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Angeles City News August 2017

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Official Seal of Angeles City
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Angeles City, Pampanga
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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.

CCA showcases Kapampangan culture in songs, dances

By Aryolyn P. Gopez and Renzo Gio Tiomico (OJT/AUF)

ANGELES CITY – A showcase of Kapampangan songs and dances was held at the City College of Angeles (CCA) here on Friday as a tribute to Kapampangan roots.

The CCA’s Sayaw Angeleño Dance Troupe and CCA Chorale performed during the week-long event dubbed: Paruminggung Kapagmasusian King Amanung Sisuan.

The event started with a dance performance featuring Kapampangan folk dances with western influences such as Danza, Aro Katimyas na ning Dalaga and Paseo de Bacolor.

It was followed by the CCA Chorale singing Kapampangan songs and Pulosa among others such as Kuliat/Angeles, Seselan na Kamu, Atin Cu Pung Singsing, Himnu Ning Angeles.

Rural dances were also performed such as Subli, Padwasan and Salakban.

The Paruminggung Kapagmasusian King Amanung Sisuan started on August 22 until the 25th where activities were lined up about the Kapampangan language and culture.

“It’s our way of paying tribute and homage to our very own Kapampangan roots, to our heritage,” said Richard Daenos, CCA president.

He added that the event their way of celebrating the “Buwan ng Wika” but to make it more special they made it Kapampangan themed “as a way of going back to our roots.”

The Gayak Exhibit marked the opening of the week-long event that showcased collections of Philippine indigenous costumes and instruments.

Also featured was the Apag Angeleño which featured the culinary talents of renowned Kapampangan cook Lillian Borromeo.

A two-day showing of the film Amigo by John Sayles which is an American- Filipino drama detailing and addressing US imperialism in the Philippines was also held.

Kapampangan language and culture advocate Michael Pangilinan also gave a lecture on Amanung Sisuan and what Kapampangans should know about their language.

The event was capped with the Basulto which showcased Kapampangan songs and dances.

Animal science, agriculture congress set in Clark

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- A food corporation has set its third annual Pilmico Junior Animal Science and Agriculture Congress in Clark on August 31, 2017.

Pilmico Foods Corporation, the agri-business subsidiary of Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. will hold the whole day (8:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at Midori Clark Hotel and Casino.

The congress brings together the top 60 graduating and junior veterinary medicine and agriculture students from different colleges and universities all over the Philippines.

On its third year, the congress aims to equip the delegates with practical and applied knowledge on animal production, management, and nutrition in the pillars of swine, poultry, gamefowl, and aqua.

Participants will also go through team building exercises and team challenges designed to help them add value to their community and prepare for the real world.

BBI Foundation grants 97 beneficiaries full college scholarships

By Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT – “Cut the cycle of poverty through education.”

Thus, said Irineo “Apung Neung” R. Alvaro Sr., father of businessman philanthropist Irineo “Bong” Jr. who immortalized his father’s words by granting some 97 student- benefi ciaries full four-year college scholarships under the Bridges and Benevolent Initiatives (BBI) Foundation’s “Tulong Dunong Scholarship Program.”

The student-beneficiaries were recognized at the grand Fiesta Pavilion of the Midori Hotel and Casino here on Friday as the younger Alvaro as well as trustees of the foundation and executives of colleges and universities were present.

“With this noble undertaking, it reminds me of my late father who once told me that if I want to get out of poverty I need to finish my studies,” said Alvaro Jr., chairman and president of BBI Foundation.

“Initiatives through scholarships is in line with our mission to help exceptional and deserving students realize their dream of a college degree which is one sure way to cut the cycle of poverty,” he added.

The foundations goal is to act as the bridge and bring about change in the lives of the needy in poverty stricken areas through its social services, entrepreneurial empowerment including disaster management programs.

According to Alvaro, BBI Foundation aims to provide opportunities for people to become self-reliant, independent, resilient and productive members of the community in particular and of society in general.

“All of our recipients demonstrate great potential in leading the next generation because they dream big. Let us continue to inspire these young minds and let them believe that they will achieve what they wish to accomplish,” Alvaro said.

Student beneficiaries and recipients of the scholarship programs were from the City College of Angeles, Angeles University Foundation, Mabalacat City College, Don Honorio Ventura State University, Pampanga State Agricultural University and Systems Plus College Foundation.

