Butil solon belittles Aquino's conditional cash transfer program

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - Butil Partylist Congressman Agapito Guanlao the other day under estimated the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program being implemented by the Aquino administration.  

"Huwag na po nating asahan ang conditional cash transfer. Ang kailangan po natin ay sustainable development," Guanlao told the fisherfolk from the province. 

He stressed that instead of spending huge amount of money for this program, the national government should better focus on livelihood projects. 

"Kailangan pondohan na lamang iyong mga livelihood projects dahil hindi naman kayang sustenahan  ang pagbibigay nito," Guanlao said.

CCT was first initiated in the country in 2008 a poor family was given a P500 monthly cash grant for health and nutrition needs, with another P300 per child for educational expenses.

Stipends were limited to three children, coming to a maximum subsidy of P1400 for each family per month

The aim is at increasing  the productivity of the poor by making  make their children more competitive in the job market when they grow up, and thus “break the intergenerational cycle of poverty.”

CCT already served some 700,000 families for the last two years.

Currently, President Benigno Aquino is planning to expand the program to cover at least 1.3 million families with the help of a  $400 million loan from the Asian Development Bank.

Guv tells fishermen: Find alternative source of living

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The provincial government yesterday urged   fisher folks in the province to find an alternative means of livelihood  to support their respective families 

Governor Lilia Pineda said that Pampanga River and other  major waterways are already heavily silted which made fishing as an unstable source of living for the residents in the coastal barangays. 

"Dapat pu ikayu mag isip kayong alternatibong kapanakitan bukod king pamanasan. Deng anak yu pagsikapan yu lang mayari king pamagaral bangkanita makasaup la kekayu king daratang a panahon. Ila mu man, ali nala maging manasan at munlad la king kabyayan," Pineda told the fishermen in Sasmuan and Lubao towns., 

The governor assured them that the provincial government is willing to provide whatever assistance they need to further improve their standard of living. 

"Sabyan yu kekami kung nanu ing kailangan yung saup at ikami king kapitolyo maka suporta kami kekayo. Nung nanu man ing kailangan yu ibie mi kekayo," she added. 

Meanwhile, Pineda instructed the Provincial Social Welfare Development Officer Elizabeth Baybayan to secure PhilHealth cards for the fishermen who are still without health insurance.

Pineda also asked the Provincial Cooperative and Entrepreneurial Development Office (PCedo) to provide additional capital for the fishermen after meeting the basic requirements under the Negosyu king Panyulung Program (NPP)

'Bemonc' facility in Apalit inaugurated

APALIT - The Department of Health-Center for Health and Development (DOH-CHD) has led yesterday the turn over ceremony of the Basic Emergency Obstetric Newborn Care (Bemonc) Facility for Rural Health Units 1 and 2 in  this town. 

Director Leonita Gorgolon said that this project is part of the 'Aquino Health Agenda Program' wherein the national government invested at least P7-billion for the establishment of birthing stations and other maternal facilities in the country.

 

Gorgolon noted that for the 4th district alone 14 birthing stations were already constructed in coordination with the concerned local government units and provincial government. 

"No mother should die for giving life," she added. 

 

As this developed, Mayor Jun Tetangco thanked the Department of Health for the newly constructed health facility which according to him would benefit  the residents in the clustered barangays. 

"Salamat po  P8.2-million na Bemonc facility. Malaking bagay po ito para sa aming bayan," Tetangco stated.

Meanwhile, the CHD director told the local and provincial officials that anytime this month DOH Secretary Enrique Ona is expected to visit the province of Pampanga to inspect various birthing stations constructed under the health agenda of President Aquino.

"Dito po sa Apalit una kong dadalhin si Secretary kapag dumating siya dito sa Pampanga dahil ito ang pinaka magandang birthing stations." Gorgolon stressed. 

Residents laud public works for funding dike rehab

ARAYAT- The residents in Barangay Cupang this town lauded the Department of Public Works and Highways for funding the construction of the slope protection of Arayat-Apalit set back levee  Cupang section. 

This came as DPWH executives recently bared that the said project was given at least P124-million budget to jumpstart the implementation after it was awarded to LR Tiqui construction.  

"Magandang balita po ito para sa amin dahil totoo naman po talagang delikado na bahaging ito ng dike lalu na kapag umaapaw ang ilog. Wala po itong pinagkaiba doon sa Guemasan Dike dahil kapag tuluyan na itong bumagsak malaking bahagi ng probinsiya ang maaapektuhan," Ana Cortes, a resident here said. 

