Gabriel the Archangel, given to outstanding HAU alumni; and Merle Villanueva Morgan, former Personnel Officer of Holy Angel University, recipient of the Order of St. Raphael the Archangel, given to former HAU employees for exemplary record of service.

The University confers the Order of the Archangels on individuals who serve as inspiration and role models by representing the best qualities of the archangels. The special category of Laus Deo Semper Award, named after the school motto (“Praise be to God always”) is given to an individual who is known for his work in community service and development.

Previous recipients of these awards include Antonio Meloto Jr., Rosa Rosal, Onofre Pagsanhan, Apl.de.Ap, Regalado Trota Jose, and Carmelita Quebengco.

The Juan D. Nepomuceno Cultural Awards, on the other hand, are given to cultural workers, scholars and artists who advance the cause of Kapampangan studies and Kapampangan culture. The awards are named after the University founder who was a cultural advocate through his works in the Kapampangan language.

Previous awardees include National Artist Bencab, Patis Tesoro, Brillante Mendoza, Anicia del Corro, John Larkin, Willy Layug, and Nina Tomen.

The HAU Founders Day awards are given every year during the birth anniversary of the University founder, Juan D. Nepomuceno on March 8. This year is Don Juan’s 123rd birth anniversary and the University’s 82nd founding anniversary.

Academic and non-academic departments within the University submit their nominations which are short-listed by a committee before being forwarded to the Board of Trustees for final decision.

The conferment ceremonies will be held at the University Theatre on Friday, March 6 at 10:00 am.

Pamintuan reminds senior citizens: ‘You’re all automatic PhilHealth members’

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan yesterday issued a reminder to all senior citizens that they are all automatic members of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and as such are entitled to all benefits of the government's medicare program.

"Republic Act No. 10645 was signed into law by President Benigno Aquino III on November 5, 2014. This law amended Republic Act No. 7432 or the Senior Citizens Act and mandated that all Filipinos, 60 years old and above who are not PhilHealth beneficiaries or members shall receive automatic membership in the program," Pamintuan said.

"Under this law, a senior citizen does not need to get a PhilHealth card, and needs only to show any identification card as proof that he or she is a senior citizen and will then be given all the benefits and services of a PhilHealth member," he added.

The new law, which was authored by Senator Ralph Recto and Representatives Rogelio Espina, Angelina Tan, Alfredo Vargas III and Jerry Treñas, also amended Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, which gave PhilHealth benefits only to indigent Filipinos.

Pamintuan called on all private hospital and clinics in Angeles City and the Ospital Ning Angeles and all rural health units of the city government to ensure that the new law is implemented. He also instructed the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) to monitor compliance of hospitals and health institutions to the said law and immediately report violations.

Artists to hail national arts month with exhibit

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- Artists here will be celebrating the National Arts Month this February with a campus exhibit dubbed "The Casampatan: Beauty at its Peak" at the Holy Angel University Student Center.

The exhibit will run from February 16 to 28 and is open for free. The exhibit targets to showcase among young students the different styles and artworks of Kapampangan artists in the hope of encouraging the younger generation to go into the arts.

The event also aims to highlight this year's arts month and the importance of sectoral support for the arts and local artists.

Since 1991, when Presidential Proclamation 683 was signed declaring February as National Arts Month, the county has been celebrating the occasion with government and artist groups hosting respective events to highlight the occasion.

The exhibit will feature the works of Angelo "Long" Melo, Antu Ong, Archie Evangelista, Arnel Garcia, Don De Dios, Joel Mallari, Justin Emmanuel Dizon, Ralvin Dizon, Sig Yu and Wiljun Magsino. The event is expected to showcase dozens of artworks with artists available to entertain student queries.

The event is made possible through the support of the Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies, The Social Studies Circle, CSC-CASEd, CLTV 36 and Alexander Cauguiran.

Regulate plastic bags – Lazatin

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- A neophyte councilor has filed a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating the use of plastic bags within the city.

Councilor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. called his proposed ordinance “Plastic Bag Regulation Ordinance of Angeles City.”

He said this is aimed “to protect and advance the rights of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology by minimizing the proliferation of plastic waste through regulation of the use of plastic bags.”

Based from the data submitted by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) to the City Council, the city generates an average of 4,600 tons of plastic annually, Lazatin said.

“The city has been dealing with a pressing problem with solid waste management. Most of our solid waste material is made up of plastics, a non-biodegradable material that poses a great risk to our environment. Laws and policies such as this can help the city address its problem with solid waste management,” Lazatin explained.

Once passed, commercial establishments shall be required to provide free paper bags, cloth bags, basket or woven bags made from biodegradable packaging materials, woven native bags and other similar materials in lieu of plastic shopping bags.

All residents, transients and individuals in the city will be encouraged to bring their own plastic bags to stores as carryout bags.

Three months upon the approval of the ordinance, stores shall provide free recycled paper bags every Friday to serve as carryout bags for the purchased items of customers not carrying their own reusable bags.

Also on the same day, stores are prohibited from providing free plastic bags to their customers except for secondary packaging, which will be used solely for wet goods.

Eight months after the approval of the ordinance, stores will provide recyclable bags, for a fee, to serve as carryout bags for purchased items of customers not carrying their own reusable bags.

Use of plastics as carryout bags for free or for a fee will be totally prohibited except for secondary packaging, which will be used solely for wet goods.

The Cenro will be tasked to monitor the compliance of all stores to the ordinance.

Violators of the ordinance will be given a warning with compulsory attendance to an Environmental Consciousness Seminar for the first offense.

A P1,000-fine is meted out for the second offense; P3,000 fine for the third offense and; closure or cancellation of the Mayors/Business Permit is mandated for the final violation.

The proposed ordinance also provides for the creation of a trust fund for all fines collected, which will solely be used for environmental and solid waste projects of the city, Lazatin added.

Pamintuan: Street kids rescue not for Apec

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- The City Government here has denied reports that it has been rounding up street children because of the ongoing Asia Pacific Economic Conference (Apec) meeting inside the Clark Freeport.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan described the report as "wrong and malicious."

"We have been doing this years before. It is our policy to rescue street children roaming the streets in line with the country's compliance to the Millennium Development Goals, the Local Government Code which explicitly states that 'it shall be a policy to protect and rehabilitate children gravely threatened or endangered by circumstances which affect or will affect their survival and normal development and over which they have no control', and other pertinent laws like the Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse Act and the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act," said Pamintuan.

The mayor said that the children roam the streets because they are hungry and some of them have resorted to begging to buy and sniff "rugby" or addictive solvent.