The Medical City Clark, HAU launch ‘Early Childhood Congress’

By Mariela Canlas, Jaasiel Morales and Deblynn Tungcol (OJT/ SPCF)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Medical City - Clark (TMC-C) in partnership of Holy Angel University (HAU) launched the first ever Early Childhood Congress (ECC) in Central Luzon over-the-weekend here.

The ECC is meant to impart knowledge about the developmental stages of children which coincided with TMC-C’s Developmental Pediatric Clinic.

Teachers, pediatricians and therapists from Central Luzon gathered to build connection and discussed the most critical stage, brain development and growth of a child.

Carl Tolentino, marketing officer of TMC-C , said they started preparing for the event since February .

But he said he didn’t expect the large number of people who came to be part of the congress.

Student artists join SM Art For Everyone

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Students from at least 78 schools all over the country participated in the second art fair initiated by SM Supermalls.

SM City Clark Assistant Mall Manager Ryan Pamintuan said the five-day art exhibit dubbed Art For Everyone opened simultaneously in nine SM malls all over the yesterday.

Pamintuan said participating malls include SM Mega Mall, SM Aura Premier, Mall of Asia, SM City Dasmarinias, SM City Baguio, SM City Clark, SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM Lanang Premier.

SM wants to give students a new and exciting venue to express themselves, he added.

“They say that arts normally requires a special appreciation of creativity and talent. We at SM enables young artists to gain foothold in the art scene,” Pamintuan said.

“With this, SM is also able to realize the valuable role of mentors, schools and other learning institutions in unleashing the youth’s passion for visual arts by promoting paintings for everyone to appreciate,” he added.

SM City Clark Public Relations Manager Venus Manalang said that students from Gentry International School, Noblesse International School, Westfields International School, Bulacan State University, Guhit Pinas Pampanga, and Global Art Pampanga.

“Art For Everyone is the initiative of SM to shine a bright light on student artists from the different schools in the country. So today we celebrate the beginning of their journey as they exhibit their work with their peers and with an appreciative art world around them,” Manalang said.

Kapampangan artist Norman Tiotuico, Department of Tourism Planning Officer Yvonne Timbol, Noblesse International School headmaster Dwayne Lehman, Gentry International School assistant vice president Reynan Intal, Global Art Pampanga master teacher Maan Maliwat, Westfields master art teacher Carla De Jesus, and other personalities graced SM Clark’s launching for this year.

Hotel, golf employees celebrate first anniversary

(Punto Central Luzon)
QUEST CLARK IN MIMOSA TURNS ONE!
Week-long Celebration

A Holy Mass was held that started off the weeklong celebration of the anniversary. This was then followed by a simple opening ceremony which unveiled the official logo of the event, as well as the tagline “A Year in Brilliance”, which pays homage to the mission of Quest Hotel, which is to “bring brilliance in all things we do”.

The mass was shortly followed by the opening of the Q Café, the employees’ cafeteria, where they were treated to a sumptuous meal and other treats.

A basketball tournament was also held, where the collaborative force of the Front Office and Food & Beverage department emerged victorious, with the most valuable player, Miguel Bituin from Concierge, dominating the games.

Keeping the spirit of competition healthy, a bowling competition at SM Clark’s bowling alley was also held, which was won by General Manager Patrick Beck’s team in a neck-to-neck fight to the last game with Finance Manager’s Jet Salustiano’s team.

During the weeklong celebration, employees also held a mini-bazaar, where they converted the parking lot into a small market, complete with a fish-ball stand. This was where employees were also able to redeem their prizes for the human resources department’s Q Rewards program, which rewards employees in various aspects including their consistent punctuality, participation in hotel activities, and commendations from guests among others. A film viewing activity also allowed employees to relax during their free time, where the employees’ training room was converted into a mini-theatre.

Employees were also able to showcase their talents with Quest Got Talent. Dozens of hopefuls joined the competition, but Jay Urbano of the Housekeeping Department got creative with his presentation, being hailed as the most talented by manipulating two mannequins with his whole body in a traditional Filipino dance.

Culminating Night

During Tuesday’s culminating night, employees were treated to a fabulous dinner spread prepared by the hotel’s chefs, which was followed by games and performances from the Quest Got Talent finalists.

Loud cheers and hollers filled the Magellan ballroom as employees were then further entertained by a surprised performance by the management team, even being joined by Chroma Hospitality Country Manager James Montenegro and Filinvest Hospitality Corporation Vice President Francis Gotianun.