The residents, through their barangay officials, earlier asked the public works to consider rehabilitating Cupang Dike otherwise the rest of the province will be constinously placed in danger. 

They have also sought the assistance of Governor Lilia Pineda for the immediate rehabilitation of the scoured portion of the dike.

Earlier Orlando Salac, village chieftain here  said there is a need to construct a 200-meter slope protection in their community.

Pelayo offers change in district representation for better service

SAN LUIS - Fourth district congressional candidate and incumbent Candaba Mayor Jerry "John Lloyd" Pelayo declared 2013 mid-term election is a perfect opportunity for the people to entertain the idea of having a change of representation in Congress for the betterment of the district.

Pelayo noted that the people from the 4th district deserves somebody who would truly the represent their concerns in congress through the  introduction of  legislative measures that will further improve their standard of living in the localities. 

"Mayroon din naman  silang nagawa sa loob ng mabahang panahon pero hindi  lang sapat para gamutin ang sakit at problema ng ating distrito. Baka naman ito na ang panahon para subukan naman ninyo ang gamot na iniaalok ni Mayor Jerry," he told the local officials in a short forum previously held in Apalit town. 

It can be noted that the late Emigdio Bondoc first assumed the congressional seat during the eight congress in 1987 until 1998. He has held the position for at least 11 years. 

He  was replaced by his son Juan Pablo in who was then elected as district representative in 1998 . After serving his full terms, his sister  Dra. Anna York Sagum became the congresswoman in 2004 wherein she has served for three consecutive terms which about to end this 2013.

"Tapos na po ang tatay, sumunod ang kuya pumalit si ate ngayon gusto pang magbalik ni kuya. Subukan naman po ninyo ang gamot ni John Lloyd. Hindi na natin maibabalik ang panahong ito.  Ngayon na po ang tamang panahon para sa pagbabago sa  kuatro distrito," Mayor Pelayo stressed. 

Pelayo opined that this is the right time  to aspire for more developments in the district but he noted that it is still up to the people to decide on what want this coming elections. 

However, the mayor stated that there will be more to achieve with Governor Lilia Pineda in provincial government  and Pelayo in congress.

"Marami po tayong magagawa,  ako sa congreso at si Nanay sa kapitolyo. Pagsasamahin po natin ang aming pondo para sa kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan," Pelayo ended. 

The 4th district of the province covers the municipalities of Apalit, Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Minalin, San Luis, San Simon and Santo Tomas.

Mt. Arayat National Park co-management possible - DENR

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The  Chief  of the Community Environment and National Resources Office (CENRO)  - Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently stated that  Mt. Arayat National Park's  co management between them and the provincial government is possible.

Romel Santiago, CENRO chief suggested to the provincial government to make a formal request with Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) showing a clear intent to get the management of the said park. 

He believed that co-management will more convenient and beneficial in promoting Mt. Arayat National Park as a top tourist destination in Central Luzon.

This came as Governor Lilia Pineda in a short forum with the local officials in Arayat town  expressed desire to acquire the administration and management of Mt. Arayat National Park. 

She observed that the park is in 'sorry state' as its recreational  and administrative facilities were dilapitating.

"Ang ganda bundok Arayat. Mayaman sa likas na yaman, sayang kung pababayaan lamang natin ito ng ganito," Pineda told the local officials. 

The management of the park  used to be under the local government of Arayat after the local government and the DENR agreed to turn over its operations to  Department of Tourism-Tourism Authority (DOT-PTA) in 2000 pursuant to the provisions of R.A. 7690 declaring Arayat National park as a tourist spot.

It was learned that DOT-PTA  subsequently requested the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to take over the operations of the 10-hectare resort.

This is aimed ensuring the  continuing development under Republic Act 7586, otherwise known as the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS).

BFAR to distribute 4.8-M tilapia fingerlings

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recently disclosed that 4.8-million tilapia fingerlings are scheduled to be distributed to the fishfarmers.

Stephen Arlo Lapid, a BFAR agriculturist told the provincial elected officials and other stakeholders that some 320 fishfamers in various coastal municipalities in the province are set to receive their free tilapia firgerlings.

BFAR provides quality fingerlings to ensure steady supply and meet the production demand of fishfarmers. 

Lapid said that the provision of fingerlings to fisherfolk will lessen their cost of inputs.

