Angeles City News October 2011

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Clark, Korean firm sign $49M deal for residential project

by PIA Press Release


CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Oct 31 (PIA) -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has signed a lease agreement with a Korean real estate developer for the establishment of a $49-million residential project here. CDC president Felipe Antonio B. Remollo said the state-owned corporation has signed Clark’s latest lease agreement with Koregon Villas, Inc., which will construct residential units that would be available for sub-lease in an 11,223-square meter area along J. Abad Santos Avenue here. Remollo said Koregon Villas, Inc. president Wan Soo Yun will be investing $49 million for the residential project that will also include recreational facilities, paved roads, and other support amenities. The project will employ some 100 workers during its construction phase and another 150 employees during its full operations, Remollo said. The CDC president added that Koregon Villas, Inc. is the latest residential project that will rise inside the Freeport. Only recently, another Korean company broke ground here for the establishment of a posh residential village at the heart of the Clark Freeport. Korean firm JM Star Clark, Inc. held its groundbreaking rites on Oct. 3 signaling the start of construction work for its tourism and residential development project dubbed Le J Village in a 17,190-square meter area here. Remollo said once the project is fully operational, the firm’s initial $7.2-million investment will be increased to $30 million. The $30-million investment will also include the construction of an 18-storey condominium. Aside from its high-rise condominium, Remollo added that Le J Village boasts of a plaza, maison(villa), apartment, and swimming pool. The firm will be employing at least 75 workers during the construction stage but will increase its human resources requirements once fully operational. (WLB/CDC)

PDEA sting nets 3 in Angeles City

by Alfred Dalizon


TWO brothers and a tricycle driver wanted for drug-trafficking activities in Pampanga were arrested by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in separate buy-bust operations in Angeles City last Friday.

PDEA chair Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez Jr. identified the suspects as Emad Dimasangca, 28, and his brother Jalanie, 31; and tricycle driver Eduardo de la Cruz, 41. They were booked for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

PDEA Regional Office 3 headed by Director Roybel Sanchez arrested the Dimasangca brothers who became notorious for trafficking shabu in Bgy. Balibago, Angeles City, where they were said to be selling two to five “bultos” or 25 grams of shabu each day.

The Dimasangca brothers, both residents of 22nd Josefa, Bgy. Balibago, were arrested after they sold a plastic sachet containing 4.4 grams of shabu worth P25,000 to an undercover officer.

The PDEA operatives also seized a digital weighing scale from the suspects’ possession and the Honda motorcycle with plate no. 9165 OH they used in delivering the drug.

Hours later, another sting conducted by the PDEA Region 3 agents resulted in the arrest of De la Cruz, a tricycle driver residing at 6th St. in Bgy. Balibago, after he sold P500 worth of shabu to a poseur.

De la Cruz also yielded four more sachets of shabu when he was frisked.

CIAC employees to expose more scams?

by Rudy Abular


CLARK Freeport, Pampanga -- It seems that Clark International Airport Corporation president Victor Jose Luciano has gone out of luck following reports that employees of the state-owned firm are threatening to expose more anomalies to pin him down.

Earlier, Luciano was accused of issuing permits to four persons who were caught inside the aviation complex stealing some P2.6 million worth of underground power line cables.

The said case is now being investigated by a team of experts from the Office of Transportation and Safety of the Department of Transportation and Communications and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

On Thursday, CIAC employees staged a protest rally to expose more alleged widespread anomalies in the government corporation running the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport.

Marvin Pineda, president of the Samahang Manggagawa ng DMIA, declined to name those involved in the alleged widespread anomalies for the moment but promised to expose them in due time.

Pineda said his group wanted to see behind bars those responsible for the alleged cable thief.

Last Monday, Luciano took a leave of absence to allow an impartial probe of the alleged theft of cables at the runway and taxiway, after documents showed he issued handwritten letters permitting four suspects in the case to enter “high security” areas where the cables were later found missing.

The fiasco was exposed by CIAC vice president for operations Rey Catacutan who personally caught the suspects digging the cables at the runway.

Catacutan, a former mayor of Capas, Tarlac, was appointed by President Noynoy Aquino to his current position three months ago.

Pineda said that apart from the theft of cables, his group also denounced the delayed remittances to their Provident Trust Fund which is raised from contributions of both management and employees for loans and retirement needs, the CIAC’s outsourcing of manpower needs, the union busting within the CIAC as well as non-payment of benefits under their Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Angeles City gears for Tigtigan festival

by Punto Central Luzon


PAMPANGA, Philippines – At least 70,000 people are expected to join the upcoming annual street party in Angeles City this weekend to liven up the business affected by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991.

www.philstar.com will broadcast via internet livestreaming the two-day event that started 19 years ago, with Mayor Ed Pamintuan and Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting leading the “Tigtigan, Terakan keng Dalan 2011” festival along McArthur Highway on October 28 (Friday) and 29 (Saturday).

The two nights of fun and party that will likely feature Allan Pineda Lindo Jr., better known as apl.de.ap of The Black Eyed Peas is a culmination of the month-long Fiesta Celebration of this highly urbanized city.

Pamintuan said San Miguel Corporation (SMC) observed the street party last year, breaking all sales of beer and drinks recorded by San Miguel compared to other festivals in the country.

“There were at least 70,000 people last year and we expect more this year,” said Pamintuan.

In an interview, Pamintuan said he had designed the Tigtigan in 1992, adding, “since (this) evolved from just a night of music and dancing, other cultural events have been introduced since last year.”

“Because of its success, and to accommodate other cultural and fashion-related events, the festival has been held for two consecutive days, the last Friday and Saturday of October, capping the month-long Fiestang Kuliat,” said the city government in a statement.

