Angeles City News December 2017

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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
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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.

CDC: Number of Clark workers grew to 107,000

Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The number of workers in this Freeport reached 107,000, according to the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

The state-owned firm stated that workers in Clark increased by more than 14,227 as of November or within an 11-month period.

CDC President Noel Manankil said the figures were derived from the statistics of 943 registered enterprises and some government agencies.

The report showed that Clark has only 93,467 workers as of December 2016. The increase represents about 12 percent for a period of 11 months.

During the time of American military troops in the country, there were only 20,000 workers in Clark.

CDC attributed the increment to the sound investment climate and economic policies of the Duterte administration.

Among the biggest contributor of jobs here are Japanese-owned Nanox Philippines with 7,926 workers, Sutherland Global Services Philippines, Inc. with 6,071, iQor Philippines, Inc. with 5,857, L&T International Group, Phils. Inc. with 5,200, and Yokohama Tire Phils. Inc with 2,858.

Nanox signed an agreement with CDC and Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) for their P731-million expansion project here two years ago.

Industrial firms also employ the biggest number of workers with 49,055 or 46 percent of the total number of workers while the ICT/Business Process Outsourcing firms is the second largest employment contributor with 22,883 or 21 percent.

The employment generation is also expected to increase because of the New Clark City project of the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA).

New Clark City is the country’s newest development project with mixed-use real estate developments for housing, a business continuity center that would also house national government agencies, an agro-industrial park that will provide a platform for research and development, and the Philippine Sports City inside 9,450-hectare at Clark Special Economic Zone.

Under the Build Build Build mantra of President Duterte, the BCDA was able to start the construction of P9.3-billion passenger terminal at the Clark International Airport last December 20, 2017.

The project is being implemented in partnership with Department of Transportation, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Finance and Department of Budget and Management.

Mayor orders thorough inspections of malls, buildings

(PR)

ANGELES CITY - Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has ordered the Office of the City Building Office (OCBO) and the Angeles City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to conduct thorough inspections of all malls and buildings in time for next year's renewal of business permits.

The order came after a fire broke out at the NCCC Mall in Davao City on Saturday, December 23, 2017, less than an hour after opening wherein 37 persons, mostly agents of a business processing outsourcing company, perished in the tragic incident.

"It is better to be safe than sorry," Pamintuan said.

"Davao City is known to be very meticulous in its inspection of business establishments but incidents like the fire that gutted the NCCC Mall still happen. Hence, there is a need to instill additional measures to ensure the safe and minimize if not totally eliminate a similar occurrence," Pamintuan added.

The OCBO and BFP conduct annual inspection of malls and buildings, and clearances or certifications from these offices are requirements in the issuance of business permits from the city government.

"I am also directing the Business Permit and Licensing Division to immediately revoke the permits of business establishments that do not comply with the requirements of OCBO and BFP,” Pamintuan said.

Pampanga developer to build more communities

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- A Pampanga-based developer is committed to continue building more communities at a low cost for the average income families in the province and other parts of Central Luzon.

Michael Tan, deputy chief operating officer of Hausland Realty Corporation, said Hausland and its subsidiary, Fiesta Communities Incorporated, will continue its mission in providing decent residence low income families.

“We cannot stop because there are a lot of families that rely on us. If we stop, paano na yung dinevelop namin hindi ba? Right now how many, we see 15,000 for both Hausland and Fiesta. We were able to give houses to 15,000 families and then we have 700 employees, 800 agents and 300 to 500 contractors,” Tan said.

He also shared the thrust of the company, headed by Hausland COO Willie Tan, which is to help touch the hearts of many people.

“Actually we can retire now, yun ang sabi ng boss. We can stop and call it quits. They can live a hefty life pero talagang ganoon pala ang purpose ng tao hindi ba? First, you try to survive. Second, you will be inspired for what you have done and third you have to continue to share and to touch other people’s heart,” Tan said.

“I think we have evolved into that kind of a company and proudly homegrown Kapampangan company,” he added.

EMB, partners confer awards to CL schools with best environmental practices

(CLJD/CJFV-PIA 3)

BACOLOR, Pampanga (PIA) -- Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and partners conferred Monday (December 18) awards to three schools in Central Luzon for their best environmental practices.

The Meralco Energy Leadership Award was given to Cambitala Elementary School and Aliaga National High School both from the province of Nueva Ecija.

“It is awarded to schools that promote practices and initiatives in electrical safety, energy efficiency, and conservation,” EMB Legal and Environmental Education Unit Chief Virgilio Edralin Licuan said.

Moreover, the Nestle Water Leadership Award was bestowed to Francisco G. Nepomuceno Memorial High School from Angeles City.

“It is awarded to schools with the best water conservation initiatives,” Licuan added.

The awards are part of the biennial Regional Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools which the EMB organizes in partnership with Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education, Landbank of the Philippines, Nestle, MERALCO, and Smart

NE, Angeles City institutions top Regional Eco-Friendly Schools Search

(CLJD/CJFV-PIA 3)

BACOLOR, Pampanga (PIA) -- Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) named Monday (December 18) two institutions in Nueva Ecija and Angeles City as the Regional Winners in the Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools.

Cambitala Elementary School from Nueva Ecija topped the Primary Level while Francisco G. Nepomuceno Memorial High School from Angeles City placed first in the Secondary Level.

“We are organizing this event in the hope of encouraging schools in protecting the environment not only for the people of today, but for the future generations,” EMB Legal and Environmental Education Unit Chief Virgilio Edralin Licuan said.

