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Angeles City News February 2015

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Official Seal of Angeles City
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City Hall of Angeles City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHY??

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

Wig-making program to benefit 160 in 2 Central Luzon provinces

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC), in cooperation with two locators here, is currently conducting a joint skills training and employment program for 160 individuals from the contiguous areas of this Freeport zone.

In support of CDC's effort to generate 100,000 jobs by next year, the state-owned firm has partnered with Aderans Philippines Inc. (API) and Starboard Manpower Services Inc. (SMSI) for the training and employment program on wig making project.

In a report to CDC president Arthur Tugade, External Affairs manager Angelo Lopez Jr. said the trainees come from indigent communities in Bamban and Capas, Tarlac and cities of Mabalacat and Angeles in Pampanga.

The trainees also include persons with disabilities (PWDs) for possible employment and livelihood to households through sub-contracting of the making of wigs.

The one-month wig-making training program, which is expected to be complete in March, involves API and SMSI providing the trainors, materials and other equipment needed in the project.

CDC External Affairs Community Services Public Affairs Officer Julie Ugay added that both SMSI and API have committed to hire the trainees upon completion of the training program.

CDC, for its part, will provide the venue for the training, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), where three unused rooms at the former Clark Polytechnic School located at Bldg. No. 1085 are being utilized, said Ugay.

CDC will also provide the certification, transportation and incidental costs while the program is on-going, as well as other materials and snacks required during the culmination ceremony.

API will provide possible employment to successful trainees, including the creation of livelihood opportunities within their respective communities by outsourcing some of the work to jobless households, PWDs and mothers who may not be able to regularly go to the factory.

DTI-Central Luzon posts notable performance in 2014

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon reported significant accomplishments for Calendar Year 2014.

These are reflected in the following areas: SME development, jobs generation, investment facilitation and consumer advocacy for the seven provinces of Central Luzon.

DTI Central Luzon reported an increase of more than P70 million from its 2013 accomplishment of P1.177 billion in domestic sales of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) assisted resulting from its various interventions.

Based on its annual accomplishment report for 2014, DTI-Central Luzon reported that domestic sales of SMEs assisted totaled P1.247.92-billion as against its target of P1.218-billion for the current year. Of the said domestic sales, 90.22 percent was generated through market matching, 4.13 percent from Pasalubong Centers, and the remaining 5.65 percent from trade fairs.

DTI-Central Luzon OIC Regional Director Judith P. Angeles noted that this performance can be attributed to the consistent interventions of the agency to the region's micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These programs include the SME Roving Academy, trade fairs and exhibits such as Likha ng Central Luzon, local study missions and business continuity programs. Trade exhibits like the Likha Central Luzon generated P28.06- million for these SMEs in a week of market exposure. Developmental programs like Shared Service Facilities (SSF) and Industry Cluster programs also impact significantly on the income of SMEs. Last year, DTI provided 59 SSFs for small entrepreneurs in Central Luzon which gave them ready equipment to process their goods and lessen production costs.

“One of the main thrusts of DTI is to enable business – to be more productive and be prepared for global competitiveness, especially at the onset of ASEAN integration,” she said.

For Calendar year 2014, DTI Central Luzon assisted 9,147 SMEs. This figure is approximately 50 percent higher compared to 6,082 SMEs assisted in 2013. Pampanga posted the highest number of entrepreneurs assisted with 2,249 SMEs; Bulacan with 2,109; Nueva Ecija with 1,613; Bataan with 840; Tarlac with 811; Zambales with 802; and Aurora with 723. This figures effectively resulted into 24,997 jobs distributed throughout the region.

In addition, the agency also enabled 94 SMEs to avail of affordable loans to support the financial capability of growing enterprises.

DTI Central Luzon was also able to process 42,615 Business Name Registrations. Under the Business Processing and Licensing System (BPLS) of the agency, business registration is now rationalized and aligned with the streamlined processes of local government units for local business permits. For 2014, 100 percent or all of the 130 city and municipal governments of Central Luzon have now adopted the rationalized BPLS to ensure ease of doing business in their respective local government units.

Central Luzon attracts P55.11-B in new investments for 2014

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon, through its OIC-Regional Director Judith Angeles recently reported to the Regional Development Council-Sectoral Committee on Economic Development (RDC-SCED) that the region attracted a total of P55.11-billion in new investments for Calendar Year 2014, based on the list of the Board of Investments (BOI) Approved Projects.

The investments are estimated to translate into more than 3,000 new jobs for the residents of Central Luzon.

For two consecutive years – 2013 to 2014 - the province of Bataan has gathered the biggest share of investments among the provinces of Central Luzon. In 2014, P45.64 billion or 83 percent of total BOI projects for the region was placed in Bataan. This amount was invested in the development of distribution, storage and regasification facilities for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

Pampanga followed Bataan in terms of investment share with P3.59-billion or 6.53 percent of the total; Tarlac had P2.12-billion or 3.85 percent; Bulacan had P2.03-billion or 3.68 percent; and Nueva Ecija had P1.72-billion or 3.11 percent.

In 2013, Bataan also received the largest share (93.45 percent) of total investments for the region, all of which was invested in energy related projects in the province.

In terms of sectoral preference for 2014, the transportation and storage sector had the highest share at P45.69-billion or 83 percent of total investments. Real estate development also made an attractive investment sector in the region for 2014 with a total of P5.7-billion or 10 percent.

This amount was intended for projects in the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac and Bulacan for the development of low and middle cost housing. This amount represents a significant increase from the total of P3.3- billion for the real estate sector in 2013.

DTI Central Luzon continues to promote its reputation as a favorable and logical investment destination by continuing to provide facilitation services for investors, business development services, business matching activities and support in the maintenance of the streamlined business process of LGUs to make them more competitive and business friendly.

Angeles commemorates people power revolt

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- The Philippines may have been taking steps in the right direction after the 1986 People Power Revolution, but for Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, huge social, political, and economic challenges remain unresolved even after 29 years since the historic movement.