Singaporean & Malaysian travel trade buyers to grace NorthPhil Expo 2011

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


CLARKFREEPORT, Pampanga, October 27 (PIA) -- A number of Singaporean and Malaysian wholesale buyers of travel packages and tourism products will grace next month’s 2nd North Philippines (NorthPhil) Tourism and Travel Expo to transact with local tourism sellers. Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office 3 chief Ronnie Tiotuico said, “this year’s expo will serve as a platform for tourism sellers of Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and the Cordilleras to sit with their potential foreign business partners of choice who will eventually become North Philippines’ marketing agents in their respective countries.” The 2011 edition of NorthPhil is slated from November 11 to 13 at the event center of SM City Clark. It will be bannered by the pavilions of the provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, and Tarlac; Clark Development Corporation, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority; DOT Regional Office 1,2,3, and CAR; and corporate booths of various tourism-related businesses such as hotels, resorts, and airlines. Aside from the expo, there will likewise be theatrical presentations, corporate game shows, product presentations, raffle draws, and crafts and culinary demonstrations. Tiotuico explained, “the annual expo was conceived to solidify North Philippines as an international tourism hub.” North Philippines’ major destinations alone accounted for 14 percent of the country’s total foreign and domestic tourist volume of 11.7 million in 2010. The major destinations of North Philippines are Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Zambales, and Baguio city. Tiotuico attributed the surge in tourist arrivals to the construction of the 94 km Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA). (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

CDC, Korean firm sign $ 49-M deal for residential project

by (PNA)

LDV/zst/FEM/ps


CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Oct. 26 (PNA) -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has signed a lease agreement with a Korean real estate developer for the establishment of a $ 49-million residential project here.

CDC President Felipe Antonio B. Remollo said the state-owned corporation has signed Clark’s latest lease agreement with Koregon Villas Inc., which will construct residential units that would be available for sub-lease in an 11,223-square-meter area along J. Abad Santos Avenue here.

Remollo said Koregon Villas, Inc. President Wan Soo Yun will be investing $ 49 million for the residential project that will also include recreational facilities, paved roads, and other support amenities.

The project will employ some 100 workers during its construction phase and another 150 employees during its full operations, Remollo said.

The CDC president said Koregon Villas, Inc. is the latest residential project that will rise inside the Freeport.

Just recently, another Korean company broke ground here for the establishment of a posh residential village at the heart of the Clark Freeport.

Korean firm JM Star Clark, Inc. held its groundbreaking rites on October 3 signaling the start of construction work for its tourism and residential development project dubbed Le J Village in a 17,190-square-meter area here.

Remollo said once the project is fully operational, the firm’s initial $ 7.2-million investment will be increased to $ 30 million.

The $ 30-million investment will also include the construction of an 18-storey condominium.

Aside from its high-rise condominium, Remollo added that Le J Village boasts of a plaza, maison (villa), apartment, and swimming pool.

The firm will be employing at least 75 workers during the construction stage but will increase its human resources requirements once fully operational.

CDC, Pampanga capitol sign P5-M ‘Market, market’ lease project

by (PNA)

LDV/zst/FEM/ps


CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Oct. 25 (PNA) -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the provincial government of Pampanga have recently signed a lease agreement for the establishment of a market inside this freeport that would showcase and sell various agricultural and cottage-industry products made in the province.

CDC President Felipe Antonio B. Remollo and Governor Lilia Pineda, in behalf of the provincial government, signed the lease agreement at the governor’s extension office here.

Remollo said the CDC has allotted a 20,337-square-meter area along Clark’s C.M. Recto Avenue and B. Fernando and Panday Pira streets for the provincial government’s livelihood project, which has an initial investment of P5 million.

Pineda said the “Market, market” project aims to promote the various products offered by the province’s agricultural and cottage-industry sector.

She said fresh and low-priced vegetables and other agricultural products will be sold in the market.

“Market, market” will also feature internationally-known products like the Christmas lanterns of the City of San Fernando or the “Parul Sampernandu,” pottery from Sto. Tomas town, sculptures and furniture from Betis, and guitars from San Antonio in Guagua town.

2 Angeles City frats sign peace accord

by Ding Cervantes


ANGELES CITY, Philippines – After years of conflict that often led to street violence in this city, leaders of rival fraternities Tau Gamma Phi and Phi Beta Rho have finally signed a “peace covenant” brokered by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan.

The fraternity leaders committed to abide by the provisions of the covenant and even work together for the benefit of city folk, Pamintuan said.

Amad Arafat, governor general of the Provincial Council of Tau Gamma Phi-Pampanga, described the covenant as “not just a truce, but a lasting accord,”

Jun Roma, founder of Phi Beta Rho, said they are committed to finally end any conflict between his group and Tau Gamma Phi.

Mayor settles feud between warring frats

by Bernard Galang


ANGELES City — Leaders of two warring fraternities involved in at least two troubles recently shook hands and signed a peace covenant during talks brokered by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan Thursday at Shanghai Restaurant.

Pamintuan spearheaded the reconciliatory talks between the Tau Gamma Phi and Phi Beta Rho Confraternity.

“Before it could become a threat to the city’s peace and order, I immediately intervened so as to prevent further clashing of these frat groups,” Pamintuan said.

The signing of truce between Tau Gamma and Phi Beta Rho was done after both groups agreed on a number of measures to curb further violence.

Leaders of both fraternities appreciated Pamintuan’s move to resolve their conflict.

“This is not just a truce, but a lasting accord,” Tau Gamma Phi-Pampanga governor general Amad Arafat said.

Phi Beta Rho founder Jun Roma said they are committed to finally end any conflict involving his group and that of Tau Gamma Phi.

Pamintuan urged both groups to continue supporting the city government by holding community outreach programs and projects on environmental protection and preservation.

Both groups agreed to concentrate on their respective projects that benefit their respective members and the community.

They also vowed to assist in the peace and order campaign to ensure the successful staging of the Tigtigan, Terakan keng Dalan on Oct. 28 and 29.

