Angeles City News March 2016

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Official Seal of Angeles City
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Angeles City, Pampanga
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Angeles City Map Locator
Angeles City Hall Building, Mc Arthur Hwy, Brgy. Maragul, Angeles City, Pampanga.jpg
City Hall of Angeles City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHY??

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

Prices of basic goods, prime commodities in Central Luzon remain stable - DTI

By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu (CLJD-PIA 3)

ANGELES CITY (PIA) -- Prices of basic goods and prime commodities in Central Luzon are still stable based on the monitoring of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“Of the 112 items we monitored from July 2015 to January 2016, 59 or 53% remain unchanged while the prices of 31 items or 27.7% registered a decrease. Only 22 items or 20% increased in prices,” DTI Regional Director Judith Angeles said.

Among the goods monitored, flour remained as the commodity, which significantly dropped by an average of Php36.43.

“Bread likewise decreased by an average of Php2.28 and a slight decrease of 52 centavos for noodles,” Angeles added.

Moreover, canned goods increased by an average of Php0.16 while the price of processed milk was up by an average of Php0.03.

“We continue to talk with manufacturers and distributors to ensure adequate supply of basic goods and prime commodities. We regularly monitor in groceries and supermarkets in terms of following the Suggested Retail Prices (SRP) and for compliance to the Price Tag Law. We urge our consumers to check the SRP at the Price Watch portion in our website,” Angeles furthered.

Firm to infuse P350M in Clark

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- A Filipino-Taiwanese firm is set to establish P350-million warehouse project inside the Freeport.

The MSK Group Work Clark Incorporated (MSK) on Monday signed a lease agreement with Clark Development Corporation (CDC) for a 3.19-hectare property here as part of its 3-year expansion plans.

MSK has been a registered locator here since 2012.

The agreement was signed between CDC President Arthur P. Tugade and MSK President Su Kuo Fang at the Xenia Hotel here.

Also present during the agreement signing were Coronation Premium Manufacturing Inc. (CPMI) General Manager Jacky Chuang and CPMI Factory Director Steven Lin.

MSK will construct the warehouses and factories for its customers that are mostly engaged into manufacturing.

The MSK Group has over 12 hectares of development in Subic for warehousing facilities and housing as well as various development projects in Manila and South of Luzon.

Kelly Uy, general manager of MSK Clark, said they will also expand operations on their new area which is the former site of furniture maker Golden Cane along Jose Abad corner Manuggal Streets here.

CPMI is one of the biggest manufacturers of top brand shoes in the world.

With CPMI’s extensive supply chain, a number of its suppliers have already proposed to locate in Clark soon.

At present, MSK Group Work Inc. employs 150 workers while CPMI has about 1,000 employees.

MSK is expected to hire additional 1,000 in the next five years.

Newest luxury Midori hotel to employ 600 workers at Clark

(PR)

MIDORI Clark Hotel and Casino, the first 5-star luxury hotel and casino in Central Luzon will be launched on the first quarter of 2016.

It occupies a total area of 9,900 square meters and will have 111 well-appointed rooms embellished with chic décor and high-end amenities.

There will be eight spacious and cozy room types to choose from such as Superior (43.4 sqm), Deluxe (52.5 sqm), Grand Deluxe King (63.9 sqm), Junior Suite (80.4 sqm), Premier Suite (96.3 sqm), Midori Suite (123.7 sqm), Penthouse Suite (146.1 sqm), and the exquisitely designed Presidential Suite (366.7 sqm).

The Presidential suite is provided with a separate living room, audio-visual room, bar, kitchen and dining room for personal refreshments, family gatherings or get-togethers with friends.

Five world-class dining outlets will be available to satisfy sophisticated palates. Try out Toscana Dining if you prefer to eat international cuisine. If you prefer sky lounge dining while looking into the vast green surroundings with live bands performing, there is the Baccus Lounge.

Choose from excellent wines and cigar collections available at Cigar Maduro and enjoy refreshing drinks from Baci Bar while spending a day at the pool and spend a quiet afternoon coffee or tea in a relaxed setting at Café Midori.

Other entertainment and relaxation facilities are the technologically advanced Casino, KTV Clubs, Mahjong Rooms, Fitness Center, Swimming Pool and a Spa Center to offer spa experiences to a whole new heights.

Festa Hall - Midori Clark Hotel’s grand ballroom can accommodate 400 guests. It is accented with grandiose chandeliers, lavish glass wall stairs, with a high ceiling and spacious lobby. Surely, a perfect venue for business meetings, conferences, parties, weddings and or once in a lifetime events.

Midori Clark Hotel and Casino is located along C.M. Recto Avenue, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Philippines. It is about five minutes away from Clark International Airport.

Clark Freeport is the gateway to the north, strategically positioned about less than two hours drive from north of Metro Manila via NLEX, 45 minutes going to Subic via SCTEX, and less than 3 hours to Baguio City via TPLEX.

For inquiries, please send email to reservations@midorihotel.com and for marketing concerns to marketing@midorihotel.com or contact them directly at +63 917 653 6666 or +63 917 652 6666. You may also visit their website at www.midorihotel.com to know more about the property.

PamCham issues support for Clark Green City project

By Ian Ocampo Flora

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) in a resolution approved during its 132nd Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors, supported the full development of the Clark Green City and expressed confidence that the next administration will support and ensure the project’s completion because of its noble intentions and viable objectives that will support Philippine economic resiliency.

The business chamber acknowledged Clark Green City's Green and Smart Urban Development and concurred that establishing synergy between Industry and Technology with Agriculture and Environment should be the goal of all future and existing urban community developments.

PamCham further alluded to the critical role of the Clark Green City in the decongestion of Metro Manila, an advocacy launched by PamCham in December 2013 and had since gained momentum and considerable support.

The projects’ disaster-resilient design attributed to its high elevation that insulates it from floods and situated away from existing fault lines makes it the safest location for financial centers, key government satellite offices and the most viable option for business development.

The Clark Green City, as a modern metropolis with its mix of Residential, Commercial, Agro-industrial, Institutional and Information Technology Development is envisioned to become a major contributor to National Development.

The BCDA expects it to contribute roughly 4% to the National GDP at USD36 Billion in Annual Gross Output and can generate 925,000 jobs once fully developed.

Angeles cops charged for extorting American

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Two policemen here are facing criminal and administrative charges after allegedly extorting P48,000 from an American tourist who reportedly committed a traffic violation.

Police Officer 2 Neil Gopilan and Police Officer 2 Teoderico Pelayo were relieved from Police Station 4 (Salakot Police Precinct) in connection with the complaint filed by the tourist, whose name has been withheld for security reasons.

Balibago barangay chairman Rodelio Mamac said the foreigner sought the help of village leaders in filing a formal complaint against the two cops.

“This guy is a tourist and loves our country, unfortunately, he was accosted by two police personnel of Station 4 for traffic violation. He knew that he did not violated any traffic rules and defended himself,” Mamac said.

The policemen allegedly handcuffed and arrested the tourist but he was not brought to the police station, said Mamac.

