Angeles City News December 2014

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

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

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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.

Burials resume at Clark Veterans Cemetery

(Angeles City Voice)

Burials at the Clark Veterans Cemetery (CVC) has resumed after the Bases Conversion Development Authority suspended the interment at the war veterans’ resting place on December 1.

Earlier, United States Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) urged the Philippine government to end the suspension of burials. He also wrote to Philippine Ambassador Jose Cuisia Jr. requesting his assistance on the issue.

Cusia responded saying the Philippine government would work to address the concern.

On Monday, the State Department confirmed to Senator Ayotte that the burial suspension has ended and that burials occurred last week.

“The United States and the Philippines enjoy a close and important relationship, and I am deeply thankful that the government there responded so quickly to my concerns. The burial suspension created unnecessary hardships for families of veterans grieving the loss of their loved ones, and I am so pleased that burials have resumed,” Ayotte stated in his letter.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the Philippine government and the State Department to ensure that procedures are put in place at the Clark Veterans Cemetery to ensure that families of veterans do not confront unnecessary bureaucratic hardships and delays in the future,” she added.

Clark Veterans Cemetery is the final resting place in the Philippines for more than 8,300 United States service members and their dependents.

Ayotte introduced bipartisan legislation to restore the Clark Veterans Cemetery, which was signed into law by President Obama last year. Her legislation – which was cosponsored by Senator Mark Begich (D-AK) – requires the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to restore, operate, and maintain Clark Veterans Cemetery to honour the courageous Americans buried there.

Following Ayotte’s legislation becoming a law, the US and the Philippines signed on December 16, 2013 a memorandum of understanding regarding Clark Veterans Cemetery, which explicitly provided for new burials there.

60 elderly, 43 orphans overjoyed after receiving gift packs from CDC

(Clark Development Corporation)

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, December 19 (PIA) -- The state-owned Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has successfully completed its third and last leg of gift-giving activities, benefiting 103 orphans and elderly from two home care shelters in the cities of San Fernando and Angeles.

CDC External Affairs Department (EAD) Manager Angelo ‘Sonny’ Lopez Jr. said 43 more orphans staying at Duyan ni Maria Children’s Home of Angeles City Inc. were overjoyed after receiving Christmas packages such as one cavan of rice, grocery items, slippers and other food items delivered right to their doorstep last Wednesday by EAD staff and volunteers from other CDC departments.

The shelter houses 23 girls and 20 boys, with the youngest aged two years old and the oldest, 23-years old. The latter is now a 3rd year student taking up Bachelor of Science in Education.

The CDC workers also distributed Christmas packs at Bahay Pagibig (House of Prayer) in barangay Telabastagan, which accommodates 60 senior-beneficiaries. Of the number, 20 are men and 40 are women.

The senior citizens got grocery packages consisting of food and non-food items such as shampoo, toothpaste, detergent soap, and one cavan of rice brought to the center by the CDC employees.

“It may not be too much but we hope to have filled the void in their hearts and made them happy this Christmas season,’’ said Lopez.

Echoing CDC President/CEO Arthur Tugade’s earlier statement, Lopez said CDC’s support for the communities, people with disabilities (PWDs) and the indigenous peoples, is not ‘seasonal.’ “It does not end on Christmas Day or this festive season. Our support and commitment particularly to the community is constant that is why we continue to do projects for them, hold education/awareness activities and conduct jobs fairs, among others as proposed under our corporate social responsibility (CSR) program.’’

He added, “The gift giving is an annual tradition for CDC and as a regular part of our CSR program to make less fortunate children, families or orphans in communities nearby Clark feel the spirit of Christmas through the gifts and our moral support.’’

CDC’s four-day gift-giving project turned out a success, benefiting a total 168 orphans, physically and mentally challenged individuals and elderly from four home care centers within areas contiguous to Clark. The activity started last December 12 and ended on December 17.

Angeles employees to get P10,000 bonus

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- Plantilla personnel of the City Government will each be getting an additional P10,000 Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) bonus before Christmas as Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan approved the passage of Supplemental Budget No. 3, ordained by the Angeles City Council during a Special Session on Wednesday.

“Our permanent, co-terminus, contractual and casual employees deserve this additional productivity bonus especially those at the front line services. This is based on Executive Order No. 80 issued by President Benigno Aquino III and its implementing guidelines, DBM Memorandum Circular No. 2014-3 dated December 2, 2014,” Pamintuan said.

“Actually, we wanted to grant this incentive even to our Job Order personnel. However, rules and regulations of the Civil Service Commission as well as the Department of Budget and Management prevent us from doing so,” he added.

DBM MC No. 2014-3 states that local government units have the discretion to set the amount “depending on the LGU finance capability” and subject to certain conditions.