This year's anniversary is anchored on the theme "EDSA 29: Ituloy ang Pagbabago!" (Continue Change), which highlights the importance of using the spirit and ideals of the 1986 People Power Revolution in bringing about positive change in the country.

"We have been celebrating the anniversary for about a week because this celebration serves as the culmination of the sacrifices and sufferings of many Filipinos during that period," said Pamintuan, who graced the celebration Tuesday at Marquee Mall here.

Pamintuan highlighted that change must start from one's self, especially those who are engaged in public service and government work.

"The superstructure is the one that needs to be changed the most. Currently, we have issues like DAP, PDAF, and other [contentious] projects in the government. We should not settle for cosmetic changes in the society," he added.

He also urged the public to let the EDSA spirit serve as their inspiration in the pursuit of genuine change in the country.

Several participants of the commemorative activity, meanwhile, noted that the EDSA People Power Revolution has changed the country for the better.

"We are actually now better-off now because we were given freedom in many aspects of our lives," said government employee Sheryl Cunanan.

Angeles, Davao mayors ink city sisterhood pact

(PNA), LAP/ZST/RKM/PS

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Feb. 24 (PNA) -- The cities of Angeles and Davao forged Monday a sisterhood pact that will enhance cooperation between the two local governments and their constituencies.

The twinning agreement held at the Angeles University Foundation (AUF) was signed by Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and witnessed by university chancellor, Dr. Emmanuel Y. Angeles, together with selected stakeholders and AUF student and faculty members.

Pamintuan said that the move is a concerted effort between two local government units who wish to go beyond what is expected from them in terms of good governance.

“Government sans boundaries – this is the goal that Mayor Duterte and I have in mind upon entering this agreement. Both our passions to better serve the people’s welfare will tremendously benefit both Angeles and Davao,” the mayor said, adding that the agreement include the mutual support and opportunities that will equally benefit the two cities.

“With Davao City’s reputation as one of the safest cities in the Philippines, we could learn a thing or two from their local government in improving our peace and order efforts here in Angeles,” Pamintuan said.

The agreement aims to promote and foster strong ties, mutual understanding, friendship and goodwill through practical exchanges in science and technology, culture and arts, tourism, planning and urban development, commerce, trade and industry, youth development, education and sports, environmental protection, agriculture, public health and social services.

Duterte was in this city to deliver a lecture on federalism to students, faculty members and officers of AUF.

The two lawyer-mayors were batchmates while they were taking up law studies in San Beda College.

Angeles City has also forged sister-city agreements with the cities of San Fernando, Pampanga; Cagayan de Oro, Cebu and Valenzuela and with foreign cities which include Koror, Palau; Seo District, Daegu, South Korea and Las Vegas, Nevada.

DTI Central Luzon to hold Regional Bamboo Congress

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Luzon is inviting bamboo enthusiasts, furniture shop owners, businessmen, media members and other stakeholders to the Regional Bamboo Congress to be held on February 27, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Pampanga

State Agricultural University (PSAU), formerly Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC).

The event is expected to be participated in by bamboo experts, farmers, academe, local government officials and bamboo entrepreneurs from the different parts of Luzon.

One of the highlights of the event is the showcase of engineered bamboo products by reputed bamboo product exporters.

Local government officials, resource persons from DTI, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Philippine Bamboo Federation will share their knowledge and insights in the thriving business of bamboo as an environment friendly and efficient alternative to wood in the production of furniture, home furnishings and construction materials.

The effort is also in support of the National Greening Program of the government and the development of green technology and green business.

‘Pupul ning Banua’ to fete Angeleño artists

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here is set to extol local artists with the “Pupul ning Banua” awards to be held on February 28, 7 p.m., at the Museo ning Angeles in Barangay Sto. Rosario.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said that “Pupul” has been conceptualized to recognize Angeleños who have been making strides in the field of cinema, music, fashion, visual arts, and literature, among others, in the past year.

“This is in line with our continuous effort and commitment to promote, preserve and further our city’s local culture and arts scene. At the same time, it is also a way to laud the people who have devoted their time and effort in the creation and performance of masterpieces that the whole world appreciates,” said the mayor.

He further stated that the awards night is a gesture of pride and thanks to Angeles’ local artists.

Dr. Richard Daenos, head of the Angeles City Tourism Office, said that "Pupul" is a local version of the Ani ng Dangal Awards of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

"In this context, the word ‘Banua’ can either mean two things: first, we are being thankful for a year of good harvest in the field arts; second, we are providing a platform of appreciation and recognition for the Angeleños who have been blessed by the heavens with the gift of artistry," he said.

This first ever “Pupul ning Banua” will recognize the following Angeleños: film producer Ferdinand Lapuz, director Jason Paul Laxamana, animator Leonardo Calma, Jr., fashion stylist Jovanni “Bang” Pineda, Alexandre D. Tiotuico for his paper on Kulitan, 2014 World Championships of Performing Arts male singers RJ Buenagua and Daryl Christian Reynes, 2014 Mister Asian International Jerwin Mark Sunglao and visual art designers Eric and Edu Perreras. The following groups will also be awarded: the Holy Angel University Chorale, Holy Angel University Center for Kapampangan Studies, The Dance Conservatory and the Angeles City Dance Athletes.

The trophy for the awards night is designed by 2014 Metrobank Art and Design Excellence awardee Arnel D. Garcia, who will also be feted during the said awards night.

“Pupul ning Banua” is the culmination of the city’s celebration of the National Arts Month.

Angeles trike drivers ask council to open franchise

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY --- Tricycle drivers and operators from various associations in this city are asking the city council to open the issuance of franchise for trikes plying the city.

Officials of different tricycle operators and drivers association (Toda) attended the first public hearing at the city council last Tuesday.

Pedring Punzalan, president of the Angeles City Federation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association, told the city councilors during the hearing that close to 2,000 of their members are operating sans permits from the City Government.