“He was surprised that he was not brought to the police station and instead drove around Balibago and demanding him to pay P50,000 for the settlement of alleged violations,” Mamac said.

The American national was forced to pay the cops P48,000 in exchange of his alleged offenses.

“Feeling helpless and afraid, against his will, he submitted himself to their demands and drove back to the Clark perimeter road in Barangay Anunas and withdrew from his bank account P48,000,” Mamac said.

After the alleged payoff, the policemen allowed the tourist to leave, according to the village chief.

Mamac said the tourist felt that he was “robbed and blackmailed” by the two cops.

“The victim then narrated his ordeal to the sister of his girlfriend, who advised him to see me to report the incident. I instructed Senior Inspector Dante Cabungcal to immediately conduct proper investigation to identify the police suspects,” Mamac said.

The tourist was elated with the assistance provided to him by the barangay leaders and Police Station 4.

Gopilan and Pelayo, who are now in the holding area of the city police, denied the accusations of the tourist. They also denied asking and accepting P48,000 from him.

15 penitents 'crucified' in Pampanga on Good Friday

(PNA), SCS/ZST/FEM/PS

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PNA) -- Local and foreign visitors flocked to the crucifixion sites here on Good Friday to witness the reenactment of the passion and death of Jesus Christ.

The spectators, unmindful of the scorching heat, trooped to a man-made calvary hill in Barangay San Pedro Cutud and in the villages of San Juan and Sta. Lucia to watch the "magdarame" (flagellants) whipping themselves and men getting nailed on wooden crosses, an annual tradition which has been observed in the province for 54 years.

This time, 15 men were nailed to crosses in the crucifixion sites while throngs of flagellants walked several kilometers through village streets while beating their bare backs with sharp bamboo sticks called "burilyos" and pieces of wood.

The most number of crucifixions were staged in San Pedro Cutud where seven penitents led by 55-year-old sign painter Ruben Enaje, who played the role of Jesus Christ on the Kapampangan version of passion.

Enaje was nailed to cross for 11 minutes instead of the conventional five minutes in the same ritual which he has undergone for 30 times.

Aside from Enaje, the othes who volunteered to be crucified were Ronald Lazaro, Crisaldo Macaspac, Bernardo Calosa, Ramil Lazaro, Victor Caparas and Byron Gopez.

The other penitents were crucified in two other sites in Barangays Sta. Lucia and San Juan.

The annual ritual started in Barangay Sta. Lucia where three penitents, namely Melchor Montaya, Danilo Ramos and Fernando Mamangun, were nailed to crosses as spectators watched them in pain.

In Barangay San Juan, Wilfredo Salvador and Alex Viray were crucified for 10 and eight times, respectively.

Meanwhile, Rey Sabangan, Erwin Lumacang and Angelito Mengilla were also nailed to crosses in Barangay Lourdes, northwest of Angeles City.

Although many of these penitents have gone through this ordeal a number of times, they still screamed in pain as villagers dressed as Roman centurions hammered four-inch stainless steel nails through their palms and set them aloft on the cross under a blistering heat for a few minutes.

After crucifixion, each of the penitent was taken to a medical tent to have his wounds bandaged.

Critics say the event has become commercialized due to the numerous vendors and peddlers that built stalls near the crucifixion sites.

But to the people involved in it and to the spectators, the annual observance was sacred.

"That's some kind of extreme sacrifice," said 43-year-old Renato del Carmen who witnessed the crucifixion rites for the first time.

To some foreigners, they described the reenactment of Jesus Christ's sufferings as a unique spectacle of religious devotion.

Bobby Smith said it was his first time to watch the crucifixion rites in this city.

Smith travelled all the way from Pennsylvania, USA, along with her friends to witness the Kapampangan's way of observing the Holy Week.

"I've experienced to celebrate Holy Week in other parts of the world. But this kind of crucifixion and flaggelation is unique compared to others," he said.

Ching Pangilinan, city tourism officer, said the number of spectators who witnessed the annual event was estimated at 25,000.

Malaysian robbery victim repatriated

By Reynaldo G. Navales

A MALAYSIAN tourist, who lost his passport and money in a heist, was repatriated through the help of village officials in Angeles City.

Dom Jang, a Malaysian national who frequently visits the country, was staying at a hotel in Clark Freeport before the robbery happened.

Balibago Chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac said Dom lost his personal documents, cash, ATM cards, and other belongings.

“According to him, he stayed in a P3,000 per night hotel inside Clark. He is a frequent visitor in our country. Two weeks ago, he lost everything except for his passport and laptop which he left in his hotel room,” Mamac said.

Dom could not withdraw cash from his bank and go back to Malaysia, according to Mamac.

“He also lost his [plane] ticket and he no longer had money for his daily needs,” the village chief added.

Dom decided to pawn his laptop to settle his hotel bills and asked a waitress friend to let him stay temporarily at her father’s house at Xevera Subdivision.

“For two weeks, he lives in pain, agony, and frustration and he had nobody to lean on. He even came to a point of ending his life,” Mamac said.

A few days after the incident, Dom decided to attend a mass at the Immaculate Concepcion Church in Balibago where he made a confession to the parish priest.

After revealing his ordeal, Dom was assisted by the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), headed by Mamac’s wife Thess.

“One of the ladies gave him P140 to buy his food. My wife Tess called me and advised Mr. Dom to see me,” Mamac said.

After two days, Mamac said Dom was able to secure documents required by the victim’s bank.

“Within two days, we were able to help him and produce all necessary documents for the bank and travel back to Malaysia,” the village chief added.

Netizens lauded Mamac and the church leaders for assisting the Malaysian national.

Angeles offers artistic alternative to bloody crucifixions

By Ding Cervantes With Evelyn Macairan, Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star)

ANGELES CITY, Philippines – Instead of the bloody crucifixion scenes in many provinces on Good Friday, this city is offering a more colorful and artful alternative to Lenten celebrations.

Richard Daenos, city tourism officer, said a weeklong reenactment of the scenes leading to the suffering, crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ will be done in the city’s barangays.

The events, which would be attended by Singaporean tourists, would depict scenes of the Catholic faith in Pampanga and are dubbed as Panata at Panalangin, a presentation by choreographer Peter de Vera on the various practices of the Kapampangan faith and sacrifices through a fusion of visual arts, music, drama and dance.

Also to be presented is the Sa Kanyang mga Sugat – a Lenten themed play by Teatro Angeleno; and Apunan ning Pasasanmetung, which is more of a community event as people bring their own baon (provisions) and place them on banana leaves spread on tables that are placed to form a line of about 300 meters in Barangay Tabun.

Daenos said residents and visitors could partake of the food for free.

Also slated is Ang Martir, a dance drama centered on the martyrdom of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint.

“All these activities are open to the public for free up to Easter Sunday. We will be more biblical. One Kristo will be nailed to the cross. The other two to be crucified would represent the two thieves,” Daenos said.