Section 4.0 of the said circular excluded the following from receiving the PEI bonus: consultants and experts hired to perform specific activities or activities with expected outputs; laborers hired through job contracts; student laborers and apprentices; and individuals and groups whose services are engaged through job orders, contracts of services or other similarly situated.

This PEI bonus is on top of the P12,000 received by each City Government employee as part of the new Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) signed by Pamintuan and the employees union Agenda, as well as the 13th month pay and the P5,000 cash gift.

Cine Kabalen bares Kapampangan film-making winners

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- Carlo Catu's "Mis Da Ka" was awarded the Best Film in this year's Fourth Cine Kabalen Film Festival.

The winners were announced at the Cinema 4, SM City Clark recently. The 10 Kapampangan short films from different towns and cities in Pampanga vied for the following major awards: Gintung Tugak (Golden Frog), Gintung Salaksak (Golden Kingfisher), Gintung Matsin (Golden Monkey), Gintung Tikbalang (Golden Kapampangan Centaur), GintungDapu (Golden Crocodile) and the distinguished Gintung Damulag (Golden Carabao) for the best film. The trophies were designed by Kapampangan artist Don Reich De Dios.

The other winners include Best Sound: Susukdul King Banua (Cheska Salangsang, Mexico); Best Music: Jona (Tin Velasco, Angeles); Best Editing: Talapangabus (Justine Dizon, San Fernando); Best Production Design: Talapangabus (Justine Dizon, San Fernando); Best Cinematography: Paboritu Que Ing Cantang Ini (Petersen Vargas, Apalit); Kulturang Kapampangan Award: Talapangabus (Justine Dizon, San Fernando); Best Screenplay: Ing Purmerung Kembut Nang Anton (Kelvin Aguilar, Bamban); Best Direction: Mis Da Ka (Carlo Catu, San Fernando); Best Child Actor: Bambalito Lacap, Qng Sepu Ning Pabelu (Brianne Amparado, Angeles City);Best Actor: Joe Galang, Qng Pangacupas Ning Matingcad Cung Cule (Jerome Cunanan, Victoria); Best Actress: Leo Sarmiento, Mis Da Ka (Carlo Catu, San Fernando); and Second Best Short Film: Qng Pangacupas Ning Matingcad Cung Cule (Jerome Cunanan, Victoria).

A special citation (semi-finalist) was also given to “Kulit” by Josue Gopez of Angeles City while posthumous awards went to Agnes De Guzman and Alexis Tioseco.

Festival Director Jason Paul Laxamana (Magkakabaung) led the awards ceremony as well as the acquaintance dinner of the filmmakers and guests at the Museo ning Angeles.

The film festival is a project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Holy Angel University Center for Kapampangan Studies, the City of Angeles and the Angeles City Tourism Office, in cooperation with Kamaru Productions, MuseoNing Angeles, Angeles City Library, HAU Theatre Guild and SM City Clark.

Previously under the Sinukwan Kapampangan Film Festival, Cine Kabalen aims to encourage Kapampangans, especially the youth, to create digital films in the Kapampangan language and tell stories that explore Kapampangan culture and issues experienced by the local community, thereby contributing to the diversity of Philippine cinema.

Group urges appointment of municipal veterinarians

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Anakpawis Partylist representative Fernando “Ka Pando” Hicap filed Tuesday House Bill 5297 or "An Act Providing for the Mandatory Appointment of a Municipal Veterinarian Officer."

Hikap said the move is for the purpose of decisively addressing the proliferation of contagious and harmful animal diseases in the countryside and the immediate delivery of public veterinary services to far-flung villages where the raising and production of farm animals is concentrated.

“Agrikultural ang ating ekonomiya, ngunit ang mga magsasaka sa mga munisipalidad ay walang matatakbuhang beternaryo para sa kanilang mga problema sa mga alagang hayop, kung kaya, ipinapanukala naming magkaroon ng batas na magtatakda ng isang veterinarian sa bawat munisipalidad,” (We have an agricultural economy but farmers in the municipalities do not have a veterinarian to run to for their livestock problems. Hence we propose that a law be enacted providing for the mandatory appointment of a veterinarian for every municipality) Hicap said in a statement.

The bill proposes to amend Section 443 of the Local Government Code of 1991 by including a municipal veterinarian to the list of officials in the municipal government. The bill likewise wants to expand the duties and functions of a public veterinarians by tasking them to render services at least once a week to every barangay of his city or municipality they are designated to.

“Kung maipapasa ang panukalang ito, ang kinakailangang atensyon at lunas sa mga sakit ng mga alagang hayop ay kagyat na maibibigay sa antas munisipal, sa kapakinabangan ng maliliit na magsasaka,” (Hopefully, if this bill is passed, the needed attention and treatment of livestock diseases would be delivered swiftly on the municipal level, to benefit poor farmers) Hicap said.