AC receives Seal of Good Housekeeping award

by Joelyn G. Baluyut


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, October 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) awarded this city the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) with corresponding P1 million check as Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) in recognition of their excellent performance in governance. City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said, "the award gives us motivation to be more efficient in delivering the best service to the people." Pamintuan personally received the award from DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo in ceremonies held at the Oxford Hotel in Clark Freeport Zone. He noted that, "the city government qualified for the said award because of its good practices in governance such as good planning, sound fiscal management, transparency and accountability, and valuing of performance monitoring.” “The PCF will be used to support the priority projects of the city government to further improve the basic services of the government to the people,” the mayor said. He also added that, "we owe this recognition to the Angelenos for their trust, cooperation, and support to the development agenda of the city government." SGH is given to local government units (LGUs) that have excelled in the areas of planning, budgeting, revenue mobilization, financial management and budget execution, procurement, and resource mobilization. The PCF is an incentive fund to LGUs in the form of counterpart funding to high-impact capital investment projects in the Annual Investment Program. These should be consistent with national priorities and should be used for the implementation of priority projects of LGUs aligned with national government priorities in order to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. This will also be used to boost tourism and local economic development and comply with the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. This new recognition came after this city placed 4th among the top performing cities in the highly urbanized and independent component cities category of the DILG’s Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS). (WLB/JGB PIA3)

Korean firm plans to put up P1.58-B school project in Clark

by (PNA)

FFC/zst/FEM/ps


CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Oct. 21 (PNA) — Another Korean firm is planning to establish a P1.58 billion educational facility inside this freeport.

In the Corporate Planning Department mid-year reports to Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Felipe Antonio Remollo, said the Hae O Rum Development Corporation plans to put up a multi-billion school facility here following the growing numbers of Korean students arriving in Pampanga.

The facility is planned to put up on a 2.75-hectare area along M.A. Roxas to cater to the educational and recreational requirements of the robust Korean tourism sector.

The project will also initially employ around 30 personnel and gradually scale it with the extent of its operations.

The CDC is also finalizing the permanent location of the Philippine Science High School Central Luzon Campus (PSHS-CLC).

Presently, the PSHS is located at Clark Polytechnic campus (former Wagner High during the American days in Clark).

Far East Air Transport Inc. University (FEATI) extension is also located at the Polytechnic where air craft engineering courses are available.

University of the Philippines Pampanga Extension program is also located in Clark.

There is also another Korean school operating in Clark—St. John’s school and international school but mostly catering Korean students whose parents are expatriates and investors in Clark and nearby Metro Clark area.

Another international campus—the Brent School—will be established soon at the Donggwang Clark Business Park to cater the growing number of international students in Clark.

Most of school projects decided to locate in Clark following the suitable site for institutional use like access to telecommunications, electricity, water and other critical facilities.

Phone lines in Clark and Subic now interconnected

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


CLARK FREEPORT, October 20 (PIA) -- Firms operating inside Clark and Subic can now expect a big cut in their landline bills following the interconnection of their phone lines. Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT) Clark manager Lito Mercado explained that, “under the scheme, landline users in the two freeports could call one another sans the usual long distance rates.” Mercado added, “with interconnectivity, more investors will be attracted and more jobs will be generated.” The interconnection of Clark and Subic telephone lines was an offshoot of an award-winning project of the Metro Clark Advisory Council (MCAC). In 2001, the MCAC formed a committee dubbed “Task Force Interconnection” which was headed by Clark Development Corporation (CDC) Public Relations Department manager Angelo Lopez Jr. The task force laid the groundwork for the interconnection of PLDT, Smart, and Digitel telephone lines inside the Clark Freeport and the rest of the province of Pampanga including Angeles City. After the project was successfully launched in 2002, the entire Clark has been saving at least P1.2 million per year in long distance charges while residents from the periphery of the freeport have been enjoying toll free calls. This remarkable feat was recognized by Malacañang in 2008 during the 1st Gawad Pampublikong Korporasyon - the culmination of the celebration of Government Corporations and Office of the Government Corporate Counsel Week. Meanwhile, the Clark-Subic interconnection project of MCAC got its much needed boost in 2009 after the Angeles City Council and other local government units in the two freeports passed resolutions and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) issued a statement endorsing such undertaking. (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

Apl.De.Ap: 'We Can Be Anything'

by JASER A. MARASIGAN


MANILA, Philippines — Allan Pineda Lindo, Jr., a.k.a. Apl.De.Ap of The Black Eyed Peas, admits to encountering challenges back when he was studying at a public elementary school in Angeles City, Pampanga.

For one, he had difficulty reading the writings on the blackboard because of a rare eye disease called nystagmus, an involuntary movement of the eyes. But that did not stop Apl.De.Ap from trying to excel in school.

“I would copy what was written on the blackboard from my classmates, or sometimes I would move my chair in front, which back then, was kind of embarrassing. I was sponsored by the Pearl S. Buck Foundation, an organization that supports young abandoned or orphaned Amerasian children.

In return, I have to show my grades. In some days, I would get an 85, if I had difficulty I’d get 80, and I had some 75s. I really tried my best. And my adoptive father Joe Ben Hudgens was pretty impressed with my grades, despite my difficulties,” recalls Apl.

Apl’s biological father, an airman stationed at Clark Air Base, abandoned the family shortly after his birth. His mother, Cristina Pineda, was left to raise him and his six younger siblings.

As a child, Apl would help the family by farming sweet potatoes, corn, sugar cane, and rice. He would also take an hour-long jeepney trip to and from school.

“So I just want to send a message to all the kids out there, it’s a privilege to be in school. Do what you can and make the best of it,” he says.

MISSION: EDUCATION

From his own experience, Apl knows how important it is to get a good education. This has inspired him to make education as his advocacy and mission. “Thinking back, where I came from, a lot of kids can’t afford to go to school.

After the success, to balance myself and have a purpose in life, I found a way of giving back to the land of my birth. That’s what prompted me to go into this mission,” he relates.

Dubbed as “We Can Be Anything”, this joint advocacy of the Apl.De.Ap Foundation and Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation (NCAF), will support private sector efforts to build public school classrooms and other learning centers all over the Philippines.

As a special ambassador for education of NCAF’s iamninoy-iamcory Movement, Apl is boosting programs like the Bayanihang Pampaaralan program of the 57-75 Education Reform Alliance, that seeks to build 10,000 new classrooms in two years.

“I was born here, and I would like to give back to the Philippines by making it possible for more kids to go to school,” says Apl. “I would not have gotten this far were it for an education, and I’d like to be able to help the young ones out there to achieve their dreams.”