The biennial activity is organized by EMB in partnership with Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education, Landbank of the Philippines, Nestle, MERALCO, and Smart.

Angeles LGU awards gender-sensitive and responsive barangays, personnel

(PR)

THE local government of Angeles City, through the Gender and Development (GAD) office, recognized various gender-sensitive and gender-responsive villages during a ceremony held December 18 at Robinsons Place Angeles.

The 2017 Search for Most Outstanding Gender-Sensitive and Gender-Responsive Barangay and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Desk Personnel aims to enforce gender-responsive local governance in Angeles City, especially at the barangay level.

GAD Officer Purita David said the purpose of the competition is to recognize best practices, excellence and innovation at the barangay level, making gender-responsive governance in the city effective and efficient.

During the ceremony, David named 10 most gender-sensitive and responsive villages in Angeles. The list include Balibago (winner), Pulungbulu, Salapungan, Pandan, Claro M. Recto, Tabun, San Jose, Pulung Maragul, Pampang and Pulung Cacutud.

The top 10 outstanding VAWC Desk personnel include Fe Macayanan of Pulungbulu (winner), Julita Panaligan of Balibago, Arlenes Jalmasco of San Jose, Flordeliza Pineda of Margot, Derline Valentin of Salapungan, Vilma Bamba of Claro M. Recto, Marivic Dela Vega of Pandan, Luzviminda Calaunan of Pulung Maragul, Presentacion Recabar of Tabun, and Gloria Meneses of Sto. Cristo.

A dance competition, dubbed Women’s Convergence, also showcased the talent of various barangay-based women organizations and desk personnel.

Winning the said competition are Barangay Cutcut, San Nicolas, and Sto. Domingo.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded the efforts of the GAD office in taking the forefront in continuously cultivating the culture of gender equality in the city.

Pamintuan also hopes to have more projects and programs in the future that will support and benefit not only the women of Angeles City but the community as a whole.

He also urged all barangays in Angeles to document their anti-VAWC initiatives on GAD programs and share their experiences and best practices with other villages.

P9.3-B new Clark airport terminal breaks ground

By Astrud Q. Aguinaldo

CLARK FREEPORT -- High ranking officials of the National Government broke ground for the P9.36-billion expansion project of Clark International Airport (IATA: CRK) here on Wednesday, December 20.

The project is the first hybrid public-private partnership venture rolled out under the Duterte administration and being implemented by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

From Clark Airport’s existing capacity of four million, the new passenger terminal would bring passengers annually to 12 million. The project is expected to be finished by first quarter of 2020.

“Ngayon ho, binibigyan natin ng kabuhayan ‘yung plano, ‘yung kagustuhan, at ‘yung dream ng mga Kapampangan, taga-Tarlac, taga-Zambales, taga-Central Luzon na magkaroon talaga ng premier international gateway dito sa lugar na ito,” said Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade during the groundbreaking ceremony.

Building the new passenger terminal are Megawide Construction Corporation and India’s GMR Infrastructure after winning the public bidding recently.

Louie Ferrer, chief of corporate affairs and branding of GMR-Megawide, said the project will generate more jobs. He also expressed confidence in completing the project on time.

“We’re looking at about 2,000 Filipino construction workers. And we’ll provide jobs also to engineers, suppliers in the region and even the Filipino financial institutions,” Ferrer said.

“This (Clark International Airport expansion project) will have a 30-month project time. We’ll make sure we’ll deliver on schedule or even ahead of time,” Ferrer added.

In his message, on behalf of the House of Representatives, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez expressed full support to the construction of the new passenger terminal in Clark.

“Ultimately, as these structures make the movement of goods, services, and people easier, faster, and more efficient, these manmade marvels shall be our drivers for economic growth and upward development. Like a plane, we are taking off into the wide open air to reach heights yet known. As we Build Build Build, together we shall Fly Fly Fly,” said Alvarez, who is a former transportation secretary.

Envisioned to be Asia’s next premier gateway, CRK is also expected to decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, said BCDA in a statement.

“The said airport is one of the high impact projects under the Build Build Build Infrastructure Program, and complements Clark which is being developed as the next investment hub in Asia,” the BCDA added.

Also present during the groundbreaking ceremonies were former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, Senators Dick Gordon and JV Ejercito, BCDA President Vince Dizon, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) Chairman Ping De Jesus, CDC President-CEO Noel Manankil, and local officials led by Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda.

Council approves firecracker ban in Angeles City

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- The Peace and Order Council (POC) in this city has banned the sale and distribution of firecrackers for health and safety reason.

This was gleaned in a resolution unanimously approved during the City Council’s regular quarterly meeting at the office of Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan last Monday.

The POC members voted for a complete ban on firecrackers in compliance with the directive of President Duterte.

“Because of this resolution, the selling and distribution of firecrackers within the City of Angeles is henceforth prohibited. The Business Permit and Licensing Division (BPLD) will not process any application,” Pamintuan said.

“Individuals may still celebrate the coming New Year with the legally allowed pyrotechnics and other noise-making devices such as horns, sirens and the like but all form of firecrackers are no longer allowed in this city,” he added.

The city mayor disclosed that he will send requests to malls and big hotels in the city to conduct their fireworks displays during the New Year revelry.

“Many malls and establishments have fireworks displays for this holiday season. The general public may watch them from their homes or join the revelry,” Pamintuan said.

