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==Pamintuan backs efforts to protect headwaters==
*Source: http://www.headlinegl.com/pamintuan-backs-efforts-to-protect-headwaters/
*Friday, May 31, 2013
: By•Charlene Cayabyab
ANGELES CITY–Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has expressed support to the call of an environment group here to protect headwaters.
Headwaters are the primary sources of water supply. The one inside the hills of Clark Freeport is believed to provide water to cities of Angeles and Mabalacat.
However, residents of Barangay Sapang Bato in Angeles City recently reported to Mayor Pamintuan that their water supply became insufficient.
Pamintuan has earlier sought probe on the Deca Clark Wakeboarding Park in Barangay Margot whether it is the reason why water in several villages in the city are drying up.
Pamintuan reiterated that he is not anti-tourism but “if an establishment posts threat to the water supply of residents, it should be investigated.”
Meanwhile, Dobles suggested that the Donggwang Clark Corporation’s (DCC) golf course project should also be investigated since it is located on top of a hill.
“The golf course project is on top of a hill so it’s possible that it gets all the water supply first leaving villages down the hill dry,” Dobles said.
The DCC has yet to issue a statement about the issue.
==Angeles commemorates 30th International Aids Memorial==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/30/angeles-commemorates-30th-international-aids-memorial-284860
*Thursday, May 30th, 2013
: By (Rey G. Navales)
ANGELES CITY -- The local government here led by the Angeles City Aids Council has joined the commemoration of the 30th International Aids Candlelight Memorial (ACM) at the SM City Clark Event Center on Wednesday.
Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed his support to this advocacy as it is parallel to his eight-point agenda that focus on the health and welfare of every Angeleno.
He said everyone should open their minds and acknowledge Aids in order to discover the cure for the disease.
"Kailangan magising tayo at kilalanin natin ang Aids upang mas mapag-aralan natin ito at makahanap tayo ng mas mainam na panlaban upang tuluyan na nating masugpo itong sakit na ito," the mayor stressed.
This year's theme, "In Solidarity," emphasizes the need for the global community to join hands and work together in response to the problems brought by human immunodeficiency virus infection/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ( HIV/Aids).
The event also aims to reduce the stigma and promote the preventive ways on how to avoid the said disease.
Dr. Lenario Santos, city health officer, also acknowledged the reality against the battle for Aids, but he is still positive that they will be able to stop or reduce the risks because of the different preventive programs and measures his office is currently doing.
"What we have right now is prevention against Aids. We, at the medical and health community, are continuously devising means and ways to prevent the transmission of the virus to people," Santos said.
The event also aims to remember the millions of people who fought and died because of Aids.
During the event, candles where lit to symbolize the sympathy and solidarity toward persons living with Aids, as well as the hope that someday, a cure will finally be discovered to end the battle against the dreaded disease.
The local government, meanwhile, is one with the ACAC, health providers, entertainers, non-government organizations, and the general public whose mission is to make Angeles an "aids-free city."
"Our job is not easy - our goal seems lofty, but in a city where people have come together and have placed their trust once again in the government, the sky is the limit. There is nothing that we cannot achieve," Pamintuan added.
==Angeles City marks 30th Int'l AIDS Memorial==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=529079
*Wednesday, May 29th , 2013
: By (PNA)
HBC/ZST/MDDR/PS/SSC
ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, May 29 (PNA) -- The city goverment led by the Angeles City AIDS Council Wednesday joined the world in commemorating the 30th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial at the SM City Clark event center here.
With this year’s theme “In solidarity,“ the activity aimed to emphasize the need for the global community to join hands and work together in response to the problems brought by human immunodeficiency virus infection/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS).
The event also aims to reduce the stigma and promote the preventive ways on how to avoid the said disease.
City mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said he is supporting to this advocacy as it is parallel to his eight-point agenda which focuses on the health and welfare of every Angelenos.
Pamintuan said that everyone should open their minds and acknowledge AIDS in order to discover the cure for the disease.
Dr. Lenario Santos, city health officer, said the increasing number of AIDS cases could be mitigated through the different preventive programs and measures.
“What we have right now is prevention against AIDS. We, at the medical and health community are continuously devising means and ways to prevent the transmission of the virus to people,” Santos said.
During the event, millions of people who fought and died due to AIDS were remembered.
Candles were lit to symbolize the sympathy and solidarity towards persons living with AIDS as well as the hope that someday a cure will finally be discovered to end the battle against the dreaded disease.
The local government is one with the ACAC, health providers, entertainers, non-government organizations (NGOs) and the general public whose mission is to make Angeles an “AIDS-free city.”
“Our job is not easy – our goal seems lofty, but in a city where people have come together and have placed their trust once again in the government, the sky is the limit. There is nothing that we cannot achieve,” Pamintuan added.
==Angeles City kicks off national flag awareness campaign==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=528598
*Tuesday, May 28, 2013
: By (PNA)
FFC/ZST/RKM/PS/PJN
ANGELES CITY, May 28 (PNA) -- The city government kicked off Monday the national flag awareness campaign, signalling the city’s 15-day countdown to the 115th Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 12.
A brief commemorative program hosted by the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) was held at the city hall grounds here.
City mayor Edgardo Pamintuan enjoined all Angeleños to display the Philippine flag on their homes, businesses and government establishments, schools and other places in commemoration of the date when the flag was first unrolled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army overcame the Spanish conquerors in the Battle of Alapan in Cavite in 1898.