Toda officials said that this is the effect of an ordinance, which stopped the issuance of franchise for the operation of tricycles within the city.

Punzalan said that members of the federation with franchise number to about 6,000. Additional 1,800 members, which are considered "culorum" because of failure to secure motorized tricycle operators permit, are applying for franchise, he said.

Some of the councilors, including Amos Rivera, asked Punzalan to submit a list of their members who are qualified to be granted franchise.

Councilor Max Sangil said that he observed that there are long queues of trikes in almost all of the terminals around the city.

“Manakitan kayu pa?” he asked Punzalan.

If the franchising resumes, the councilors expressed apprehension that tricycles plying the city may increase to uncontrollable number.

Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting lauded his colleagues in the city council for their inputs to resolve the issue.

"I agree with the [opinion] of the councilors. If there too many tricycles in the city, drivers will no longer earn enough to support their families,” Cabigting said in the vernacular.

She said they scheduled the hearing upon the requests of Punzalan and Emil Suba, president of the Balibago Operators and Drivers Association (Botda).

Angeles gets GFH award

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan announced that the City Government of Angeles is one of the recipients of the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) award from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

"This is another proof of the soundness of our financial policies and the transparency of all our transactions. We have continuously and consistently complied with the DILG’s directives on full disclosure policy," Pamintuan said.

The GFH is part of the Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS), which is an annual evaluation conducted by the DILG.

Local government units undergo a series of assessments to be able to pass the LGPMS, and those that excel are given the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SHG) award.

Since Pamintuan took over as mayor in 2010, the City Government of Angeles has been an annual recipient of the SHG.

To qualify for the GFH, a local government should exhibit compliance with accounting and auditing standards, rules and regulations, i.e., with an Unqualified or Qualified COA Opinion of the immediately preceding year; as well as Compliance with the Full Disclosure Policy of Local Budget and Finances, Bids and Public Offerings e.g., Annual Budget, Statement of Receipts and Expenditures, Annual Procurement Plan or Procurement List, and Bid Results On Civil Works, Goods and Services and Consulting Services, among others.

Pamintuan credits the award to the efforts of the Local Finance Committee of the City Government.

"The City Treasurer's Office headed by Treasurer Juliet Quinsaat, the Accounting Office headed by City Accountant Willy Tiotuico, the City Budget Officer headed by Fe Corpuz, and the City Assessor's Office led by Engr. Lea Dizon must be congratulated for this award,” Pamintuan said.

Angeles least vulnerable to climate change

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- This city emerged as least vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in the country and it could sustain its robust economic growth through sound infrastructure development and active trade facilitation, according to the latest study of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Bank of Philippines Islands Foundation (BPIF).

The study entitled "Business Risk Assessment and the Management of Climate Change Impacts" assessed the climate change preparedness of assessed the climate change preparedness of 16 major cities in the Philippines: Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Dagupan, Laoag, Zamboanga, Angeles, Batangas, Naga, Tacloban, Butuan, General Santos, Puerto Princesa and Santiago.

Angeles City placed first with a score of 5.56 in terms of vulnerability to climate change based on a historical level weather data on climate exposure, socio-economic drivers, and adaptive capacities. The city is closely followed by General Santos City with a rating of 5.75.

"Angeles City enjoys an average elevation of 90 meters above sea level. Its location, in a relatively high portion of Luzon’s Central Plain, is likely to limit its climate exposure to mainly three of the six impacts identified," according to the WWF study, citing that the impacts may include increase in the frequency of extreme storms, intense rainfall and flooding in key access points and areas surrounding the city, and the impacts of El Niño on the city’s water supply as well as on agriculture in the farm areas that surround it.

The study, however, noted that the major roads connected to the city are very vulnerable to flooding.

"Serving Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx), Angeles City’s main climate exposure appears to be the likelihood of disrupted access due to increased flooding along these major regional arteries," the study revealed.

The dependency of the city's trade to Clark Freeport Zone, NLEx, and SCTEx, according to the study, entails that inter-city access is likely to be vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather events.

"Although it appeared to have been designed for all-weather use, the experience of the last two or three years shows that certain portions of this route is not climate change ready. It seems apparent that Angeles City’s continued viability will be significantly linked to efforts aimed at highway upgrades as well as a series of flood management interventions that seek to eliminate disruptions of movement along this vital trade corridor," the study warned.

Local authorities and private stakeholders, nevertheless, can still counter such challenges as the study highlighted the importance of cooperating with the neighboring Porac town and Mabalacat City in preparing a climate-defined future for Angeles City, particularly the freeport and airport.

"Beyond political mandates, it is their joint opportunity to take the lead on development momentum, to take steps that increase the velocity of money within the Triangle, enhance internal connectivity through wise governance and enlightened urban planning, build all-weather resilience by promoting investment in improved regional access, and ride on the differential advantages offered by Pampanga," the study proposed.

CDC cites balloon fest’s positive effects

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – The Clark Development Corp. (CDC) has cited the positive effects of the 19th Hot Air Balloon Festival held at the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) grounds here from February 12 – 15.

Angelo “Sonny” Lopez Jr., CDC Public Relations Department (PRD) manager, said “the hot air balloon festival puts Clark in the province of Pampanga in the map of international recognition and awareness.”

Lopez also said, “together with our hosting of international events like the APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Conference), we are able to show and prove our capability and finesse in handling affairs along the international dimensions of substance, safety and fun.”

Dubbed: “A Weekend Of Everything That Flies,” the recent hot air balloon festival saw some 15 countries joining the event while the APEC Senior Officers’ Meeting 1 held from January 26 to February 7 drew some 1,800 participants from 22 APEC-member countries.

“We allow people of multiple origins and expectations to savor and enjoy our hospitality and facilities of sights, sounds and leisure,” Lopez said.