The weeklong celebration, as well as the successful culminating night, was organized by the anniversary committee lead Training Manager Ms. Cecil Malig, in collaboration with the entire Human Resources Department headed by HR Manager Ana Jereliza Laguerta. The HR department regularly takes charge in the promotion of in-house activities, promoting a healthy and fun working environment for Quest’s employees.

Filinvest Mimosa + Leisure City

The Mimosa Leisure Estate is home to Quest Hotel and Conference Center, Clark, a 303-room hotel with eight spacious function rooms for MICE and life’s most meaningful events. It is also home to the Mimosa Golf Course, with two, par-72, 18-hole courses that tests both enthusiasts and veterans alike.

For bookings and inquiries, visit www. questhotelsandresorts. com/ clark and mimosagolf. com or call +63 (45) 599 8000.

About Chroma Hospitality, Inc.

Chroma Hospitality, Inc. owned by Filinvest Hospitality Corporation is the management company behind Crimson Hotel Filinvest, Manila, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan in Cebu, Quest Hotel and Conference Center in Cebu City and Quest Hotel and Conference Center in Clark, Pampanga and the highly anticipated Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay set to open in 2017. Chroma Hospitality is a young, forward- thinking company crafting bold, innovative hospitality brands and currently manages 1,365 rooms.

For more information, please visit chromahospitality.com.

DOT Region 3, Booking.com host online business seminar

By Ning Cordero and Ashley Manabat

CLARK FREEPORT -- The first partnership caravan entitled, “Click: Empower your business through online channels,” was held on August 2 at Widus Hotel & Casino here.

The seminar, which aims to provide greater knowledge on the importance of online presence in today’s market, was hosted by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 3 and Booking.com, the world leader in online accommodation.

Numerous local hoteliers and businesses gathered together to learn interesting tourism related topics such as Clark Visitor Profile by DOT, Travel Trend and Technology by Booking.com, Revenue Management by Park Inn by Radisson Clark, and get free Booking.com sign-up, assistance to increase content score for existing Booking. com accommodation partners and customized portal for travel agencies and non-accommodation establishments, all in one event.

According to Selle Yambao DOT Region 3 supervising tourism operations officer, this is one way of showing DOT’s unrelenting support to hotel properties in Central Luzon by providing effective tools to increase visibility and boost occupancy.

“Our priority is to help properties in Central Luzon to grow further. We want to serve the untapped market. I think this partnership caravan with DOT is the most scalable way in doing it instead of doing it door-to -door. And we are very happy with the outcome that’s why I want to acknowledge DOT Region 3’s support and initiatives, “said Weng Rivera Booking. com area manager.

Considerably a powerful way to reach a larger audience of travelers worldwide, Booking.com presented reasons why accommodation establishment should partner with them - free sign-up, pay per booking, international exposure, boost occupancy, 24/7 support in your language, easy-to-use online tools and valuable guest insights.

River also said Booking. com boasts of getting one million rooms per night globally in a 24 hour period. It makes life easy for travelers because of several unique features like interface user friendly, full access in booking, flexibility of the policy, cancellation policy, option to pay in cash upon arrival, and excellent online accommodation service.

Sisig: A culinary heritage like no other

(Manila Standard Lifestyle)

If there’s one thing Filipinos cannot do without at parties, get-togethers, or after-work drinks, it would be sisig.

Sisig, the mouthwatering dish made mainly of pork, pig cheeks, and liver, has become an ever-present dish on the Filipino party table.

In the not-so-distant past, sisig was only considered an appetizer that went extremely well with beer and alcoholic drinks.

Now, many have recognized it as a hearty and flavorful meal in any occasion, at any time of the day. Sisig has become so popular that it was even cited as “arguably the greatest pork dish on earth” by the New York Times.

To share the legacy of this beloved Kampangan dish, Fresh Options collaborated with the Angeles City Tourism Office in hosting the 2017 Sisig Fiesta in Angeles City in Pampanga. The annual Sisig Fiesta, which attracted thousands of foodies, tourists and sisig lovers from all over the country, aimed to make the younger generation appreciate its roots, basic recipe, and food preparation.

Fresh Options, the retail arm of the quality meat and meat products producer RDF, co-presented the event to increase public awareness that the humble yet popular sisig has been declared as the unique Intangible Cultural Heritage of Angeles City in February 2017.