“The important thing is that we can celebrate the changing of the years with the health and safety of our constituents as the primordial consideration,” the mayor added.

Pampanga, Negros Occidental ink sisterhood pact

By Philip Ocampo(Pampanga PIO with JTD of SunStar Pampanga) and Marchel P. Espina (SunStar Bacolod)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Provincial Government of Pampanga solidified its relationship with Negros Occidental in a sisterhood agreement signed at Royce Hotel and Casino here on December 17.

Governor Lilia Pineda and Governor Alfredo Marañon led the signing of the memorandum of agreement. It was witnessed by the officials of each province.

With their desire to promote favorable relations of partnership and cooperation between their people and recognizing the importance of the principles of equality and mutual cooperation and benefits, the two provinces agreed for a sisterhood agreement in line with their prevailing laws and regulations.

The sisterhood eyes the promotion and expansion of their capabilities in the following fields: economic enterprise; tourism, arts and culture, and sports; livelihood and employment; special projects concern; environment protection and disaster response; trade, commerce, and industry; health and education; and information technology.

The sisterhood agreement was also fuelled by the opening of the Clark Bacolod flights by Philippine Airlines launched last December 15 this year.

Marañon thanked Pineda for organizing the special visit for the Negros Occidental officials. He also confessed that he was amazed by the new Clark-Bacolod flight and the convenience it brings.

“The trip from Bacolod to Clark was one of the most comfortable and shortest trips of mine from Bacolod to Luzon. It was very quick. And there was no traffic in the air,” he said.

The Negrense governor also hopes that the relationship will further grow and lead to more opportunities with the cooperation of the two provinces.

Pineda, for her part, thanked the delegation for visiting Pampanga. She also added that in return, she will invite not just Pampanga but the whole Central Luzon to come to Negros Occidental.

“Hindi lang ang mga Kapampangan ang dadalhin ko sa Bacolod kundi ang buong Central Luzon pupunta sila,” she said.

She is eyeing to conduct summits and seminars in Negros Occidental now that the Clark-Bacolod flights make it only a one-hour trip.

The mother of Pampanga also confessed that she talked to Marañon on giving guidance to their successor in cultivating the good relationship the two provinces have started.

“Huwag kayong bibitaw dahil hanggang sa susunod na henerasyon magkapatid pa rin ang Negros Occidental at ang Pampanga,” she added.

Last December 15, it was the Pampanga delegation which flew to Negros Occidental for initial talks on economic and trade relations.

Marañon said the two provinces have many things in common such as food and culture. He said the sisterhood pact is a “win-win” situation for both provinces.

“We can learn from them, they can also learn from us. It’s a start of a new relationship, and “I’m sure this will grow,” the governor said, adding the people will benefit from the ties.

Marañon also said the strength of Negros Occidental is aquaculture, adding that Negrenses could teach their counterparts about their best practices.

Pineda, meanwhile, said there are many Pampangueños living in Negros Occidental and there are also many Negrenses based in her province.

She said the two provinces are very much alike and “we will share our best practices.”

Aside from aquaculture, Pineda said she wanted to follow the programs implemented by the Negros Occidental Provincial Government. She said the pact signing is a just a start, and that she and her counterpart in Negros Occidental have many things to talk about.

Marañon said Negros could also promote its seafood like prawns and blue crabs, and also lamb meat to Pampanga. “These are among the few items we can supply them.”

Marañon also said the Pampanga governor lauded the province’s lamb production. “She (Governor Pineda) tasted our lamb and she seemed to like it, it’s tender. She was surprised we can produce lamb here. This is one product we can reduce the cost and at the same time, give livelihood to the Negrenses.”

He said “this is just the beginning of a better future,” adding that he is looking forward to learn about Pampanga’s furniture and tourism industries.

Pineda said they could send a team on furniture-making to Negros Occidental for manpower training. She added that Kapampangans are now exporting furniture products to Europe.

Under the sisterhood pact, both parties agreed to deepen ties and encourage understanding and awareness of the uniqueness of their respective provinces.

The parties also agreed to lend mutual held and support to advance the welfare of the people of both provinces.

The agreement also said that parties shall create programs, projects, and activities that will promote fellowship between the two provinces, and will continuously foster improvement and development.

Both parties shall regularly meet and hold dialogues on issues of common concern and interest. Also, they agreed they will send delegations and representatives to conduct exchange visits to have an actual interchange of views and experiences.

The pact stated that establishing a sister province relationship will serve to promote and foster mutually beneficial exchanges and will strengthen bilateral support between the two provinces.

Kia now open in Clark

By Erika Mariel Gines

CLARK FREEPORT---KIA, one of the most promising dealerships under the LausGroup of Companies, continues to expand its foothold in Pampanga as it opened its doors in Clark Freeport on Monday.

Conveniently located near the main gate of the Freeport and at the center of the Laus Auto Mall, the new Kia Clark is designed according to the strict Global Service Identity (GSI) standards set by Kia Motors.

The 480-square meter facility features a modern showroom showcasing the Korean automotive brand’s full vehicle line-up including the all-new Grand Carnival, Rio, Soul, Sorento, and the best-selling Picanto.

According to Kia Executive Director Diorella Laus, the newly-opened dealership aims to provide customers high standards of service with great atmosphere -- consistent to all Kia GSI dealerships all over the world.