"This enabled them to forget hunger. We feed them, give them shelter and return them to their respective families. We also educate them and their parents. In some cases, we even file formal complaints against the parents in line with the Juvenile Welfare Act," he added.

The problem is nationwide with around 45,000 to 50,000 highly visible children on the streets, according to the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) in their article titled "Proliferation of street children: a threat to the MDGs," said the mayor.

"We did this in 2011 when we noted hordes of Badjaos were roaming our streets who put up shanties along our river banks. After negotiating with them, they agreed to voluntarily demolish their makeshift houses built on the riverbed of Abacan in exchange for cash assistance to go back to their province. We will do it again and again and again for the welfare of our children and the people of the City of Angeles," he said.

He also lamented that after receiving financial assistance from the local government, many of the relocated Badjaos returned to the streets.

The City Government received complaints about street children who become aggressive and hostile if they were not given alms; resorting to spitting at people, snatching and other petty crimes.

In order to address this concern, the local government has partnered with NGOs, including the different Rotary Clubs in Angeles City, Kuliat Foundation and concerned business establishments to come up with a long-term and sustainable solution to rehabilitate and educate these children.

Pamintuan admitted that this is a complicated problem and there is no easy fix for it.

"There must be a concerted effort among all stakeholders to put available resources together, in order to assure that our children are not out in the street begging and being introduced to a life of criminality. They should be in school learning or with their fellow children playing and studying in a safe and secured environment," he said.

New city roundabout inaugurated

(Sun.Star Pampanga)

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade recently led the inauguration of the newly constructed five-lane roundabout (rotunda) in Barangay Balibago, this city.

According to the mayor, the Bayanihan Park Rotunda has proven itself as an effective measure to improve the traffic condition in this congested area, especially to motorists, public commuters and pedestrians alike.

"The roundabout will complement the newly widened MacArthrur Highway in Balibago, where we have also removed the unsightly electric posts with dangling and mostly unused wires. And I think the motoring public will benefit from all these infrastructure developments greatly as businesses, tourists and investors continue to thrive in our city”, said Pamintuan.

He then lauded Tugade, for his steadfast commitment to accomplish and complete all major infrastructure projects that CDC initiated, especially those which were started in relation to the hosting of Clark and Angeles City of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit 2015 (Apec).

For his part, Tugade underscored the importance of the cooperation between the CDC and the Angeles City Local Government, particularly in maintaining order, traffic and security and cleanliness in the area. The local government, through the Public Transport and Regulatory Office (PTRO) and the Angeles City Traffic Management and Enforcement Unit (ACTMEU) has implemented a traffic scheme that will be convenient to all stakeholders. The traffic and security scheme will be fully implemented during and after the APEC summit.

Tugade added that the CDC is now in the process of starting the construction of the East Perimeter Fence that would provide alternative traffic solutions and additional options to further reduce the number of vehicles plying the area, specifically those coming from Mabalacat City, who will have a direct access to Clark without passing by Angeles City.

According to several studies in traffic and road safety management, roundabouts have proven to be the safer and more efficient way to reduce road collisions. In fact, they are a lot safer than traditional stop signs or signal-controlled intersections, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, a US non-profit organization that aims to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes.

A part of the reason why roundabouts help reduce the likelihood of road accidents and collisions is because motorists have no light to beat. They also have to enter low travel speeds in them, and they are directed via one-way travel, which eliminates the possibility for T-bone and head-on collisions.

The Bayanihan Park Rotunda project was funded by Clark Development Corporation (CDC) at P15.14 million.

Also in attendance during the inauguration were Bases Conversion Development Authority president Arnel Casanova, CDC Chairman Eliseo Santiago, CDC Director Rommel Bondoc, Mabalacat City Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales, and Balibago Barangay Captain Tony Mamac.

APEC Senior Officials' Meeting begins on Monday, says Palace

(PNA), SCS/PND/SSC

MANILA, Jan. 25 (PNA) -- Malacañang announced on Sunday that the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Senior Officials’ Meeting will begin on Monday in Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles City, Pampanga and Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said APEC’s meeting theme this year is "Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World."

“Ang nasabing pagpupulong ay isang mahalagang bahagi ng nakatakdang pagdaraos ng 23rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting sa Nobyembre ng taong ito kung saan ang Pilipinas ang tatayo bilang host at tagapangulo,” said Coloma in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), over 30 working group and committee level meetings will be held in the first leg of the APEC meeting.

Among the topics to be discussed are trade and investment, economic and technical cooperation, anti-corruption, combating terrorism, fisheries and the seas, customs, expanding e-commerce, life sciences and health, fighting illegal logging, and improving different services.

“Layon din ng pagpupulong na isulong ang mga programa at lahat ng patakaran hinggil sa haligi ng APEC na trade and investment liberalization, business facilitation, at economic and technical cooperation,” Coloma added.

Coloma said there are four priorities to be discussed during the meeting -- enhancing regional economic integration; fostering small and medium enterprises’ participation in the regional and global economy; investing in human capital development; and building sustainable and resilient communities.

“Bilang host, magdaraos din ang Pilipinas ng isang diyalogo sa pagitan ng mga kinatawan mula sa pampubliko at pribadong sektor upang talakayin ang mga paraan tungo sa pagpapalakas ng kalakalan at kakayahan sa sektor ng information technology and business process management (IT-BPM), creative industries, at research and development services sa rehiyon ng Asya Pasipiko,” said Coloma.

APEC is composed of 21 member economies representing Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong China, Japan, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, United States of America and Vietnam.

Burial assistance for seniors pushed

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- A neophyte councilor, Carmelo Lazatin Jr., has filed a measure granting burial assistance to senior citizens here.

Proposed Ordinance No. PO-816-01-15 otherwise known as “Senior Citizen’s Burial Assistance Ordinance of Angeles City,” aims to ensure a dignified burial to the elderly of Angeles City, regardless of their economic status.

“This is in addition to the benefits the government provides to our senior citizens as mandated by Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which my father, former Congressman Carmelo ‘Tarzan’ Lazatin, co-authored during his term as First District Congressman,” the younger Lazatin said.

Under the proposed ordinance, beneficiaries of the deceased senior citizen will be entitled to claim P5,000 burial assistance from the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).

Claimants must present documents verifying their relation to the deceased and a photocopy of the deceased’s Death Certificate, duly authenticated by the City Civil Registrar.

The ordinance also mandates the city mayor to appropriate the funds for the program.

“The budget may be augmented depending on the recommendation by OSCA and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO),” Lazatin said.

All systems go for Apec

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- It's all systems go for the of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Senior Officials Meeting (Apec-SOM) inside this Freeport from January 26 to February 7 this year.

The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) said that hotels and the convention areas to be used during the meetings are now ready, including the hotels that many of the delegates will be staying during duration of the summit.