Pope Francis musical wows theatergoers

By Ernesto Y. Tolentino

SUPERB! World-class! Impressive! Fantastic!

These were the admiring words uttered by the theatergoers who trooped to the Holy Angel University Theater in Angeles City last Friday for the matinee presentation of the Pampango-produced stage musical “I Love (expressed in the symbol of a heart) Pope Francis – The Musicale” - in English.

Even the members of the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI), who were invited to the show by the production’s creator and director, Andy Alviz, were awed by what they described as a top-notch musical on the life of Pope Francis that has the potentials of becoming a blockbuster not only in the Philippines but overseas, as well, not only because of its global appeal but how it was carried out by the mostly amateur (volunteer) thespians of Pampanga.

Even the crowd that attended its maiden staging on November 29 at the same venue was wowed by the theme, and the 24 original songs of the musical, as well as the flawless performance of the cast, a mixture of mature and young actors, with two actors barely in their teens, despite minor technical glitches such as the awful sound system.

The production touched on the life of the Pope, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, from his young days in Argentina, where he even worked as a bouncer before entering the priesthood, to the time when he became known as a bishop of the street for identifying with the poor to his rise to the papacy, and the Filipinos’ “joyful” anticipation for his visit to the county (named San Felipe in the play) in January next year.

It was this essence – the character of the Pope, the circumstances of his rise to the Vatican hierarchy and the “surprising” manner by which he’s carrying out his job as a leader of the more than a billion Catholics in the world, and the people’s positive reaction to all he what he says and does - that this stage production captured vividly, which explains the audience’s ecstatic reaction to the musical.

In fact, this excited air of anticipation, even before the doors to the theater were opened to let the crowd in, was clearly felt among the prospective Pampango audience, many of whom may have been told of the “happy experience” by those that watched the musical’s maiden staging on November 29.

That “happy experience” felt by those who have viewed the musical may be attributed to the seamless progression of the play scene after scene, marked by the interplay of humor, wit and kindness.

It was obvious, especially during the early scenes of the musical’s first part, those in the audience were so enthralled by what they’re viewing they were, initially, at a lost on how to react: whether to applause or not at the end of each scene, laugh loudly at the witty repartee, or even respond to the call for public participation in one part of the play.

But it did not take long for the crowd to catch on and let their hair down, so to speak, in expressing their feelings throughout the play that, not surprisingly, they gave the musical and the actors a rousing standing ovation.

They, too, obviously had the “happy experience” felt by those who watched the musical earlier.

More than this, last Friday’s crowd apparently felt proud that an all-Filipino group, made up mostly of amateur thespians consisting of students, a priest, lay leaders and society matrons, could produce such a musical that could equal those that have been churned out on Broadway in the US or even London and other theater capitals in the world.

“It definitely is an experience to watch this musical on Pope Francis, and everyone in this country, must see it, and will definitely fall in love with it” one media observer quipped.

Of course, this is not surprising considering that the men and women behind it is led by Alviz, who honed his craft in theater production during his long stint as resident choreographer of the popular Miss Saigon, a musical dominated by Filipino talents, like Lea Salonga.

Alviz had earlier told CAMI members that he collaborated the musical with writer-lyricist Randy del Rosario under the aegis of Teatru Kapampangan.

The duo was also behind the highly-acclaimed musicals, like Ima, Beauty Parlor, Perry the Musical, Ciniong and Tulaok: A Lenten Musical, produced for the Pampango cultural group ArtiSta.

Last Friday night was the gala presentation of “I Love Pope Francis”. This will be followed by another run on January 10, 2015, also at the HAU Theater.

Alviz said plans are now being worked out for the musical’s presentation at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) next year, in cooperation with Rotary International.

Bookings are also now being arranged for the musical’s run next year in Cebu, Iloilo and other key cities in the country and, hopefully, in London and finally, Rome, Alviz said.

Part of the proceeds of the musical’s presentation will go to Teatru Kapampangan’s beneficiary – the AeTahanan, a dormitory in Sta. Rita that houses Aetas taking up college.

Despite politics, Law enforcement essential says AC Mayor

By Reynaldo G. Navales

Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said Friday that he has asked all sectors to “bring back sanity” in this city amid on-going improvements and projects like addressing traffic woes.

In a recent forum Pamintuan stressed that the projects and programs being implemented by his administration are all geared for the convenience and safety of Angeleños, whatever their politics.

“I hope that our critics will help us bring back sanity in Angeles City. Very recently, I was informed that some transport groups who are affected by the implementation of the stricter traffic scheme will rally against me,” he said.

“It seems that tricycle and jeepney drivers we caught because of violations are defended by our critics and political opponents. Isn’t that insanity? Despite the inevitability of negative politics we enforce the rule of law because ew promised Angelenos that we will put law and order in our streets. And that I am not afraid to do” Pamintuan added.