“The opening of Kia Clark is a testament that we are committed to provide convenience and comfort to our customers from this side of the province. We aim to cater to our patrons from Clark, Angeles City, and neighboring Tarlac towns, and at the same time to our Korean customers here in the area who have been patronizing the brand also,” she said.

She furthered that contemporary ambiance and state-of-the-art features of the dealership are ways to provide customers “family-like care” that is the signature of Kia.

“We take pride in saying that this is one of the most modern dealerships of Kia under the LausGroup, as it boasts of upscale interiors and digitally advanced service monitoring board that shows the status of the services being availed by our Kia owners. We are the first in the Philippines to have this new technology,” she noted.

Moreover, she shared that aside from the usual showroom and service facilities, the newly-opened dealership also have a service reception and customer lounge where customers can relax while waiting for the completion of their respective Kia vehicles from service or repair.

Laus assured that with Kia’s expert and experienced staff from sales to service technicians, Kia customers are assured of professional and excellent service.

For his part, Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC) Business Development Manager Dindo Aquino lent his full support to the new dealership, which he noted is the 44th authorized Kia dealership under CAC—the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the Philippines.

“In behalf of CAC, we’d like to extend our congratulatory message to our partner, the LausGroup, headed by Mr. Levy Laus and his daughter Dior. We are very proud of this new dealership in Clark and our strong partnership with the LausGroup,” he said.

John Martin Martinez, the first customer of Kia Clark, said he is thankful that the automotive brand finally branched out in Clark.

“When my Kia agent, Philip Suarez, told me that Kia is now open here in Clark, I was very thankful because I don’t need to travel all the way to San Fernando to get my regular vehicle check-up, which is actually scheduled today,” he said.

“I am from Angeles, so this new location is very convenient for me. I am new Kia customer. I bought my first Kia Picanto in Kia Pampanga, and so far, I am very satisfied with their service,” he added.

Kia Clark is located at LGC Automotive Services Bldg., Laus Auto Mall, M.A Roxas Avenue, Clark Freeport Zone. For inquiries and test-drive schedule, call 0998-587-8258 or (045) 499-8040.

Angeles City named retiree-friendly area

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT --- The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) has named Angeles as a retiree-friendly city.

Mayor Edgargo Pamintuan received the award from PRA General Manager Bienvenido K. Chy during the induction of officers of the Philippine Retirement and Investment Industry (PRII) at Midori Hotel here last Thursday, December 14.

The PRA awarded Pamintuan for his "exemplary initiatives in leading Angeles City to gain the reputation as a retiree-friendly city."

Chy at the same time disclosed that the PRA is firm in its resolve to make the Philippines an investors' haven and a retirees' paradise.

This, according to Chy, is because Philippines is a caring nation of hospitable and friendly people and that the cost of living here is lower compared to other countries.

Aside from these, the Philippines has remained the second fastest growing economy in the entire Asia with a gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 6.4 percent in the first quarter of this year.

Under the current national leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, the country is now a safer and more secure place for retirees, tourists and investors, Chy added.

As of May 30, 2017, the PRA has registered a total of 53,355 enrolled retirees in the whole country, Chy said.

The influx of tourists, investors, and expats into the Philippines has remained unabated, he added.

"About 52 percent of the expats in the country found better personal fulfillment working in the Philippines than in their home countries," Chy said

PRII Chairman ALbert Dela Cruz, for his part, said their group is an association of businessmen, government officials from the tourism, investment and retirement departments.

Dela Cruz is also the chair of the Philippine Globe Ventures Realty and COnstruction Corporation (PGVRCC), the Philippine partner of Sino Greatwall Construction Company based in China.

"So we are inviting other business people to join us in welcoming the more than 500 million retirees, half of the population of the globe. May mga more than 40 and 50 years of age, retirement age is 35 above who are already qualified special retirement visa," Dela Cruz said.

With the help of PRII PResident Richard Co Gonzalo, the group is expecting that thousands of tourists and retirees will visit Philippines, Dela Cruz, who is also real estate consultant, licensed broker, a PRC-accredited lecturer, added.

Other officers of PRII are chairman for Subic Freeport Michael Macapagal (president, PDP Laban Olongapo/ Zambales); chairman for North Luzon Mayor Reynolan Teteng Sales (Pagudpud , Ilocos Norte and President/CEO, Saud Beach Resort); chairman for Mainland U.S. and Micronesia Jack Alejandro (licensed international real estate broker); chairman for Chinese Market Mein Rebecca Chen (president, Guangdong Run Hui); chairman, Pampanga Councilor Rondon Mercado (Minalin); chairman, motor sports, Tomas Pastor (International Motor Sports producer); chairman, real estate industry, Chris Garrido (licensed broker/developer); chairman, food industry, Max Poblete (Chinese food industry); chairman, medical tourism, Dr. Bryan U. Ang (aesthetic surgeon); chairman, Phil-Korea Economic Council, retired general Enrique S. Atanacio ( PCCI); chairman, restaurant industry, Conte Jeon (Kang San Ae Meat Buffet Restaurant); chairman, dental health industry, Dr. Jonie Canda (dentist); chairman, media relations, Karen Tui (writer on Track Publicity Events); and spiritual director Rev. Pastor Petet Alcantara.

Clark to serve as platform for Kapampangan talents

By Princess Clea Arcellaz

CLARK FREEPORT -- Bases and Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive officer Vince Dizon on Wednesday stated that the Clark Freeport Zone will soon serve as a platform for various Kapampangan talents and products.