FILLING THE GAP

Apl says that the main focus of the campaign is to help raise funds to close the huge shortage in public school classrooms, as well as establish libraries and computer libraries in schools. A music resource center will be housed in these libraries as a come-on for students to enter and make use of these facilities.

“There are millions of kids still out there who are not able to go to school, or they cram into a small space or classroom. When you have more rooms, you could focus better, learn better, and study better,” Apl explains.

According to Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Rizalino Rivera, it would take R40 to 53 billion to fill the current backlog of 66,800 classrooms (as of school year 2009-2010).

“In spite of the best efforts of government to augment the budget for education, we would still need to work with the private sectors to fill the gap. Inadequacy or congestion of classrooms in some areas needs to be addressed urgently to uplift the quality of education nationwide,” explains Rivera.

In line with the campaign, Apl composed the song “We Can Be” released recently by MCA Music, to make the advocacy campaign resonate more among the youth. Download the song to your mobile phone by texting “wecanbe” and send to 2346, and the proceeds of which will go to the campaign.

WE CAN BE ANYTHING

The song “We Can Be” carries Apl’s personal message about how education helped him become the successful person he is today. It invokes a call to action wherein he empowers today’s youth to aim for their dreams with the song’s lyrics — “You can be a hero, you can be a professor…if I can do it then you can do it…”

“The song captures the aspiration and the dreams of millions of Filipinos out there, to have a better life through education. Millions of Filipinos pin their hopes on education. With an education, we can be anything,” he says.

Apl shares that his Black Eyed Peas bandmates – Fergie, Taboo and Will.I.Am, have also expressed their support for his advocacy to give back to Filipinos. The “We Can Be Anything” education campaign will be formally launched at their concert at the Mall of Asia on Oct. 25.

“We Filipinos are very smart people but the only thing we need is the opportunity. We need to build 10,000 classrooms. In that way, the kids will have better opportunity to achieve their dreams. You’ll never know what’s gonna happen, maybe we might find the next Black Eyed Peas from among these kids today,” he says.

THE CALLING

Prior to the “We Can Be Anything” education campaign, Apl has already started his own classroom building project in his hometown, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga.

“This is where I came from, and I don’t want to forget where I came from. I think this is my calling, to give back and think about the kids especially in the provinces, whom most of them, have never seen a computer in their lives,” he says.

Last February, Apl was appointed as special ambassador for education of the iamninoy-iamcory Movement, NCAF’s program to surface a new generation of Filipinos who are willing to step up as selfless heroes in their own right.

“As the masters of social networking and text messaging, we really rely on the youth to actually spread the word and to get more young people involved in this campaign,” says Rapa Lopa, president and executive director of NCAF. “It’s not just about building classrooms. Ultimately, it’s about empowering the youth and securing our future.”

‘Sisig’ unites politicians

by Jovi T. De Leon


ANGELES CITY -- Kapampangan cuisine unites politicians with contrary views and advocacies, as the palate chooses no tongue when it comes to food, a top city official said.

Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the city’s sisig (minced pork head in calamansi and onions) has no doubt united politicians like the Marcoses and the Aquinos.

“Meticulous as we are, Kapampangans can tame political taste buds and bring about unity,” he said during the Pamangan Kapampangan Day Sunday.

The Pamangan Kapampangan is part of the celebration of the 41-day “Fiestang Kuliat” themed “Sulagpo Ta Na.”

Pamintuan shared how sisig was innovated and improved from the original recipe of Aling Lucing and has become an icon of the city in terms of culinary specialty.

“A liver was added to Aling Lucing’s recipe, so we called it Billy Joel. My late brother added some crunch to make it sizzling Sisig Benedict. Of course, my wife Miniang added liempo to make it healthier,” Pamintuan said.

He added that the Marcoses and Aquinos would come to the city for the Angeles City Sisig.

Pamangan Kapampangan is one of the major highlights of Fiestang Kuliat, and featured the best of the city’s cuisine like Sisig from Tindahan sa Kanto, Lengue with Castañas and Embutido from Howard Dizon Catering Services, Kari-Kari from Batis Asul, Bringhe, Ningnang Tilapia, Pritong Hito, and Ensaladang Amplaya from Culinarium, among others.

Bloodletting to help dengue victims and dialysis patients

by Joelyn G. Baluyut


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, October 16 (PIA) -- Dubbed as "Dugo mo, Buhay ko" (Your blood, my life), the recently concluded bloodletting activity held here generated 18 blood bags for the benefit of people afflicted with dengue and for the use of the dialysis patients in this city. Majority of the donors came from the Philippine National Police (PNP) along with Angelenos and employees of Robinsons Angeles in barangay Balibago where the activity was held. According to Councilmen League of Angeles City (CLAC) president Arlon Lacson, the objective is to help people especially those in need of blood transfusion, this is why "every blood that you donate gives another life." Recipients of the blood bags collected will be people with dengue cases and the dialysis center here. He also disclosed that this will be a quarterly activity starting this year to extend assistance to people who are in need of blood. This activity was initiated by the CLAC in coordination with the Angeles City government and the Philippine National Red Cross Angeles City chapter. (WLB/JGB PIA3)