The brand’s passion for the festival also stems from the fact that Fresh Options, like sisig, traces its roots to Angeles.

“We’re really passionate to be a part of the Sisig Fiesta because we also started in Angeles City. Our first four stores were in Angeles. In fact, sisig is our best-selling value-added meat,” said Dr. Robert Lo, president and CEO of RDF and Fresh Options. “We, like all Angelenos, are proud of our sisig.”

Dr. Lo explained that, unknown to many, sisig was referred to as manyisig or sour since it was flavored with kalamansi and vinegar. Through the years, sisig evolved into today’s pork-based dish that has been popularized by food stalls and restaurants in Angeles.

But like all comfort food, pork sisig now has other variants such as chicken and pork sisig. He said that while it was good that people enjoyed sisig enough to experiment with its flavor base, it was also important for the younger generation to appreciate the authentic recipe and flavor of sisig to keep the culinary heritage alive.

To help guests appreciate the rich flavor base of the dish, Fresh Options also held a “Sisig Twisted Recipe” competition, which was participated in by groups made up of family members, friends, spouses or siblings. Teams prepared heirloom sisig recipes and then reinvented them into novel dishes. This unique cooking contest enabled participants to demonstrate the versatility of sisig and to pass on the culinary heritage to the younger generation. ILead won first place with their “Ginataang Pinakbet Sisig,” followed by Kenneth James Larce (second) with his “Stir Fry Pork Sisig with Spicy Hollandaise Sauce” and Koleen Gerdy Romero (third) with “Sisig Balls in Filo Pastry.”

They will be featured in audio visual presentations (AVPs) to be shown in various RDF establishments. The contest also served as a venue for Fresh Options to support local talent while at the same time emphasizing the need for food innovations. Fresh Options’ principal RDF is known for its various innovative food concepts like Meats & Match, Robbie’s, and ready to heat value-added products.

Angeles City lights up ASEAN Lantern in Bayanihan Park

By Carmela Jane F. Villar

ANGELES CITY (PIA) -- Angeles City lighted up last Tuesday (August 8) its ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Lantern at the Bayanihan Park, joining over 70 other local government units (LGUs) around the country.

It was in line with the 50th anniversary celebration of the organization.

Popularly known as the “Salakot”, Bayanihan Park was chosen for the ceremony to remind the people that Clark, which used to be an American military base, is now part of Philippine territory.

In his speech, Mayor Edgardo Paminutan said that before ASEAN can engage the world, there should first be a common understanding among Filipinos of the importance of ASEAN and the landmark lighting is great way to inform its significance.

“Being in consensus would lead to success and in achieving unity of nations. With the ASEAN Integration, there would be easy flow of goods, trade, and services. There would be no more barriers in achieving a successful community,” Pamintuan added.

Five other LGUs in Central Luzon participated in the activity namely Baler in Aurora; Science City of Munoz in Nueva Ecija; City of San Fernando in Pampanga; Mayantoc in Tarlac; and Iba in Zambales.

Angeles mayor lauds Kapampangan ‘little people’ advocate

(PR)

ANGELES CITY -- An employee of the City Government and an international dwarfism awareness advocate was given recognition by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, on Monday, August 14, at the City Hall.

Maria Glorian Tomen, an employee of the Angeles City Information Office and a resident of City of San Fernando in Pampanga paid a courtesy call to Mayor Pamintuan during the flag raising rites to cite her achievements and advocacies championing meaningful causes for the “little people” (LP) sector.

“Her attainments and efforts to achieve equality for her sector are really admirable and commendable. She epitomizes that our fellow LPs can stir a big impact towards creating a more socially responsible and aware community,” Pamintuan said.

Tomen attained her bachelor's degree at Holy Angel University and began her backing for equality through constant coordination with the Little People of America (LPA), a United States-based non-profit organization that provides support and information to people of short stature and their families.

She was the first Filipina little person to attend the LPA Conference held in 2013, 2014 and 2017 in Washington DC, California, and Colorado, respectively. The said conference enabled her to learn more about the rights and welfare of the little people on the basis of the international laws which she wishes to cascade down to the Philippines.

In 2016, Tomen had the chance to voice out the current situation of the LPs in the Philippines to the First International Dwarfism leadership Summit in Berlin, Germany which is a congregation of more than 29 LP organizations from 26 different countries in the world.