The true-to-life crucifixion, which is a part of the live Stations of the Cross, would be held at a makeshift Golgotha in Barangay Lourdes Northwest on Good Friday, he added.

Except for the crucifixion, the events will be done at the Heritage District – Angeles’ old downtown and location of the Pamintuan Mansion where Emilio Aguinaldo led the second anniversary of Philippine Independence in 1899.

Daenos said tourists could stay the entire week to witness the events.

He admitted though that despite the solemnity of the Holy Week observance, Fields Avenue – the city’s traditional entertainment district since the years of the US military base at Clark – would still have a “life of its own.” 


“Visitors will find other food options there,” Daenos added. Anti-tetanus shots

With all the reenactments of the crucifixion, Department of Health Secretary Janette Garin yesterday advised penitents, especially those who go for flagellation and actual crucifixion, to get anti-tetanus shots to avoid the possibility of acquiring infection like tetanus.

She added that they should use sterilized materials and their wounds must immediately be washed with soap and water.

Tetanus infection generally occurs through contamination of a cut or deep puncture wound. A person infected with tetanus suffers from headache, locked jaw, high fever and weakness.

In severe cases, Garin said, a patient may develop respiratory spasm that may lead to death.

AboitizPower supports Dole program for OFWs

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Local jobs in the Philippine power industry await Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as AboitizPower signed up for the Assist WELL (Welfare, Employment, Legal and Livelihood) program of the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole).

AboitizPower and DOLE recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in connection with the program, Arcel Madrid, Corporate Branding and Communications Associate of Aboitiz Power Corporation, said.

DOLE’s Assist WELL program aims to help address the welfare, employment, legal and livelihood needs of Filipino workers. It advocates ample local employment opportunities for Filipinos so that they do not have to work overseas.

"We believe in the Filipino talents and in nation-building. We are excited to partner with the Assist WELL program, to provide our OFWs an opportunity to go back to our country to work and live with their families," said AboitizPower vice president for Human Resources Cindy Rivera.

AboitizPower, through its subsidiaries and affiliates in power generation, distribution, and retail electricity services across the country, seeks to provide opportunities, mostly in technical and engineering positions, to overseas Filipino workers to help them build a rewarding career in the country.

At present, the AboitizPower group employs more than 3,000 Filipinos, helping create A Better Future for their families. With its business expansion, AboitizPower continuously scouts for more talents to become part of its growing community.

AboitizPower is committed to fulfill its goal to create sustainable impacts on its stakeholders and on the environment while providing reliable and reasonably priced power to the nation.

Awesome Easter at Holiday Inn Clark

(Press release)

Easter this year officially kicks off the summer season and is the perfect time to have fun and bonding activities. At the Holiday Inn Clark Philippines, we have added something special to start the summer break.

Celebrate with us and have a delightful escapade with lots of surprises and adventures. From March 21-27, stay with us for Php5,200+ and enjoy breakfast buffet, high speed internet, wifi connection and access to Fitness Inn. Kids rule at Holiday Inn Clark that’s why we have included special treats like complimentary kids pack, kids stay and eat free, unlimited access to swimming pool, Kids Inn and do treasure hunt. More fun for you and your family with free carriage ride and special rates for adventures in nearby theme parks.

For lunch and dinner, feast on a mix of flavors and different dishes presented in buffet style at the Mequeni, a recipient of Certificate of Excellence awarded by Trip Advisor. The buffet selection includes a wide range of culinary choices including Filipino, Western, Italian and Japanese to name a few and our signature themed nights for dinner spread. Mouth watering ala carte menus are also available. Picture perfect and family friendly, the Mequeni even offers wide selection of kids menu and even has kids corner to let you appreciate and savor your time spent here with us.

Kids will surely be thrilled and excited for a fun-filled activities from 8am to 12nn on Easter Sunday at the Lower Foyer. For only Php350net, kids can enter the animated place and can do movie watching, egg painting, face painting, animal feeding and egg hunting with light snacks to keep our young hunters happy.

Have an awesome start this summer, call 045.599.8000 for your booking and visit our Facebook page for promotion updates.

NLEx, SCTEx fully integrated

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) are now fully integrated.

The Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) yesterday announced that the P650 million NLEx-SCTEx Integration Project is now fully operational and has been completed ahead of the expected 10 percent to 15 percent increase in traffic volume on Holy Week.

“Seamless and faster travel can now be experienced at NLEx and SCTEx as toll collection stops are lessened and additional payment options are introduced at the SCTEx,” said MNTC president Rodrigo E. Franco.

The project, which involves the conversion of NLEx and SCTEx toll collection systems into a single system, reduces toll collection stops to two instead of five from Balintawak to Subic and back, instead of four from Balintawak to Tarlac and back.

“The integration speeds up the queues on toll plazas. Motorists who will drive from Manila to Subic will just have to stop for toll payments at Balintawak and Subic or Tarlac. This will save them up to 40 minutes of travel time,” Franco said.

Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, who pushed the integration of the two toll systems, said that the move “will surely create a faster and more efficient traveling experience in the NLEx and SCTEx especially this coming Holy Week.”

“This integration of our tollways will be of huge help to our countrymen as more efficient movement of people means less time on the road and more time for them to spend with their loved ones,” Drilon said.

“The integration will also mean faster and more efficient delivery of goods and services through the seamless flow of traffic in these northern highways,” he added.

For his part, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano D. Casanova said that the integration is a game-changer that will greatly benefit the motorist in terms of faster travel time and convenience.

“It’s the first integration among expressways in the country and we are happy to be part of it and set the bar for others to replicate for the benefit of the public,” Casanova said.

To unify the system of NLEx and SCTEx, MNTC constructed seven new toll plazas in Tarlac, Subic-Tipo, Sta. Ines, and the northbound and southbound sides of Dau and Mabiga.

Motorists will no longer need to stop at the existing NLEx Dau and SCTEx Mabalacat barriers as these are converted into pass-through lanes.

By April, the said barriers will be removed to provide motorists with a more comfortable travel. The Subic Freeport Expressway (SFEx) Toll Plaza will also be dismantled to better facilitate the integration of the two expressways.

The integrated toll collection has a common transit ticket system for both the NLEx’s closed system and that of the SCTEx’s. A single official receipt will be issued to motorists, showing a breakdown of the NLEX and SCTEX portion of their trips.

With the integration of the NLEx and the SCTEx, Franco said motorists will now have other payment options when traveling at the SCTEx since, like the NLEx, it now features electronic toll collection through Easytrip.

On top of the NLEx-SCTEx integration, MNTC will also implement “Safe Trip Mo Sagot Ko” (SMSK) along NLEx, SCTEx and CAVITEx which will enhance the traffic management and toll collection services during the Holy Week.

From March 18 to 28, additional patrol vehicles and enforcers will be fielded to immediately respond to distressed motorists.

Ambulant toll tellers equipped with portable toll collection gadgets will be deployed and additional traffic informatory signs will be installed in strategic areas. Road works will also be suspended to ensure smooth traffic flow.