“Many Filipinos remain unfamiliar not only with the date of the celebration but what the National Flag Day calls for- respect for the flag,” Pamintuan said.
He said that “displaying the flag is a way of renewing the spirit of nationalism, patriotism and the love for freedom.”
The mayor has instructed the City Engineer’s Office to install or display Philippine flags in city government buildings and major thoroughfares until June 30.
Angeles City is one of the official heritage sites for the simultaneous flag raising rites commemorating the June 12 Independence Day.
==AC workers commemorate National Flag Day==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/27/ac-workers-commemorate-national-flag-day-284456
*Monday, May 27, 2013
: By  Reynaldo G. Navales
ANGELES CITY -- Local government officials and employees here started the week through the launch of the city’s National Flag Awareness Campaign.
It signaled the city’s 15-day countdown to the 115th Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 12.
A brief commemorative program hosted by the Angeles City Tourism Office coincided Monday’s flag raising rites at the City Hall Grounds with performances from the Angeles City Rondalla and the Sinukwan Performing Arts.
Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan enjoined all Angeleños to display the Philippine flag in their homes, businesses and government establishments, schools and other places in commemoration of the date when the flag was first unrolled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army overcame the Spanish conquerors in the Battle of Alapan in Cavite in 1898.
“Many Filipinos remain unfamiliar not only with the date of the celebration but what the National Flag Day calls for -- respect for the flag,” Pamintuan said.
He added that “displaying the flag is a way of renewing the spirit of nationalism, patriotism and the love for freedom.”
The mayor has instructed the City Engineer’s Office to install or display Philippine flags in city government buildings and major thoroughfares on or before May 28 to June 30.
For her part, Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting stressed the importance of displaying the flag in our homes and workplaces.
“The essence of displaying the Philippine flag in our offices is actually our expression of loyalty and commitment to our work here at the city government. With this, we are reminded that we consistently being challenged to improve our service to our fellow Angeleños,” Vega Cabigting told City Hall workers.
Angeles City is one of the official heritage sites for the simultaneous flag raising rites commemorating the June 12 Independence Day.
The local tourism office here has announced that the city was once again chosen as one of the sites in the country where the ceremonial hoisting of the Philippine Flag will be held on June 12.
In the City of San Fernando, residents are urged to display the Philippine Flag as the National Flag Day celebration kicks off.
In its invitation to Fernandinos, the City Tourism and Investment Promotions Office said that the annual National Flag Day Celebration is part of the advocacy of the city government to promote nationalism and patriotism by displaying the Philippine Flag in front of homes and establishments from May 28 to June 12, when Filipinos commemorate the 115th Independence Day.
Under Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, all offices, agencies and instruments of government, business establishments, schools and private homes are encouraged to display the flag in the right position.
The Philippine Flag was first unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle of Alapan on May 28, 1898. (With Jovi T. De Leon)
==Shell holds eco-marathon test run in Clark Freeport==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/26/shell-holds-eco-marathon-test-run-clark-freeport-284316
*Sunday, May 26, 2013
: By  Reynaldo G. Navales
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation (Shell) on Friday held a test run of cars that will be used by students in the Asian leg of the eco-marathon staged by the fuel company.
Top officials of Shell presented team members of each participating school to the media at the Clark Speedway circuit.
The event marked the start of the race for the most fuel-efficient and environment-friendly Filipino cars. This year's race will be held on July 4 to 7 at the Sepang International Circuit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
A total of 10 teams from top engineering schools in the Philippines joined the contest in the Prototype and Urban Concept categories.
Participating teams are from the Mapua Institute of Technology, University of Santo Tomas and Don Bosco Technical College, De la Salle University-Manila, Technological Institute of the Philippines-Quezon City and Manila, University of San Carlos, and Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Manila.
Mapua, one of the teams that displayed good standing during the early editions of Shell Eco-marathon, is expected to lead the Philippine contingent in achieving record-breaking success this year.
The team's entries for 2013, dubbed Agila and Haribon in the prototype and urban concept categories respectively, boast of improved design and extremely light materials.
The Shell Eco-marathon Asia is one of the regional precursors to the global Eco-marathon event, an annual competition developed by Shell to encourage young student engineers all over the world to design built, and test energy-efficient vehicles.
Shell supports youth education, encourages innovation, and fosters the development of leading technology for greater energy efficiency.
Energy sources like gasoline, diesel, bio-fuels, gas to liquids, electric battery, and other methods in mobility may be used by the students.
The Shell Eco-marathon Asian leg has given Filipinos a chance to show their ingenuity in the field of car engineering.
Students have been rising to the challenge of reinventing cars that fit the concept of smarter mobility or what Shell describe as "innovative ways to move more people and goods safely, cost-effectively and with reduced impact on the environment."
Some 1,500 students from 18 countries are expected to participate in this year's event.
==Pamintuan seeks special courts for ‘horrendous crimes'==
*Source: http://www.balibago.org/
*Saturday, May 25, 2013
: By balibago.org
CLARK FREEPORT -- Amid reports that the Ampatuan family dominated the last elections in Maguindanao, former human rights lawyer Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan urged here yesterday the creation of a special court for “horrendous crimes committed so publicly”, such as the infamous Maguindanao massacre on Nov. 23 four years ago.