He said the City Government is looking at each and every concern, from road improvements, parking, dangling and dead cables and electric posts, to beautification and development of parks.

“You know, rather than criticizing, I invite our detractors to join us in making Angeles City a beautiful city. Elections are too far ahead and we have a lot of work still to be done. We wouldn’t want a perfect world for nothing,” Pamintuan said.

Orphans receive Christmas gifts

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has donated grocery items, food packages, and other household goods to the children of the Bahay Bata Learning Center in Angeles City.

The donation, which included two cavans of rice, grocery items, toiletries, and free meals, will benefit the orphans staying inside the learning center.

At least 23 kids received bags of grocery items containing toiletries such as bath soap, detergent, chlorine, dish washing liquid, toothpaste and shampoo.

The kids were also given evaporated and condensed milk from the staff of the CDC External Affairs Department (EAD) Community Services Section (CSS).

CDC-EAD Manager Angelo “Sonny” Lopez Jr. said the orphans also got a pair of slippers and were provided free lunch.

“This is just one of the many activities we have prepared as ‘Pamaskong Handog’ for the orphans and the elderly this Holiday season. It is our way of giving back to the community and encouraging a positive impact on the environment and stakeholders,” Lopez said.

The Angeles Bahay Bata Center was launched in 2001 by members of the Rotary Club of Clark Centennial to address the plight of the street children.

The group’s mission is to place the children in a safe and caring environment and to give them all the basic necessities where they are then given the chance to develop and mature.

“By giving them education, psychological support and spiritual guidance, recreational activities and a sense of hope, they have an opportunity to realize their potential, whether it be academically, musically or on the sporting field,” according to the center’s website.

Lopez said CDC president and Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tugade encouraged CDC employees to share their blessings to the less fortunate members of society around the Freeport.

The CDC-EAD staff also assisted the SMX Philippines Kabalen Chapter and the Unified Rainbow Foundation of Angeles City in two separate gift giving activities yesterday.

At least 85 students and 125 residents of Sitio Haduan were given school supplies and other goods provided by SMX Philippines.

A total of 400 Aeta children in Sitio Target, Sapang Bato, Angeles City received free meals and toys from the Unified Rainbow Foundation.

The CDC-EAD also facilitated the distribution of medical kits to 21 children from the Children’s Joy Foundation Inc.-Pampanga.

Police: City dad’s aide death a suicide

By Jess Malabanan

ANGELES CITY – The police chief here yesterday said that the death of the security aide of Councilor Edu Pamintuan was apparently a suicide case based on the text message found in the victim’s cellular phone.

“A text message sent by Alfredo Sangil Pring indicates family problem, and it could be the reason behind the suicide,” said Sr. Supt. Eden Ugale over the phone.

“Kapag ako ay nawala ay ‘wag na ninyo akong hanapin,” said the text message sent to Pring’s wife shortly before the alleged suicide happened according to Ugale.

Pring, a member of the city’s Civil Security Unit (CSU) detailed at Pamintuan’s official residence along Jasmine Street, Montenegro Estate, Barangay Sto. Domingo here was found dead by his colleague shortly before midnight on Dec. 9.

Ugale said Pring suffered single shot in his upper abdomen and died on the spot. A .9mm caliber pistol believed to be his service firearm and spent shell for the same gun were recovered near the victim’s body.

“Maybe there was a family problem,” said Ugale but did not elaborate.

Pring, 33, is a resident of 229 Purok 3, Brgy. Manibaug Libutad, Porac town.

Police said Pring was sprawled on the ground with blood oozing from his body when discovered by Jerome Moore, also a member of CSU.

Ugale said Moore was invited for questioning to shed light on the incident.

CDC to bring Christmas cheers to less fortunate kids, elderly

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – Less fortunate children and elderly from select orphanage and nursing homes in Clark’s adjacent areas are guaranteed to receive early Christmas gifts soon---thanks to the annual gift giving activities of the state-run Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

The gift giving is a yearly tradition of CDC and regular part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program to make the less fortunate children, families or orphans in communities near Clark feel the spirit of Christmas through gifts, food baskets or meals shared by CDC employees and volunteers.

“The end goal is to make the orphans and those in the nursing homes, happy. This is part of our CSR initiatives to implement projects and programs that are meant to address community concerns, needs and aspirations,” said CDC president and Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tugade.

“Another aspect of our mission is to allow volunteer employees a chance to give back to their community by sponsoring a Christmas present or spending quality time with the orphans,” he added.

The gift giving, which will be facilitated by the External Affairs Department (EAD) Community Services Section (CSS) will be held for four consecutive days in the following areas: Bahay Bata in Cuayan, Angeles City (December 12), Munting Tahanan in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat, Pampanga (December 15), Bahay Pag-ibig in Holy Angel Village, Telabastagan (December 16) and Duyan ni Maria in Josefa Ville Angeles City (December 17).