“We have given people another unique reason to smile and at the same time have the business establishments and enterprising individuals from within and also outside the zone, to have revenue enticing opportunities,” he explained.

“We give people the reason to make a return visit to Clark and Pampanga. Certainly, the hot air balloon has motivating, inspiring and unifying effects,” he added.

According to Roy Del Rosario, manager of nearby Oasis Hotel, the annual event has benefitted the entire Angeles City and the surrounding area making it the city and the province’s signature event.

He said the Oasis Hotel has about 40 to 45 percent increase during the hot air balloon festival. “What’s important is beginning January, we can already feel the effects as customers and hotel guests are all looking forward to the event,” he said.

The 2015 Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF) has become the biggest event of the year to showcase Clark, Angeles and the province of Pampanga, Del Rosario said.

“It’s like our own version of Cebu’s Sinulog, Iloilo’s Ati-atihan and Quezon’s Pahiyas,” he added.

Del Rosario said he is especially grateful for it because the event has always played a crucial role in their business.

“I have strongly supported the hot air balloon festival for the past 18 years or so and did this simply because I believed in its potential in helping our city’s economy grow,” he said.

Del Rosario said this this also true for the “Tigtigan, Terakan Keng Dalan (Music and Street Dancing) in Angeles City because as early as September they enjoy a full occupancy rate.

“I hope we have mid-year events so that we can sustain the high occupancy rate almost every quarter that will make for a vibrant business,” he added.

Angeles celebrates National Arts Month

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- The Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) has prepared a sundry of art events in celebration of the National Arts Month (NAM) 2015.

With the theme "Highlighting Local Cultural Genius to Promote Pride of Place", local Kapampangan and Angeleño artists will take center stage as they showcase their talents and artistry in the different art disciplines.

Ongoing right now at the Angeles City Library and Information Center is the 8th leg of "Badong: Salvador Bernal Designs the Stage" on the works of National Artist for Stage Design, Salvador Bernal, which is brought to the city by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. They will also hold a theater Production Design Workshop at the Museo ning Angeles on February 20 and 21.

On February 18 and 25, Kalye Lakandula will play host to Artists' Night where local Angeleno artists come together for a night of celebration and dialogue. This will be followed by multi-disciplinary art workshops on February 20 and 21, which include Bonsai Art Making, Sculpture-Terra Cotta Making, acting, dance and ethnic music, poetry writing, arts and crafts.

Jason Pabalan’s Uyat Artista will immortalize the classic play "New Yorker sa Tondo" through its own adaptation, "New Yorker sa PNR" which will be shown on February 21 at Estacion de Angeles People’s Park. Meanwhile, John Jurado's "Ang Asaynment ni Analisa", an "informance" on environment protection will be shown on the February 23 at Plaza Sto. Cristo People’s Park; on February 24 and 25 at Estacion de Angeles; on February 26 at Plaza Angel; and on February 27and 28 at Jenra Mall.

Not to be outdone, Parnasung Kapampangan, an Angeles City-based linguistic group that aims to promote and preserve the Kapampangan language will perform traditional songs of courtship through "Haranang Kapampangan" at Plaza Angel while liturgical and religious music fill masterpieces will serenade Angeleños at the Holy Rosary Parish Hall through a post-valentine choral concert dubbed “Blends: Coffee and Music”.

Nationally acclaimed theatre director Tony Mabesa will stage "The Women/ The We-Men/Deng Babai" with the Angeles University Foundation's Repertory Theater and Teatro Ima on February 25 at the university’s St. Cecilia Auditorium.

Award-winning Angeleno visual artists will also have the opportunity to display their works in a three-day exhibit titled "Pamamupul" starting February 27 at the Nepo Mall Atrium followed by a solo-exhibit of the works of Ronnie Tayag, titled "Sinubli yang Mebie" at the Museo ning Angeles.

Angeles City will cement its claim as the culinary capital of the country through various culinary competitions organized by the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management (ISCAHM). Culinary schools coming from all over the city and the rest of the province of Pampanga will compete in cake decoration and fruit art.

Finally, the local government will hold the "Pupul ning Dangalan" Awards Night to honor its local artists who have brought honor and glory to Angeles City and to the people through the various recognitions , awards and citations in various culture and arts disciplines they received from national and international awards giving bodies.

Recent NAM activities

In the field of performing arts, Angeles City’s very own Sinukwan Kapampangan led the NAM kick off ceremony together with some acclaimed artists at the Rizal Open Park Auditorium, Manila.

For cinema, Angeleños were given a visual treat as award-winning indie film director Jason Paul Laxamana led the screening of best Kapampangan Indie Films shown at the Vicente Dizon Gallery in Museo ning Angeles last February 13 and 14.

Angeleños were also delighted with visual art exhibits “Leguan: Celebrating the Beauty of Kapampangan Folk Arts and Culture”, and “Suglungan at Dugsungan king Panimanman”.

Furthermore, more than 700 multi-colored hats designed by the students and families of Brightwoods International School displayed Angeleño creativity on arts and crafts.

A showcase of musicality and vocal prowess highlighted Angeles University Foundation Center for Culture and the Arts’ (AUF-CCA) “Love Duet: A Vocal Duo Competition” and Musikerung Kapampangan’s “Tugtugan: The Concert”.

“Art to Heart Concert Series” also featured performing groups such as Sinukwan Kapampangan, City College of Angeles Performing Arts, Holy Angel University Theater Guild and Musikerung Kapampangan which were held on the city’s new pocket parks.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan was elated with the overwhelming display of cultural and historic treasure, something that the local government has been committed to promoting over the past few years.

"The activities that we are holding all month-long are a testament to the artistic talent of the Angeleños. Through our celebration of the National Arts Month, we are ushering in a newfound appreciation for theater, culture, our traditions and our history," said Pamintuan, who is known for his firm commitment to the arts.

Every year, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) heads the celebration for the National Arts Month. It has been held every February since the signing of Presidential Proclamation 683 in 1991.