CDC is expecting more than 1,600 Apec delegates during the two-week conference here.

CDC president Arthur Tugade said that requirements for staging the APEC-SOM meeting in Clark are almost in place, including the augmentation of security personnel from the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The more than 3,000 security personnel are now deployed in strategic areas in and outside Clark to make the Apec-SOM secured while the conference is ongoing.

The Apec is a group of 21-member economies that meet regularly to support sustainable growth and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region.

Chairmanship of the summit involves actual hosting and chairing a series of meetings from the Senior Officials Meetings (SOMs) to the APEC Ministerial Meetings (AMMs) all the way up to the Apec Economic Leaders Meeting (AELM). These meetings will run from December 2014 to November 2015.

In Clark, discussions will focus on economic integration, disaster preparedness and management, and trade and investment goals, among others.

Technological breakthroughs, the rise of pandemics, and the effects of natural calamities will also take center stage during the meeting. These issues were identified as hurdles not only to the Apec member economies, but also to their citizens.

Apec aims to foster inclusive economic growth and address income inequality.

The Clark app on Apec is also now ready especially for android users to keep track on the Apec events in Clark.

Tugade said that Widus Hotel and Casino has dedicated its one tower hotel and will soon request for another 30 rooms from the hotel to make more rooms available.

PRO-3 conducts contingency planning for APEC summit

By Rea Katherine Mendoza [(PNA), CTB/ZST/RKM/PS]

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Jan. 22 (PNA) --The Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3) conducted a two-day contingency planning in preparation for Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings at Clark Freeport Zone Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

Chief Supt. Ronald Santos, PRO3 regional director, said Police Director Ricardo Marquez, the deputy for operations and national joint task force commander, presided the two-day contingency planning for its final preparations to ensure the success of the APEC Summit 2015.

"The contingency planning that was held Tuesday and Wednesday is to test the security preparations, operational readiness and adequacy of resources for said event," said Santos.

Marquez, in his lecture, said that “contingency planning is very important and are being done specifically for major events because failing to plan means planning to fail."

Through this contingency planning, the availability of financial, human and material resources is ensured, Marquez said.

Practical exercises were done by members of the Special Task Group “Clark” in order for them to be ready for unexpected events.

Since Tuesday, PNP personnel were already deployed within the summit venues and areas where the delegates will be billeted to ensure their safety and security as the APEC Special Senior Finance Officials Meeting (SSFOM) officially started Wednesday to be followed by the First Senior Officials' Meeting and Related Meetings (SOM) from January 26 to February 7, 2015.

A total of 3,740 PNP personnel will be deployed to Clark Freeport Zone and Subic Freeport, said Santos.

He said Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono Jr., Pampanga Police provincial director, is the Special Task Group "Clark" commander and Senior Superintendent Pedrito Delos Reyes, Olongapo City police director, is Special Task Group "Subic."

Santos said Senior Supt. Eden Ugale, Angeles City police director, is the commander of Special Task Group "Angeles City" to ensure the safety of delegates that will be billeted to various hotels outside Clark Freeport.

Senior Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe, deputy regional director for operations, on the other hand, was assigned as sub-commander of Special Task Group Clark-Subic.

Pamintuan approves monthly pay raise for day care workers

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- In a bid to reinforce and improve early childhood rearing, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan recently approved the increase in salaries of 72 daycare workers assigned in all 33 barangays of the city.

This year, daycare workers in the city will receive an additional P1,000 every month.

"The city is steadfast in its goal to support the youth – and this is just one of the many things that we can do to reassure Angeles’ future," Pamintuan said.

The mayor added that the increase is also a way in giving due recognition to the daycare workers of the city.

"Daycare workers are truly unsung heroes. Here in Angeles, day care workers serve almost 7,000 pre-school children. Within their vocation lies a responsibility for society, and it is only right to afford them with the extra compensation that they deserve," said Pamintuan.

The mayor also said that the city's positive financial position allows them to extend such salary increases.

Day care service is one of the major services provided by the City Social Welfare and Development Office for needy pre-school children.

Their goal is to provide pre-school children who may be neglected, abused, exploited or abandoned with their needs. Considered as second parents, day care workers are at the forefront of promoting a child’s welfare and enhance his opportunity for a useful and happy life.

CDC puts up P4.6-M toilet in time for APEC summit

By Ding Cervantes

CLARK FREEPORT - With a boast of P2.27-billion unprecendented cash position, the government-owned Clark Development Corp. (CDC) which runs this freeport has constructed a brand new P4.6-million toilet at the historic parade grounds here, just in time for hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit later this month.

The toilet with showers was among the projects named by CDC President-CEO Arthur Tugade already finished for the hosting of 1,700 senior ministers and delegates to the APEC summit which starts Jan. 21.

Socials for the APEC participants are reportedly slated at a section of the 20-hectare parade grounds where the new world-class toilet has been finished. Details on the toilet were not immediately available, but a worker said that each of the sections for male and female had two bowls.

Tugade, in a recent meeting with officers of the Capampangans in Media, Inc. (CAMI), said that the parade grounds have also been layered with rubberized pathways which have also been fitted with LED lights on posts. “There should be not only substantive results but also good memories and impression of the places where they (APEC activities) are held,” he said.

The parade grounds are the first site to host the Americans forces as horse-riding cavalries then known as Fort Stotsenberg in 1901. The construction of the ew toilet with shower has been hailed as a “needed project,” as the grounds often serve as venue for various international, national and local sports activities.

It is the first such structure to be built in the site. APEC organizing committee released a schedule of activities indicating that some 1,700 APEC participants here are to hold a total of 43 meetings, or an average of eight to 10 meetings daily for the duration of their summit lasting up to Feb. 7.

Tugade also said that “articulated buses” are to roam the roads of this freeport to transport APEC participants to various points. He bared plans to adopt this system beyond the APEC summit. The CDC has also established for the first time a CCTV command center along with a system of cameras that monitor gates and other sections of this freeport.

Tugade said foreign delegates to APEC are to be billeted in hotels within this freeport for security reasons, while their Filipino counterparts could be accommodated in hotels in nearby Angeles and other cities.

He also reported that the management of Fontana Leisure Estate is now ready with a new convention center “without any pillar in the middle” as specified in APEC requirements. The center can accommodate as many as 2,000 people.

The APEC sessions are to be closed door events, but that there would be a center for media at the Mimosa Convention Center about two kilometers away, he added.

Tugade said the first senior finance officers meetings are to be held from Jan. 21 to 22 at the Holiday Inn hotel, to be followed by more meetings starting Jan. 26 up to Feb. 7. Tugade reported that in 2014, the CDC earned P1.39 billion and now has a cash position of P2.27 billion.