Metro Clark holds 1st International ICT expo

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, October 14 (PIA) -- Metro Clark staged this week its 1ST International ICT (Information & Communications Technology) Conference and Expo, colloquially known as the Clark Conex, at the Fontana Convention Center. Metro Clark ICT Council president Frankie Villanueva said, “the two-day event sought to achieve four things: a) to institutionalize Metro Clark’s reputation as the most viable investment and development destination in the global ICT, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) map; b) to showcase Metro Clark and its constituents’ technical and competitive advantages in a global O&O (outsourcing and offshoring) downstream market; c)to solidify its niche as a credible technology and expo destination in Asia that is capable of hosting the top players and investors in this multi-billion dollar industry that has enveloped the planet; and, d)to highlight Metro Clark’s global tourist appeal which is anchored on the world-renowned Filipino hospitality.” Evangelista added that the Clark Conex was “a veritable immersion in knowledge, strategy, and inspiration wherein the panel of international speakers were industry leaders and visionaries, CEOs, statesmen, technical experts, and ICT enthusiasts.” Among the topics discussed included the Global ICT Outsourcing Perspective: What Lies Beyond the Horizon?, Harnessing the Metro Clark/Philippine Advantage in Global ICT, Developing Responsive ICT education, Metro Clark Investment Opportunities, Literacy for Employability, Maximizing ICT Opportunities for a Strong Philippine Economy, Healthy Practices in ICT/BPO Operations, and Life After Voice: The Philippine KPO Advantage. Apart from the plenary sessions, the 1st Clark Conex likewise had an international IT (information technology) and technology expo which showcased the latest gadgets and applications, speed networking, and business matching activities were public and private entities sat down with their potential business partners of choice and discussed avenues for cooperation and successful upstream-downstream outsourcing partnerships, IT-related contests which were participated by various computer schools in Central Luzon, a job fair which offered hundreds of careers in the BPO and KPO industries, a cultural show and a concert. In 2009, Metro Clark hosted the 2nd National ICT Summit wherein the area’s full potentials in ICT were highlighted. Last year, Metro Clark was cited as a Philippine Center for Excellence in ICT by the Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT), Department of Trade and Industry, and the Business Process Association of the Philippines (BPAP) during the Top Ten Next Wave Cities recognition rites in Cebu City. Also in 2010, the Clark Freeport was named the Top Economic Zone for Cost Competitiveness, Top 7th for Economic Potential and 19th Overall (out of 200 zones worldwide) by the FDi Magazine and Financial Times of London. (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

Clark to host NorthPhil Tourism and Travel Expo 2011

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


CLARKFREEPORT, Pampanga, October 13 (PIA) -- Clark Freeport is set to host next month the 2011 edition of the annual exposition that showcases the rich culture and tradition, distinctive products and picturesque locations of Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and the Cordilleras. According to the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 3, the 2nd North Philippines (NorthPhil) Tourism and Travel Expo will be held from November 11 to 13 in the event center of SM City Clark. It will be bannered by the pavilions of the provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac; Clark Development Corporation, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority; DOT Regional Office 1,2,3 and CAR; and corporate booths of various tourism-related businesses such as hotels, resorts, and airlines. Aside from the expo, there will likewise be theatrical presentations, corporate game shows, product presentations, raffle draws, and crafts and culinary demonstrations. In a statement, DOT Central Luzon regional director Ronnie Tiotuico said “the annual expo was conceived to solidify North Philippines as an international tourism hub.” Tiotuico disclosed that “North Philippines’ major destinations alone accounted for 14 percent of the country’s total foreign and domestic tourist volume of 11.7 million in 2010.” The major destinations in North Philippines are Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Zambales, and Baguio city. Tiotuico attributed the surge in tourist arrivals to the construction of the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA). (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

DTI 3 to launch Likha ng Central Luzon kiosks

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, October 12 (PIA) -- In the dark as to where to buy quality Christmas/decorative lanterns, fresh tinapa, dried fruits, and more? Watch out for outlets that will be selling quality products from the heart of Luzon. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office 3 is set to launch next week kiosks that are to feature the distinctive products of Central Luzon. DTI regional information officer Wilfred Carbonell said, “the Likha ng Central Luzon (LCL) kiosks, which are to be officially introduced to the public during the opening of the 13th LCL trade fair, will be placed in strategic areas around the region namely the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA), hotels, casinos, display centers in Clark and Subic, and in gasoline stations in the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).” Among the products to be sold in the kiosks include: hats, bags, and handicrafts of Aurora; tuyo and tinapa of Bataan; barongs and gowns of Bulacan; longganisa and tocino of Nueva Ecija; lanterns and pastries of Pampanga; bamboo-engineered products and crocheted and knitted garments of Tarlac; and dried fruits and fruit jams of Zambales. Meanwhile, the fair that discriminating consumers had been waiting for is set to open mid-October. Carbonell disclosed that around 150 micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) are expected to join the 2011 edition of the LCL fair which will be held in Megatrade Hall 2 of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. The October 19-23 bazaar will be guided by the theme “Where creativity blends with nature!” The trade fair is jointly organized by DTI 3 and Philexport 3 with the full support of the Regional Development Council 3 and Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc. Last year’s LCL fair generated a total sales of P42.399 million. (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

Angeles City eyes P1.2-B collection target this year

by (PNA)

LAP/LAM/zst/FEM/ps


ANGELES CITY,Pampanga, Oct. 11 (PNA) - The city government here is now doubling its efforts to reach its collection target of P1.2 billion by the end of the year.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the increase in revenue was anchored on their aggressive tax collection scheme.

“Last year’s total collection including our share from the national government’s Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was P889 million. To date, our collection already amounts to P950 million,” Pamintuan said.

The mayor said that with still one quarter left for 2011, he is projecting that the city’s revenues will increase by P300 million.

He attributed the improved revenue collection on the restored trust and confidence of Angeleños to the city government.

"We can serve our people better if they pay the right taxes and if they do, the Angeleños ought to receive quality service from us, and this shall be delivered," Pamintuan said.

He said the city government had exerted strategies to maximize revenues from business taxes, fees, charges, and economic enterprises. The taxpayers had been encouraged to pay taxes on time.

He lauded the business community for their support and cooperation and at the same time, commended the offices of the city administrator, treasurer, assessor, business permit and licensing office and other revenue generation agencies.

The real property tax division collected the most revenue at P304,327,572 million.

Last year, the city government has also implemented stringent fiscal management and streamlining measure in order to meet its goals to sustain the delivery of basic social services and other priority programs.

The city also launched the Citizen’s Charter and the full implementation of the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 to eliminate graft and corruption.

The local executive noted that various sectors and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been meeting regularly with the Local Development Council to harmonize cooperation for business growth.