Speaking before Central Luzon media men during the year-end fellowship party held at the Asean Convention Center, Dizon stressed that the Freeport is the perfect place to showcase the world-class talents and globally-recognized products of Kapampangans with the development that is happening in it.

He cited the existence of Clark International Airport (CRK) which brings in thousands of local and international tourists, along with the promotion they may take with them, from the dozens of flights it hosts on a weekly basis.

Clark Freeport Zone, and the whole of Pampanga and Central Luzon, is also poised for more development with the pending CRK Expansion Project and Malolos-Clark Railway Project (PNR 2) which are only part of the multi-billion peso “Build Build Build” project of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

“Our major takeaway here is that Clark will soon become a showcase of the talents of Kapampangans for all the world to see,” Dizon stressed.

As early as now, Dizon said that the government already took the chance to present the craftsmanship and hospitality of Kapampangans to world leaders and representatives of different nations during the recently concluded Asean Summit and Related Meetings.

He pointed at the huge rattan chandelier made by Angeleño Jude Tiotuico and the Pidayit wall arts designed by Fernandino Philip Torres which were on display at the Asean Convention Center, one of the venues of the world leaders’ three-day meeting in the country.

Dizon also reiterated President Duterte’s recent statement about Clark’s potential as the country’s next top business hub which invites more investors and locators to place their business in this Freeport.

“Indeed we are very lucky that we have Clark and we should maximize it to better showcase the world-class talents of our kabalens,” he said.

Christmas 'staycations' from north to south

By C. Mendez Legaspi and Jan Milo Severo (philstar.com)

MANILA, Philippines — The southern part of Metro Manila is now sparkling with different Christmas decorations and lights as here comes the most wonderful time of the year.

Family and friends might enjoy their bonding here as the dazzling, state-of-the-art light show comes with futuristic three-dimensional mapped giant Christmas tree.

Dubbed “Sparkle of Christmas at Filinvest City,” the estate literally sparkles as it is now adorned with more street lights. There will also be the annual Musical Lights Show that transforms the newly opened Spectrum Linear Park into a Christmas Wonderland.

“Definitely, we are bringing in something new to this year’s Light Show to make the holidays even merrier and more delightful. It is not just a light show but holistic in-city Christmas celebration, which means more activities for the families and friends to enjoy. So, it is really a community celebration. We are opening more space where people can converge and enjoy the holiday sights and sounds with the garden city as the backdrop,” executive vice president of Filinvest Alabang Inc. Kate Ilagan said.

Families and friends might also enjoy the scheduled live performances every weekend by Spongecola, Ebe Dancel, Sandwich, and many more.

“We have always been keen about transforming the lives here in the metro south, thus the idea of hosting an activity during Christmas to give back to the community was created. We are delighted that the Annual Christmas Musical Lights Show has become part of the holiday celebrations, not just those in Alabang, but of people in neighboring locales as well,” Ilagan said.

To entice more tourists and encourage more investors, Mimosa+ Leisure City is developing an “integrated, balanced and eco-centric community/township” that “focuses on four components: leisure, business, residential and hospitality, and nature.”

Strategically located at the Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles Cty, Pampanga, the 201-hectare property aims to be a center of commerce and tourism in the north.

“We are excited to be part of the vast Mimosa + Leisure City, with its massive development that brings a lot of promise. It will surely be a major hub for business, investment and tourism in Clark,” said Patrick Beck, the hotel general manager, in a statement.

The township has the Quest Hotel and Conference Center, with 303 newly refurbished guestrooms, the famous Mequeni Restaurant, Charley’s Bar and swimming pool. Its centerpiece is the 150-hectare Mimosa Golf Course, which is a no membership-required golf course that offers players a sprawling view of the Pampanga and Zambales mountains.

“The property is just in the early stages of its development plans. Nonetheless, one can already expect to experience a pleasant stay or visit as it boasts of nurturing a nature-centered township wherein visitors can enjoy a green and serene surrounding. This is evident in the newly opened Acacia Park,” said Marla Mendoza, assistant marketing manager.

The property was formerly known as the Mimosa Leisure Estate. “It was a conscious decision to keep the name Mimosa in our branding. Mimosa is a well-respected and known name not only in Pampanga but even Metro Manila. More importantly, Mimosa has a rich heritage that will always be part of Clark Pampanga, and even Philippine history. We want to respect that and in a way continue a legacy,” explained Mendoza.

Besides the hotel and golf course, guests can also enjoy two luxury grand villas, which have three bedrooms each, a swimming pool, kitchen and dining area, a living room and plush bathrooms.

Guests eager to explore the new Mimosa can visit this Christmastime. As symbolized by its giant Christmas tree on the hotel grounds, the holiday spirit is alive at Mimosa with the Quest Holiday Collection offers that include deluxe rooms and executive suites until January 6.

Most of the developments, however, are still in the pipeline. “But the major change is how the company will redevelop the former Mimosa Leisure Estate that will make it a fully functioning hub for success. There will be an office campus to provide corporations and BPOs a new hub to branch out and to offer more employment opportunities; a retail strip and lifestyle mall to provide more leisure attractions; an event pavilion and event grounds to accommodate bigger events; another hotel and more villas to provide more choice accommodations for travelers,” Mendoza shared.

Mall set to open for 24 hours

(PR)

SM HYPERMARKET at SM City Clark is set to open for 24 hours for eight days during the holiday season to allow shoppers more time to shop.