2 more business conglomerates lured by Porac

By Ernesto Y. Tolentino

CLARK FREEPORT -- Two of the country’s giant corporate conglomerates are in serious negotiations to acquire large tracts of lands for development into residential and business hubs in Porac, Pampanga, it was disclosed by two-term Porac Mayor Carling Dela Cruz.

“If and when these developments materialize, this could hasten the municipality’s transformation into a bustling metropolis in Central Luzon within a decade,” he told members and guest of the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI) in last Friday’s regular weekly media forum at the Bale Balita (House of News) inside the Clark Freeport operated by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

He identified the two business groups eyeing a stake in Porac as the SM Group of Henry Sy, Sr., the nation’s richest businessman, and the conglomerate identified with Manny V. Pangilinan of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone-Manila Electric Co. combined, which also operates the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

SM, through its foundation, has established a foothold in Porac by actively supporting socio-civic projects in the town, like medical missions in partnership with non-government organizations (BGOs) such as Rotary International, Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Foundation, Kapampangan Development Foundation, among others, Dela Cruz told newsmen during the forum, hosted jointly by CAMI, CDC and Social Security System (SSS).

Pangilinan’s group, he said, has set its eyes on acquiring for commercial development a property adjacent to the newly-built SCTEX, which it has offered to operate and connect to NLEx.

The Ayala Group, developer of the Makati business district in Metro Manila, had earlier acquired some 1,100 hectares from the Puyat Family of the Manila Bak group in the municipality that is now developing into a residential-commercial-industrial township.

The P75-billion first phase of the venture is set for completion by the year 2020, or five years from now, Dela Cruz said, adding that this could further bolster the attraction of the town to both local and foreign investors a s viable investment area.

It was estimated that the Ayala Group would be investing a total of P3.1 trillion to complete its projects, which include a water-and-sewage system and a hydro-power facility, and help fully develop the town into a metropolis in the near future as envisioned by Dela Cruz and his town-mates.

Porac is a 35,000-ha. mountainous area on the north-western side of Pampanga and lies between the Clark Freeport, which houses the Clark International Airport (CIA), and the seaport in the province of Zambales managed by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

This strategic location of Porac is usually cited as the primary reason that lured the country’s corporate giants to acquire a stake in municipality and to do business, let alone its vast water resource and the progressive management style of its local executives led by Dela Cruz, the man credited for convincing the Ayala Group to invest in the town and uplift the sorry conditions of his townmates brought on by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991.

In addition, Porac still has a vast land area suitable for agricultural, commercial and industrial development compared to both Clark and Subic that are almost fully occupied by business locators.

50 kids rescued from Balibago streets

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Authorities here rescued Sunday some 50 children from the streets of an entertainment district in Barangay Balibago.

Balibago chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac said the kids are reportedly being used by crime syndicates on robbery, mendicancy, drugs, and other illegal activities.

The rescue operations was jointly conducted by Bantay Bayan members, purok leaders, policemen, social workers, and other volunteers, according to Mamac.

“The operation resulted to the rescue of more or less 50 children in conflict with law like rugby boys, pickpockets, snatchers, and mendicants along MacArthur Highway, Fields Avenue, Marlim Mansions Avenue, and other places in Balibago,” Mamac said.

Barangay scholars volunteered to prepare food (rice porridge) for the rescued children.

Mamac said they will be turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

“We hope that they will never come back to the streets,” Mamac said.

3,740 cops, soldiers deployed for APEC

By Franco G. Regala(With a report from Mar T. Supnad)

Camp Olivas, Pampanga — A total of 3,740 police officers and soldiers have been deployed at Clark Freeport and its surrounding areas to boost security in time for the Senior Officials’ Meeting and Related Meetings (SOM1) of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation scheduled on January 26-February 10, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said yesterday.

Chief Superintendent Ronald V. Santos, PRO3 officer-in-charge and also Regional Task Group commander, said the task of the 1,800-strong PRO3 contingent is to provide safety to least 1,700 senior economic ministers and 100 other local delegates.

“We have organized a Regional Task Group to ensure effective and efficient delivery of security coverage during the 2015 APEC Summit- SOM1. Series of coordinating conferences with other law enforcement agencies have also been conducted to guarantee the safety and security of all the delegates participating in the SOM1,” said Santos.

Their deployment this early, the PRO3 OIC said, has given way to a simulation exercise (SIMEX) to test the security preparation, operational readiness and resources yesterday. On Tuesday, there will be an accounting and deployment of personnel for the APEC Summit-SOM1 will be held on January 20,2015, Tuesday at Salakot, Angeles City.

“Kailangan (It is a must that) one week before (the event) ready na kami. The PNP is the lead role in terms of security matters,” he added.

Apart from policemen, 500 military personnel and reservists will assist in peace and order efforts at the specific conference venues.

“They (Armed Forces of the Philippines) will be lending us military 6×6 trucks, some of their dogs and other assets, including doctors, fire experts and other multipliers,” Santos said.

Pamintuan, Cabigting trade barbs

By Joey Pavia (Contributor)

ANGELES CITY – "I don’t want to be thrown into a fight. Let it wait."

Thus said Mayor Edgardo "EdPam" Pamintuan to journalists on Friday during his press conference when asked about the recent Facebook posts of Vice- Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting on the removal of her three workers stationed at the Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA).

Pamintuan said Vega-Cabigting "should just do her job as a vice-mayor and legislator enacting laws."

He added, "We just want to bring back order" in running the city government.

"What are they doing at ONA? We have social workers at the hospital who help anyone, including those referred to by the vice-mayor and city councilors," said Pamintuan.

Pamintuan said Vega-Cabigting and all the city councilors could help their constituent-patients at any given time and situation.

The two-term mayor cited a recent Commission on Audit (COA) report on the supposed collectibles from patients. He added, "Only P7-million was collected from the P27-million total collectibles."

"How much is the cost of a caesarean section on a private hospital? That's about P60,000. But it's only at least P3,000 at ONA," he said. "We must bring back sanity in the city."

In a phone interview on Friday, Vega-Cabigting said Pamintuan should know and understand that "holding a public post entails going the extra mile." She added that people "are expecting us to do more than what we were supposed to do, especially when they are plagued by sickness."

"Mayor Pamintuan was a former vice-mayor and he should understand this," said Vega-Cabigting.

She added that her workers who recently asked to return to the vice-mayor's office had been assigned at ONA since 2010, or shortly after they both ran in tandem and won in the elections that year. They ran together again in 2013 and both got re-elected.