Paragala Central Luzon media awards set February 21

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- The most liked, most, watched, and the most popular icons on Philippine television will once again take the center stage at this year's Paragala Central Luzon Media Awards, which will take place on February 21 at the Holy Angel University (HAU) Theatre.

Now on its second year, the Paragala was convened by the HAU Communicators' League, the official organization of Communication Arts students in the university.

The organizers described the event as the biggest student media award-giving body in the region.

"This shall be known as an award-giving body that recognizes the best media personalities, shows and television stations for their excellence in the field of journalism, broadcasting, and entertainment as its name suggests," the organizers said, referring to the Kapampangan word Paragala, which means "a token given for a service rendered."

Some 23 schools, colleges, and universities around Central Luzon will cast 30,000 votes to identify their choice of the most excellent and influential media personalities, shows, and television stations.

The following schools will participate in the selection of the winners: Asia Pacific College of Advance Studies, Baliuag University, Bataan Peninsula State University, Bulacan State University, Central Luzon State University, City College of Angeles, College of Immaculate Concepcion, Columbian College, Core Gateway College, Don Bosco Technical Institute Tarlac, Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University, Gordon College, Holy Angel University, Jocson College, Lyceum of Subic Bay, Mabalacat City College, Pampanga State Agricultural University, St. Nicolas College of Business and Technology, Tarlac College of Agriculture, Tarlac State University, Tomas Del Rosario College, University of the Assumption, and Wesleyan University.

Paragala will give recognitions like Best Morning show, Best Magazine show, Actor and Actress of the Year, and TV Station of the Year, among others.

Sectoral initiative sought to help streetkids

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- Balibago Barangay chairman Tony Mamac has called on sectoral initiatives to help keep children off the streets.

This, after Mamac initiated rescue operations taking dozens of children off the streets.

In January alone, some of the street children were rescued and turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and later taken custody by their respective parents.

However, after two days the kids are back in the streets of Balibago, according to Mamac.

Mamac said that with the instructions of City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, a temporary shelter was established at the Teen Center located at the 2nd floor of City Hygiene along Surla Street to house the street children in coordination with DSWD and the Philippine National Police providing them with food and other necessities.

He added that the problem of street children could be further addressed through initiatives that would involve various sectors from government and local communities.

The village chief said that responsible parenthood is also an integral part of programs for street children in which the welfare of the families should also be looked into.

Recently, Mamac initiated programs for the education of street children here.

He said there is a need to educate street children and provide them with psychological and moral support.

19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival kicks off in Clark

By Froilan E. Magtoto [(PNA), CTB/ZST/FEM/PS]

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Feb. 13 (PNA)--At least 36 gigantic balloons of different colors, designs and shapes flew over the skies at the Philippine Air Force ADAC Hangar here as the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival kicked off Thursday.

As early as 6 a.m., colorful and specially-shaped balloons from 15 countries such as Europe, United States and Asia, filled the air to the delight of thousands of spectators.

With the theme, “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” the four-day event that will run until Sunday, always attracts a lot of tourists, both foreign and local.

Joy Roa, Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) event director, said their objective is to instill discipline in participating young pilots so they can develop into safe aviators, as well as to impart a spirit volunteerism and cooperation to the whole community.

"The fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and traditions with visiting pilots from all over the world," Roa said.

Likewise, he said the event aims to inspire and encourage students to take course on aviation and the people to help and support the aviation industry.

"We let everybody experience flying, people can ride balloons, people can skydive, people can paraglide, people can fly airplanes, people can fly helicopters. So, everybody can have an experience of flying," he said.

Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, for his part, said more tourists now come to the city as it gained added fame because of the Hot Air Balloon Festival.

The tourists stay longer due also to mushrooming of world class hotels and restaurants, Pamintuan said.

The first day of the festival was highlighted with the paragliding exhibition, microlight aircraft formation flights and flour bombing, aerobatic show, skydiving exhibition and tandem sky jump.

The four-day event will also feature aviation school displays, food booths, a fly market, the hot air balloon night glow, and concerts.

"One of the main goals of the festival is to tell the world that flying is definitely more fun in the Philippines. We are inviting everyone to come and join us as we put the Philippines in the map of top destinations for aerial activities," Roa said.

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival is supported by the Clark Development Corporation, the Clark International Airport Corporation, the Bases Conversion Development Authority, and the Department of Tourism.

LTO Angeles wins 'Seal of Excellence' award

(JTD)

ANGELES CITY -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has conferred the citizen's Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Angeles City District Office last February 6.

LTO Angeles District Office chief Aida Santiago received the award from Robert Martinez, acting commissioner of the CSC, in ceremonies held at the CSC Region III office at the Government Center in Barangay Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga.

The LTO Angeles District Office was among the six offices shortlisted from the 113 service offices surveyed for the award.

Qualified service offices were rated using the Report Card Survey, a feedback mechanism to measure actual public service user, critical evaluation of the office or agency and its personnel.

Thirty respondents that have availed of the frontline services of the agencies were interviewed to come up with the results for the award.

The overall results of the survey showed LTO-Angeles District Office, Bureau of Internal Revenue-Revenue District Office No. 21A (North Pampanga) headed by RDO Romy Naranjo, BIR-RDO 23A (Talavera, Nueva Ecija), Government Service Insurance System-Malolos, Social Security System-Balanga City and SSS-San Fernando, Pampanga leading the pack among the qualified government agencies.

Awardees were given a crystal plaque and P100,000 checks.

‘Badong’ art exhibit opens in Angeles

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- In line with the celebration of the National Arts Month in this city, the Angeles City of Tourism Office (ACTO) is currently hosting “Badong: Salvador Bernal Designs the Stage” exhibit at the Angeles City Library and Information Center.

“We wanted to bring arts, culture and tourism closer to the Angeleños and it is such an honor that Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and National Council for Culture and Arts (NCCA) granted us this rare opportunity to host this exhibit,” said Dr. Richard Daenos, City Tourism Officer.