Under the proposed mechanics for inviting voluntary employee participation signed by CDC-EAD Manager Angelo “Sonny” Lopez, Jr, an employee, individual or group office and department should choose to sponsor a Christmas gift being wished for a specific child in his other hand-made Christmas card sent to the CDC.

Employees with their families can also share quality time with the orphans or children who are eager to be in the company of a caring family during the actual Christmas gathering.

In his radio program Clark in Action on DU 105.5 FM, Lopez encouraged the participation of volunteer employees during the scheduled dates.

He also extended his gratitude to individuals and companies who supported the initiative and assisted in the form of food, gifts and sponsorships for the CDC-led project.


6,350 students to benefit from senator’s scholarships

By Reynaldo G. Navales (With Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay)

ANGELES CITY -- At least 6,350 high school students in Central Luzon, 1,530 of them in Pampanga, stand to earn scholarships from the educational assistance program of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.

This, after President Benigno Aquino III signed Cayetano's bill, which mandates all state universities and colleges to give automatic admission and provide scholarship grants to the graduating top 10 public high school students of their respective graduating classes.

The scholarship covers the tuition and other miscellaneous fees on the first year.

“It's a merrier Christmas for thousands of Filipino students who will benefit from the Iskolar ng Bayan law, granting scholarships to thousands of students,” Cayetano said.

"I've been fighting for this since 2008, and thank God, it's finally a law!" Senator Cayetano said. "I've always believed education should be free for all. This is a small step towards achieving that goal," he added.

"Tamang-tama ang timing ng pagpirma ng Pangulo Aquino. Ito ang aking pamaskong handog sa libo-libong pamilyang Pilipino," Cayetano said.

The majority leader estimated that close to 80,000 public high school students graduating on top of their classes will benefit from the law, now referred to as "Cayetano law."

The senator, however, lamented that the Iskolar ng Bayan would have covered more students if only government funds were spent judiciously and were not squandered through corruption.

"Kung walang nagnanakaw at magnanakaw, hindi lang top 10 bawat school, baka umabot pa ng top 20 o higit pa ang makikinabang dito. Sana marami pa ang matutulungan kung matapos na ang nakawan at patuloy na pag-aabuso sa kaban ng bayan," the senator said.

"We've proven this in Taguig City. Since 2011, the city under Mayor Lani Cayetano has been allocating funds for its 8,000 scholars," he said.

"Ganito kapag walang korap sa gobyerno, bigay todo ang biyaya sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino," Cayetano stressed.

Education officials estimate that some 79,130 graduating high school students will benefit from the Cayetano law next school year.

Kapampangan film showing at SM City Clark set December 13

By Ian Ocampo Flora (With Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay)

ANGELES CITY -- Kapampangan films will be shown for free this December 13 (Saturday) from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at SM City Clark Cinema 4 in Angeles City.

This is part of the annual CineKabalen Kapampangan Film Festival (CKFF).

From 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., exhibition films will be shown including two award-winning Kapampangan short films. “Lisyun Qng Geografia” (Geography Lessons) by Petersen Vargas is one of the three winners of Best Picture in the recently concluded Ika-26 Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video.

The film also won Best Thesis in the UP Film Institute earlier this year and has participated in international film festivals in Thailand and General Santos City. “U.S.F.A” by Jason Paul Laxamana is also one of the three winners of Best Picture in Gawad CCP. The humorous short film has also participated in a film festival in San Pedro, Los Angeles, California.

From 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., the 10 finalists in the CKFF short film competition will be shown. This year's finalists include: “Mis Da Ka” (I Miss You) by Carlo Catu of San Fernando; “Paboritu Que Ing Cantang Ini” (Favorite Song) by Petersen Vargas of Apalit; “Ing Purmerung Kembut Nang Anton” (Anton’s First Hip Shake) by Kelvin Aguilar of Bamban; “Qng Pangacupas Ning Matingcad Cung Cule” (Fadeaway) by Jerome Cunanan of Victoria, Tarlac; “Qng Sepu Ning Pabelu” (At The Tip of The Candle Wick) by Brianne Amparado of Angeles; “Jona” by Tin Velasco of Angeles; “Andrea” by Clarklouis Sanchez of Magalang; “Post Hoc Ergo” (After This) by Myron Espinosa of Mabalacat; “Talapangabus” by Justine Dizon of San Fernando; and “Susukdul King Banua” (High As The Sky) by Cheska Salangsang of Mexico.

The finalists will vie for awards and cash prizes, including P15,000 for the Best Picture and P8,000 for the Second Best Picture.

All films will be shown on the big screen in high definition quality with English subtitles.

For inquiries or group reservations, please contact 0915-2601946.