He said that the revenue increase will further benefit the business community in the effective delivery of basic services and various infrastructure, health and welfare projects

Biggest Chinese car maker set to invest $35M plant in Clark

by PIA Press Release


CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Oct. 10 (PIA) -- The number one commercial vehicle manufacturer in China is set to invest $35 million inside the Freeport zone, officials of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) announced. CDC president Felipe Antonio B. Remollo said the United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) plans to lease a 50,000 square meter area here. UAAGI will establish an assembly line for Foton vehicles that will be marketed to member-nations of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). The entry of China’s automotive maker will be the first vehicle manufacturing firm to be established in Clark. Foton Motors Phils., operated by UAAGI, is headed by Rommel Sytin, president. Foton aims to assist in helping the economy by employing thousands of Filipinos. The company takes pride in becoming the 1st Filipino company to compete in the vehicle manufacturing industry by offering its products in the ASEAN market. Remollo said Foton Motors is China’s biggest commercial vehicle maker and one of the fastest growing factories in the world. The firm has two huge assembly plants in Beijing. Among the vehicles that will be manufactured by UAAGI are ambulances, pickups, vans, and trucks. Foton vehicles are known for its functional style and competitive prices. Recently, one of these vehicles, the Foton MPX Van, won an award from the Car Award Group Inc. which cited it as the Best Multi-Purpose Van (MPV) in 2009. The Foton products that are distributed in the Philippines are: Blizzard Turbo 4x2 and 4x4 pickup; View Ambulance Van, and the View 15-seater van; MPX vans with captain seats. The truck models in the local market are the Hurricane cab and chassis, drop-side, and aluminum van; the Tornado Series 3.5L, 2.5 and 2; the Cyclone, Wind, and Mini Coach. (WLB/CDC)

DOLE-BPO and info communication technology forge pact on good practices

by PIA Press Release


CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Oct. 9 (PIA) -- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Information Communication Technology (ICT) groups recently forged a pact on Voluntary Code of Good Practices with the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 3 (DOLE3). This is DOLE's holistic approach in fostering and maintaining industrial peace among companies in Central Luzon as it continues to advocate for good practices like, voluntary compliance, to labor standards and occupational safety and health standards. The pact is between the Tripartite Council in BPO and ICT or most commonly known as TC-BPO/ICT in this freeport. According to DOLE3 assistant regional director Geraldine Panlilio, the said code is a collaborative effort developed in various stages stemmed from the deliberations of the members of the board of trustees of the TC-BPO/ICT wherein the Voluntary Code of Good Practices serves as a “living document” which will continually be updated to be relevant to the changes of times. She added that the objective of the code is to promote continuous growth and development of BPOs and ICTs through pro-active strategies in meeting global challenges by sharing, benchmarking, policy consultations, training programs, and social dialogues. Also, it aims to promote best occupational safety, security, health, and environmental practice; stabilize and self-regulate labor management relations in the industry; and strengthen DOLE's collaboration and partnership with different government agencies for unified strategies, approaches, and programs in advancement of BPO-ICTs among others. Members under this code are tasked to observe monitoring mechanisms through self-regulation, best practice/s recognition, and benchmarking. Present during the MOA signing were head of DOLE Pampanga Ma. Rima Hernandez, Clark Development Corporation represented by Ervin Joy C. Rivera, Prothrowbacks represented by Harvey Harvison, Sheryl Dungca of Cybercity Teleservices, and Panlilio. The signing was witnessed by 26 members from the BPO and ICT industries in the said freeport. "This is just one of the many partnerships that the DOLE is currently undertaking to effectively ensure that industrial peace and harmonious relationships prevail between labor and management in companies in the region," said DOLE regional director Leopoldo De Jesus. (WLB/JGB PIA3/DOLE3)

Massive clean-up raises environmental consciousness among Angelenos

by Joelyn G. Baluyut


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, October 8 (PIA) -- The recently held "Lingap King Balen, Malinis a Sapang Balen," which is a massive clean-up drive of Sapang Balen creek, is a "consciousness raising" activity, said this city's Auxiliary Bishop Pablo David. The archdiocese of Angeles headed by Bishop David, which started the clean-up drive two years ago, welcomed the initiative of the city government in cleaning up waterways as a flood-reduction strategy. "If we are part of the problem, we should be part of the solution too, and this clean-up drive initiated by the city government is a good awareness campaign to remove garbage in our creeks for these wastes contribute to the massive flooding that affect low-lying towns in the province," the bishop said. "All of the wastes thrown into the creek will go down to these municipalities and the Angeleños should take responsibility over this," the bishop noted. In able to mitigate the ill effects of global warming and other disasters, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, has urged his people to stop dumping their wastes on the river for it greatly effects the environment. According to Pamintuan, the clean-up drive will be an on-going activity every first Saturday of the month aside from the weekly clean-up of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and Environment Management Services (EMS) being conducted in the city. Areas covered by this clean-up drive include the Abacan Bridge, Cutud Creek, Sto. Doming Creek, the city slaughterhouse area and the waterways in Hensonville. About 2,000 volunteers from the city government, business, private and education sectors and the Philippine National Police (PNP) joined the said clean-up activity. (WLB/JGB PIA3)

Pangan: Reaching Out

by Benjie R. Pangan


THE kinder and better part of disaster preparedness is vigilance in keeping tabs of the fickle weather prevailing in the country at all times and even under the most stressful requirements human physical endurance can hold or handle.

It is not enough that we wrap up the day's work unmindful of tomorrow's needs which may turn out to be more demanding than the previous settings. We should take into consideration the element of surprise because it can dishevel even the best preparations in institutionalized disaster risk control, reduction and management.

As we take stock of our losses brought by the last two serious weather disturbances, we think of better ways to at least ease up the strain of the pecuniary drawdown and move earnestly forward and faster so that the said losses can be recouped or at least offset by better prospects of recovery.

So many of us have shown a fine degree of resiliency and camaraderie as several of us reached out to our brothers in distress and so unselfishly gave what we can afford to spare and share, to the point of straining ourselves for a good purpose and a noble cause.

Of course, almost all our government officials came to help, marshaled their respective resources and kept watch on the victims and their kin. One such leader is Angeles City Mayor Edgardo "Edpam" D. Pamintuan who led his team to move about the city and environs to ascertain the needs (and losses) of their constituents and fulfill them adequately.