On March 23 to 27, MNTC and its partners will continue to provide free services such as free calls and Wi-Fi, free basic mechanic services and first aid treatments in designated locations along NLEx, SCTEx and CAVITEX.

Free towing services to the nearest exit will be offered to Class 1 vehicles from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. Free drinking water and sunblock will also be available at SMSK Motorist Camps in NLEx Dau rest bay northbound, SCTEx Concepcion northbound, Pitabunan southbound and Floridablanca rest bay, and CAVITEx Parañaque and Kawit toll plazas.

With these two programs in place, there will be time and fuel savings for the 200,000 vehicles that use the NLEx and the over 30,000 vehicles that ply the SCTEx daily.

“Beyond the Lenten season, we are hoping we can do our part to help lessen the travel time of the motorists who ply our expressways daily,” Franco stated. “Less time on the road means more time for productive work, or more quality time for the family,” he added.

SMSK is co-presented by Caltex and Ford Philippines.

Newsman posted most number of ordinances at Angeles council

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Records at the Provincial Board here showed a journalist, seeking for a seat at the city council, was the topnotcher in accomplishments in terms of the number of ordinances and resolutions filed and passed when he was a member of the legislative body.

Jay Sangil, a journalist by profession who used to write for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, posted the most number of passed and approved resolutions and ordinances during his three stints in the city council. He authored a total of 230 legislative bills filed and approved by the City Council.

Sangil completed his three terms as topnotch councilor in 2004, 2007 and 2010. He was not as lucky in 2013 when he ran for vice-mayor. The journalist-turned-politician also wrote for MASA, Agence France Presse, Kyodo News Service, and The Angeles SUN.

Sangil chaired the Committees on Labor, Cooperative, Special Economic Zone, Public Works and Engineering, and Ways and Means.

As Labor Committee chair, he was able to solve various labor-management disputes such as the Golbon garment factory involving more than 700 workers who got their unpaid salaries and other benefits. Hundreds of workers in two companies in Clark Freeport Zone also got their benefits and delayed salaries due to his mediation role.

At least 50 employees of a restaurant and pub also won their case through his intercession while a Japanese manager accused of maltreatment by Filipino workers was deported when Sangil took the cudgels for the affected workers.

In the Public Works and Engineering bench, he exposed the substandard construction of several housing units at Northville 15, barangay Cutud where hundreds of families from eight barangays (Pulungbulo, Sto. Cristo, Lourdes Sur, Lourdes Sur East, CM Recto, Sta Teresita, Malabanas, Balibago) have been relocated. This prompted the NHA to institute corrective measures for the safety of thousands of residents.

Sangil also supported the building of classrooms, multi-purpose halls, barangay halls, roads and drainage, lighting projects for the city's 33 barangays. As Ways and Means committee chair, he also supported the city government's special programs and projects to help generate funds for the city’s coffers.

"Sa tulong po ng ating mga kababayan, mga kapwa konsehal mula 2004, tayo po ay nakapag pasa ng mga ordinansa at resolusyon na nakatulong sa ating mga kababayan at sa pag unlad ng ating lungsod Angeles," said Sangil.

Dozens of cooperatives, NGOs and other people's organizations were accredited when he assumed the committee on cooperative.

"Minsan po ay hindi naiiwasan na merong hindi pagkakaunawaan, debate sa mga issues, pero at the end of the day kami rin po ang magtutulungan para isulong ang kabutihan ng ating mamamayan at Lungsod Angeles," he added.

Some of the approved ordinances and resolutions spearheaded by Sangil involved measures on public safety and order such as requiring CCTV cameras on banks, pawnshop, malls, supermarkets, and other businesses, major streets and requiring telcos to install underground cabling eliminate spaghetti wires along major thoroughfares.

Some measures called for granting of privileges and additional benefits such as the percentage share of Persons with Disability in the city's annual budget. Other measures include:

Resolution urging the City Executive to grant Php1,500 increase on top of the regular monthly honorarium of Day Care workers, Barangay health workers, BSPO, BNS and additional allowances to all traffic aides and bantay bayan volunteers;

Resolution requiring operators/owners of all business establishment in Angeles City to accord their employees with mandatory privileges benefits and guaranteeing the provision of minimum wage as required by PD 442;

Resolution urging business owners in Angeles City and Clark Special Economic Zone to consider qualified applicants aged 30 years old and above in their hiring of personnel, so as not to be discriminated in their selection process;

Resolution urging Congress and Senate to craft a bill on the protection against E-load (electronic robbery) on telecommunications ie Smart, Globe, Sun, Talk and Text, among others affecting millions of cell phone users;

Resolution urging President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to fully develop Clark International Airport (CIAC) as the next premier gateway; and

Resolution requesting President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to push for a twin airport system that would allow the joint development of Clark International Airport and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

LGC holds first golf tourney

By Princess Clea Arcellaz

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Laus Group of Companies (LGC) led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Levy Laus held Thursday its first invitational golf tournament at the Sun Valley Country Club in this Freeport.

LGC has partnered with one of its major car dealerships--BMW--an automotive company known for hosting golf competitions worldwide.

According to Laus, the multi-purpose activity mainly aims to touch and connect with some of the customers of BMW and other LGC-run auto dealerships.

"This activity is meant to create fellowship among our customers considering that they are the most important persons in our business," he said.

"Moreover, since some of our participants came from the north, this would also mean promotion of eco-tourism for Clark and the whole of Pampanga as well," he added.

Some 144 golfers participated in the “shotgun” type of tournament.

"Kung may opportunity lang, we would like to accommodate more that is why we want to ask for apologies to our customers who cannot join us in this event," he said.

Meanwhile, BMW Philippines Managing Director Karl Magsuci lauded the initiative of Laus for coming up with the activity to connect with LGC clients.

"This is a very good sign for the customers of Laus Group, not only of BMW because it ratifies the commitment of the company to serve its better by getting to know them more in a friendship level," he said.

He added that this is the first time in the history of the automotive company that its dealer has organized its own event in a local level.

Magsuci also expressed his support and enthusiasm in the coming invitational golf tournaments sponsored by LGC.

Angeles to hold religious rites, events for Lent

(AC-CIO)

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here through the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO) has scheduled activities in observance of the Lenten Season this year in partnership with the socio-civic community, various performing arts groups and the religious sector.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan emphasized the importance of celebrating the religious traditions despite the city’s fast-paced growth and innovation.

"As a modernized community, it can be quite a challenge to instill old practices and traditions to the new generation. However, we find that it is crucial for us to preserve our intangible heritage and we can uphold this by promoting activities of the observation of the Lenten season," said Pamintuan.

"I am glad that these activities still hold significance deep in the hearts of the Angeleños," the mayor added.

Starting off this year's Lenten observance is Sinukwan Kapampangan's "Panata at Panalangin: A Spiritual Journey through Culture and the Arts", depicting the religious practices of the Kapampangan region, in the form of mixed-media art exhibit and dance performances.

Now on its fifth year, the presentation will be staged on March 21 and 26 at MarQuee Park under the artistic direction of Peter de Vera.