“Through this exhibit, we are able to dig into a deeper context of who we are as Filipinos and as artists,” he added.

For his part, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan also extended his thanks to the CCP and the NCCA for allowing the city to host the exhibit.

“This complements the city’s efforts in slowly but surely reviving our people’s appreciation with our country’s rich and colorful heritage found in theatrical arts. With the conversion of the Old Pamintuan House in Miranda Street by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to the Philippine Museum of Social History, Angeles is set to become a major destination in the country for the appreciation of history, heritage and culture,” Pamintuan said.

Hailed as a National Artist awardee in 2003, Salvador Bernal pioneered theater design in the country and was the first to develop it as a profession. He is named as the “Father of Theater Design” in the Philippines for successfully elevating it as an art form.

Eric Cruz from CCP, a former student of Salvador Bernal, said that Angeles is known for its rich culture in heritage and visual arts that is why they chose it as one of its hosts for the exhibit. They are also hoping that through this exhibit, they will be able to discover new and young talents in designing for theater.

Featured in the exhibit are costumes used from actual plays, various diorama, scale models of stage designs, and a timeline describing the life of Bernal.

The exhibit will run from February 10 to March 9, 2015, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Admission to the exhibit is free.


Angeles University Foundation grads bag 2nd, 7th place in PT licensure exam

(PNA), FPV/ZST/MDDR/JSD

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Feb. 10 (PNA) -- Two graduates of Angeles University Foundation (AUF) bagged the second and seventh places in the February 2015 Physical Therapy (PT) licensure examination.

AUF president Dr. Joseph E.L. Angeles said the university registered the highest passing rate among PT schools in Northern and Central Luzon, according to the records of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Jay Mar Bebita and Maria Katrina Mabansag, ranked second and seventh place, respectively, in the recent board exams, bringing to 26 the total topnotchers of the AUF College of Allied Medical Professions since 1990.

“We laud and take pride in this achievement of our graduates which confirms AUF’s reputation as the home of topnotchers," AUF College of Allied Medical Professions dean Dr. Estelita Cayabyab said.

The other new PTs are Earl Chester Bucad, Regine Cunana, Giovanni Cura, Jomel Angelo David, Cristian Jay De Villa, Peter Paul Dizon, Evelyn Enriquez, Jan Vincent Galang, Ives Reinaexher Hernandez, John Oliver Hernandez, Rachel Littawa, Santino Maliwat, Gilvert Gem Manalastas, Xyza Marie Martin, Jan Deen Mari Matulin, Mark Jasper Payad, Jerico Franz Roman, Mary Jane Samson, Tracy Serrano and Danica Yandan.

Local hotels support Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2015

(PNA), RMA/ZST/RKM/PS

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Feb. 9 (PNA) --Operators of hotels in Angeles City have expressed support to the staging of the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF).

Roy del Rosario, manager of Oasis Hotel, said the annual event has given benefits to the entire Angeles City and the surrounding area, making it the city and the province’s signature event.

“It is like our own version of Cebu’s Sinulog, Ilo-ilo’s Ati-atihan and Quezon’s Pahiyas,” he said.

Del Rosario said the annual event played a crucial role in their businesses.

“I strongly supported the PIHABF for the past 18 years or so and this is simply because I believed in its potentials in helping our local economy grow,” he said.

Likewise, Clark Development Corp. (CDC) president and chief executive officer Arthur P. Tugade share the same advocacy with that of del Rosario.

Tugade appealed not to work in ‘exclusions and exclusivity’ amid challenges and some reported efforts by some groups to stop the event.

“Let us sit down together to make Pampanga (or even the entire country) the hot air balloon capital of the world,” he said.

He also welcomed those who would like to venture in a similar “ballooning” activity to equal if not exceed the international flavor, world class handling and deep fun generated by the hot air balloon fiesta.

The hot air balloon fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and traditions with visiting pilots from all over the world.

They are given a taste of Filipino hospitality and the fiesta spirit.

The event organizers hope that aviators’ beautiful experience becomes the best advertising for Philippine tourism.

‘A Weekend of Everything that Flies’ is scheduled on Feb. 12-15 here in Clark Freeport Zone featuring the 2015 Aviator of the Year awards and other sports aviation events.

APEC Philippines 2015 organizers host welcome dinner for APEC senior officials, delegates

(PNA), SCS/PND/SSC

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Angeles City, Feb. 8 (PNA) -- The APEC Philippines 2015 National Organizing Council, in cooperation with the Clark Development Corp., hosted Friday night a welcome dinner for senior officials and delegates attending the two-day Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) here.

In an interview, Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., the director general of the APEC Philippines 2015 National Organizing Committee, said they want to showcase Central Luzon's culture as well as its potentials, which is why they organized the event.

They want to introduce to the APEC delegates what Pampanga has to offer culturally, like its delicacies, music and hospitality, he said.

"Ito ay para maka-relax naman sila halfway through the meeting. Nagsimula sila today and then they will wrap up the session tomorrow. But before this, a week and a half ago nagsimula na ang mga meetings, 35 meetings altogether," he said.

The dinner was held with giant Pampanga-made lanterns as background for the program. Pampanga is the lantern capital of the country, with provincial officials organizing annual lantern making contests participated by the province's different municipalities.

Lanterns made in Pampanga have become an iconic symbol of the province and these products are being sold locally and even abroad.

Friday's dinner also featured Pampanga's Aetas performing a ritual and welcome dance to bless the delegates.

In her welcome remarks, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario, the SOM chair, introduced the ethnic minority, the Aetas, to APEC delegates.

This group of people just rely on nature, she said, noting that in the future, the country's planners must consider the welfare of these people as the Philippines moves towards modernization.

Although the Aetas were displaced when the Mt. Pinatubo erupted in 1991, they have survived and thrived for 25 years, she said.

"This is really a blessing of nature. This shows how heavens protect its creatures," she said.