Even after the crisis, Mayor Ed continued to reach out, this time not only to the affected Angeleños but also to other Kapampangans who were in dire straits.

Here, I find the convenience of excerpting his text message which was replete with compassion and sincere gesture of reaching out to others severely affected by the weather disturbances: As long as thousands of Kapampangans are still submerged under flood waters, even if the weather had cleared up, we can't be lulled into thinking that everything is now normal. Let us extend assistance to our fellow kabalens who are suffering from lack of food, medicine and water in low-lying areas, by giving any form of assistance thru our special task force Operation Lingap Keng Balen, Sopan la reng Cabalen.

He formed the special task force and appointed Eddie Mayrina as point person to coordinate donations and assistance toward relief and other efforts for the victims.

Even Angeles City Water District General Manager, Engr. Rey Liwanag volunteered to assist residents in other areas submerged by floodwaters by sending water tankers to provide potable water. This, I personally heard GM Rey calling his counterparts in Masantol, Macabebe and Candaba during our lunch setting last Tuesday, October 4 at Marquee Mall, together with my brother Perry, Lino Sanchez, Jr., and Fr. Sol Gabriel.

Such unannounced volunteerism can only be compensated with profuse words of thanks by the recipients of such fine gesture.

There are, of course, other civic-minded LGU officials like San Fernando City Mayor Oscar Rodriguez who did his bit in caring for his city mates and indeed brought relief (in kind and accompanied with words of encouragement) to his affected cabalens.

Heroism can be found not only in battle fields but also in times of disasters, as our brave men and women risk their lives and limbs in order to help those in distress. One good example are the Philippine Air Force and PNP contingents which men participated in the grueling rescue efforts in the submerged areas of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Pampanga and also in Pangasinan and in other parts of Central and Northern Luzon. Some stayed longer, even not having enough sleep, scarce food and materiel and separation from their families. Others braved the rains and flood waters to reach out to victims situated in very isolated areas like those in Isabela and Aurora. Their participation in relief and rescue efforts, including the NGOs, is every commendable.

High-handed and aloof. From some residents of Barangay Ninoy Aquino (Marisol Village), I learned that the Angeles University Foundation top brass do not care much about their welfare as the university's top officials never mind their plight. One more thing: the water source or supply does not come from the supposedly correct supplier, which is the Angeles City Water District and that the drilling done there had no permit secured by the contractor. Isn't this irregular, if not illegal? Can the city authorities look into this matter, please?

I'd like to congratulate the Peso offices of Pampanga Capitol, headed by Luningning Y. Vergara, San Fernando headed by Donnie Sayre and Angeles City, steered by Del Deocales for topping their respective categories in the recently held Peso Congress in Davao City.

I was expecting to be invited, along with the Peso Mabalacat staff, but no invitation was ever given or faxed to us. It was an important event, but sad to say, we were left out in the event.

Pampanga golf course to host night games

by Bong Lacson


ANGELES CITY, Philippines – It’s a golf course like no other. Anywhere in the world.

Consider: Rolling sprawl of grass and palms swaying to the cool gentle breeze, beneath azure skies and clouds of immaculate white, backdropped on the west by the blue-green mountains of the Zambales ranges, now-quiet Pinatubo included. On the east, majestic Arayat rises with the early morning sun, with its promise of a beautiful new day.

Nature at its pristine best, still bettered by Graeco-Roman statuary serving as fountains and tee markers. At the main lagoon, rising as it were from the depths, Neptune and a nymph on massive horses. All these evoking ancient grandeur as if only recently unearthed. All these inspiring a feeling of a Louvre or Versailles experience, only al fresco.

For tee houses, there are handcrafted gazebos bespeaking of luxurious refinement.

And the piece de resistance -- a magnificent country club straight from the Renaissance: frescoed ceilings intricately carved columns and cornices, period fixtures, furnishings and furniture pieces.

Already an attraction unto itself, the Royal Garden Golf and Country (RGGC) here takes the competition level even higher with its night games comes the first week of December.

Fully lighted

Superior to Intramuros, the other course offering night games, RGGC is arguably the first fully playabale night course being completely lighted. Its 18-hole par-72 championship course affords daytime executives and professionals the opportunity to still engage in their favourite game without skipping their work hours. Night games bring no worries too to golfers afraid of sunburns or those with sun-sensitive complexions.

An all-weather course, RGCC can be played – and as a matter of course has been played by both local and foreign golfers alike – even during downpours. RGCC is flood-free too lying eight meters above the heart of the City of Angeles which is already at a high of 90 meters in elevation.

Opened on August 8, 2008, RGCC has undergone continuing improvements to make it ever more challenging even to the most demanding professional golfers. It has continued to draw golf tourists, primarily Koreans and expatriates, mostly Europeans and American retirees.

Centrally located, RGCC is a short five-minute drive from the Clark Freeport and the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport. The Dau Exit of the North Luzon Expressway is about 25 minutes away. Through the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, RGCC is but a 45-minute drive from Subic, and 30 from Tarlac.

Solon pushes free lice, skin disease checkup for studes

by Bernard Galang


ANGELES City -- The congressman of Pampanga’s first district is batting for the protection of public school students against lice and skin diseases such as fungal infection.

Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin filed recently House Bill No. 5358 entitled, “Free Lice and Skin Disease Treatment for Students Act of 2011,” providing free regular lice and skin disease check-up and treatment for public preparatory, kindergarten, elementary and high school students.

“These health problems, simple as they may be, could greatly affect a student’s academic performance and could lead to poor quality of learning...,” he said.

Under the measure, the Departments of Health (DOH), Education (DepEd) and the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will be the major players in implementing the program. These government agencies shall provide the rules, regulations and methods to be used to ensure the successful implementation of the program.

The DOH, DepEd and DILG shall also submit a monthly progress report on the status of the campaign and the students being treated for lice and other skin diseases.