He added through this initiative there will be an expected increase on income as a result of additional fisheries production in the localities.  

Meanwhile, BFAR is likewise set to distribute 50 units of gillnet and 50 units of crab pots to some 55 fishermen in Sasmuan town.

The provision of resource and environment friendly fishing gears is in support to municipal initiative to provide livelihood to the concerned sector.

P4.6-B set aside for Pampanga Delta Phase II project

CITY OF SAn FERNANDO - Officilas from the  Department of the Public Works and Highways (DPWH)  recently told the provincial government that some P4.6-billion has been set aside for the Pampanga Delta Phase II project.

The project will start from Barangay Bebe Anac in Masantol town going to the municipality of Apalit.

Rico Guilas, a DPWH engineer said that the Pampanga Delta Phase II  will push through only when problem on encroachers and illegal settlers has been properly address.

He added that it will start when resettlement for the affected residents is established both in the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan.

Guilas, meanwhile bared that funds for this initiative will come from the World Bank. 

Recently, Governor Lilia Pineda has intructed Board Member Nestor Tolentino to coordinate with the officials from Bulacan for a unified approach on addressing the issue of resettlement.

"Nakausap na natin si Governor Alvarado tungkol dito," Pineda noted. 

Meanwhile. Guilas claimed that the demolition job involving illegal structures constructed within the major waterways in Pampanga River has already been implemented. 

It can be recalled that the higher court ordered for the demolition of the concerned illegal structures such as fishponds facilities, houses whether made up of light materials or not for as long as they prevent the free flow of water.  

This came as the court advocated for the cleaning of major waterways connected to Manila Bay in order to bring the old glory of latter while solving the flooding problem in various provinces.

Pampanga River is covered by the decision of the Supreme Court as the same is drained to Manila Bay.

Former BM belittles Lapids' performance on quarry collections

ARAYAT - A former 3rd district board member who is currently eyeing for a fresh mandate in the provincial board  has belittled of the performance of  former Governor  Lito Lapid and son Mark in so far the quarry collections are concerned.

Dinan Labung who served as a member of the provincial board during the Lapid's administration disclosed that the average quarry collections during this time is only  P1-million a month. 

This according to him is incomparable to the quarry performance of Governor Lilia Pineda with an a average of P1-million a day. 

However, the Povincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) records show that the minimum  revenue on the quarry industry is at least P20-million a month just close to claim of Labung. 

With this, Labung said that Pineda deserves to be appreciated for her remarkable achievements in the quarry industry after implementing reforms in the collection system including the adjustment made in the organization of the main group in charged in the operations. 

He noted that Governor Pineda has made history in Pampanga particularly in the quarry collection wherein she has surpassed the achievement of all other governors  including former Governor Eddie Panlilio.

Governor Pineda, in her Ulat sa Bayan read before the local officials in the 4th district,  bared that as of January 30 this year, the provincial government recorded a quarry revenue amounting to some  P675,997 million. 

"Ang target natin ngayon sa quarry collections ay one billion pesos," she stated. 

The success in quarry collection is attributed  to the  cooperation of all the stakeholders, mayors, quarry operators and truckers in the province.

Guv's birthday wish is peaceful elections

ARAYAT – The provincial chief executive yesterday  said that she nothing more  to ask on her birthday celebration except that she is wishing for a peaceful conduct of 2013 mid-term  elections  in this town. 

"Wala akong  hinihinging anuman ngayong birthday ko ang wisk ko lang ay maging mapayapa ang election dito sa bayan ng Arayat. Pwedi ba ito?" Pined asked the residents who attended the short forum the other day held at the Mt. Arayat National Park. 

Pineda stated  that as the governor she is  looking forward for a well develop and progressive province.

The governor also cited the potential of the  town of Arayat in terms of business opportunities because of its strategic location.

"Kaya bigla akong nalungkot ng sabihin sa akin ng kapulisan na panlima ang Pampanga sa mga probinsiya sa magiging pinaka magulong eleksiyon sa Mayo," shes added.

As this developed, she has challenged the local officials  here to work together to be the most peaceful town in the province during the conduct of 2013 mid-term elections.

Pineda promised to provide more budget and projects in this town should her dreamfor it  to being the most peaceful municipality in Pampanga is achieved after elections. 

“Kung ako ay mananalong muli sa halalan, pangako ko na bibigyan ko ng pinakamalaking budget ang bayan na may pinakamapayapang halalan,” the governor stressed. 