Vega-Cabigting said that her people were at ONA to help and assist people who are sometimes "confused and are needing other forms of assistance."

"It's reeking with politics," said Vega-Cabigting when asked about the decision of Pamintuan to remove her people at ONA.

Asked about her political plans, Vega-Cabigting said, "It's going to the direction of me running for mayor in 2016." "My decision is not yet final because I am still consulting people and leaders."

"But they want me to be the first woman mayor of Angeles City," she said.

Clark Freeport set to be a Wi-Fi zone

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE -- This Freeport will soon be a Wi-Fi zone.

Roberto Tagamolila, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) assistant vice president for information technology, said the Wi-Fi project is one of the agency's long term goals to equip Clark with wireless technology.

"This is being worked now. Eventually after some matters are settled, we'll make Wi-Fi accessible to all who come to Clark," said Tagamolila.

"The idea is that as soon as they enter the gates of Clark, they could easily get a strong signal. So, there is no need for one to go to some commercial establishments to avail of free Wi-Fi to access the net because it will be opened to all once they are inside the Freeport,” he added.

Tagamolila said the Wi-Fi project will be under a proof-of-concept (POC) agreement. The utilization of the concept has no cost to the government and that the items undergo a trial period to determine its viability and cost-efficiency.

POC is a realization of a certain method or idea to demonstrate its feasibility or a demonstration in principle, whose purpose is to verify that some concept or theory has the potential of being used. It is usually small and may or may not be complete.

CDC is currently applying the POC strategy on the use of some 70 video surveillance cameras.

Some 38 of the total number of CCTVs have been installed in strategic locations to improve security measures and monitor activities before and during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation-Senior Officers’ Meeting (APEC-SOM) scheduled on January 26 to February 10.

After the trial period is exhausted, Tagamolila said the agency may or may not come up with the Terms of Reference (TOR) depending on the concept's workability, reliability and cost-efficiency.

“The whole point here is that we will be able to see the unforeseen. We will know what we really need,” he explained.

CDC president Arthur Tugade said CDC has introduced Clark Apps (Applications software) which could be downloaded by a user to a mobile device when inside the economic zone.

Tugade said they are trying to work it out with Google store to have the apps available even outside the industrial zone.

APEC delegates may use the application to search for places within Clark and nearby areas.

Hi-tech command center to beef up Clark security

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

CLARK FREEPORT -- A new command center with advanced technology shall beef up the security inside and within the perimeters of Clark Freeport during its hosting of the first Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) of the 2015 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit from January 26 to February 7.

Constructed in November last year, the one floor building in front of the Public Safety Department (PSD) of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is equipped with 38 cameras, nine TV wall monitors, eight computers, radios, and telephones.

It also has a viewing area as well as three rooms that house various offices.

"CCTV cameras have been installed in (most) of Clark's entrances and exits. The one in Sapang Bato Gate shall be placed within the week," CDC assistant vice-president for Security Services Ricardo Banayat said.

Moreover, those areas not easily accessible to CCTV cameras will have PSD personnel on the ground to monitor any problem or incident during the SOM.

"The command center is not just for APEC. This is a long term plan of (CDC) president Arthur Tugade to address security and to make the Freeport a safer place for the locators, tourists, and for conferences like this," Banayat said.

As part of the long-term plan for security, a video analytic surveillance shall be installed to enhance CDC's existing video surveillance systems.

Video analytics can do real-time event detection, post-event analysis, and extraction of statistical data while saving manpower costs and increasing the effectiveness of the surveillance system operation.

APEC began as an informal dialogue group in 1989, but has since become the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Philippines, as its current chair, will be hosting throughout the year and in key economic and tourist sites including Metro Manila, Clark, Tagaytay, and Boracay a number of meetings of senior officials (Cabinet undersecretaries and assistant secretaries) and ministers (Cabinet secretaries) prior to its conclusion in November with an Economic Leaders’ Meeting that shall be participated by heads of state and Government.

Apart from the Philippines, other members of Apec include Australia; Brunei Darussalam; Canada; Chile; People's Republic of China; Hong Kong, China; Indonesia; Japan; Republic of Korea; Malaysia; Mexico; New Zealand; Papua New Guinea; Peru; The Russian Federation; Singapore; Chinese Taipei; Thailand; United States of America; and Vietnam.

US-based charitable organization donates pacemakers to Angeles City hospital

(PNA), LAP/ZST/RKM/PS

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Jan. 13 (PNA) -- A US-based charitable institution that is headed by a Filipino is donating multi-million peso cardiac pacemakers to indigent patients of Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA) and nearby towns.

George Samson, president and CEO of World Medical Relief Inc., said the Detroit-based organization is in collaboration with the University of Michigan for the pacemaker project that will benefit poor Angelenos and the people of Pampanga in general.

“This project is first of its kind and we are starting it in the Philippines,” Samson said.

He said that a special operating room at the cardiac unit of the ONA is now being put up as part of the arrangements with the Angeles City government.

It would be headed by Dr. Rey Franco, a renowned cardiologist and heart surgeon who has a long record of medical practice in the United States.

WMRI had previously donated cardiac monitors to the local government hospital in Angeles City. They are now in use at ONA’s Cardiac Unit.

A pacemaker is a small battery-operated device that delivers electrical impulses to the cardiac muscles in order to keep the heart beating normally. Titanium-made pacemakers have a lifespan of 10-12 years, Samson said.

WMRI has collected over 25,000 pacemakers that are being checked by technicians and cardio experts of University Michigan.

Samson said the pacemakers are intended for distribution to over hundred countries.

He said that a brand new pacemaker costs $ 10,000 or over P400,000 on the average.

"Pacemakers are life-saving device and can extend the life of a patient especially the poor," he said.

Accomplishing the founder’s mission of “turning sin of waste to miracle of mercy,” Samson discussed that there are also slightly used pacemakers donated by some families in the United States, sterilized and re-packed with specifications.

“Why can’t we use the ‘used’ pacemakers to save lives? This is a very amazing project,” he said.

He assured that WMRI will continue to collect and distribute medical supplies, medicines, and surplus medical equipment not only in the Philippines but in needy countries in most parts of the world.

South Korean firm to pour P65.5-M on hotel project in Clark

By Eric Jimenez (CDC-EAD)

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has signed an agreement recently with South Korean firm W Min Jun Corporation to pour P65.5 million for the improvement of its tourism-related project inside this Freeport.

The agreement was signed between CDC president Arthur Tugade and WMJC president Lee Chang Hwan in a simple ceremony held recently here.

In the agreement, the South Korean businessman said the projected investments, aside from the improvement, is also intended for the establishment, operating, maintaining and managing hotel and resort, and other allied businesses including services, and facilities, among others.