Teatro Angeleño will be presenting A Timeless and Contemporary Staging of the Passion of the Christ with a theme “Sa Kanyang Mga Sugat” at the Arts and Garden Museum on March 21, 22, 25 and 26 and at the Estacion de Angeles on March 23 and 24 at 6 o’clock in the evening.

Meanwhile, the Sinukwan Kapampangan will be performing the Ritwal ng Banal na Palaspas: Isang Sipi mula sa Panata at Panalangin on March 22, 8:00 pm at the Plaza Angel.

On March 22 to 23 and 27 to 31, Lino Dizon will be giving a lecture on the assessment on the art of Chanting and Pamagdarame at the Museum of Philippine Social History.

Sinukwan Kapampangan will then be performing a dance-drama on the Martyrdom of the First Filipino Saint, Lorenzo Ruiz on March 23 at 6:30 pm in front of Holy Rosary Parish Church (HRPC).

Also on the 23rd, Barangay Tabun’s annual community-wide gathering through “Apunan ning Pamisanmetung” will take place at 7 p.m.

The Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the Bisita Iglesia: Veneration of the Blessed Sacrament are set to happen on March 24 at the Holy Rosary Parish Church.

Jesus’ sacrifices and martyrdom will be witnessed again as Lourdes Northwest Barangay Council stage a two-part theatrical re-enactment of the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Christ with “Siete Palabras” (The Seven Last Words) on March 24 and 25.

As a way of honoring the Holy Cross where Jesus was crucified, Angeleños are set to witness the solemn Veneration of the Cross and the Good Friday Procession on March 25 at the HRPC.

The city’s weeklong Lenten observance will culminate with the HRPC’s Easter Vigil, Easter Procession and the traditional “Salubong” which marks Christ’s resurrection and His symbolic reunion with the Blessed Virgin Mary. The procession is set to happen on March 26 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

For more information, contact 0977-377-1585 or visit ACTO’s Facebook page at fb.com/AngelesCityTourismOffice.

Councilor to Angelenos: 'Join observance of Earth Hour'

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Councilor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. has urged his constituents to join the observation of the 2016 Earth Hour on March 19.

The Earth Hour is an annually-held worldwide event organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) where people from homes and establishments all over the world are invited to turn non-essential lights off for one hour to save energy.

“Inaanyayahan ko po kayo na sama-sama po tayong makiisa sa Earth Hour sa pamamagitan ng pagpatay ng ating mga ilaw sa loob ng isang oras, mula 8:30 hanggang 9:30 ng gabi,” Lazatin said.

He said there is a common misconception that the Earth Hour is merely a “lights off” project and does not really impact the environment.

He said the event advocates for greater collective consciousness on taking care of the environment.

“Ang Earth Hour ang nagpapakita na kahit ang maliliit na efforts ay nagkakaroon ng malaking epekto kung maraming tao ang makikiisa dito,” Lazatin said.

“Napakalaking enerhiya na po ang matitipid natin dito lalo na kung ang mga komunidad sa buong mundo ay makikiisa para i-observe ang Earth Hour, he added.

Lazatin, who is seeking for a second term, is one of the authors of Ordinance 364 or the “Plastic Bag and Styrofoam Ordinance of Angeles City,” which seeks to protect and advance the rights of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology by minimizing the proliferation of plastic waste through regulation of the use of plastic bags and prohibition of the sell and use of styrofoam.

Angeles council approves resolution for dev’t permit of public cemetery

By Chris Navarro

ANGELES CITY- The City Council here recently passed a resolution approving the application for a development permit of the public cemetery in Barangay Sapalibutad.

First City Councilor Jericho G. Aguas, chairman of the Committee on Landed Estate said that the committee together with Councilor Bryan Matthew Nepomuceno, vice chairman of the Committee on Laws and Rules, have jointly recommended for the approval of the "Resolution approving the application for development permit of the public cemetery located at Lot 22-A , Psd-03-204090, covered under TCT No. 045-2014001861, consisting of 15.733 square meters, located at Barangay Salapungan, Angeles City, owned by the City Government of Angeles."

Aguas said that the recommendation was done after the two committees conducted a joint committee hearing last February 9 which was attended by members of the committee and officials of the city planning, city engineer and Gercel Construction, one of the winning bidders, the other of which is Haidee Construction and Development Corporation.

Earlier, the city government loaned P100-million from the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) for the construction of the said public cemetery which was opposed by Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting and questioned by Councilor Carmelo Lazatin.

Aguas said that majority of the constituents of Barangay Sapalibutad have signified their consent through a public hearing which was conducted by the Barangay Council of the said village.

Liga ng mga Barangay president Lito Ganzon manifested that the majority of the barangays are amenable to the construction of the public cemetery at Sapalibutad.

Ganzon was reacting to an inquiry of Lazatin alleging that barangay kagawads of Sapalibutad were reportedly complaining that there was no public hearing but instead they just gathered signatures from their constituents in the said Barangay.

Meanwhile, Engr. David David of the City Planning and Development Office said that Gercel Construction and Haidee Construction have complied and submitted all the requirements except for the Environment Compliance Certificate (ECC) because it takes a month for the release of the said document coming from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. David and Gerry Concepcion of Gercel assured that they will submit to the City Council the ECC once it released.

Lazatin on the other hand raised a query that the committee should file first an ordinance before continuing the hearing the issue but Aguas and Nepomuceno clarified that an ordinance is not yet needed since the public cemetery is not yet operating.

DOLE opens Satellite Office in Clark

By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu (CLJD-PIA 3)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has opened a Satellite Office in Clark in an effort to serve the locators in the Freeport Zone.

It currently holds office at the 2nd flood of Medical City Clark-Ambulatory Center along Jose Abad Santos Avenue.

“We have more than 75,000 workers employed from 794 registered locators at the Clark Freeport Zone. With more investors and employment opportunities generated, it is but timely and fitting to establish an office in this area in order to reduce the influx of clients visiting our Regional Office and Pampanga Field Office,” DOLE Regional Director Ana Dione said.

“Aside from Clark, this Satellite Office will also be able to serve clients from the cities of Angeles and Mabalacat, Magalang town, and nearby areas,” Dione added.

Among the services which can be immediately availed in the Satellite Office include Labor and Employment Education and Single Entry Approach.

It can also receive reportorial requirements on Joint-Assessments under the Labor Laws Compliance System and evaluation on Construction Safety and Health Program.

The Satellite Office is headed by Senior Labor and Employment Officer Antonio Sicat Jr. with supervision from the Technical Support and Services Division for Labor Relations and Labor Standards of the Regional Office.

It can be reached through its hotline number 09175664857 and email -dolero3clark@gmail.com.

Angeles teachers to get tech aid

(PR)

ANGELES CITY -- About 1,506 units of 2-in-1 laptop and touch screen tablets with dual software of Windows and Android and quad core processor are ready for distribution to all public teachers in this city.

"These equipment will help our beloved teachers in preparing their lessons and lectures easier," Mayor Ed Pamintuan said during a meeting with ONA doctors.