In January 28, 2017, Tomen organized the country’s first event dedicated for the Little People of the Philippines (LPP) with the theme, “Big Dreams for Little People,” which was attended by more than 50 delegates from all over Manila and Pampanga.

The success of the first LPP summit resulted to an outpour of support from national government agencies like the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, and the National Council on Disability Affairs, which paved the way for the second LPP convention in May 2017.

To resonate the sector’s call for awareness, Tomen was also able to solicit support and encouragement from celebrity figures like Marian Rivera, Antoinette Taus, Jamie Rivera, Ynna Asistio, and Coco Martin as LPP ambassadors and well-wishers.

“We eye equal opportunities for people with dwarfism through the support from government institutions and the general public. Most LPs belong to the marginalized sector and not all are professionals and educated so they are forced to resort on menial and low-paying jobs making them vulnerable to abuses,” said Tomen citing that some LPs suffer from the physical effects of their condition (spine, joints and heart complications).

“Sometimes it is not our physical condition that hurts us every day but the derogatory approach of some. We are sometimes a laughing stock and that is what we would want to change, that we, too, are a potent and productive sector of the society,” Tomen added.

The 27-year-old advocate is set to speak before sectoral leaders and community stakeholders on September for the conference “Leaders Unite 2017: #Our Goals” which highlights the topic “United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals 2030: Fight Inequalities.”

A council resolution sponsored by Councilor Amos Rivera is set to be accorded by the 17th City Council to Tomen Tuesday, August 15 in recognition of her unwavering commitment in uplifting the lives of her fellow LPs in the community.

Executive Committee announces TOSP-Central Luzon winners

By Marie Joy L. Simpao (CLJD/MJLS-PIA 3)

ANGELES CITY (PIA) -- The Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines Region 3 Alumni Community of Heroes (TOSP R3ACH) and partner organizations recently announced the regional winners of this years’ Search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP).

Included in the roster of winners are Mark Angelo R. Arceo from Baliuag University, Carl Angelo H. Espiritu and Kevin U. Facun from Bulacan State University, and Jessiery Mae S. Corpuz and Roma Angelou T. Dizon from Angeles University Foundation.

Also earning their spots are Mirjan S. Hipolito from City College of Angeles, Tom Harvey S. Pamintuan from Holy Angel University, Kemjie Quidez from Tarlac AgriculturalUniversity, Ian Jonathan C. Dela Cruz from Ramon Magsaysay Technological University, and Charlotte L. Gonzales from Mondriaan Aura College.

“TOSP is an awards program recognizing graduating college students who not only have excelled academically, but have dedicated their talents and leadership abilities in making a difference and becoming socially involved in their respective communities, organizations and fields of interest, for the greater good of their constituents and members,” TOSP R3ACH Outgoing Chairperson Lawrence Charlemagne David said.

The 10 Regional winners were selected from 32 nominees coming from 18 schools and six provinces of Central Luzon.

Before the awarding ceremonies, finalists underwent a regional formation program in Nueva Ecija to reflect on their values and capabilities to contribute to nation-building.

They shall be the region’s delegates to the national search.

The 2017 Regional Executive Committee consists of representatives from the Commission on Higher Education Region 3, TOSP Region 3 Alumni Community of Heroes, Philippine Information Agency Region 3, Jose Tiburcio Canlas Accounting Office, Philippine Business for Social Progress, and L&T International Group Phils., Inc.

Now on its 56th year, TOSP is an annual search founded on 19 June 1961 by businessman Jose Concepcion Jr. which recognizes graduating college students who managed to balance academic performance, leadership and social responsibility.

Red Cross holds blood drive at Newpoint Mall

By Almira Julia A. Bituin and Pamela Denise T. Pamintuan (OJT/AUF)

ANGELES CITY— The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) - Pampanga Chapter conducted a blood drive event with a first aid demonstration and free checkups on Sunday at the Newpoint Mall here.

According to Project Head Rowena Flores, the blood drive event with a slogan: “Give blood, give life” have accumulated 49 bags of donated blood during the six-hour program.

Newpoint Mall Manager Leo Calilung was the first blood donor.

All blood donations will be brought to the blood bank of the PRC, said Flores.

First aid demonstrations were held from 10 am to 4 pm by the PRC team at the mall’s event center stage for mallgoers.

Red Cross Speaker Ryan Montales explained the proper methods of first aid while the team demonstrated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for different age groups.