Officials greet guv on pre-birthday celebration

ARAYAT – The local officials here warmly greeted Governor Lilia Pineda as part of her pre-birthday celebration held at the Arayat National Park in Barangay San Juan Bano yesterday.

This came as Pineda met with the concerned officials of this town, Barangay Health Workers, residents among others to update them about the accomplishments of the provincial government for the past 30 months from the time she assumed the office of the governor.

Vice Mayor Larry Trinidad said that they were happy because the governor opted to spend her birthday with the people in Arayat who had been very supportive in all her programs in the provincial government.

He stressed that the town is closed to heart of Pineda as this is the first among the municipalities in the province which the latter visited even before she formally started discharging duties as provincial chief executive.

And now the first town to be visited by the governor a day before she actual birthday celebration.

“Isang pong magrasyang umaga sa ating lahat. Sinabi ko pong magrasya sapagkat kasama po natin ngayon ang pinakamamahal nating Nanay, ang Nanay ng ating probinsiya si Governor Lilia “Nanay Baby” Pineda,” Editha Kabigting, a member of the Sangguniang Bayan here stated.

Meanwhile, Luisito Portacio, San Juan Bano village chief thanked Governor Pineda for continuously helping his constituents through various programs including the bunkhouses constructed by the provincial government for the victims of landslide in 2009.

Portacio, speaking in behalf of the landslide victims said that with the help of Pineda, the people are now decently living under the facility provided upon them.

He recalled that Governor Pineda is among the first to offer to provide their immediate needs just right after the landslide incident in 2009.

Mt. Arayat prone to landslide - geologist

ARAYAT – An official from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bureau of Mines and Geosciences bared that Mt. Arayat is  still prone to landslide which may possibly happen during rainy season.

Engr. Noel Lacadin, chief geologist of the  Mines and Geoscience  Bureau confirmed that there is movement of huge stones on top of the mountain which could probably harm residents living at the foot of Mt. Arayat.

He noted that another landslide incident is expected to happen anytime with the downpour of heavy rains.

As this developed, he urged residents and officials not to establish communities within the danger zone to prevent the occurrence of any untoward incident compromising the safety and resources of the residents.

Lacadin recalled that the landslide incident happened in September 26, 2009 had claimed the lives of twelve residents  in Barangay San Juan Bano here.

Mud flow with huge stones has gone down from the mountain while everybody is sleeping and has resulted to the devastation of the community.

He said this could have been prevented if the residents were barred from constructing residential houses inside the declared danger zone. 

Naguit faces raps for illegal quarrying

MINALIN - Incumbent Mayor Arturo Naguit was formally charged before the Office of the Ombudsman for allegedly engaging to illegal quarry activities in this town.

Former Mayor Edgardo Flores has accused Naguit  of violating pertinent provisions of Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and grave misconduct for allowing a private individual to quarry even without the necessary permit. 

This, according to Flores falls short of the conduct required of public officials under Republic Act No. 6713 otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The controversy rooted when the local government of Minalin and other adjacent municipalities were asked to assist the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the pilot channeling activities for the San Fernando-Sto. Tomas-Minalin Tail Dike subject to the guidelines being observed by the public works to regulate the desilting operation.

Governor Lilia Pineda then issued gratuitous permits to quarry operators in the area to desilt the river channel upon the condition that there shall be no commercial disposals and the appropriate spoil site shall be determined in advance.

However, Flores in his complaint affidavit said that Naguit allowed a certain Rondon Mercado to "quarry" and deliver truckloads of sand to the compound of the Minalin Poultry Cooperative.

"It also caused undue injury to the government since heavy equipment belonging to the government were utilized for a private purpose," the former mayor stated in the complaint affidavit.

He also opined that the quarrying activity was in violation of the DPWH guidelines requiring easement distance to 20 meters because the same was done beside the dike which is contrary to the objective of preventing the collapse of the structure.

Flores believed that this quarrying exposed the dike to the danger making it vulnerable to flow of water current and this was committed right after a calamity.

With this, he stressed that Naguit acted with evident bad faith and gross negligence for allowing Mercado to conduct quarrying activity knowing that the guidelines  for the same had not been satisfied.

During the hearing of the Provincial Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and Public Works and Highways on September 10, 2012,  Engr. Arthur Punsalan as evidenced by the transcript of records clarified that there was a permit issued to Mercado but it was a scrapping permit for  fishpond development.