Pamintuan issued this appeal as local journalists gathered here yesterday for their commemoration of the massacre every 23rd of the month.
==Hundreds join 2nd livelihood run==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/24/hundreds-join-2nd-livelihood-run-283970
*Friday, May 24, 2013
: By  Jovi T. De Leon
CLARK FREEPORT -- More than 350 runners and fitness enthusiasts on Thursday joined the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole)’s 2nd “Pulayan para Queng Cabiayan” (livelihood run) held at the parade grounds of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).
The fun run anchored on the theme “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon,” aimed to raise funds for the Industrial Peace Council.
The event had a P400 registration fee for each participant from various sectors including tripartite groups in Pampanga, union officials, CDC executives, representatives from the Public Employment Service Offices, and private professional runners
According to Dole-Central Luzon director Raymundo Agravante, the livelihood run further aimed to unite government, employers, and workers, in promoting a healthy lifestyle and foster corporate social responsibility.
Last year’s leg of the “Pulayan” benefitted about 230 grade school pupils from typhoon-hit areas in Pampanga who were given much needed school supplies and textbooks.
“The estimated P50,000 generated from this year’s fun run will go to intended to fuel its pipelined socio-economic programs and projects geared towards alleviating the plight of every worker in the province such as continuous education on paralegal for its members, medical missions, adopt-a-school sponsorship of educational plans for children of low-income workers, feeding program for street children, and other various corporate social services,” Dole officials said.
==AC to boost historical, cultural attractions==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/23/ac-boost-historical-cultural-attractions-283854
*Thursday, May 23, 2013
: By  Ian Ocampo Flora
ANGELES CITY -- The city's historical landmarks and cultural attractions will soon get a major boost as the City Government prepares for a better re-branding of the overall tourism program and marketing of this city.
Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said this is part of the overall development plan for the city's tourism attraction stressing that Angeles City is not all about bars and entertainment but also has its share of cultural and heritage landmarks that can attract local tourists.
Currently, the city has been preparing its development plan for its historical district to promote the imposing Santo Rosario Church with its twin-belfries and recently restored bells; the old town hall which is now converted into a local museum (Museo ning Angeles) by the Kuliat Foundation; and the other historical houses scattered within the old downtown area.
“The country gets thousands of tourists each year. I think Pampanga does not even get 1 percent of those tourist arrivals,” Pamintuan said, as many tourists who arrive here stay within Clark Freeport and around Angeles City's Barangay Balibago, the city's business and entertainment district.
Just recently, independent tour providers have been providing tourists an opportunity to visit the cultural landmarks of the city and experience Kapampangan dining here. However, Pamintuan admits that much is still to be improved in bring more tourists to the city's downtown area.
==Group asks EdPam for probe on watershed destruction==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/22/group-asks-edpam-probe-watershed-destruction-283680
*Wednesday, May 22, 2013
: By  Reynaldo G. Navales
ANGELES CITY -- A group of environmentalists is urging Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan to conduct an investigation regarding the destruction of watershed areas in the city.
Sonny Dobles, head of the Alliance for the Development of Central Luzon, said the re-elected mayor ordered for an investigation to determine the cause of environmental problems like flooding, depletion of water supply, and others.
Pamintuan earlier told local media that residents of Sapang Bato are complaining about the scarce supply of potable water in their village.
The mayor said that experts are blaming the problem to the depleted underground water source in the area.
According to Dobles, the real cause of the problem is the denuding of forest areas and mountain ranges at the Clark Subzone.
Dobles said that the ongoing development by Dongwang Clark Corporation should be investigated.
Thousands of full-grown trees were cut by the Korean firm to give way to the construction of a world-class golf course, hotels and restaurants, and other amenities, according to him.
But officials of Dongwang earlier told Sun.Star Pampanga that no adult trees were removed in the area.
Part of the development is the planting of more trees to complement the golf course and the recreation area, the Korean firm stated.
==BEFORE SAILING TO PHL IN JUNE 2nd excess navy ship from US being tested==
*Source: http://punto.com.ph/News/Article/17504/Volume-6-No-141/Headlines/u-BEFORE-SAILING-TO-PHL-IN-JUNE-u-br-2nd-excess-navy-ship-from-US-being-tested
*Tuesday, May 21, 2013
: By  Ding Cervantes
CLARK FREEPORT - The second US military ship acquired by the government under the Excess Defense Article and Military Assistance Program with the US set sail last Monday off the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in North Charleston, South Carolina in the US for a three-day sea trial before finally journeying to the Philippines by next month.
In a statement emailed to Punto, Washington D.C.-based consul Elmer Cato, spokesperson of the Philippine embassy in the US, said the 378-foot long ship, now named BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) was refurbished at the South Carolina center at the cost of $15.15 million.
“It has begun its much-awaited sea trials as part of preparations for its journey to the Philippines,” he said.
Cato said the Alcaraz “left at 8:30 a.m. Monday, from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, where it has been undergoing refurbishment since it was turned over to the Philippines last year.”
He quoted Navy Capt. Elson Aguilar, Defense and Naval Attaché of the Embassy, as saying the Alcaraz will stay out at sea for three days to test its propulsion and other systems before returning to port on Thursday.
“We want to make sure everything is in place before the Alcaraz finally sets sail for the Philippines before the middle of next month,” Aguilar said.