At present, the firm is operating W Clark Hotel and Resort in Clark where all rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, electronic safety deposit box, LCD-TV with cable, phone system, electronic door locks, hot and cold water, unlimited complimentary Wifi, complimentary breakfast and use of swimming pool.

The hotel has 38 rooms, which vary from standard room, deluxe, deluxe twin, junior suite and suites.

With the signing of agreement, Lee said that more improvements will be made on the 2.061 sq. meters property, including the hiring of 35 workers in the next five years.

CDC has agreed to give the South Korean firm 25 years commencing from the signing of the lease agreement.

Angeles village aspires for model MRF

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- A village here is aspiring to be a model area in terms of waste management following the establishment of its material recovery facility (MRF) which accommodates at least eight barangays in the city.

Malabanias Chairman Reynaldo Gueco said that they are maintaining one-hectare waste segregation facility, situated along the Abacan River, which is now being eyed as model MRF.

He said that 30 tons of garbage is collected everyday from households and business establishments.

Malabanias covers almost half of the city’s entertainment district, where restaurants and hotels are situated.

Gueco said more than 30 sorters or “segregators” were hired to segregate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.

Haulers hired by the city government collect the village’s residual waste every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, according to the barangay chief.

“I also learned how to be an environmentalist. We planted fruit-bearing trees around the MRF banta sumanting ya naman ing paligid. Pilan mung months kanyan maragul na la reng tenam mi,” Gueco said.

The village chairman said they are planning to establish a small piggery within the facility so that the left-over food collected from restaurants and hotels will be used as hog feeds.

Recyclable materials collected by sorters are sold to junk shops, Gueco said. “May pera sa basura.”

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan recently visited and inspected the Malabanias MRF.

Gueco said they spent P1 million for the construction of the facility.


Angeles council set to honor Kapampangan indie film

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City Council is set to honor award-winning Kapampangan independent film "Magkakabaung" which recently reaped awards at the recent Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting said the film deserves to be given due honor for advancing the cause of independent films with Kapampangan themes.

She added that independent Kapampangan films should also be given enough support by sectors to better promote diversity in the production of local films.

"It is very important to honor films like these and the people behind them. Independent films with Kapampangan themes present an opportunity to showcase and propagate Kapampangan culture and identity," Cabigting said.

Cabigting, who is also a Kapampangan indie film actress herself, has been involved in many Kapampangan film productions under award winning director Jayson Laxamana. Cabigting said that the Angeles City council will honor the said film and its director in its next regular session.

The film won Best Director for Jayson Laxamana, Best Actor for actor Allen Dizon and Best Film in this year's Metro Manila Film Festival New Wave category. The entries for the New Wave category were presented last December 17, while the eight mainstream films were presented a few days before Christmas.

"Magkakabaung" was written and directed by Jason Paul Laxamana and casts Allen Dizon, Gladys Reyes, Emilio Garcia, and Felixia Crysten Dizon. The film features "a single father who works in a casket factory and accidentally kills his eight-year-old daughter through wrong medication. As he is haunted by a mixture of guilt and remorse over his daughter's untimely death, he finds it challenging not only to have his daughter's body discharged and buried but also to erase his culpability."

Aside from the MMFF award, the film also won the Best Asian Film Award at the Third Hanoi International Film Festival (HANIFF) in Vietnam.

Cabigting also lauded the efforts of Laxamana in promoting Kapampangan made films. Laxamana is a filmmaker based in the Pampanga who is known for his independent films with Kapampangan themes. He made his first feature film in 2010 when his screenplay for "Astro Mayabang" (Proud Astro) became a finalist in the Cinema One Originals Film Festival 2010, which won the Audience Choice Award and a Special Citation. In 2012, he successfully completed the Star Cinema Scriptwriting Workshop under Ricky Lee and Amor Olaguer.

In 2013, he became a finalist in the New Breed category of Cinemalaya, the Philippines' most prestigious independent film festival, with his second feature film "Babagwa" (Spider's Lair).

CDC inks deal with Widus hotel on additional 3.2-hectare area

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has signed a lease agreement with Widus International Leisure Inc., owner, developer, and operator of Widus Hotel and Casino on Wednesday for an additional 3.2 hectares of property located adjacent to their current project.

Signed by CDC president Arthur Tugade and Widus president Daesik Han, the hotel's property is now around 7.9 hectares.

Widus, in its vision to create an integrated hotel-casino facility, intends to build its third hotel tower in this new area, which will be comprised of around 250 rooms complete with facilities and amenities such as a main restaurant, bakery, lounge, executive lounge, gift shop, kids’ recreation area, entertainment room, swimming pool, spa and salon. The third hotel tower is expected to further exceed Widus’ standards in terms of hotel design and concept.

Han is hoping to invest $100 million but would not want to give specific amount on the expansion area.

Aside from this, in order to cater to Clark Freeport Zone’s growing MICE market, Widus plans to build a much bigger Convention Center with the Main Ballroom being able to cater up to 1,000 people comfortably.

Lastly, a water park and other team building facilities will also be built to complete the project.

Singaporean firm’s Clark Green Frontier venture to generate 20,000 jobs

(CLJD/RBRP-PIA 3)

CLARK FREEPORT, January 8 (PIA) -- Close to 20,000 jobs, mostly in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, shall be generated once the Clark Green Frontier venture of Singaporean firm Capilion Corporation Pte. Ltd. comes into fruition.

“Clark Green Frontier is a landmark development for Clark. It will function as a work, entertainment, and leisure hub enhancing further Clark’s reputation as a progressive and exciting destination,” Capilion President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Tay said during the groundbreaking rites.

The P7 billion worth, three-hectare mixed-used facility intended for BPO, commercial, and retail enterprises shall be developed in three phases.

The initial phase, which begins by the middle of 2015, consists of 33,000 square meters of office space for BPOs and around 150 commercial and retail shops.

The Capilion Group of companies has businesses involved in private equity, corporate services, real estate, financial securities, ship ownership, shipping and shipbuilding, infrastructure development and clean and renewable energy projects.

The group has various stakes in countries such as Indonesia, China, Kyrgyzstan, and India.

Capilion breaks ground for Clark Green Frontier

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Singapore-based Capilion Corporation Pte. Ltd. recently held its groundbreaking ceremony for Clark Green Frontier together with key officials of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

This marks the initial phase of an estimated P7-billion project situated on a strategically located three-hectare lot.

Clark Green Frontier is a long-term lease and development of a mixed-used facility intended for business process outsourcing (BPO), commercial, and retail enterprises. The proposed development will be completed in three phases with the first phase expected to start middle of this year.