"Now their presentations can be made through PowerPoint and students could appreciate learning better," he added.

The Office of the City Administrator is also elated with the good news.

Lawyer Dennis Albert Pamintuan said "this will surely make classes in our public schools better for our students."

Aside from the laptops and gadgets, a total of 246 LED TV monitors (32-inch) will also be distributed to the Department of Education (DepEd) Angeles as teaching aids to be used by the teachers here in the city.

For this year, the local school board through the special education fund of the City has approved the monthly allowance of 2,235 teachers of P1,500 and also for the monthly allowance of more than 215 non-teaching personnel of also P1,500.

That would sum up to a total of about P3.9 million for the hardworking people of DepEd Angeles.

Early in January, the City Treasurer certified the amount of P95 million to fund the budget requirements of the local school board principal budget for 2016. The monthly allowance for both teaching and NTP reaches a total of P44,736,000 for this year.

Pamintuan reiterated his continued support for all the teachers and all the staff of DepEd Angeles in order to provide quality education to all Angelenos.

$40M renewable energy plant launched in Clark

(JTD)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The $40-million Clark Solar Power, the very first renewable energy project inside Clark Freeport was inaugurated yesterday by officials of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC, Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), Sindicatum Group and Mabalacat Solar Philippines, Inc. (MSPI).

CDC president Arthur Tugade, BCDA president Arnel Casanova, Sindicatum Group (the mother company of Sindicatum Renewable Energy) president Robert Driscoll and MSPI chairman Jose P. Leviste, Jr. launched the multi-million dollar facility located in a leased 25-hectare property inside the Freeport. The solar power plant is expected to produce 22.325-MW power in an effort to provide alternative power supply to the growing power needs of the locators.

The solar power plant, a joint venture of MSPI and two Singapore-based renewable energy developers -- Sindicatum Renewable Energy Company and Armstrong Asset Management, could energize at least 100,000 households in Pampanga and Clark once operational. The renewable energy project will be dedicated to the growing power requirements of the locators and future business establishments in Clark.

It would form part of the so-called “Basket of Power” being envisioned by the current CDC management for Clark and local communities. The project is in parallel to state-run firm's commitment to reduce carbon footprint inside Clark as well as to meet the environmental objectives of the locators here and the BCDA.

The project also supports the development of the Clark Green City, which will be a major new integrated city involving commercial, industrial and residential development. It is estimated that the output from the Clark Solar project will support 25,000 jobs within the Freeport Zone.

The project has been interconnected through Clark Electric Development Corporation (CEDC), and as such will supply most of its power to the local area served by CEDC, including the locators in the Freeport Zone. The project is also registered with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), and will supply power not required by CEDC to support the Luzon grid.

The plant was completed on March 7, with the conclusion of the testing required by NGCP. Full operations will start this month -- once the project was registered with the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) -- and given approval to connect as a generator by NGCP.

FOI bill tops bet’s Senate agenda

By Ashley Manabat

ANGELES CITY – Senatorial candidate Martin G. Romualdez has committed himself in championing the cause of press freedom.

Romualdez made the commitment during his speech at the 67th anniversary of the Pampanga Press Club (PPC) on Wednesday at The Encore of the Century Hotel here.

Romualdez said that as senator, the passage of the FOI bill would be among his top priority as a measure against corruption in government. This, even as he lamented the growing number of unsolved killings of media practitioners.

Romualdez also commended the PPC “for your part in educating our voters.”

He said “the campaign period is intended for the candidates to make known their qualifications and platforms; and for voters to be equipped with the right information to enable them to make intelligent and wise choices.”

“Journalism should not be a dangerous profession,” Romualdez said, noting the rising number of unsolved murder cases involving members of the media.

“I will strengthen the Press Shield Law or Sotto law under Republic Act No. 53 (as amended by RA No. 1477) to include harsher punishments for crimes committed against media practitioners in an attempt to silence our press,” he said.

“Criminal acts oppressing the freedom of speech and the press are heinous crimes that have no place in our democracy. The hovering fear for their personal safety or from vindictive retribution has a chilling effect on our sacrosanct right to speak, be heard and break news stories,” Romualdez said.

“I stand firmly behind the protection of the freedom of the press -- aimed at the promotion of the free flow of ideas and information to encourage intelligent discourse among the people,” he added.

“I will work towards Freedom of Information for all,” Romualdez said as he pointed out that his platform of concern (malasakit) encompasses these advocacies.

“Ang kailangan natin: Ibalik ang malasakit sa bayan,” he said.


Dole holds temporary office at Medical City in Clark

By Jerry Borja (DOLE-3 LCO)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) announced Tuesday that the Dole Clark Satellite Office (CSO) is now open to serve clients within the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ).

The Dole CSO at the moment is holding its temporary office at the second floor of Medical City Clark-Ambulatory Center, Jose Abad Santos Avenue, Berthaphil Center 3 Compound, Clark Freeport.

Dole Regional Director Ana Dione said that the DOLE CSO was established to bridge the Dole's programs and services closer to its clients coming from the Freeport’s locators.

“We have about more than 75,000 workers employed from 794 registered locators at the Clark Freeport Zone. With more investors and employment opportunities generated at the Clark Freeport Zone, it is but timely and fitting to establish an office in this area in order to reduce the influx of clients visiting our Regional Office and Pampanga Field Office,” Dione explained.

“With a satellite office here at the Clark Freeport Zone, it will be more convenient for our clients to visit our office here instead of spending additional transportation costs and enduring heavy traffic just to visit our offices in the City of San Fernando to avail of our programs and services,” she added.

Aside from Clark, the DOLE CSO will also be able to serve clients from the cities of Angeles and Mabalacat, Magalang town, and nearby areas.

The following programs and services which can be immediately availed are Labor and Employment Education Services (LEES), Single Entry Approach (SEnA) Program, and various regulatory programs.

In addition, the office also can receive reportorial requirements on Joint-Assessments under the Labor Laws Compliance System (LLCS) and evaluation on Construction Safety and Health Program (CSHP).

At present, the DOLE CSO is manned by six personnel and headed by Labor Laws Compliance Officer (LLCO)/Senior Labor and Employment Officer Antonio Sicat, Jr.

Under Sicat’s supervision are Labor and Employment Officers Fidel Gonzales, Limuel Gutierrez, Fernando Mallari IV, Joseph Santos, and Adrianne Bondoc, all of whom also function as LLCOs.

The DOLE CSO’s day to day operation is monitored by the DOLE regional office’s Technical Support and Services Division for Labor Relations and Labor Standards.

The DOLE CSO in the future will be transferred to a permanent one-stop-shop location of various government offices to be determined by the Clark Development Corporation.

With the DOLE CSO in place, clients from the Clark Freeport Zone will now be able to conveniently access the DOLE’s programs and services the easier way.

The DOLE CSO can be reached through its hotline number 0917-5664857 and email address at dolero3clark@gmail.com.