Cato said the Alcaraz has been undergoing refurbishment since it was acquired by the Philippines in May 2012, adding that the vessel’s 14 officers and 74 crew members led by Capt. Ernesto Baldovino have also been undergoing training since the turnover.
He noted that the 378-foot-long Alcaraz was commissioned in 1968 and served with the US Coast Guard as the USCGC Dallas until it was decommissioned and turned over to the Philippines in May. It is being refurbished and refitted at a cost of $15.15 million.
The Alcaraz is the second Hamilton-class cutter that was acquired by the Philippines under the Excess Defense Article and Military Assistance Program. The first, the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF15), was turned over to the Philippine Navy in May 2011, he added.
Aguilar noted that both the Alcaraz and the Del Pilar are capable of conducting patrols for long periods of time and withstanding heavy weather and rough sea conditions.
The Alcaraz was named after Commodore Ramon Alcaraz, a Philippine Navy officer, who distinguished himself during World War II when the patrol boat he commanded was credited for shooting down three Japanese aircraft.
==Hotels and Resorts in Clark Pampanga offering good outdoor facilities==
*Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/hotels-and-resorts-in-clark-pampanga-offering-good-outdoor-facilities
*Monday, May 20, 2013
: By clarkphilippines.com
Manila residents as well as tourists arriving in the Philippines from major cities around Asia seem to look for the same thing: a chance to relax and unwind. Visitors arrive feeling stressed out from living and working in crowded cities like Manila, Hong Kong and Singapore, places that offer plenty of thrills and excitement but not necessarily a lot of opportunities to enjoy life in the slow lane.
Many good resorts and hotels in Clark Pampanga realize and understand the needs of modern tourists. Some hotels in Clark are paying more attention to not only lavish lobbies and ballroooms but more importantly, good outdoor facilities for guests to relax and unwind, to enjoy nature with friends and families. City hotels in Manila struggle to allot land for outdoor space for guests to roam around freely. Many visitors and Manila residents choose to travel out of town to the north to spend time in Subic, Angeles City and Clark where some of the better hotels in Pampanga offer spacious outdoor facilities and amenities that cater to the enjoyment of the whole family.
Manila residents also look for holiday destinations for day trips. Some hotels in Clark Pampanga offer day use admission allowing guests to enjoy the hotel’s outdoor amenities without having to check in to a room for an overnight stay. This option suits a lot of Manila families looking for just get out of the city for a short out-of-town excursion, a day tour for the family or a group of friends to relax and unwind in nature.
==Lazatin, Nepomuceno out but old names linger in Angeles council==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/19/lazatin-nepomuceno-out-old-names-linger-angeles-council-283165
*Sunday, May 19, 2013
: By  Ian Ocampo Flora
ANGELES CITY -- First district Representative Carmelo Lazatin and former mayor Francis Nepomuceno may be out in the local political scene this term but younger generations of their political families still hound the Angeles City council.
The Nepomuceno name is alive in councilor-elect Bryan Nepomuceno, who ranked second in the number of votes for the City Council with 63,856 or 8.53 percent of the voters who voted in this year's election here, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Nepomuceno ran under the banner of the Nationalists Peoples' Coalition. His uncle, Blueboy, suffered defeat at the hands of Vice Governor Joseller Guiao for the first district congressional seat here.
Meanwhile, Lazatin, who suffered defeat from Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan for the mayoralty seat, may soon find hope with his son, Councilor-elect Carmelo Lazatin Jr., who was able to inch his way into the City Council with 50,476 votes according to the Comelec. The younger Lazatin ran under the Lakas Christian and Muslim Democrats.
Pamintuan, who received a fresh term, will also find an additional ally in his son Councilor-elect Edu Pamintuan who is also a part of the coming City Council in June.
==Kuliat Foundation to host Sabat Santacruzan==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/17/kuliat-foundation-host-sabat-santacruzan-282766
*Friday, May 17th, 2013
: By  Ian Ocampo Flora
ANGELES CITY - The Kuliat Foundation Inc., together with the Center for Kapampangan Studies, is organizing the Sabat Santacruzan on May 22, to create awareness among Filipinos of its inherent religious significance and its cultural value in our nation's history.
The foundation, in a statement, said the month of May is traditionally set for the Santacruzan which was originally intended as a method of evangelization but has become a Filipino heritage worth keeping.
The Santa Cruz de Mayo, which was introduced by Franciscan missionaries, is a retelling of Biblical stories and characters climaxing with the "finding of the True Cross" by the Empress Helena and her son Constantine the I, the first Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.
"Sad to say, in recent years, this novena procession has become a fashion show, an unfortunate turn of events discouraged by the Catholic Church," the foundation said.
The event, which will start at 4:30 p.m., is also being presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
"We highly encourage that each participant be dressed up in biblical costumes and to hold the appropriate symbols of their roles," the Kuliat Foundation added.
==Incumbent Angeles City Mayor re-elected==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=551368668060
*Thursday , May 16th, 2013
: By  Joelyn G. Baluyut
ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, May 16 (PIA) -- Incumbent Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan successfully won his re-election bid garnering 59,504 votes against lone challenger Carmelo Lazatin’s 45,535 votes.