It can be recalled that during massive raining from August 1 to 8 2012 brought about by Habagat, the Sto.Tomas-Minalin Tail Dike was breached which caused heavy flooding in Pampanga particularly in the municipality of Sto. Tomas, Minalin including the City of San Fernando.

With this, Governor Lilia Pineda allotted some P10-million for the desilting of the old river channel from Gugu, Labuan, Pasig Potrero up to San Francisco river going to Pampanga Bay. 

"I am not a liar, I am a lover" - Naguit

MINALIN - "I am not a liar, I am a lover." 

Thus lightly said by incumbent Mayor Aurturo Naguit in response to the statement made by former Mayor Edgardo Flores calling the charges earlier filed against him as 'frivolous and concocted lies." 

Mayor Naguit, in an interview stated Flores has committed error or has violated a law for allowing the construction of a government funded project in a private property owned by ex-mayor  family. 

“Why will you (Flores) construct a government project in a private property owned by his family? he  asked.

The incumbent mayor said proper procedures had not been followed to warrant the construction of an evacuation center in a private property.

"Dapat mayroon  extrajudicial settlement yung mga surviving heirs at kailangan din itong ipa-publish. Tapos dapat mayroon valid deed of danation at kailangan munang mai-transfer sa pangalan ng munisipyo ang lote bago simulan ang construction ng project," Naguit told Sun Star Pampanga.

He noted  that government documents don't lie. 

 Naguit said, as of May 15, 2012, the lots where the supposed evacuation center now multi-purpose center stands are still declared under the names of Francisco Flores, Francisco Nicolas and Anita Flores as evidence by the original certificate of title and tax declaration recently issued.

"Government documents speak for the truth and not to mislead the people of Minalin," he pointed out. 

It can be noted that on April 30, 2008, Francisco Nicolas and Anita Flores executed a Deed of Donation in favor of the municipality of Minalin, represented by then-Mayor Flores.

However, the incumbent mayor claimed that Flores was not duly  authorized by the  Sangguniang Bayan  to enter, sign and accept the donation from the said donors and added that the municipal council did not even ratify or approve the said deed of donation.

“Therefore, the deed of donation is “null and void” based on pertinent court jurisprudence,” Naguit concluded. 

With this, he even branded the  actuation of former Mayor Flores as “deceitful”, “self-serving, “illogical” with “vested interest.” 

"I don't ask you to vote my son, assess him" - Guv

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - "I do not ask you to vote for my son. Assess him first with his accomplishments as a  mayor in Lubao."

This statement was made  by Governor Lilia Pineda in a meeting with the local leaders in the fourth district recently held in Apalit town.

She said that it is still up to the people decide whether vice gubernatorial candidate Dennis "Delta" Pineda-son of the governor is qualified and fit to be elected as such. 

"Hindi ko po sasabihin sa inyo na iboto ninyo ang aking anak pero tignan po ninyo ang kanyang nagawa sa Lubao bilang alkalde. Nasa inyo pa rin ang desisyon.  Nasa inyo na  ang kanyang magiging kapalaran," Governo Pineda stated. 

Pineda shared that initially, she did not take seriously  the idea of having her son as a running mate in the 2013 midterm elections as it would be subjected to the frying eyes of some who are also interested in the position.

However, the governor said that she has noticed the dedication of her son amids calamity that struct the province last year inundating almost all the towns in Pampanga and  claiming the lives of several Kapampangans particularly those living  in Sto. Tomas town. 

Delta in his personal capacity and  in coordination with the concerned local government units conducted a series of rescue operations bringing in  his quick response team, rescue vehicles   and other resources.

Delta is a three-term Lubao mayor and has served the Pampanga Mayors' League as president in the  same period. 

He has proven his leadership after gaining and maintaining the support of the mayors up to this time despite his being in the private sector.

Traders eye 'growth' on road project

CANDABA  – Local traders here said  impeding completion of the Candaba-San Miguel road is a welcome development and is expected to bolster the town's economy in the coming years. 

They said that so long Candaba has not achieved so much in terms of economic growth due to its geogpahic characteristics.

"Hindi kasi buo ang bayan kung ang pag-uusapan ay ang lupain nito. Maraming mga barangay sa Kapampangan region ang isolated dahil walang access na maayos sa town proper. Kaya sana madaliin nila ang paggawa sa natitirang kalsada para madali ng pumasok ang kalakal sa ating palengke," Violeta Pangilinan, a public market vendor here  stated. 