The store will open for 24 hours on December 18 to 23, 29 and 30.

This will be the first time that the hypermarket will open its doors to accommodate business process outsourcing (BPO) employees and hotel guests around the mall’s complex and those from neighboring areas like Clark Freeport, Angeles City and Mabalacat City.

SM Hypermarket offers all holiday needs including Christmas baskets worth P350, P500 and P1,000.

SM Supermalls offer world-class holistic shopping with a complete range of merchandise and basic services at the most accessible, convenient, and practical way possible. There are about 200 SM markets nationwide.

Angeles City mayor assails drug firm for dengue vaccine crisis

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has assailed pharmaceutical company Sanofi Pasteur over the controversial dengue vaccine crisis.

Pamintuan, president of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) and chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-Central Luzon, said more than 6,000 nine-year-old kids were administered with Dengvaxia, a dengue vaccine manufactured by Sanofi.

The city mayor recently met with a US-based practicing lawyer to form a legal team from France, European Union, United States, and legal consultants from various renowned legal institutions including Columbia University School of Law, Sorbonne, among others.

“I want to make sure the right legal measures are taken to compensate the damages done to those who received the vaccination, their parents and to my beloved city,” Pamintuan said.

The mayor added that he will look at the crisis as a reckless assault on the human rights of the innocent children.

“My city is firing back a direct response against the pharmaceutical company that brought fear to those affected by the immunization program.”

The Philippine government has suspended its dengue immunization program after Sanofi released an advisory that Dengvaxia may contract a more severe case of dengue fever for those people injected without prior infection.

An estimated 700,000 students in Central Luzon Region, Calabarzon Region and Metro Manila were injected with the vaccine.

After learning about the report, Pamintuan immediately instructed the head of the City Health Office to monitor the status of all elementary Grade 4 students, who got the dengue vaccine shot.

Angeles City receives Blue Certification from Ombudsman

(PR)

THE Angeles City Government, through the Business Permit and License Division (BPLD), acquired the Blue Certification presented by Gerard A. Moaquera, deputy Ombudsman for Luzon, at the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday, December 8.

The certification was given for the city’s implementation and maintaining a system that conforms to the ease of doing business with the government in terms of registration of new businesses and renewal of business permits.

Raquel Rosario Macarayag, acting director of Public Assistance and Corruption Prevention Bureau, said the city’s anti-red tape campaign is highly looked-up to especially in “elimination and observance of the high standards of ethics and efficiency” process of the BPLD.

“A tool developed by the research bureau consisting of 87 standards divided into categories including the application, system, down to the licensing procedure and assessment itself, was used in evaluating the LGUs conformity [to the standards]” Macarayag said.

She also added that “the selection process is based on how progressive or business-rich the LGU is, as the process involves the assessment of the Business Licensing and Permit.”

With the audit documented report, it was also verified that the BPLD system is compliant with the requirements for Level 1.

For his part, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan vows to continue his advocacy in having a transparent system and to move higher as a business-friendly city and deliver fast and efficient services to the community.

“Government officials tend to shy away from this certain office due to its strict implementation of its mandates as protectors of the people against corruption,” Pamintuan said.

“This award shows that our frontliners in the City Government are one with the administration in eliminating corruption and it is truly inspiring that our efforts in building a progressive city is gaining appraisal from the national agency and I am very happy that we are one of the only two LGUs in the whole of Philippines to be given a distinction by the Office of the Ombudsman,” added Pamintuan.

Joining Pamintuan during the awarding ceremonies were Vice Mayor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno, and City Administrator Dennis Albert Pamintuan.

Indigent kids benefit from feeding, medical programs

By Reynaldo G. Navales

HUNDREDS of indigent children in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City benefitted from the supplemental feeding program and medical mission sponsored by village as part of its Salakot Festival and the city’s foundation day celebration.

Balibago village chief Tony Mamac said the feeding program and medical mission are part of the week-long fiesta celebration of the barangay.

Mamac personally supervised the two programs held at the barangay integrated farming area.

The village chief said free vitamins and medicines for children and adults were distributed during the event.

Mamac expressed gratitude to other donors, including the Returned and Services League of Australia (Angeles Chapter), for supporting the project.

“Gawin ang tama. Kung ang barangay kikilos, bayan at mamamayan aayos,” Mamac said.

Yokohama PH protects environment, combats malnutrition

By Astrud Q. Aguinaldo

ANGELES CITY – In an effort to combat malnutrition among children, employee-volunteers of a tire manufacturer in Clark Freeport implemented a 60-day feeding program in an Aeta Community here.

Serving healthy meal to 60 malnourished students of Sitio Target Extension School in Barangay Sapang Bato, in this city, the program started last September 7 according to Reynante Legion, manager environmental section of Yokohama Tire Philippines Inc. (YTPI).

Chicken soup, plantain and a glass of milk were served to elementary school undernourished students in Sitio Target here. Weekly monitoring of weight of the beneficiaries was done to ensure the effectiveness of the said program.

Undernourished children according to the City Nutrition Office are those who are small in built for their actual height, thus, needs proper nourishment for proper development.

To date, Sitio Target Extension School is the sixth school benefitted from YTPI’s feeding program that has started since 2012.

On the same day after the feeding program, YTPI employee-volunteers on have inspected the 500 seedlings that were planted here last November 3. It was the company’s first ever expansion of Yokohama Forever Forest (FF) Project.