In a message, Pamintuan said “I am overwhelmed with the way the people responded to our call. This is a clear manifestation of the continuing trust that the Angeleños have placed upon our administration. Once again, we have made history in our city where we have successfully placed a new breed of leaders after the seemingly unending reign of two prominent political families here.”
Meanwhile, Pamintuan’s running mate Maria Vicenta Vega was re-elected for a third-term garnering 33,828 votes. Closest challenger Tony Mamac got 28,008 votes.
Moreover, proclaimed winners in the Sangguniang Panlungsod race were Jericho Aguas, Arvin Suller, Bray Matthew Nepomuceno, Danica Lacson, Maricel Morales, Edgardo Pamintuan Jr., Alexander Indiongco, Carmelo Lazatin Jr., Maximo Sangil, and Amos Rivera. (CLJD/JGB-PIA 3)
==Pamintuan, Guiao win over veteran bets==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/14/pamintuan-guiao-win-over-veteran-bets-282361
*Tuesday, May 14, 2013
: By  Ian Ocampo Flora
ANGELES CITY -- Reelectionist Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and congressional candidate Joseller Guiao won over veteran politicians from known political families in the city.
Pamintuan, who ran under the Partido Abe Kapampangan, received 51,368 votes or 56.51 percent of the total 93,970 votes in the mayoral post, according to data gathered from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
His rival, Carmelo Lazatin, received 39,526 or 43.49 percent of the total votes. Lazatin is the incumbent first district representative of the province and had been mayor of Angeles City for many years.
Pamintuan was a former city executive and held several positions in the National Government. His campaign mobilized sectoral support for his candidacy. He received the support of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.
The two camps are remembered for running black propagandas, accusing each other of massive vote buying activities.
"Let us get back to work and bring this city forward," Pamintuan said in the eve of the elections.
Incumbent Vice Mayor Maria Vicenta Vega-Cabigting, Pamintuan's running mate, also received majority of the total votes cast, 29,291.
Meanwhile, Vice Governor Joseller Guiao of the Kapanalig at Kambilan ning Memalen Pampanga defeated his rival, former Angeles mayor Francis Nepomuceno in the first district congressional race.
Guiao received 82,886 or 56.80 percent of the 160,186 total votes cast.
Nepomuceno, who ran under the Nationalists' Peoples Coalition, received 63,037 or 43.20 percent of the total votes cast. (With Rey Navales)
==Gov't turns to Land Bank, DBP in buyout of MRT3 creditors==
*Source: http://www.interaksyon.com/business/61587/govt-turns-to-land-bank-dbp-in-buyout-of-mrt3-creditors
*Monday, May 13, 2013
: By Darwin G. Amojelar, InterAksyon.com
CLARK FREEPORT - The Aquino administration will tap two government financial institutions (GFIs) for the purchase of the remaining bonds held by creditors of Metro Rail Transit Corp (MRTC).
"In terms of financing we have already identified in the budget or even for the GFIs if they can already first pay out like they did on the 80 percent economic interest. If they get the bonds, they will get the returns. They're the ones also benefiting from the coupons of the bonds," National Treasurer Rosalia B. de Leon told reporters on the sidelines of the EJAP-San Miguel Business Journalism Seminar here.
De Leon said the Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) can start buying the 25 percent stake held by bondholders, even as she admitted that an agreement has yet to be signed with the GFIs on the matter.
Land Bank and DBP also hold the 80 percent economic interest in Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3).
Under Executive Order No. 126 issued last March, Malacanang directed the Departments of Finance (DOF) and of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to buy out MRT3 from MRTC pursuant to a build-lease-transfer (BLT) agreement.
Metro Pacific Investments Corp (MPIC) controls 48 percent of MRTC after signing a cooperation agreement with various groups that hold rights and interests in MRT3, including Metro Rail Transit Holdings Inc, Metro Rail Transit 2 Inc and Monumento Rail Transit Corp.
The DOTC had said the buying out the MRT3 would cost $1 billion. The planned buyout of the private investors is meant to wind down the 15 percent equity rental the government shells out under the contract.
In the past 10 years, the government has given out a P75 billion subsidy for MRT3 and almost the same amount for Light Rail Transit Line 1.
==Contingency funds pushed for PPPs==
*Source: http://asean-business-news.com/philippines/uncategorized/contingency-funds-pushed-for-ppps/
*Sunday, May 12, 2013
: By  UNCATEGORIZED,
Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga – The Department of Budget and Management has been asked to set aside money for financing unforeseen problems that could stem from the government's flagship public-private partnership program (PPP), said the country's Treasurer."We're managing …
==City College to use new campus in June==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/10/city-college-use-new-campus-june-281655
*Friday, May 10, 2013
: By  Rey G. Navales
ANGELES CITY – Officials of the City College of Angeles (CCA) said that they will use the new campus of the CCA starting June 2013, despite the recent allegation of an unidentified group that the new campus is ‘a white elephant.”
A paid advertisement printed in page 3 of the May 8, 2013 edition of Sun.Star Pampanga accused the CCA of being “the most expensive ‘white elephant’ in the history of Angeles City,” but the school officials said the allegation was not true.
CCA president Averell Laquindanum said: “It is absolutely not true. In fact, we are now in the process of transferring to the new campus and the students of the City College of Angeles (CCA) will enjoy all its new facilities and equipment starting June this year.”