This came as  Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials bared plan to finish  the ramaining 2.5 kilometers of Candaba-San Miguel road.

DPWH earlier stated that at least  P111-million has been allocated for the project. 

Candaba-San Miguel road links the Kapampangan region to the town proper wherein the agricultural produced from the villages therein could now easily be transported to the public public. 

"Magiging maganda ang resulta nito para aming maliliit na nagtitinda dahil mababawasan ang gastos sa pamasahe ibig sabihin mas mura ang produktong mabibili ng tao," another trader here ended.

Guv worries for residents living iniside Arnedo Dike

SAN SIMON - Governor Lilia Pineda the other day expressed worry for the residents of this town following the decision of the Department of Public Works and Highways to abandon Arnedo Dike.

She said that almost all the barangays here were located inside the Arnedo Dike which is now deteriorating due to strong current of water from Pampanga River particularly during rainy season.

"Dito sa bayan ng San Simon nakapasok ang halos lahat ng barangay sa dike kaya delikado kapag umaapaw ang ilog," Pineda stated. 

DPWH executives previously disclosed that they will no longer rehabilitate nor reconstruct the scourged portion of Arnedo Dike.

They said that no amount of engineering intervention could still save the said dike. 

The Arnedo dike is now more than 70 years old and it has already outlive its life spand. 

With this, the people living near the same were told to  abandon the area because it is now deteriorating and it cannot withstand the strong current.

Likewise, several  portions of the dike  in towns of Candaba, San Luis, Apalit and Masantol are continously collapsing. 

4th district barangay leaders cites capitol on P205-M worth of projects

APALIT – Local leaders from the villages in eight municipalities in the 4th district lauded the provincial government for spending at least P205-million on various projects.

This came as barangay chieftains, purok leaders, tanods along with other officials recently gathered in this town in a meeting with Governor Lilia Pineda. 

Pineda said that the people from the 4th  district were  getting a just share from the funds of the provincial government through programs and projects carried within the first thirty months after she assumed office.

The provincial government funded the rehabilitation of San Luis District Hospital (SLDH)  to cater the growing number of patients coming from the neighboring towns.

Recently, SLDH extension building was constructed under the instruction of Pineda spending more than P9 million. 

The governor also started with the rehabilitation of the Macabebe District Hospital which was funded P15-million by the provincial government, with additional P10-million from the Department of Health.

This facility is now serving the healths of needs of the people in the  clustered towns  of Macabebe, Masantol, Minalin, Apalit among others. 

The provincial government likewise funded major infrastructure projects like construction of classroom buildings in different public schools  and provincial, municipal access road including farm to market roads and covered courts.

"Ngayon lamang kami kay Nanay nakakarinig ng milyong milyong piso pondo na ginagamit sa mga proyektong pinakikinabangan ng mga karaniwang Kapampangan di tulad ng dati," one of the barangay officials noted. 

In total, the Capitol spent  P1.5-billion for various infrastructure projects throughout the province. 

DPWH to fund of Candaba-San Miguel road construction

CANDABA  – An official from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) bared that some P111-million will be allocated for the construction of Candaba-San Miguel road.

This was disclosed by Pampanga 1st Engr. Rico Guilas during the recent meeting with the provincial government.

The road project includes the remaining 2.5- kilometer stretch to link the villages in the Kapampangan region of  Candaba to the town proper.

Earlier, the concreting of more than 600 meters of the Candaba-San Miguel road Magumbali section was funded by the provincial government amounting to P5-million.

Mayor Jerry Pelayo believed that the completion of the construction  Candaba-San Miguel road will open another economic opportunities in the localities.

He said that agricultural crops from the isolated villages  can now be easily transported to  the public market.

In the past due to the poor condition of the road, the farmers were bringing their crops in San Miguel Bulacan as it more accessible.

Guv welcomes inclusion of Pampanga on country's top provinces

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Governor Lilia Pineda has welcomed the inclusion of Pampanga as among the top 10 provinces in the Philippines in terms of economic and business growth.

This according to her is the result of the consolidated efforts of all the local government officials with the full cooperation of the  business sectors and other private groups.

Pineda said she was happy because Pampanga is now moving to the right direction as evidenced by the study conducted by Dr. Cid Terosa, UA&P School of Economics, titled “Market Potential and Prospects of Philippine Regions, Provinces and Cities.”