Launched in 2007, the FF Project aims to place half million seedlings at the company’s 18 facilities worldwide.

YTPI in cooperation with Task Force One Million Trees Project Head and City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) representative Ederlinda Valencia planted fruit bearing trees in Sitio Target.

“This is one way to promote sustainable development in clean water, climate action and life on land,” said Legion.

Last year, the company has completed the FF Project inside YTPI’s perimeter that lasted for nine years.

Since its inception in 2007, YTPI has been able to plant over 40,000 trees from more than 40 native tree varieties like Narra, Balacat, Antipolo, Kalumpit, Molave, Kamantog, Kupang, Alibangbang, among others.

City recognized for anti-drug drive

(PR)

AS A testament to the consistent anti-drug campaign program of Angeles City, numerous awards were conferred to the local government by various regional and national government agencies.

In 2012 and 2013, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency hailed the city as the Best Anti-Drug Abuse Council in the Philippines for its comprehensive drug abuse prevention and rehabilitation program.

The Angeles City Local Government was awarded anew in 2014 by PDEA for having the most active Anti-Drug Abuse Council in Central Luzon.

Also in 2014, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) bestowed to the city the performance-based Outstanding Achievement Award for its commendable anti-drug program and leadership.

In the year 2015, the city received an award again from PDEA for having the Most Active Anti-Drug Abuse Council in the whole country.

The Philippine National Police also conferred an award citing the city as the Most Active Program Partner on Drug Reformation of Drug Surrenderees in 2016.

“Our achievements speak of what the present situation of the city really is. We have been leading this meaningful, timely, and very important cause and we will not allow anyone to hinder this,” Pamintuan said.

“These awards reflect of how we drive and protect our beloved city towards a better, safer, and drug-free community for our people and the generations to come,” Pamintuan added.

CDC music ministry to launch Holy Mass album

By Ian Ocampo Flora

THE CDC Music Apostolate, which is based in Mexico town, Pampanga will launch an album on songs used in the Holy Mass on December 11 at the Chapel of the Holy Guardian Angels inside Holy Angel University here.

On Pampanga Day, December 11, the group will launch their third and fourth books/albums entitled: “Ephatha” and “Bandi Cu”.

There will be a celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 10 a.m. to be followed by a short presentation by various guest artists, choirs and musicians under the baton of Sir Jericho Torres of Apalit, Pampanga.

Guest performers include former Councilor Maricel Morales, Fr. Carmelo Agustin, Jason Sampang, Princess Tiosejo, Matt Mangiliman, Sta. Maria Choir-Minalin, The Lord’s Presentation Parish Choir-Macabebe, guest Cello, String and Violin Quartets and some seminarians.

Founded in June 2012, the group’s main aim is to promote and cultivate interest on Kapampangan songs as well those used in liturgical services.

The group’s lyricist and musical composer are Don Mauro Gomez and Nilo Nucup respectively. The named CDC was derived from the group’s first song composition: “Capatad Da Ca”.

Since this is an apostolate, the group receives no monetary compensation for the granting of these requests.

Following the Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur of Rev. Msgr. Ricardo J.T. Serrano, SLD and the Most Rev. Florentino G. Lavarias, DD respectively, the group launched its first collection of original Kapampangan Mass and devotional songs entitled “Capasngauan” on 20 November 2015 at the Our Lord’s Annunciation Parish, San Vicente, Mexico town.

Dec. 8 & 11 are non-working holidays in Angeles City

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- The City Information Office (CIO) here has issued a public advisory stating that the city will join the province of Pampanga in celebrating the province’s 446th Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day).

The CIO stated stated in its Facebook page that pursuant to Proclamation Number 2226 Series of 1982 signed by then President Ferdinand marcos, December 11 of every year is declared a public holiday in the province.

“Being part of Pampanga, Angeles City is therefore deemed included and covered by the said presidential proclamation.

Aside from this, Angeles City will celebrate its 188th Foundation Day on Friday (December 8).

Republic Act 8315 declares December 8 of every year a special non-working holiday in the city.

In 1796, Don Angel Pantaleon De Miranda, then the town head of San Fernando and his wife, Dona Rosalia De Jesus found a new settlement North of Pampanga province which they named Culiat, an endemic vines in the area.

“In summary and for the information of all concerned, December 8, 2017 (Friday) and December 11, 2017 (Monday) are special non-working holidays in Angeles City in celebration of the city’s 188th and the province’s 446th foundation days respectively,” the City Information Office stated.

Angeles City villagers celebrate Salakot Festival

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Residents of this city’s entertainment village, Barangay Balibago, are celebrating their week-long Salakot Festival.

Balibago village chief Tony Mamac said the celebration, which started last December 1, will culminate on December 8 during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Mamac said that December 8 is a non-working holiday in Angeles City as residents commemorate its 188th Foundation Day.

Republic Act 8315 declares December 8 of every year a special non-working holiday in the city.

In 1796, Don Angel Pantaleon De Miranda, then the town head of San Fernando and his wife, Dona Rosalia De Jesus found a new settlement North of Pampanga province which they named Culiat, an endemic vines in the area, according to Mamac.

On January 1, 1964 Angeles was inaugurated as a chartered city under Republic Act 3700 as it entered a period of tremendous growth making it the premier city in Central Luzon, the village chief said.

Aside from these, Mamac said he organized the Salakot Festival in 2008 to celebrate the friendship of the Filipinos and the Americans.