“This is pure and simple black propaganda. We urge Sun.Star Pampanga to reveal the group or individual behind the paid advertisement. Or they should be brave enough to reveal their identities. Otherwise, we should just dismiss them as cowards and backstabbers,” Laquindanum added.
CCA vice president Dr. Marietta Gaddi reiterated that the city college will use the CCA campus starting June 2013 and is now accepting applicants for enrollment for the five (5) Bachelor Degree courses.
The new courses, which will be offered during the start of classes for the first semester of school year 2013-2014, include Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science, BS in Information Systems, BS in Tourism Management, Bachelor of Physical Education, and Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education major in Food and Service Management.
The CCA was granted government authority from the Commission on Higher Education (Ched) to offer bachelor degree courses this coming semester.
Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded the administration of the CCA in their efforts to expand their academic capabilities through several course offerings.
“Without a doubt, this will encourage more of our youth to study in the City College and improve the quality of their lives through its market sensitive courses, professional skills trainings and other programs,” Pamintuan said.
==7ID inks MOA with BCDA for security of Clark Green City project==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561367912461
*Wednesday, May 8, 2013
: By  Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu
CLARK FREEPORT, May 8 (PIA) -- 7th Infantry Division (7ID) of the Philippine Army recently inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to give security to the proposed Clark Green City project.
7ID commander Major General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. and BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano Casanova led the signing.
Under the MOA, 7ID will activate Special Cafgu Active Auxiliary (SCAA) companies within the area that is eyed to be similar to Global City in Fort Bonifacio but with more high-technology features.
The BCDA said the urbanization trend in the Philippines has been faster in the last 50 years. In 1960, only 8 million Filipinos lived in urban areas and the remaining 19 million lived in rural locations.


By 2000, the BCDA said the trend reversed with 39 million Filipinos living in cities and 37.5 million living in rural areas. 

In 2010, the BCDA said 46% of Filipinos live in urban areas or some 46 million people.This means that roughly 1 out of 2 Fillipinos live in a city.
Urbanization in the Philippines is bound to continue. The BCDA said that by 2030, some 3 out of 4 Filipinos will be living in cities.


The BCDA said with this, there is a need to build another metropolis but not just another city but a sustainable one. The government has chosen to pattern the Clark Green City to South Korea's Songdo.
"Urbanization in this part of the Philippines is concentrated in the NCR, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, and Bulacan," the BCDA said in a presentation. "There is a need to create a new metropolitan area."
For his part, Catapang said “Now that we will be seeing the death of insurgency and the birth of peace and prosperity, I encourage everybody to prepare and face the new kind of war- the war against climate change to preempt the effects of calamities that may occur in the coming years” (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)
==CDC management hits back at workers==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/06/cdc-management-hits-back-workers-281015
*Monday, May 6, 2013
: By Reynaldo G. Navales
CLARK FREEPORT - The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) said the move to unite the employees to strike because of alleged refusal by management to bargain is “unjustified, unwarranted, unreasonable, and very selfish.”
CDC employees earlier threatened to stage a massive labor strike because of alleged unfair labor practices by the CDC management.
A review of the compensation and benefits of employees in CDC revealed that the lowest rank and file (utilityman/messenger) has a total monthly pay of P19,008.56, while the lowest supervisor enjoys a total monthly pay of P41,802.
Included in the monthly pay are the employees’ basic salary, Cola, Pera, rice subsidy, hazard pay, housing, utilities and transportation allowance, and communication allowance for supervisors.
On an annual basis, CDC also allocates for said rank and file and supervisor the amounts of P398,633.55 and P558,753.93, respectively for their Provident Fund Corporate Share, medical coverage for the employees and their qualified dependents, uniform allowance, commutation of accumulated vacation and sick leave credits, annual executive check up for supervisors, 13th and 14th month pay and cash gift.
Other benefits enjoyed by the rank and file and union employees include MWR activities every Friday (4-5 PM); shuttle service; two days off; two days emergency leave; one birthday leave; two days special leave; bereavement leave (five days for rank and file and three days for supervisors); study leave with pay for supervisors; provision of two common staff house.
“Of late, the employees demand to negotiate and revisit the above,” the CDC said.
CDC officials said the corporation has been a very generous employer, granting salaries and benefits above other government and private companies in Clark and Pampanga.
CDC’s Personnel Services (PS) budget for 2013 is 62 percent of its Operating Expenses budget, which is way above the acceptable industry standard of 40 percent.
CDC is prevented by Republic Act No 10149 (Government Owned and Controlled Corporations Governance Act) and Executive Order No 7 (Moratorium on Increase in Salaries of Government Employees) to negotiate or grant increases in salaries until the government is able to develop a Compensation and Position Classification System for GOCC’s. This is expected to be out before end of the year.
CDC President Arthur Tugade said the grant of benefits is not determined purely by want, like or desire of the recipient. It is dictated also by what is fair and what is just and the continuing capability of the giver.
“Hindi po madamot ang pamahalaan, ang BCDA at ang CDC. In fact, its past benevolence already borders on abuse and being abused. Ang gusto lang po ng Management ay bigyan ang Governance Commission for GOCCs ng kaukulang panahon upang himayin, pag-aralan at i-rationalize ang mga panuntunan, pamaraan, at benepisyo ng mga kawani ng gobyerno upang sa gayon, ang pangkalahatan at ang nakararami ay matugunan at mabiyayaan. Let us be patient and understanding at wag po tayo magmadali. We just might kill the goose that lays the golden eggs,” Tugade added.