The PRC demonstrated proper bandaging and splinting during the first aid exhibition. The PRC team also explained their membership services after providing free consultations and blood pressure checkups.

The PRC team encourages everyone to participate on bloodletting activities.

According to PRC member Alicia Mungcal, donating blood has health benefits for the donor since it prompts the body to reproduce red blood cells.

According to Flores, the PRC - Pampanga Chapter held its first blood donation project at the Nepo Mall on July 30 this year which gathered 78 bags.

6 LGUs in Central Luzon join ASEAN 'Landmark Lighting' activity

By Zorayda Tecson (PNA)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga -- Six local government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon on Tuesday joined the "Landmark Lighting" activity to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

With the theme: “Under One Light, We Are One ASEAN," the cities of San Fernando and Angeles in Pampanga, Science City of Munoz in Nueva Ecija, Baler in Aurora, Mayantoc in Tarlac and Iba in Zambales participated in the simultaneous lightning of the ASEAN lantern which symbolizes a guiding light of the 10 regional member-states in pursuit of peace and security, prosperity, and socio-cultural development.

The "Landmark Lighting" event in the region kicked off with colorful activities that demonstrated the LGUs' active participation in the promotion of the mission, vision and goals of the ASEAN.

Leaders of the participating LGUs in the region are one in saying it is a great privilege to be part of the landmark lighting of the ASEAN lantern which they said is a once in a lifetime event.

Mayor Nelianto C. Bihasa of Baler, Aurora said their town is blessed to be chosen as one of LGUs in the country to be part of the momentous celebration of the ASEAN 50th anniversary.

Mayor Nestor Alvarez of the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija, also said that his municipality is fortunate to be participant of the historic event which gave an opportunity to show to his townmates the importance of strong relationship not only with other LGUs but also with other countries.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, for his part, said that "before we could engage the world, we should start in our country first."

Like the symbolic ASEAN lantern, the local officials in the region vowed to be the guiding light to their constituents for a better and bright future.

They also urged their constituents to know better the ASEAN and its significance.

Likewise, they called urged the people to become partners for change.

Angeles City intensifies traffic law enforcement

(PR)

ANGELES CITY – The City Government under the leadership of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has imposed stricter enforcement of traffic measures resulting to an increased number of apprehensions.

Based on the latest data submitted by the Angeles City Traffic Development Office (ACTDO) and Public Transportation Regulatory Office (PTRO), there have been 9,759 violators since January 2017.

PTRO Head Reny Mariano said that motorcycle riders are the most frequent road violators in the city, and that, stricter enforcement has been made to limit the carefree driving of motorcyclists.

City Traffic Czar Danilo Concepcion, on the other hand, said that ACTDO has also been stricter in the implementation of the “No Helmet, No Travel” Policy and obstruction of roads, leading to an increase of apprehensions and towing abandoned vehicles.

Statistics showed that a total number of 4,281 violators have been apprehended. For helmet-less riding alone, there has been an increase from 949 violators in June 2017 to 999 violators as of July 2017.

Also included in the list of public transportation means with most violations are trucks with 1,791 violators, tricycles, 1,594, public utility jeepneys, 1,313, and privately owned vehicles, 779.

ACTDO and PTRO have also determined mostly violated traffic rules which include obstructions along the main thoroughfares with 3,756 apprehensions, truck ban, 1,332, lack of licenses, 677, lack of mayor’s permit, 472, and invalidity of registration and license, 347.

The City Government has collected a total of P2.8 million worth of fines and penalties from the mentioned violators and apprehensions.

Traffic education and engineering

Concepcion said that compared to three years ago, Angeles City is and still is improving its traffic conditions.

Aside from traffic law enforcement, Angeles City has been developing a multitude of traffic education, engineering and experimental traffic schemes in an effort to improve the traffic situation.

The installation of steel barriers in key traffic locations around the city has lessened counter-flow, and the Abacan loop in the Robinsons and Abacan bridge area contributed to the alleviation of traffic to and from Marisol.

From an improvement/feedback report by Mark Lester Gatbonton, planning officer of ACTDO, the implementation of “no parking” signs along with the towing of illegally parked vehicles has significantly lessened illegal parking.

Tricycle drivers have also been informed to stay on the sides of the road and not on the main highway.