CKFF4 is a project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Holy Angel University Center for Kapampangan Studies, the City of Angeles and the Angeles City Tourism Office, in cooperation with Kamaru Productions, Museo Ning Angeles, Angeles City Library, HAU Theatre Guild and SM City Clark.

HAU bags top animation awards

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- A student and a teacher from the Holy Angel University (HAU) have been named among the top animators of the country after bagging awards from this year's Animahenasyon Philippine Animation Festival, held at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts in Manila.

Animahenasyon is an annual festival of original Filipino animated films, sponsored by the Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc.

The HAU entry “The Unusual Pet” won first prize in the Professional Division (TVCs, OBBs, Infomercials, Teasers and Demo Reels category), while the other entry, “That Social Virus” won first prize in the Student Division (Animated Shorts - less than 30 minutes category).

The Unusual Pet is directed by Leonardo Calma, animated by Bryan Paguio and Mervyn Domingo, written by Robby Tantingco and narrated by Alberta Supan. It was produced by the HAU Center for Kapampangan Studies.

Meanwhile, That Social Virus is directed, animated and written by Bryan Paguio. It was produced by the HAU College of Information and Communications Technology.

Calma is a creative artist and instructor of the HAU Center for Kapampangan Studies while Paguio is a student of the HAU College of Information and Communications Technology.

Running for about ten minutes, Calma’s That Social Virus tells a cautionary tale about the social ills created by social media. Similarly, Paguio’s The Unusual Pet narrates the peculiar story of a boy who raised a worm as his pet.

Not expecting the victory as it was his first time to participate, Paguio said, “it was totally unexpected because we just went there assuming to bring home just a certificate of appreciation."

He also shared the rewards and hardships of being a young animator.

“It could be difficult at times because it is very challenging to entertain people through animation. But it always feels great when people appreciate your work,” said Paguio.

Meanwhile, Calma said the school’s victory signifies the creativity of the Kampapangans.

He also cited the Emmy award-winning Kapampangan animator Jesus “Jess” Española, who works on the long-running TV series The Simpsons.

Cabigting lauds Lazatin’s dedication in public service

(SunStar Pampanga)

ANGELES CITY -- Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting praised first-termer Councilor Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin's enthusiasm in fulfilling his duties as a councilor.

Cabigting lauded Lazatin as she delivered the "Ulat ng Paglilingkod" during the City Council's Regular Session last December 2 at Hausland Pavillion, Timog Residences.

Cabigting noted that despite being a first-time Councilor, Lazatin has shown great dedication in his work.

"Lazatin always makes sure to ask questions and participate in the deliberation for measures being passed in the City Council and would fervently express his opposition if he finds any proposed ordinance and resolution to be lacking," Cabigtin said.

For his part, Lazatin, a son of former Pampanga First District Representative Angeles City Mayor Carmelo "Tarzan" Lazatin, said that he always asks questions precisely because he is a first-time Councilor.

"While this isn’t exactly my first time serving as a public servant, I'm not arrogant enough to presume that I already know everything," Lazatin said. "Although I believe that I have a particular skillset and knowledge to offer to the table, having come from a business background, I recognize that I still have a lot to learn as a legislator."

"That's why I ask a lot of questions," Lazatin added, "I want to understand just exactly how the process works and I want to make sure that we follow these processes."

During the event, veteran Councilor Max Sangil lauded Lazatin's community assistance projects including feeding programs and financial and medical assistance to residents of Angeles City.

Sangil also cited Lazatin's proposed legislative measures, which are beneficial to a lot of Angeleños.

These include a proposed ordinance to allocate 10% of the City’s total annual budget for housing programs for the city’s urban poor members.

Sangil also mentioned two other resolutions including the request to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources to conduct an investigation into the state and operations of the City’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Barangay Pampang. Reynaldo G. Navales

The other one is the request to the City’s Environment Management System (EMS) and other concerned offices to present the city’s total expenses on garbage hauling.

Angeles observes World AIDS Day

By Ferth Vandensteen Manaysay

ANGELES CITY -- World AIDS Day was marked in this city with educational seminars as local health officers went to different schools to lecture on various aspects of the HIV/AIDS.

The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that in 2013, 35 million people were living with HIV, 2.1 million people were newly infected with the virus and at least 1.5 million people died of AIDS.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) reported that the number of people living with HIV/AIDS is up by 32 percent this year.

Compared to the 427 cases last year, the country recorded a total of 565 cases from January to September of this year.

In addition, the HIV and AIDS registry from 1984 to 2014 also showed that more men (18,948 cases) were infected than women (2,030 cases).

“The statistical data were actually quite alarming know that more guys are infected by AIDS,” said student Mark Erwin Dizon.

Dr. Lenario Santos, health officer of Angeles City, said Filipinos are now more aware and open-minded to undertake HIV testing than before.

“The history shows that people from the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community are more vulnerable to infection,” said Santos.