Clark hospital to conduct free burn care workshop

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Medical City Clark has set a free burn care workshop on March 18 in line with the observance of Fire Prevention and Awareness Month.

The management of the state-of-the-art hospital has invited company nurses and doctors, emergency room nurses, general medicine practitioners, primary care physicians, paramedics, and health workers.

Courses during the workshop include acute burn injuries, initial assessment and management; diagnosis, assessment and fluid management; wound management of burn injury, and case simulation.

The TMC Clark Burn Unit, the first ever burn unit in Central Luzon, is designed to provide comprehensive and multi-disciplinary care for victims of burn injuries.

TMC Clark is the fifth institution in the country to have a dedicated burn facility. Of the five institutions, which have a burn unit, are in Metro Manila and the other one is in Davao City.

At the Burn Unit, wounds are assessed and dressed on a daily basis and surgical management consist early excision and skin grafting to achieve optimum functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Another special component of the TMC Clark Burn Unit is the bathing system which has features that are highly flexible and can be customized to meet the specific needs of burn patients.

PDEA-3 nets four drug dealers in Pampanga

(PNA), LAP/ZST/FEM/PS

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, March 8 (PNA) -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-3 (PDEA-3) arrested Monday four drug dealers and seized Php500,000 worth of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) in an anti-illegal drug operation in the City of San Fernando, this province.

PDEA-3 Regional Director Gladys Rosales identified the suspects as Federico Pangilinan, 47, a resident of Porac; Ricardo Gomez, 29, a resident of Angeles City; Ermin Liwanag, 44, of Arayat; and Wilson Bognot, 26, of Angeles City, all of this province.

Rosales said the agents were able to negotiate the purchase of 100 grams of shabu for Php280,000 and agreed to meet at the parking lot of Robinsons Mall in the City of San Fernando at 8 p.m. Monday.

The suspects were arrested when they handed a plastic bag containing shabu to the poseur buyer, Rosales said.

During a search, she said the suspects yielded more shabu contained in an ice bag to bring the total amount seized to Php500,000.

The suspects were brought to the PDEA-3 jail facility here.

Australian businessman eyes Clark as PH’s Silicon Valley

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- Australian businessman and newspaper columnist Peter Wallace has underscored the potential of Clark to become the Silicon Valley of the Philippines.

Wallace stressed this during the 51st General Membership Meeting of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) held at the Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino here recently.

Silicon Valley is a region in Northern California where the world’s largest high-technology corporations are located. It is a leading hub and startup ecosystem for high-tech innovation and development and accounting for one-third of all venture capital investments in the US.

Aside from this, Clark is also a potential business process outsourcing capital of the country, according to Wallace.

“Up here in Clark, you have plenty of land that can be developed so it can be done and it’s above sea level so it makes a lot of sense to decentralize out of Manila up to here and maybe make this the BPO center of the Philippines - the Silicon Valley or the Bangalore of the Philippines or Asia,” he said.

“It makes good sense, given the Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sectors, it is the future of the world. Leave agriculture to Mindanao and leave manufacturing to Cavite, let’s make this (Clark) the services center,” Wallace added.

Clark Development Corporation president Arthur P. Tugade earlier underscored that information technology is one of the industries now booming in Clark.

From hardware to software, I.T. is a business by itself. Clark right now, abounds in businesses related to I.T.,” he said.

In 2010, CDC was awarded Center of Excellence in Information and Communications and Technology by Business Process Association of the Philippines, Commission on Information and Communications Technology and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Clark has been officially designated as a Center of Excellence in ICT investments alongside Metro Manila and Cebu.

In his column at the Philippine Daily Inquirer dated May 21, 2015, Wallace titled “Like it is an IT Vision,” Wallace wrote:

“And do a “Silicon Valley” and establish an IT City. I’d choose Clark. It’s got the infrastructure, it’s got the location, it’s got the land, it’s got the airport, and, not far away, seaport.”

“Move universities—technical universities, not law schools—there. Move young people there. Give more incentives than you can possibly imagine. Make Clark (and don’t give it some politician’s name, keep history, and a name foreigners can pronounce) the center of the IT world.”

Wallace also called on government authorities to consider Clark and Subic to be the next capital of the Philippines.

Wallace, chairman and chief executive officer of the Wallace Business Forum, said that Clark has all the necessary attributes like the deep water and large and well protected harbor of Subic and the wide aviation complex of Clark International Airport.

3,300 register in Clark Animo Run 7

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- At least 3,300 runners have registered in the Clark Animo Run 7 of Dela Salle Alumni Association (DLSAA) Pampanga Chapter set in this Freeport Monday, March 7.

Rafael Angeles, DLSAA president, said that this year’s event is the biggest since 2009.

“This is the first that we will be having the biggest participation of running enthusiasts in the Animo Run, and we are happy in the turnout of participants who are very supportive,” Angeles said.

Angeles said that Clark Animo Run 7 include categories 5-kilometer, 10-kilometer, 21-kilometer and the full marathon, which is a 42-kilometer run.

He said the 42-k category was included a year ago to make it more challenging for the runners.

This years’ sports activity will feature the route leading to the Clark International Airport (CRK) passenger terminal building where the participants will have a chance to see the airport’s facilities.

“This is also the first time that we included the Clark Airport route as part of our support to the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) promotion for the Clark Airport,” he said.

“And we the DLSAA Pampanga Chapter would like to take this opportunity to thank CIAC President and CEO Emigdio Tanjuatco III for the full support to our activity,” Angeles said.

Angeles also thanked CIAC vice president for Business and Development Group Darwin Cunanan for the support.

Proceeds in the event will go the Angeles City Watershed as part of their project dubbed as “Green Run for a Cause,” said Angeles.

There are several prizes for each categories, Angeles said.

DTI eyes 12 new Negosyo Centers in CL this 2016

By Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu (CLJD-PIA 3)

ANGELES CITY (PIA) -- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) eyes the establishment of 12 Negosyo Centers in Central Luzon this 2016.

They will be located in the towns of Iba in Zambales, Hermosa in Bataan, Guiguinto in Bulacan, Cabiao in Nueva Ecija, San Luis in Aurora, and Capas and Moncada in Tarlac.

Also, in the cities of Angeles, Gapan, San Jose, and San Jose del Monte.

The Provincial Government of Pampanga is also looking forward at establishing its own Negosyo Center this year.

“Negosyo Centers seek to help start-up businesses, potential entrepreneurs, and existing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs),” DTI Regional Director Judith Angeles said.

Under the Republic Act 10644 othewise known as the Go Negosyo Act, a Negosyo Center shall be established in each local government unit nationwide to support inclusive growth and economic development.

“They provide business consultancy, capacity building, product design and development, monitoring, and other support services for MSMEs,” Angeles said.

The Negosyo Centers are supported by MSME development councils, local chambers of commerce, business associations, and academic institutions.

Last year, 11 Negosyo Centers were established which are located in City of San Fernando and San Simon in Pampanga, Olongapo City, and Balanga City and Dinalupihan in Bataan.

The same opened in Tarlac City and Concepcion, Tarlac; Malolos City; Cabanatuan City; and Maria Aurora and Baler in Aurora.