Pampanga ranked sixth in the top 10 list, aptly described as “ahead of the pack,” with a rating of 0.3983 based on its index of economic and business activity in 2011. 

The index includes generation of taxes from local sources in 2010, construction activity, which covers industrial, commercial and residential construction, in 2011 and consumption activity measured by the number of Jollibee stores in 2012.

Pampanga and Bulacan, which placed fourth with an index of 0.5283, are the only two provinces in Central Luzon that landed in the top 10 list.

"Siyempre masaya tayo dahil nakikita nila yung mga ginagawa natin dito sa probinsiya sa pamamagitan ng proyekto na pinakikinabangan at nagpapagaan sa buhay  ng ating mga kababayan," she added. 

The provincial government through Governor Pineda has spent at least P1.2 billion pesos for the infrastructure projects in the province including road access, hospitals, bridges, school buildings among others. 

"Accessibility and continuing improvement of major roads in and out of the province had played vital in role convincing  potential investors to entrust their resources here in Pampanga," she stated. 

Another thing that probably contributed to the economic turn around of Pampanga is the previous declaration made by the Philippine Army that the province is already  insurgency-free and is  now being considered as a business hub in the country.

It was learned that the provincial government is closely working with various law enforcement agencies to make sure that peace and order situation will get even better for the people and business sector.

Pineda provided the police with logistics, equipments and other supports for them to be capable of guarding the general welfare of the Kapampangans. 

Flores: charges filed ‘concocted’ lies

MINALIN - Frivolous and concocted lies!

Thus said by former Mayor Edgardo  Flores in response to the case recently  filed before the Office of the Ombudsman  against him by incumbent Mayor Arturo  Naguit.

Flores said that there is nothing irregular in the construction of the evacuation center which is now subject of legal battle as the same is fully supported documents duly executed contrary to the claim of Naguit.

He added that a valid deed of donation dated April 3, 2008  was executed between Epifania Dado (land owner) and the municipality of Minalin.

This deed was properly accepted in the same instrument by then Mayor Flores as the sitting local chief executive at the time of donation.

On the allegation of Mayor Naguit that  Flores was not authorized by the Sangguniang Bayan to sign and accept the deed of donation including the absence of ratification, the former stated it is a common practice by the municipality since time immemorial to accept donation even without authorization or concurrence of the local legislative body.

Flores stands firm in saying that the Sangguniang Bayan’s authority is no longer needed in the issue at hand because of the nature of transaction noting that a lot donations had been received in the past  by the municipality without  such authorization.

This view was supported by Vice Mayor Edgar Yambao. He said, the  Sangguniang Bayan need no longer authorize the mayor to enter or accept donation as the same would rather promote inconvenience on the part of the donor.

Yambao particularly cited the donation of garbage truck by the provincial government wherein Mayor Naguit accepted the same even without authorization from them.

“Kahit naman sa panahon niya (Mayor Naguit) marami ring nai-donate na hindi na dumaan pa sa Sangguniang Bayan,” he pointed out.

As to the issue that the land where the evacuation center was constructed is still registered under the name of the donor,  he said, “hindi naman obligasyon ng donor na ipa transfer pa ang titulo sa pangalan ng donee. Sila na ang dapat magpa transfer nito.”

In fact, he can just order the municipal assessor office on this matter.

Meanwhile, Flores clarified that the constructed evacuation center was named after the late former  Francisco P. Flores Sr. by virtue of resolution approved on September 24, 2010 during the time of Mayor Naguit.

It was learned such initiative is condition precedent of the deed of donation.

Dredging of Pampanga Pasac-Delta 43 percent completed

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) the other day bared that the dredging of Pampanga Pasac- Delta amounting to P50-million is 43 percent  finished.

The project involves Pampanga Pasac- Delta's  2,500 linear meters completing at least 700 linear meters since the project started. 

DPWH executives including Engr. Rico Guilas – district engineer of Pampanga 1st, Engr. Almer Miranda, maintenance chief engineer, Engr. Lucito Sibug, chief , construction division, Engr. Arnold Ocampo, project engineer, Engr. Isabelita Manalo of the Mount Pinatubo Emergency (MPE) Engr. Juanito V. Reguyal, district engineer in Pampanga 2nd  briefed Governor Lilia Pineda on the on-going projects in the province. 