“A huge steel salakot sits at the main entrance of Clark Air Base, a former US military facility, during the time of the Americans. It became a symbol of Clark and Angeles City particularly Barangay Balibago,” Mamac said.

Students from various public and private schools in Barangay Balibago participated in the street dancing and parade yesterday.

Mamac disclosed that their Salakot street dancers bagged several awards in the Sinukwan Festival.

ONA awarded for best practices in infection prevention control

(PR)

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan commended the staff of Ospital Ning Angeles (ONA) for bagging the award for Best Practices in Infection Prevention Control during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, December 4.

“This is a manifestation that our hospital is raising the standards not only with its infrastructure but also in terms of the services given to our citizens,” said Pamintuan.

“Many Angeleños are depending on the services offered by ONA and with the growing healthcare needs of the people, we are planning to build the first pacemaker center in the city housed in ONA to cater people with arrhythmias,” added Pamintuan.

ONA was awarded for Best Practices in Infection Prevention Control during the 68th annual national convention of the Philippine Hospital Association (PHA) held last November 16 at the Manila Hotel.

Dr. Rodel Dungca, head of ONA, said: “This award is given to hospitals both public and private, which are meeting the standards of the PHA in terms of cleanliness, sanitation and infection control.”

“Contrary to what others think of ONA before, such as being unsanitized, it is now at par with the private hospitals in the city with its own Renal Care unit, Intensive Cardiac Care Unit, and Chemotherapy Infusion Unit,” Dungca added.

ONA is one of the 22 awardees among 5,000 participating hospitals recognized by the PHA.

Meanwhile, Pamintuan tasked the City Health Office (CHO) to conduct an examination among Angeleños who received the anti-dengue vaccine on the probe of Department of Justice (DOJ) after finding out that the said vaccine may cause severe health risks to children.

Dr. Lenario Santos, resident doctor at the CHO, assured the City that it will review all the data of the Angeleños who took the said vaccine and put them under observation.

“We are going through the data and we will further our scope to identify all the people who were given the shots,” Santos said.

Santos also sought the help of school teachers in monitoring and identifying the students who took the shot for them to be given the proper medication assistance if found sick.

The Dengavaxia is an anti-dengue vaccine given to people ages 9 to 45 and was first released in the Philippines last 2015. A total of 733,713 people recorded have taken the shot in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and National Capital Region.

Press corps conducts journalism seminar

Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pampanga-Tarlac Energy Press Corps has organized a journalism seminar at Park Inn by Radisson Clark hotel here today, December 4.

Jay Pelayo, president of the press corps, said they sponsored the event in recognition of the group's social responsibility.

"We at the Pampanga-Tarlac Energy Press Corps, composed of volunteer media practitioners dedicated to impartial and accurate reporting of the energy industry, aimed to support our colleagues," Pelayo said.

The seminar, which will cover Basic Journalism, Digital Communications, and Community Relations, is set at 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday at the Park Inn by Radisson Clark.

"This free seminar intends to provide participants with a refresher course on journalism for a clear and concise communication of information," Pelayo said.

The participants will also be informed of the trends and theories on digital communications and community relations as important areas of public relations, he added.

CCA students triumph in ALCU regional skills competition

(PR)

Universities (ALCU) in Central Luzon Skills Competition held last November 24, at Gordon College in Olongapo City.

With the theme “Internationalization of ALCU RIII through skills based initiatives,” the regional event aims to strengthen ties among government-owned educational institutions in the region while showcasing and inspiring world-class excellence in skills development.

The delegation comprised of Aaron Mercado, Froilan Lugue and Lemuel Flores emerged as champions in the “hackathon” category. The same feat was awarded to Andy Anunciacion who also won champion in the computer assembly and disassembly category.

On the other hand, Cynreck Susmeña also emerged as the champion for the on-the-spot flower arrangement event, while Ely Jay Delos Santos bagged the first runner up for the tour guiding category.

The CCA also garnered a third place finish for the on-the-spot table skirting (Ariel Alvarado and Nerry De Leon), fruit flambe freestyle (Jolas Sibug), and audio-visual presentation (Arturo Bambao, John Carlo Lacandola, and Jeremiah Cabigting) categories.

CCA President Dr. Richard Daenos said that it is important to engage the students in different academic and skills activities for “these are platforms to instill the values of creativity, industry and perseverance to the youth, and introduce and experience for themselves a variety of career options which they can pursue in the near future.”

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed his elation over the consistent winning streak of the students of the city-owned college in various academic and skills competition this year.

“The awards and recognitions that our students at CCA have been constantly reaping are a reminder of how the local government is successful at making the city college an institution for higher learning,” said Pamintuan.

“Our students’ consistent achievements are paving CCA’s marks as an institution dedicated to holistic excellence. We have been a powerhouse of strong contenders in the region and we owe all of these to the administration and the teaching force of our city college,” Pamintuan added.

Aside from CCA, participating schools for this year’s skills competition included Mabalacat City College, Norzagaray College, Bulacan Polytechnic College, Pambayang Dalubhasahan ng Marilao, Polytechnic College of Botolan and Gordon College which is also the host school of the said regional meet.

ALCU-Region III is the body governing all state colleges and universities in Central Luzon. The organization aims to improve the quality of instruction, research and extension of its member schools, and to provide quality tertiary education, that will be cascaded to the benefit of underprivileged but deserving and talented youth.

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