Angeles council approves tax incentives for historical structures

By Chris Navarro

ANGELES CITY -- The city council here approved Tuesday an ordinance granting tax incentives to owners of historic and cultural edifices and structures located in the city.

Authored by Councilor Jericho Aguas and co-sponsored by councilors Maricel Morales and Edgardo Pamintuan Jr. the said ordinance will grant tax incentives based on zero assessment level for the purpose of real property taxation to owners of historic and cultural edifices and structures within the city.

Aguas said that the purpose of the ordinance is to promote, preserve and protect the historical heritage and culture of Angeleños and prioritize the enhancement of the same by encouraging the property owners of historical edifices, houses and structures to declar , register and preserve said property for future generations.

Aguas said that it is the declared policy of the City Government of Angeles to preserve, protect and maintain all heritage houses, buildings and structures that are found within the city.

He said that the ordinance will also raise the level of awareness and appreciation of Angelenos giving emphasis on local personages who have contributed to the history of the city.

"This will develop tourism and enhance business opportunities in line with the conservation of the socio-cultural heritage, preservation of the environment and sustain development that will contribute to the quality of life of all Angelenos," he said.

He said that a number of historical structures such as old houses dating back to the 1800 century as well as buildings, train stations, school buildings, churches, monasteries and the like have been identified to qualify in the said ordinance.

The councilor said that these are among the requirements to qualify as heritage treasure, historical site or heritage edifice as mentionted under Section 9 of Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 7346, Series of No. 378 , S-2015 or the “Ordinance declaring Angeles City Heritage Zone, and its administration, defining its function and for other purposes.”

"The property must be open to tourists and visitors, it must be maintained by the owner and there must not be any architectural or engineering intervention without the approval of the Angeles City Tourism Office," he said.

The ordinance also stated that the City Assessor grants real property tax incentives among all real property owners of historical edifice and structures applying a zero assessment level on all properties subject of this ordinance.

5,733 benefit from Fil-Am group's medical mission

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- Some 5,733 residents in Barangay Balibago and other villages here recently received free medical and dental care from volunteer doctors belonging to the United American Pilipino Group of Maryland and Virginia, USA.

The Filipino-American group, in cooperation with the Gawin Ang Tama group of Village Chief Tony Mamac, conducted the two-day medical mission at the barangay hall of Balibago on Feb 26 and 27.

Medicines worth more than P500,000 were distributed for free to the patients, according to Mamac.

“There were 5,733 patients, 74 persons with minor surgery, 345 tooth extractions (dental), 2,000 eyeglasses and 400 sun glasses distributed, 502 pediatrics, 35 pre natal care,” Mamac said.

The barangay chairman said that there are still 500 remaining MMR and DPT vaccines for babies three to nine months old.

Mamac and his constituents thanked the Fil-Am doctors and other volunteers led by Rey Gan, an alumni of Jose Abad Santos High School (Batch 1974).

The village chief also lauded faculty members and nursing students of Holy Angeles University (HAU) for assisting the Filipino American doctors during the activity.

CDC economic performance highest in 2015

(CDC CommDep)

CLARK FREEPORT -- The financial performance of Clark Development Corporation recorded the highest in 2015 since the state-owned firm started managing the Freeport in 1993.

Based on unaudited financial statements for the year 2015 submitted to CDC president Arthur Tugade, CDC posted the highest revenue of P1.554- billion, highest net income of P697-million and highest cash position of P2.33-billion last year.

The P2.33-billion cash position was attained even after remitting cash dividends to the national government of P720- million covering the years 2013 to 2015.

In the same report, the gross revenue of P1.554 billion for 2015 is 12 percent higher than the actual revenue of P1.39 billion for 2014. Revenues for 2013 to 2015 accounts to 28 percent of the aggregate revenues for the last 20 years, based on the annual report submitted to Tugade.

For the last three years (2013 to 2015), average revenue per year is P1.39-billion, which is more than twice the average for the years 1996 to 2012 (17 years) of P622-million, the report stated.

The net income of the state-owned firm for 2015 is P697-million, which is 26 percent higher compared to 2014 actual performance of P554 million.

Net income from 2013 to 2015 has also surpassed the combined net income in the past 17 years (1996 to 2012) by 10 percent.

Of the total aggregate net income for the last 20 years, the 2013 to 2015 net income of P1.59-billion represents 52 percent.

“The highlights of this year’s achievements can be attributed to human capital and robust inclusive growth, not to mention the programs that addressed climate change, amongst others,” said Tugade in his annual message.

Tugade said the collaborative efforts exerted by employees and the support by the members of the Board of Directors paved the way for the developments in Clark in terms of employment, technology and for a greener environment.

For 2015, employment has reached an astounding 82,382 jobs.

Pupul ning Banua extols Angeleño artists

(ACTO with reports from Irish Reyes)

ANGELES CITY -- The local government here lauded local artists with the Pupul ning Banua awards 2016, held February 26 at the Plaza Angel in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Angeles City.

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

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

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

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

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

He also added that more Angeleño artists were awarded this year.

Pupul ning Banua recognized the following Angeleños: Film producer Ferdinand Lapuz, director Jason Paul Laxamana, child performer Ryzza Mae Dizon, screenplay writer Robert Tantingco, TV producer Gerrome Esguerra, linguist Michael Raymon Pangilinan for his papers titled Kambal Siaula Faithfully representing Kapampangan Phonology in Sulat Kapampangan or Kulitan and Kapampangan Hydronyms, Kimberly Joy Villanueva for her best-selling pop-fiction book turned into blockbuster movie The Bet, ballet dancer Adriana Gozun, hip-hop dancer Juan Paolo Lorenzo Escaño of the A-team, jazz contemporary dancer Marrion Jeremy Quiambao, singers Reydan Buenagua and Sassa Dagdag, visual artists Jojoy Zabala, Marilen Buan, Edu and Eric Perreras, sculpture art designers Dr. Vittorio “Vitt”Pantig and Arnel Garcia, culinary artist Heinz Pelayo and fashion stylists Clarence Benedict Ayuyao and Jefferson “Brit Tripudio” Cantor.

The following groups were also awarded: the Holy Angel University Chorale, Holy Angel University, Angeles-Pampanga Dance Athletes, ISCHAM and Susie’s Cuisine.

Kaantabe king Asikan

Pupul ning Banua was also the venue to present the Kaantabe king Asikan award, which recognizes artists who aren’t from Angeles, but have contributed immensely in the development of the arts in the city while cultivating in the youth the love and passion for arts and culture.

Resident director Antonio “Tony” Mabesa of Angeles University Foundation Repertory Theater was lauded as the Kaantabe king Asikan awardee.

The trophy for the awards night is designed by local artist Japs Viray.

Pupul ning Banua is the culmination of the city’s celebration of the National Arts Month. This is the second Pupul held.

For more information, contact 0977-377-1585 or visit ACTO’s Facebook page at facebook.com/AngelesCityTourismOffice.

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