==Cabigting to move for livelihoods, development programs==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/05/cabigting-move-livelihoods-development-programs-280820
*Sunday, May 5, 2013
: By Ian Ocampo Flora
ANGELES CITY — Reelectionist Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting said Saturday she will move for more livelihood and development programs if reelected.
Cabigting said she is set to finish the home stretch of her campaign with visiting constituents and capping the whole campaign with a prayer.
“The whole campaign and my previous term are like exams. I have done my part, now I am waiting for the results of those exams,” Cabigting said.
She added she was able to implement her advocacies and those of the City Government in the past years.
Cabigting was able to initiate help support programs for cancer patients, health programs for various sectors, seminars on health, and medical assistance through her office and in coordination with the City Government.
Cabigting said the “Sulong Kaalaman” program was able to extend educational support for indigents, while her read-along programs have been instrumental in promoting renewed interest on reading among children.
Cabigting recently promoted the Zumbarangay as a form of grassroots program to promote healthy living through proper exercise in the barangay level.
“Given a chance I will be moving for more livelihood programs for our urban poor. I am also looking on a parent academy as an initiative to strengthen family values,” Cabigting added.
Cabigting is also batting for more legislative recognition for the Angeles City Council which was recognized as a regional local legislative award winner under her term.
She added they have started with legislative tracking to keep the priorities of the city council into perspective.
The veteran public official said that she now places the political future on the people of Angeles and on divine intervention.
==Farmers call for government-rebels talks==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/04/farmers-call-government-rebels-talks-280671
*Saturday, May 4, 2013
: By  Reynaldo G. Navales
CLARK FREEPORT -- The Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luson (AMGL) and Anakpawis Party-list-Central Luzon called for the resumption of peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
The groups said they are concerned about the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) that was signed by both the NDF and government in 1998, as well as the present socio-economic reforms, particularly on land reform and nationalist industrialization.
"We are pushing for the resume of the peace talks as it deliberate about the roots of the armed conflict. In our region, it is caused by the massive landlessness and poverty among farmers. Historically, the grave abuse against poor farmers are what pushes them to the armed struggle," said Joseph Canlas, AMGL chair and Anakpawis Party-list regional coordinator.
The groups said the government must adhere to the previous agreements, such as The Hague Joint Declaration in 1992, the Joint Agreement on Security Immunities and Guarantees (Jasig), the CAHRIHL and other agreements on the framework and conduct of the negotiations.
The previous agreements mainly clarified the framework and conduct, such as the political and legal framework, which is not constrained from each other's constitution but is mainly guided by mutually-accepted principles such as national sovereignty, democracy, human rights and social justice.
The talks should be held on neutral grounds and confidence-building measures performed.
"The Aquino government must realize that the accomplishments of the peace talks are bigger than his administration, the previous agreements were the result of the pain-staking, strenuous and patient effort between the two parties. Aquino should be humble enough to consider the history of the talks," Canlas said.
The groups are insisting on the resumption of the negotiations in order for the implementation of the CAHRIHL to push through. Land reform and nationalist industrialization are also the main components of the socio-economic reform agenda of the peace talks.
"We clearly remember when our leaders and members became victims of rights abuses during the implementation of Arroyo's counter-insurgency plan Oplan Bantay Laya. Thus, we want the human rights agreement to be implemented," Canlas said.
The groups also reacted to presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda's pronouncement that "nationalist industrialization is passé."
"It is really mind-boggling how the Aquino government could issue statements like that, when everybody knows that our agriculture is clearly backward, relying on carabaos and no modern machineries are utilized," Canlas said.
The groups said there is also no national industry the country could claim, adding that mining, energy, steel, chemicals, manufacturing and other intermediary industries are either monopolized or controlled by foreign corporations.
"Even the engine of hand tractors are either imported from China or Japan, while those big tractors are from the US. Motor engines used in small fishing boats are imported from China, US, Germany and Japan. Motor pumps, agro-chem and other needs for agriculture are imported. Thus, agriculture is really dependent on imports as there is no national industry to depend on," he added.
AMGL and Anakpawis Party-list said the Aquino government is preserving the export-oriented and import-dependent character of the country's economy, which is essentially semi-feudal and opposite of the direction to national development.
"It is really an insult to the poor farmers and sectors for the government to deny the root causes of poverty. As landlessness is still chronic and national industry remains illusory, poor sectors are driven to struggle, even bearing arms against the exploitative and oppressive social and economic system," Canlas said.
==Legarda: ‘Clark airport development important’==
*Source: http://www.headlinegl.com/legarda-clark-airport-development-important/
*Friday, May 3, 2013
: By Charlene A. Cayabyab
ANGELES CITY–Team PNoy senatorial candidate Loren Legarda said “the development of Clark International Airport (CIA) is important.”
“Ang pagdevelop ng Clark pati ng airport ay napakahalaga para madecongest na rin ang Metro Manila,” Legarda said during her sortie in Pampanga on Wednesday.
The development of the airport, Legarda said, will bring more progress including job generation to people from Central Luzon.
Legarda said CIA’s development will ease up heavy air traffic at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City.
“Matagal ng proposal ‘yan (na i-develop ang CIA). I think it’s worth looking into,” Legarda said.