The initial phase is expected to have over 33,000 square meters of office space, while the number of retail and commercial shops is expected to be more than 150. In terms of employment, Clark Green Frontier is designed to generate up to 20,000 jobs, majority of which would be supplied by various BPO locators.

Apart from generating new employment, Peter Tay, president and Chief Executive Officer of Capilion, emphasized how Clark Green Frontier is envisioned to be the new face of Clark while serving as the benchmark for future developments to come.

“Clark Green Frontier is a landmark development for Clark. It will function as a work, entertainment, and leisure hub enhancing further Clark’s reputation as a progressive and exciting destination,” said Tay.

Attended by high ranking CDC officials and key staff, the ground breaking ceremony marked an early milestone as it came just eight months after Capilion and CDC signed a long-term lease agreement last May 2014.

Capilion Corporation was established in 2006 in Singapore as an international private equity and corporate finance advisory firm. It is part of the Capilion Group of Companies, Capilion Financial Ltd. and Capilion RE Engineering Ltd.

Transport fare in Clark cut P0.50

By Eric Jimenez (CDC EAD)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) announced the P0.50 cut in transport fare on all routes inside this Freeport, except Route 5 or the Industrial Estate 5 (IE5) area.

The new provisional reduced transport fare, which stemmed from the series of oil prices cut since last year, was approved by the CDC, Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) and Clark Transport Federation (CTF).

The approved new CDC Fare Matrix was officially implemented on January 1.

In the minutes of the meeting submitted to the office of CDC president Arthur P. Tugade, CDC, CLA and CTF agreed to reduce the minimum fare rate from P7.00 to P6.50 on all destinations regardless of distance. Exception was made for Route 5 on its IE5 destinations since they have a fixed route unlike other areas in Clark.

During the meeting last December 23, Vice President for Operations Franco Madlangbayan, Public Safety Assistant Manager Christopher Cirujales and Senior Transport Regulatory Officer Edwin Paras represented CDC; president Danilo Abad and Director Lito Mercado represented CILA; and president Danilo Yumul, Route 2 Chairman Manolito Tacipit, Route 1 Chairman Ed Yumul, Route 3 Chairman Edner del Socorro, Route 5 Chairman Alber Pabalan, and Route 6 Chairman Jessie Rodriguez represented CTF.

The CTF officers also raised the issue on colorum vehicles which they promised to submit to CDC-PSD, including their plate numbers, vehicle types and the locators utilizing illegal shuttle units.

To avoid further misunderstanding, CILA said that they will address the issue on locators using colorum shuttle services for their respective workers by encouraging their members to utilize shuttle vehicles that are properly registered to CDC and with corresponding franchises from the Land Transportation Franchises Regulatory Bureau (LTFRB).

CDC, through the PSD, will enforce strict CDC and LTFRB rules and regulations to settle the transport issues, including the use of colorum vehicles of some locators in Clark.

CDC gears up for APEC-SOM meet in Clark

(CDC-EAD)

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is now in full gear in preparation for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting to be held inside this Freeport this month.

During the first flag raising ceremonies Monday, CDC president Arthur Tugade said that the APEC requirements are being met, especially the convention hall and hotel rooms which will house the delegates that will arrive during the APEC Senior Officials and Ministers (SOM) meeting here.

At the same time, Tugade also said that Clark-APEC applications are now available on all Android phones or tablets.

This will allow the android users to keep track of APEC events in Clark, Tugade said.

Tugade said that Widus Hotel and Casino has dedicated its one tower hotel and will soon request for another 30 rooms from the hotel to make more rooms available.

Widus is expected to complete a portion of the phase one improvement of the hotel and casino project in Clark.

Oxford Hotel is also dedicating two floors, which is expected to be completed before the APEC meet in Clark. He also thanked the new owners of the newly renovated hotel for expediting its renovation and rehabilitation.

Earlier, the Oxford hotel has agreed to invest P200 million for the beautification and renovation of the hotel and its grounds.

Fontana Hotsprings and Leisure Parks has also reported to Tugade about the nearing completion of its convention hall that can accommodate more than 1,800 people in seating capacity.

Fontana has also improved some of its villas in preparation and accommodation of APEC delegates during the SOM meeting here.

Other hotels with improved rooms are Holiday Inn Clark and Stotsenberg Hotel.

Tugade said that the Bayanihan Park Rotunda in Balibago is expected to be completed before the APEC. The rotunda, which would serve as the main entrance to this Freeport zone, is worth P15.14 million.

Aside from the five lanes rotunda project, also included is the construction of the 470 linear meter drainage system, landscaping of 5,488.72 square meters, and the construction of 1,828.70 square meters of concrete sidewalk.

Hot air balloon fests set

By Reynaldo G. Navales (Sun.Star Pampanga/Sunnex)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Central Luzon has announced the schedule of two separate hot air balloon festivals in Clark and Lubao town this year.

DOT Central Luzon Director Ronnie Tiotuico said the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is set on February 12 to 15 here.

The other event -- Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival -- was scheduled on March 26 to 29 in Lubao town, according to Tiotuico.

“Both are pet projects of the Department of Tourism,” he said.

“The biggest international and most colorful twin events to watch out for early 2015, one in Clark and another in Lubao Pampanga,” he added.

The event will include balloon flights (fly in and fly out cum night glow), air sporting events like aerobatics, flag jump/sky diving, balloon bursting, paragliding, aero modeling, wakeboarding, local tours, among others.

Tiotuico said that more than 200,000 spectators are expected to attend two events. “Attention tour operators, leisure parks, museum, hotels, restaurants, health and wellness centers and events' organizers.”

“Some 200,000 spectators are looking for other activities after the two events. We need activities and offers like special buffet lunch, early bird discounts on rooms, free shuttle, cultural shows and others,” he said.

Other suggested activities include visit to Nayong Pilipino Clark, Paradise Ranch/Zoocobia Fun Zoo, Dinosaur Island, El Kabayo Riding Stables, Clark Museum/History Tour, Clark Nature Park, Fontana Water Park, Philippine Air Force Park, Ocean Adventure, Pamulaklakin Forest Trail, Tree Top Adventure, Zoobic Zafari, JEST Camp, Pawikan Conservation Center, Balanga Nature and Wetland Park, Mount Samat Shrine, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Blessed John Paul II Memorial Shrine, White Rock resort, Puning Hot Spring, and Mount Pinatubo trek, among others.

CIAC head clears report on Sangley airport plan

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president Emigdio "Dino" Tanjuatco has clarified that the national government, particularly the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), has started a study on the proposed airport at Sangley Point in Cavite.

Tanjuatco issued the statement following a news report quoting DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya that the government plans to start the development of new international airport in Cavite province within the last 18 months of President Aquino.