In Angeles City, local health workers observe World AIDS Day each year as an opportunity for people to gather in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to remember people who have died.

“As a student, I learned many things about AIDS based on the school lectures but this seminar made realize that there are still many things that I do not know. In the future, I hope to impart the things that I have learned here to my fellow youth,” said student Divina Ibay.

Meanwhile, health officers hope the educational seminars will contribute in the efforts of the government to reduce the infections in the country to zero.

Angeles exec to launch ‘Kabuhayan Patrol’

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting is set to launch this December 16 the "Kabuhayan Patrol" program that aims to help micro entrepreneurs expand and improve their businesses here.

Cabigting said that the program targets sari-sari storeowners, small carinderia owners, and tricycle and jeepney drivers.

The program highlights livelihood talks and seminars that aim to equip and enrich the skills and orientation of small entrepreneurs in improving their businesses.

The vice-mayor added that the program will also provide additional capital.

The event will also see to the raffle of five winners each for sari-sari store and small carinderia owners each receiving P1,000 and P2,000 worth of goods. Five consolation prizes will also be drawn from each sector to receive P1,000 each.

Five tricycle and five jeepney drivers will also be selected to receive P1,000 and P2,000 worth of gasoline and oil. Five consolation prizes worth P1,000 each will be drawn from the two sectors, respectively.

"We are now coordinating in the grassroots level to identify the people who will participate in the program. We are also trying to increase the benefits to be given out depending on the availability of the funds of our supporters and donors," Cabigting added.

The program, she said, is in line with the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBE) Law. The law empowers government to help in the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME).

Cabigting said that the "Kabuhayan Patrol" is their contribution to the further development of small enterprises. She added that the growth of MSMEs will result to increased livelihood and employment in the grassroots level.

"One of the major reasons that kept our national economy afloat during major financial crises is the MSME sector. We owe a lot to them and so we must do everything to help them expand and grow," Cabigting added.

In the last five years, the MSME sector accounted for about 99.6 percent of the registered businesses in the country by which 63 percent of the labor force earn a living. Around 35.7 percent of the total sales and value added in the manufacturing come from MSMEs as well.

Pamintuan underscores role of education in development

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has underscored the importance of education on urban development and support to indigent families.

“In our city, we established an institution of hope, the City College of Angeles, for the benefit of our poor but deserving students – and I believe that involving the poor is what inclusive growth for urban development is really all about.”

Pamintuan stressed these during a panel discussion at the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) South-South City Leaders Forum held at the ADB Headquarters in Mandaluyong recently.

The mayor was the only local chief executive from the Philippines invited to attend this gathering of more than 50 mayors, governors and leaders from South Asia.

He was also requested to be one of three other mayors to address the forum on the topic “Inclusive Cities – Expanding Possibilities for People”. Joining him were Kinlay Dorjee, Mayor of Thimphu Municipal Government in Bhutan and C. Hari Kiran, Municipal Commissioner of Vijayawada Muncipal Corporation in India.

“Right now, on a national level, the idea of inclusive growth is still an aspiration. But on the local level, as we are doing in Angeles City, adopting the strategy of involvement, engagement and mobilization of the people can make such aspiration real,” he expressed.

Pamintuan was chosen because of the successful innovations he was able to implement in Angeles towards its development as an inclusive city.

“Angeles has taken the critical steps to ensure that the poor can benefit from our economic growth; and our programs, projects and plans such as the city college and the Renal Care Unit are some of the many things we have done towards this end,” the mayor said.

Based on the comments and questions of the participants, one of the most inspiring sharing during the two-day session is the story behind the establishment of the City College of Angeles and its contribution in improving the quality of lives of the people and offering better opportunities for the youth.

The organizers and some of the invited experts confirmed that giving priority to education is one of the major pillars for cities to be considered as livable, competitive and inclusive.

Other topics discussed and presented during the meet included Green & Resilient Cities – Urban Regeneration, Urban Financing – Developing New City Investment Strategies and Competitive Cities – Exploring New Models for Growth”.

Hosted by the ADB, the South-South City Leaders Forum has been formulated on the premise that solutions to the multiple and interconnected problems cities face must come from cities themselves.

Its objective is to spread good ideas and experiences amongst cities and help build a strong network amongst city leaders, especially in developing Asia and the Pacific.

12,000 informal workers target of Balibago social program

By Chris Navarro

ANGELES CITY – Some 12,000 informal workers including barangay officials, tanods and bar workers in the entertainment district of Barangay Balibago here will soon enjoy the government social protection coverage program which was apparently been deprived from them for a very long time.

Barangay Balibago Chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac, together with the Social Security System (SSS) and Pag-Ibig Fund, the other day forged a memorandum of understanding (MOU) seeking for mandatory compliance to social protection coverage to both regular and informal workers in that village.