Meanwhile, expansion works in CIA are set start after elections following the release of P1 billion loan from the Land Bank of the Philippines.
Expansion works include the P360 million worth construction of the airport’s phase II terminal.
==More BPOs establishing in Clark==
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/article.php?aid=10147&sid=2&subid=80#.UYZB26I-c1M
*Thursday, May 2, 2013
: By Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat
The locational restriction issued by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) scrapping incentives to new developers of IT Parks in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu has effectively driven BPO investors to the nearby Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ), the latest report by property management firm CRBE Philippines Inc.
According to the Central Luzon Urban Market View for the Overview for the second half this year, CBRE cited the PEZA policy as great contributor to the booming BPO industry in Clark.
PEZA Board Resolution No. 12-329 has restricted fiscal tax incentives for new developers in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu.
The resolution states that “IT facilities projects to be located in the four (4) PEZA-registered IT Parks in Metro Manila (i.e., Eastwood City Cyberpark in Quezon City, Northgate Cyber Zone In Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Robinsons Cyberpark in EDSA, Mandaluyong City and E-Square Information Technology Park in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City) and in Cebu City (Cebu IT Park) shall no longer be entitled to incentives; and developers/operators of new IT Parks and Centers to be located outside Metro Manila and Cebu City, including IT Facilities Enterprises in such IT Parks, shall be entitled to the special five percent tax on gross income (5% GIT) incentive and other fiscal incentives as may be provided by PEZA.”
The resolution aims to level the country’s income distribution by promoting BPO and IT Park developments outside key market locations.
The PEZA resolution has placed Metro Clark in a sweet spot as the only established IT-BPO Hub in the country still enjoying tax incentives for new IT Parks and facilities developers.
The PEZA resolution has emphasized Metro Clark as a high potential investment destination. The large talent pool combined with developments in infrastructure of the region has helped in sustaining the BPO growth. With the entrance of new locators and expansion of previous tenants in the BPO industry, the real estate office segment is seen to expand in the coming years.
Furthermore, investors in the CFZ are also subject to varying degrees of tax incentives from state-run corporations Clark Development Corporation.
Since Clark is not a part of the ban, it is now experiencing a flourishing IT Park developments and new locators.
“Off-shoring and outsourcing continue to drive the demand for office spaces in the Clark Freeport Zone,” the CBRE said.
As of December 2012, Clark registered a low vacancy rate of 6.54% out of the total supply of 126,589 square meters leasable office space. Demand is expected to increase with the recent mergers and acquisitions of top BPO locators in Clark.
In 2012, iQor, a New York City-based data analytics and outsourcing solutions firm, acquired one of the pioneer BPO firms in Clark, Cyber City Teleservices, in an effort to increase global activity. Likewise, NCO Group Inc. has merged with APAC Customer Services Inc. under the umbrella corporation Expert Global Solutions (EGS).
Likewise, residential developments have flourished to address the housing requirements for foreign investors and workers.
An increase in expatriates and on-site working for the different locators raised the demand for quality residential developments, placing the pressure on developers to increase supply.
The growing number of locators in Clark has increased the demand for expatriate residential housing. Central Luzon region recorded 16,000 foreign citizen households in 2010, ranking third in the country, next to the National Capital Region and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
In response to the evident high investment potential, developers have started launching new residential projects inside the CFZ and its fringes, CBRE said.
To date, four horizontal subdivisions and two condominium projects are adding up to the supply of residential dwellings in CFZ with about 1,076 units. These projects mainly cater to expatriates working inside the CFZ. One of these projects, for instance, is exclusively marketed to Korean nationals.
Outside the CFZ, national players are also trying to get a hold of the growing residential market driven by OFW remittances and flexible bank lending terms. In 2012, Ayala launched the second tower of their Marquee Place Residences in Angeles City, adding another 155 units in the market. Other players competing in the area are Robinsons Homes, Vista Land, Filinvest, Pro Friends, Fil-Estate and Moldex Realty.
Residential demand is seen to grow with the upcoming investments and expansion in the CFZ. Vertical residential developments are now seen rising in the area as developers try to maximize their investment on land. (BCM)
==Angeleños told to choose a dedicated public servant==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2013/05/01/angelenos-told-choose-dedicated-public-servant-280347
*Wednesday, May 1, 2013
: By sunstar.com.ph
CLARK FREEPORT -- Governor Lilia G. Pineda appealed to Angeleños on Tuesday to "choose a leader who is a dedicated public servant".
She made the announcement before some 1,000 Kambilan members of Angeles City during a meeting with first district congressional bet Joseller "Yeng" Guiao held at the Oxford Hotel.
Pineda said that in choosing their leader, Angeleños should look for dedicated leaders who are focused on giving them quality services in education, health, livelihood, and infrastructure.
The governor added that a leader should also address unemployment and the development of the area.
"Ing metung a lider eyamu dapat magdependi keng infra at emu pwedi i-focus ing pamanungkulan na keng pamipagawang tete," Pineda said.
The governor said a leader should focus on all aspects that would address the needs of constituents.
"Nung ing metung a kandidato aibie na ngan ing pangangailangan yu keng edukasyun, health, development, employment at infra ita angga man tumwa ya iya ing sopan yu uling maragul yang makasaup kekayu Angeleño ita," she added.
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