The Clark International Airport (CRK) head said that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was tapped by the government to make a study for a new international gateway.

"It's not even a feasibility study. It is actually a recommendation issued by JICA for the government to study. Pero yung mismung development ng airport wala pa, matagal pa 'yan," Tanjuatco said.

After its completion, the JICA recommendation will be forwarded to the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) for approval, according to Tanjuatco.

The proposed airport in Cavite is eyed as a replacement of the congested Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Abaya said JICA considered all possible sites and Sangley Point, which is only 20 minutes drive and 20 kilometers away from Metro Manila, fit all the criteria.

In a separate report, Abaya said that the DOTC plans to construct the P7.2 Clark International Airport low-cost terminal in phases to accommodate the huge terminal design prepared by the Aeroports De Paris of France.

Tanjuatco disclosed that they are now set to implement the first phase of the budget terminal development following the release of an initial P1.2 billion. The terminal is expected to accommodate some five to eight million passengers annually.

Clark airport should not be affected by government plan on NAIA because it has its own catchment area, according to Tanjuatco.

“We should not affected kung ano man ang nangyayari sa NAIA kasi may sariling catchment area ang Clark,” he said.

CIAC is now working out to show airlines that Clark has a potential and a market which covers Northern and Central Luzon and northern part of Metro Manila, said Tanjuatco.

"Ang kailangan lang ay ipakita natin sa mga airlines na may market sila sa Clark. Okay na ang infra, hopefully ma bid-out na this year yung P1.2 billion budget terminal. By early 2017 may LCC na tayo," he added.

Clark leisure park ready for 2015 APEC

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT –- Fontana Leisure Parks, the center point of the 2015 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit here, is ready for the international convention.

Executives of the largest leisure park in Central Luzon assured that they are now prepared for the influx of visitors during meeting.

At least 1,700 delegates from 22-member countries will meet at the Freeport from January 26 to February 10 to tackle economic policies with focus on expanding the benefits for the region's 3 billion people.

This will include the Philippines, particularly the Freeport, which is expected to fuel a new generation of trade, investment and sustainable economic growth amid changing global conditions.

Manuel Sequiera, Fontana chief executive officer said it has already blocked 131 villas and will close another 60 more for the summit this month.

The newly-built Fontana convention center is also ready to accommodate the expected 1,500 delegates who will hold daily meetings at the hotel.

“We have completed all 19 new villas and already in the process of finalizing the three story villas we call ‘mansion’. Landscaping of gardens, retrofitting and repainting of walls, ceilings and buildings were all finished. Maybe a few more polishing on some parts but we’re good to go,” said Sequiera.

“Our old convention center is there and has been repainted and reorganized. The new one is being finalized and will be ready by APEC. We will be hosting every day and we expect to serve around 1,700,” he added.

In terms of security, the Fontana executive said security has been beefed up with CCTV cameras positioned in the hotel's entrances and exits and the VIP mansion. He said security matters are closely coordinated with the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the national organizing committee.

The company had also purchased four brand new cars to augment its existing 26 vehicles that will be used to transport tourists and delegates who may want to travel to nearby areas and even Metro Manila.

Staff trainings have likewise been completed early December, he said. “They have been trained to identify languages and deal with their assigned delegates.”

Sequiera said they will introduce a new concept in the menu, which will assure fresh and hot dishes served on individual plates or on the buffet table.

“We will prepare all kinds of foods for the delegates. We hope to serve every country with their local cuisine. We also designed the menu for them. We have a new kitchen designed with three walls. This will guarantee hot meals served at the function rooms. So, every small detail has been organized,” he said.

“I believe we will be doing easy at 400 to 500 for breakfast, 700 to 800 at lunch and back to 400 to 500 during dinner. We will go into the detail to ensure the experience is five-star,” he stressed.

The park has been hosting big events in the past, including the MICE Conference, which was participated by more than 600 education, travel and tourism experts from around the globe.

Apart from the warm and cozy atmosphere at its Coffee, Tea and Juice Bar by the Piano lounge, the hotel will also create an evening for entertainment, he said.

CDC president Arthur Tugade said the meeting of the economic experts here will showcase Clark not just an ideal hub for pleasure but more importantly for business.

“Clark is conducive for business because of its people, policies and processes, its landscape, and more importantly because you can create what they call a supply chain community here – and that is an A1-A1 good for business,” he said.

He added each and every hotel and establishments inside Clark are doing their part to provide a comfortable atmosphere for the delegates and participants to the APEC meet.

Hotels like Oxford, Widus Hotel and Casino, Holiday Inn, Hotel Stotsenburg and Montevista Villas-Mimosa Golf and Country Club, among others had undertaken expansion efforts and other improvements to ensure a favorable environment for tourists and delegates.

Business, commercial and industrial establishments inside the Freeport have likewise made preparations for the massive influx of tourists this month.

In a recent shipping summit here hosted by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Tugade said Clark is a place worth looking into because of the fact that it has been recognized by 22 nations as a conducive place to hold international ceremonies and functions.

"In Clark there is a landscape that is worth looking into. And while you are looking into, you are assured that you can have the peace and safety of conducting an international conference,” he said.

Notorious British pedophile still abusing PH kids, says UK news website

(INQUIRER.net US Bureau)

SAN FRANCISCO — A British news website is reporting that a notorious pedophile with a history of arrests has built a house in the Philippines, overlooking an elementary school and allegedly lures pupils as young as eight into his home where he abuses them for the price of a pair of flip-flops.

According to the UK’s Daily Mail Online, Douglas Slade, 73, a wealthy founder of the vilified Paedophile Information Exchange, which campaigned for child sex in the 1970s, has been repeatedly arrested for taking nude photos and molesting underage boys in the Philippines.

He is out on bail for cases involving pupils from the Amsic Elementary School in Angeles City, but he continues to lure students and paying them the equivalent of two pounds a time for sex acts and photos, neighbors told the Mail Online.

Slade, a widower who grew rich from a food business he set up after moving to the Philippines in 1985, donates money to the school, which claims it has received no complaints about him from parents.

He has repeatedly had child sex charges against him dropped and was caught on camera in an ITV documentary in 1995 boasting that he could avoid conviction by bribing prosecutors and the families of victims.

Slade built a new home overlooking a school for eight-to-12-year-olds from the poor neighborhood teeming with young children behind his house, reports the Mail Online.

Boys as young as eight line up outside his house to be invited in by Slade who takes nude photos of them and gets them to perform sex acts on him for 150 pesos, say neighbors.

“He only picks boys. He never invites girls inside, even though they ask sometimes because they want the money,” said a neighbor.

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