Del Rosario also highlighted Clark's potentials to investors attending the events here.

Clark is more than 10,000 hectares, according to her, and if it is connected to Subic the land area could go as high as 20,000 hectares.

All these areas combined would eclipse the land mass of other APEC economies like Singapore, Brunei, and Hong Kong, she said.

"This also shows that there's a lot of potentials in this area," she noted. "If we carve this out into a city it can easily house seven to eight million Filipinos."

What is interesting about Clark is that it is already developed, del Rosario said.

Clark has international schools, an off campus university, a college, a museum, an art gallery and an area for businesses, many hotels and golf courses, she said.

It also has amenities for leisure like resorts for swimming as well as a zip line, del Rosario said, adding Clark can be the city of the future.

PHL initiatives garner support during APEC meetings in Clark

(PNA), RMA/PND/SSC

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Angeles City, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- APEC senior officials, gathering in the First Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) here in Clark, have set the momentum for future discussions significant to each member economies, SOM Chair and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario said on Saturday.

Del Rosario, who conducted a press briefing Saturday, said in a statement that through the meetings in Clark, the initiatives being pushed by the Philippines have garnered wide support from other APEC member economies.

Among these initiatives include the development of the APEC Trade Repository that is expected to contribute to transparency and trade facilitation.

"We have also set the stage for the development of an SME Action Plan to foster the participation of SMEs in regional and global markets," she said as senior officials wrapped up discussions on Saturday.

Also, APEC members agreed to push for the formulation of the APEC Services Cooperation Framework to build the competitiveness of the services sector and provide a common direction and coherence to the APEC's trade of services.

"We look to achieving all this and more by the end of our host year," del Rosario said.

The two-day meeting of senior officials has set the way forward for APEC-wide policy direction, integrating all the work being done in APEC's committees, working groups and other fora, she said.

The Philippines' host year revolves in the agenda of inclusive growth, she said. And this is tied up to four major priorities that the country has crafted: enhancing regional economic integration, fostering SME participation in regional and global markets, investing in human capital and building resilient communities.

Del Rosario also commended the aggressive involvement of the private sector in advancing APEC agenda through the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC).

In addition, key APEC initiatives such as the Bogor goals, the Leaders' Growth Strategy, and the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific will be carried over this year during the country's hosting.

APEC officials will meet in August in Cebu for the Third Senior Officials' Meeting.

Capitol hosts dinner for Apec delegates

By Angelique Tuazon (Pampanga PIO)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga headed by Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis Pineda hosted a banquet for the delegates of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) at Oxford Hotel on Thursday.

Delegates from various parts of the world particularly Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam are at Clark for the First Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM1).

During the welcome dinner, the host province showcased its well-known giant lanterns, locally known as parul. The towering Kapampangan Christmas symbols, with an average diameter of 15 to 20 feet and built with about seven kilometers of electric wires and 10,000 light bulbs, were met with admiration from foreign delegates witnessing the display for the first time.

The foreign delegates as well as guests from the local governments of Central Luzon provinces also showed appreciation for the host province’s note-worthy hospitality as embodied by the Pampanga Capitol’s chiefs of offices and employees.

In her address, Governor Pineda stressed the importance of cooperation among the member countries in paving the way for long-term prosperity.

“I am optimistic that we can determine ways to harness and maximize the vast resources and favorable business environment not only of the Philippines but of all Apec member countries,” the governor said.

Celebrate a weekend of fun-flying, love and excitement at Widus

(PR)

CLARK FREEPORT -- Widus Leisure Inc., proprietor of Widus Hotel and Casino, celebrates the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF) with special promos and gastronomic offers exclusively slated for the “weekend of everything that flies”.

The widely anticipated aviation event, which annually draws huge crowds from families, group of friends to aviation fans, is making its return to Clark from February 12 to 15, guaranteeing this year to be bigger and better than previous staging.

Accessibly near the PIHABF site, Widus Hotel and Casino offers this year’s event attendees its signature luxury lifestyle experience like no other with its exceptional PIHABF promos.

Widus, which was recently ranked on Trip Advisor as the top hotel choice in Clark, offers special room accommodation packages starting at P10,000, inclusive of buffet breakfast, complimentary PIHABF tickets, event site transfer, packed snacks, and more.

Moreover, love is also truly in the air as The World Famous Platters performs live at the Widus Convention Center on February 13 at 8:00 pm. Ticket prices start at P2,000 and are available at SM City Clark, Pampanga and Tarlac.

For a romantic Valentine’s Day experience, delight at Salt, Widus’s all-day casual dining restaurant, with an indulgent buffet dinner for only P888 net per person.

Widely known as Clark’s one-stop leisure destination, Widus Hotel and Casino truly provides the perfect weekend-getaway experience with its wide range of amenities, affordable promos and high-quality service.

For more information, call Widus at (6345) 499-1000 or (632) 847-1430, or visit http://www.widus.com.

Apec fast-tracks private, government projects

(Press Release)

CLARK FREEPORT – One of the biggest benefits brought by the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) to the country is fast-tracking projects of both the government and private sectors including expansion plans of various locators here.

It can be recalled that Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president and chief executive officer Arthur Tugade said that legacy projects including the Clark Rotunda, Clark Museum, Clark 4D Theatre and Clark Integrated Command Center were to be implemented by 2015.

However, things changed when the National Organizing Committee of Apec finally decided to utilize Clark as a major venue for the Senior Officers Meeting. Tugade sat down with the CDC management committee and board of directors to request for an early implementation of the projects.

In an exclusive interview of Tugade in the program Clark in Action, he said “I would like to think that we are ready, but when we are saying we are ready, we should not be over confident, let me make it very clear, that the total responsibility of making APEC successful in Clark is not CDC’s alone or Clark alone.”

Meanwhile, Tugade clarified that the infrastructure projects and developments here in Clark is not solely intended for Apec. “Ito ho ay pang CDC at pang economic zone” (The projects are for CDC and economic zone).