“Most of the workers especially in the entertainment sector are not even members of the SSS, Pag-ibig, and Philhealth. This inspired us to formulate an enabling law, which was already approved, seeking for mandatory compliance to social protection coverage to all workers,” said Mamac, shortly before the signing of MOU held at the barangay hall conference room.

Citing the importance of social protection coverage, Mamac said health and other personal problems such as burial fees and hospital bills, which are often times shouldered by the local government especially for indigents families, would no longer be a problem for his constituents.

Mamac said he was inspired to formulate a measure following the death of a lady beautician whose family sought hospitalization and eventually funeral assistance. “Kung may Philhealth at SSS, hindi sana ganoon kalaki ang problema.”

He said the Barangay Council has approved the allocation of P1-million from its annual budget for the counterpart share of the contribution of its barangay officials, employees, and tanods for SSS and Pag-ibig. The payment will start on January 15 next year.

“The move was the first in the history of local governance,” said SSS Angeles City Branch head Normita Cruz.

Mamac said entertainment and funhouse workers are also included in Barangay Ordinance No. 6, also known as the mandatory compliance to social protection coverage.

He warned owners of business establishments of suspension and non-renewal of clearances should they be found liable violating the ordinance.

“The main purpose of this is to intensify the coverage of all workers on social security protection through SSS, Philhelath, and Pag-ibig while doing business within the jurisdiction of Barangay Balibago,” the MOU stated.

The signing of the MOU was the main highlight of “Salakot” Festival activities, which kicked-off Monday.

Clark Water reduces rates by P1

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Early this year, Clark Water Corporation (CWC) has become the lowest water utilities in Central Luzon, even in other economic zones.

Though lowest, the water firm continues to provide world class services to its 1,987 clienteles inside this Freeport.

Now, after signing a lease extension recently with Clark Development Corporation, the water firm in Clark has announced the reduction of P1.00 in their per cubic meter rates, making it the lowest even among other economic or Freeport zones in the country today.

Despite the increased demand for water and wastewater services, water rates and charges inside this Freeport is still lowest compared to other economic zones and other local water utilities, said Jesus Laigo, chief operating officer of CWC.

Laigo said of the total number of clients, only more than 200 firms in Clark consume huge volumes of clean of water, especially semiconductor and manufacturing firms.

In his reports submitted to the CDC, the water firm said it is still maintaining its programs in support of the thrust of the state-owned firm to provide sound business policy among its stakeholders.

The announcement was made by Laigo at the Kapihan sa Bale Balita sa Clark spearheaded by Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI) recently.

With this, Laigo said that CWC will continue to “provide balance in the process of our services, with the benefits it provides our customers and the environment, and our ability to sustainably finance our operations.”

CWC is the exclusive water and wastewater operator of the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) and Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ).

In an earlier study, the tariff comparison with other economic zones show that water rates in Clark is lower compared to that of Baguio Water District and Metro Cebu Water District on their charges on residential, commercial, and industrial categories.

In a study conducted earlier, the water rate in Clark is P11.71 per cubic meter for residential while Baguio City is P41.23 per cubic meter and P15.42 in Metro Cebu. The commercial rate for Clark is P27.25, Baguio P89.35 and Metro Cebu, P46.67. The industrial rate in Clark is P26.98, Baguio P120.09 and Metro Cebu P48.38.

With the prevailing rates, Clark Water has reduced P1.00 in the present rates, Laigo said.

Clark is also lower than other surrounding water utilities on its water charges on residential rates compared to Angeles Water District with P21.07 per cubic meter, Balibago Waterworks System, Inc. at P24.13, Mabalacat Water District at P22.17, and San Fernando Water District at P20.92. For commercial rates, Angeles charges P58.57, Balibago P46.38, Mabalacat P62.70 and San Fernando P67.50. For Industrial rates Angeles charges P54.04, Mabalacat P63.10 and San Fernando P68.79. Balibago however has no industrial rates.

The waste water charge in Clark is also lower than Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Clark residential rates is P16.40 per cubic meter while at Subic, it is at P35.61.

The commercial rate in Clark is P38.15 while Subic it is P43.15 and Industrial rate for Clark is P37.78 while Subic charges P48.22, the recent study said.

“The Clark Freeport Zone is seen to be a major business hub in the Philippines and we would like to support the realization of this objective through our company’s efficient provision of water and environmental services,” said Laigo.

Although CWC has the lowest rates, the firm has significantly improved its water services on the sufficient water supply security, single digit non-revenue water, and 100 percent potable water with strong pressure.

The firm also doubled its treatment capacity for wastewater while improving its effluent quality to further satisfy its customers, Laigo said.

“For the coming years, we are forecasting an upsurge in our locators’ water supply requirement. By the year 2017, we are anticipating that water consumption will grow by about 75 percent in the Freeport Zone, and that’s within the said area only,” said Laigo.

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