“These numbers that were submitted to us are a manifestation that our traffic management arms are doing their best to maintain road orderliness and safety. On the other hand, we are also saddened because it shows that many motorists are reluctant to follow the laws and precautions identified in our Traffic Code,” Pamintuan said.

“We don’t want to be another Manila. We want to be ahead of the needs in improving the traffic flow. This is all in an effort to prepare Angeles City for the future impact of newer vehicles and increase in commuters,” the mayor added.

DENR hailed for devolving power to grant ECCs

By Ding Cervantes

CLARK FREEPORT - The Environmental Practitioners’ Association (EPA) lauded here yesterday the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for devolving the power to grant environmental clearance certificates (ECC) to the regional directors of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

In a joint statement, EPA president Leslie Baun of International Wiring Systems Phils. Corp (IWSPC) and Rogelio Magat, chief of the environment department of the Clark Development Corp. (CDC) thanked Environment Sec. Roy Cimatu for issuing last month Administrative Order 2017-18 whose aim was to “expedite the issuances of ECC’s and solve backlogs nationwide.

Magat said “this action lifted the burden of project proponents whose applications for ECCs have remained pending for a long time now.”

“ECC applications of Clark Freeport Zone locators have been delayed by the required centralized processing of ECCs at the EMB head office in Quezon City since February 2017 even for non-environmentally critical projects,” he said.

Magat noted that before February 2017, only environmentally critical projects were required to secure ECC at the EMB head office, while other projects secured their ECCs only from regional offices or through on-line applications.

This, even as Baun debunked allegations that centralized processing of ECCs at EMB head office gave rise to alleged anomalies or corruption in the EMB regional offices.

Magat said the prompt issuance of DAO 2017-18 “clearly sends a message that the Duterte government is serious in promoting the ease of doing business in the country.”

Baun and Magat said the devolution of granting ECC’s have has boosted the morale of EPA’s 80-member companies from various industries in Metro Clark, Bataan, Subic, Bulacan and Metro Manila areas. “It will put on track and address the derailed developmental undertakings of companies which could have immediately started their positive contribution to the economy,” Magat said.

In a statement, EPA officers praised Cimatu “for his resolve to adhere to President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to fast track the issuance of government permits and licenses, which is indeed a major leap towards cutting the red tape in the bureaucracy and making the entire government more responsive to the needs of the people.”

American southern homemade recipe brought to Angeles City

(SunStar Pampanga)

ARON'S Smoke House Grill boasts of its mouth-watering smoked ribs, chicken, beef, pork with mashed potatoes prepared the southern way.

These stuff takes about four to six hours of cooking in an oven especially designed by its owner Robert Kilgore.

Cooked under low heat, Aron’s uses liquified petroleum gas and some firewood which adds to the meats distinct flavor.

The palatable meat is then served hot with some special sauce that would really meet the discriminating taste of their clients.

"I want people to taste the authentic smoked meat my family back in the States would cook for us here at Aron's Smoke House and Grill. I also want them to experience the service, the food quality and the price affordability," says Kilgore.

Kilgore is a native of Mississippi, USA and thought of bringing his homemade recipe here.

Aron's Smoke House and Grill also offers Slider with potato wedges/fries, chicken wings, potato soup, Chicken Gumbo, spicy shrimp, calamares, fresh roll, Samgyeosal, fried okra, bean sprouts, kangkong, and tofu.

Customers can also choose from its wide variety of international dishes. They also serve Mexican, Vietnamese, and some Filipino favorites.

Aron's Smoke House and Grill is located at the Korean town in Angeles City.

City dad wants AC to rise from ‘Sin’ to ‘Cultural City’

By Ian Kristoffer Park and Gayzell Magcalas

ANGELES CITY - To erase the stigma of this city and transform it into a center of culture and the arts, Councilor Joseph “PG” Ponce led the donation of musical instruments to the Holy Angel University (HAU) here as an investment to create a local symphony orchestra.

Cultural advocate Philip Punsalan assisted Ponce in the project, both saying that the donation is meant to transform the city from its “unsavory reputation” into a haven for art lovers.

According to the councilor, the city should have another attraction for tourists to lure them away from local clubs and adult entertainment in girly bars for which the city had earned its notoriety.

The joint collaboration with HAU, he said, is open not only to the university students but for everyone.

“Since HAU already has a marching brass band and Kapampangan studies, we thought it would be good to invest in the school’s existing structure,” Ponce said.