He added that Clark locators along with the government share a common vision that Apec is good for the Philippines. “Ang ganda hong tignan, kasi nagkakapit-bisig, lahat nagkakapit-diwa lahat ng mga stockholders para matulungan ang gobyerno sa Apec 2015.”

The Apec Senior Officers’ Meeting started on January 26 and will end on February 7.

Tugade was especially grateful to CDC locators as they advanced the dates of their development plans including Fontana Leisure Parks’ construction of a convention center to increase the seating capacity from 500 seats to more than 1800 seats, upgrading of the clubhouse, golf course and acquisition of the state of the art facilities, construction of villas and rooms, and adding 1000 new workers for APEC needs; Oxford Hotel’s renovation of two floors and face lifting of the building arcade and dedicating the use of the floors for the APEC summit, landscaping of the area, commitment of a P1-billion investment in the next five years for the construction of a new hotel, casino and restaurant complex with one-stop commercial complex, and employment of 615 people; Widus’ P2-bilion for the construction of Tower 3 (300 bedroom capacity), investment in clubs, the putting up of a water theme park which will generate employment of 500 additional workers and assigning a tower plus 30 additional rooms solely for the Apec delegates.

The renovation of the Clark Parade Ground is in its final stages. Once completed, the 4.6-million project will have a rubberized overlay for the jogging path, renovated park bencher, a shower room for sports participants. The old lamp posts will be replaced and augmented by stadium lights for special sports and tourism events in the evenings.

Angeles mayor announces 20 new positions at City College

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan recently revealed 20 new positions that need to be filled in at the City College of Angeles (CCA).

Pamintuan said that with the rise of enrollment numbers in the said school, it is only right to hire more instructors and professors as a response to the rising demand.

"The opening of new positions in the CCA is in line with our continuous effort to enhance the quality of education in the city. As such, we are looking for passionate people to join the team and help us attain our goal," he said.

The college is looking for eight instructors, eleven assistant professors, one guidance coordinator and one librarian.

The City Government Personnel Selection Board, headed by the city mayor himself, will deliberate and recommend qualified applicants by mid-February.

Interested applicants may direct their queries to the City Human Resource and Management Office, 3rd floor, City Hall, Pulung Maragul or via telephone number (045) 892-0035.

Established in 2012, the City College of Angeles is an election promise fulfilled by the lawyer-mayor of this city, as stated in his "Contract with Angeleños" under the aspect of education. Currently, it offers alternative, market sensitive courses, which allows students to be hired immediately right after graduation.

Customs exec: ‘Empowering SMEs key to inclusive growth’

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

CLARK FREEPORT — "We can, and should, make the extra effort to ensure that small businesses are not excluded from the benefits of integration."

Thus said Customs Commissioner John Sevilla as he called on fellow customs officials from member-economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) to enhance regional economic integration by empowering small and medium enterprises towards the attainment of inclusive growth.

During the Sub-Committee on Customs Procedures (SCCP) meeting here, Sevilla noted that “As advocates of inclusive growth, we need to recognize that small and medium enterprises in many, if not all, of our countries face particular challenges in dealing with Customs procedures. That is why we need to adopt policies and procedures that are friendly to small and medium enterprises otherwise the increase in trade flows and the realization of the benefits of economic integration will not happen.”

Sevilla likewise cited the sub-committee’s Strategic Framework on Mutual Recognition, Mutual Assistance, and Mutual Sharing in Customs procedures as an important milestone in achieving the APEC objective of reducing trade transaction costs and making sure that supply chains flow efficiently.

"The framework gives us direction as it provides strong basis for our on-going work and initiatives in the following areas: implementation of the World Trade Organization Agreement on Trade Facilitation, establishment and strengthening the authorized economic operator programs, establishment and inter-operability of single window systems, and improvement of customs efficiency and risk controls through information technology," he added.

The commissioner also enumerated some of the reforms undertaken by the Philippine Customs such as the Integrated Enhanced Customs Processing System and the Philippine National Single Window Phase 2 Project to give traders comprehensive trade information to ensure informed and diligent compliance with customs practices and procedures.

SCCP is among the ongoing related technical meetings in Clark and Subic Freeports in line with the 1st Senior Officials Meeting (SOM1).

Abuses in 16th century Pampanga tackled in lecture series

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- The Katipunan da reng Talasaliksik at Talaturung Kapampangan (Katatagan) tackled in a lecture series the abuses committed against 16th century Kapampangans and how early Spanish missionaries tried to champion the rights of Kapampangans.

Katatagan hosted the Fourth Ambula Brown Bag Lecture on the topic "The Manila Synod of 1582 and the Corruption and Abuses in the 16th-Century Pampanga" which was delivered by Ian Christopher Alfonso of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines at the Angeles City Library recently.

"In his recent pastoral visit to the Philippines, Pope Francis shared his views against corruption and the inequality between the rich and the poor. More than four centuries ago, Bishop Domingo de Salazar, OP, the first bishop of Manila, also aired the same views, the only difference was he was battling the inequality between the natives and the Spaniards, particularly in Pampanga," Katatagan said in its Facebook page.

Katatagan added that in 1580, Pampanga province was governed by five governors (i.e. alcades mayor and a corregidor), supposedly administering justice over the encomiendas (special administrative units granted to the deserving soldiers to collect tributes) but they were tasked to strictly implement the repartimiento (dividing the natives for particular duties). Thousands of Kapampangan men underwent repartimientos and forcibly transferred to the gold mines in Ilocos, leaving their families starving and their farms untilled for many years.

"In response to the unmerciful repartimiento policy of the alcaldes mayor and the uncompassionate encomenderos, Bishop Salazar convened the religious fathers in 1582 to make a stand for the natives and for the Spanish king, the first Synod of Manila. Bishop Salazar and the early missionaries championed the rights of the natives and became heroes," Katatagan said.

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