CDC exec keen on bike lane rehab

by (PNA) LDV/zst/FEM/ps


CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Oct. 4 (PNA) -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Felipe Antonio Remollo is keen on the rehabilitation of bike lane systems for a more eco-friendly means of transportation inside this Freeport zone. During the time of the Americans at the former US-run Clark Air Base, bike lanes were constructed for the safety of the bicycle-riding employees inside the base. Remollo is a staunch supporter of environment-friendly area, especially inside the Freeport zone. CDC is also set to implement recycling programs in Clark and possible incentives for the investments of promising alternative energy projects that will comply with helping promote eco-friendly system. Among the CDC's flagship projects is the intensive promotion of Clark as a priority tourist destination in Central Luzon. He said Clark’s nature-based environment makes it an ideal venue for environmental and sports tourism events.

CL OTOP Expo participants post P3.3M total sales

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga Oct. 3 (PIA) -- Could the One Town One Product (OTOP) be the answer to eradicating poverty? It could be one of the solutions if we are to go by the results of the marketing and the outcome of OTOP participation. Of late, the 24 Central Luzon-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) who participated in the first OTOP (One Town, One Product) National Expo posted P3.3 million in total sales. According to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional information officer Wilfred Carbonell, the MSMEs were able to jointly secure P2.659 million in immediate sales and around P659,000 in orders in the September 21-25 bazaar which was held in Trade halls 1 and 2 of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong city. The five-day fair carried the theme “Great Choices. Great Value. Philippines’ Best!” and featured an array of distinctive products made by the residents of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao such as processed foods, home furnishings, ceramics, holiday decors, jewelries, fashion accessories, footwear, textiles, garments, and semi-processed raw materials. Carbonell added that Region 3’s booths were bannered by the hats and bags of Aurora, tuyo and tinapa of Bataan, barongs and gowns of Bulacan, longganisa and tocino of Nueva Ecija, lanterns of Pampanga, bamboo-engineered products of Tarlac, and dried fruits and fruit jams of Zambales. Carbonell bared that the OTOP was conceived in 2004 and patterned after Japan’s highly successful One Village, One Product (OVOP) program. Its primary mission was to stimulate economic activity in both the urban and rural areas of the archipelago through the development and promotion of a particular product associated with a given locality. Figures from DTI reveal that OTOP has created approximately 33,000 MSMEs in 1,518 municipalities and cities from 2005 to 2010. Moreover, the program generated over P10 billion in investments during that period as well as sales up to P15.5 billion domestically and US$650 million through export. The MSMEs have likewise provided employment to more than 400,000 Filipinos nationwide. (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

Clark HR council holds annual conference, elects new leaders

by PIA Press Release


CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, October 2 (PIA) -- Some 80 Clark Freeport locators and members of the Clark Human Resource Council (CHRC) gathered at the Lohas Hotel recently for the 2011 Annual Assembly of HR Professionals and election of its board of directors for 2011-2012. The event’s theme "Integrating Social Compliance and IR Systems for Business Competitiveness" was anchored on CDC’s efforts to maintain industrial harmony in the Freeport through their proactive programs. Among the guest speakers who attended the recent event were Enrico Bagadion, Managing Director of Verite SEA. He discussed the importance of the global labor, social standards and adhering to international code of ethics and management systems to ensure business viability. Labor Arbiter Reynaldo Abdon presented the comprehensive NLRC Rules and Procedures. National CMB Regional Director Darrow Odsey also graced the affair and praised CHRC. The newly elected CHRC board to serve from 2011-2012 are as follows: Yokohama Tire Phils., Smart Shirts Phils., LuenThai Phils., Sumidenso Automotive Technologies-Asia Corp., Global Gateway Logistics City, Peregrine Development Int’l., Holiday Inn Clark, Oxford Princess Casino, Dornier Technology, L&K Industries, St. Paul American Christian School, Clark Water Corporation, Cyber City Teleservices and Texas Instruments Clark. This October, the new board of directors shall choose among themselves the roster of executive officers to handle the council’s regular operations. The new board aims to be inducted into office by no less than CDC President Felipe Antonio B. Remollo. The council believes that as a lawyer and academician, President Remollo surely recognizes the value and key role human resource and industrial relations in Clark Freeport. The outgoing board of directors also gave their accomplishment report delivered by Council President Ariel Ortilla, who stressed that although the Council is still in its infancy, it was able to forge strong ties with relevant branches of government such as Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-Ibig Fund and PhilHealth, enabling it to bring responsive programs for Clark locators and CHRC members. The council likewise explored partnerships with NGOs such as Verite SEA, PRISM-USAID and Gawad Kalinga to promote its advocacies on corporate social responsibility. CHRC also played a major role in the highly successful Clark Unity Games earlier this year. The CHRC has laid down its vision of being the primary venue for Communication, Coordination and Cooperation among the HR professionals of Clark’s more than 400 locators which collectively employ over 62,000 workers. CHRC is advised by the Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) and the CDC Industrial Relations Unit (CDC-IRU) as the council’s program coordinators. NCMB Regional Director Darrow Odsey also graced the affair and praised CHRC and CDC’s efforts to maintain industrial harmony in the Freeport through their proactive programs. (WLB/CDC)

DTI to hold a Diskwento Caravan in Angeles City

by Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu


ANGELES CITY, Pampanga October 1 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will hold a Diskwento Caravan in Angeles City this coming Friday, October 7. DTI Regional information officer Wilfred Carbonell said the caravan will be held near the Museo ning Angeles from 8AM to 6PM. Carbonell disclosed that manufacturers of bread, processed meat, detergents, cooking oil, vinegar, canned goods, powdered milk, coffee, shampoo, bath soap and school supplies will sell their goods at factory prices. Fruits and NFA rice as well as products of Pampanga-based Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) will also be sold at discounted prices. The Diskwento Caravan is a nationwide project by DTI in response to President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Labor Day pronouncement to ease the financial burden of the people brought by high fuel prices and provide additional or alternative market for manufacturers and producers especially MSMEs. Caravans that were conducted in Central Luzon during the 1st semester of 2011 were able to generate a total sales of more than half a million pesos.(WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

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