HAU officials led by VP Robbie Tantingco promised to allot a storage room for the donations and also promote Kapampangan music while helping musically inclined students get a scholarship.

In the project’s memorandum of agreement, it was stated that the instruments will be given to the students to take home and is open to everyone who is interested to join.

Punsalan, the founder of the Aguman Kapampangan in the USA, was the first to donate and collaborate with Ponce’s vision.

Ponce said Punsalan already donated 45 string instruments made in the USA. The donation also includes uniforms, local professional mentors and original compositions.

“You will see our fully realized vision of the Pampanga Symphony Orchestra by the end of the year,” Ponce said.

He added that they are still looking for musical artists in the neighboring municipalities to help train the students as well as additional donors for their cause.

2nd Philippine Sports Tourism Awards set

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Nominations are now open for the 2nd Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

This was announced recently by the awards founder and chair, Charles Lim.

Evolving around the Sports Tourism Forum - a series of sports tourism lectures, workshops and conferences - held since 2004, the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards (PSTA) had its inception last year.

The awards honor sports tourism destinations, sports event organizers, sports associations, sports charity event, local government agencies, event sponsors and destination marketing efforts.

The local government of Lubao (Organizer of the Year Award) and Clark Freeport (Best Destination Award) were among the 10 winners during the first Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

This year, PSTA will expand its field to recognize an outstanding hotel, a tour agency and an airline in supporting sports tourism.

"We have witnessed how sports tourism has been an impactful catalyst in bringing in tourists to destinations around the Philippines and we can see the growth potential in this particular tourist sector. There is a successful formula in hosting and organizing sporting events involving both the private and government sectors with support from the media," Lim said.

Since 2004 Lim, under his sports management and destination marketing outfit, Selrahco Management, has been holding the STF in Cebu and Davao on many occasions and also in Clark, Subic, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Puerto Princesa, and Laoag.

The winners of the First Philippine Sports Tourism Awards that happened in 2016 include Clark Freeport Zone (Sports Tourism Destination of the Year), the Municipality of Lubao and Sunrise Events, Inc. (Organizers of the Year), Cebu's Tabuelan 111 (Event of the Year - Domestic), Ironman 70.3 (Event of the Year - International), The Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Federation (Sport Association of the Year), The Philippine Rugby Football Union and Pot Bellied Pigs's Fatboys 10s Rugby (Charity Event of the Year), and Resorts World Manila Golf Masters (Event Sponsorship Award of the Year).

This year, three more categories will be added to the roster - Airline of the Year, Hotel of the Year, and Tour Agency of the Year.

Balibago hosts Katarungang Pambarangay seminar

By Ian Ocampo Flora

ANGELES CITY -- Barangay Captain Tony Mamac hosted over the weekend a seminar for barangay officials here on the rudiments of the Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) system.

Katarungang Pambarangay, or the Barangay Justice System, is a local justice system in the Philippines. It is operated by the smallest of the local government units, the barangay, and is overseen by the barangay captain, the highest elected official of the barangay and its executive.

Mamac said that the seminar aims to help the Lupong Tagapamayapa on the effectiveness in attaining the Katarungang Pambarangay objectives, and creativity and resourcefulness in the administration of KP.

The barangay captain said that the training will also help to give a better understanding of the resolution of barangay disputes.

Mamac said that understanding of the KP objectives and law promotes healthy relationships among villagers but also lessens the congestion of cases and addresses the backlog of cases in the courts.

NCCA opens submission of proposals for 2018 grants

(SunStar Pampanga)

ANGELES CITY -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is now open for the submission of proposals for its 2018 Grants Program and has invited Central Luzon residents to submit.

NCCA is also looking for implementing partners for projects which have been conceptualized by the agency, NCCA Arts section head Ferdinand Isleta said.

“Projects are categorized into arts, heritage, cultural dissemination and cultural communities, and traditional arts. Project briefs as well as guidelines and requirements can be viewed and downloaded in our website- www.ncca.gov.ph,” Isleta added.

Filipino individuals as well as civil society organizations, indigenous peoples’ groups, local government units, national government agencies, state universities and colleges, and public schools are all encouraged to apply.

“Deadline of submission of letters of intent and proposals is August 31, 2017. It must be submitted to the Planning, Policy Formulation, and Programming Division led by its division chief, Bernan Corpuz at Room 5-B, fifth floor, NCCA Building, 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila,” he said.

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