Pineda called for this meeting with DPWH officials to make sure that everything is in place before the rainy days.  

Meanwhile, the dredging of Pampanga Delta’s 1,750 linear meters located at the mouth of Pampanga bay amounting to some P23-million is 41 percent  (700 meters) completed. 

In the third district, the construction of the slope protection in Barangay Cupang, Arayat town has been approved. The project amounting to P124-million was awarded to LR Tiqui construction. 

In second district, some 9.4-million has been released by the DPWH  for the steel sheet piling and construction of slope protection  of the Caulaman River dike.

Lita Manalo said the rehabilitation of Caulaman river dike is part of the Bataan Flood Control project.

Urbanization will not come at the expense of agriculture-Binay

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - Vice President Jejomar Binay in a statement declared that urbanization will not come at the expense of agriculture and other natural resources.

Binay's statement was read by her daughter Nancy in one of the occasions in Candaba town attended by the local officials and residents.

"I am aware of the reservations of some concerning the dangers that urban development may pose to farmlands and other agricultural areas. It is built around it and proper planning permits us to do just that," Binay said. 

The vice president noted that greatest threat to agricultural lands is not urbanization but rather random and arbitrary land conversion. 

"In all these efforts, we in the housing sector are guided by a clear policy of creating environmentally friendly, self sustaining communities as engines of development in the countryside," the vice president stated in a statement. 

He further stated that with well-planned development and decent housing in the concerned areas would help the farmers gain better future for their respective families and at the same time would preserve farmlands and swamplands in the country.

"As your economy grows, it follows that farming will likewise evolve and the communities shall be able to invest in the added infrastructure needed to push tourism. Tourism and agriculture and urban development need to work hand in hand to provide more opportunities for trade and growth within the reach of the people," Binay stated. 

Solon’s presence during Ibon-Ebon Festival puzzles residents

CANDABA  - The presence of 4th district Congresswoman Dra. Anna York Bondoc-Sagum during the recent celebration  of the 6th Ibon-Ebon Festival has  puzzled residents and political observers as  to her real intention.

Bondoc-Sagum,  for the first time in six straight years of the Ibon-Ebon Festival celebration,  took the center stage of Ms. Earth Park in Barangay Mandasig here as she greeted and waved to thousands of Candabenios, tourists and other guests  who  participated in the said festival. 

The congresswoman came along with Masantol Mayor Peter Flores and former San Simon Mayor Rodrigo Canlas  to witness the ‘grandest’ celebration during the incumbency of Mayor Jerry Pelayo as local chief executive. 

Sun Star Pampanga tried to interview Bondoc-Sagum but she refused. Instead, she said, “retired na ako dyan maybe next time na lang.”

However, political observers here stressed that this is a good sign about the possibility of having political compromise between the camp of the Bondoc and Pelayo.

Mayor Pelayo is running for congress to represent the people in the fourth district. He will be facing another congressional candidate Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc - brother of Congresswoman Anna. 

“Her (Congresswoman Anna) coming indicates her support to Ibon-Ebon Festival. She doesn’t need to talk. Her facial expression during the presentation is enough to show her support. This is tantamount to supporting Pelayo’s ambition,” an observer here stated. 

“Isa itong magandang senyales para sa pulitika dito sa Candaba at sa buong kuatro distrito. Hindi karaniwan na ang dalawang magkalaban sa pulitika ay magkakasama sa itataas ng stage para suportahan ang festival namin,” Johnson Delos Reyes, a resident here stated.

Lady mayor hits Rimpy Bondoc

SAN SIMON - Mayor Leonora Capule Wong yesterday lambasted fourth district congressional candidate Juan Pablo Rimpy Bondoc for allegedly grabbing the credit on various government funded projects.

She said the public deserves to know the truth about the details of the projects being carried out in the municipality as funded by the national government or any of its angency or instrumentalities. 

"Under what capacity he is acting for? He is a private citizen. Bakit nakalagay sa mga streamers salamat Rimpy eh proyekto ito ng gobyerno," Capule-Wong told Sun Star in an interview.

This rooted in an occassion wherein Bondoc along with his bet  local candidates spearheaded the ground breaking ceremony of a covered court in one barangay here without coordinating with the municipal government.

Capule-Wong  stated that as a gesture of respect, Bondoc should have first shown the documents pertaining to the project same with the source of his authority to lead the groundbreaking being a private citizen. 

"Kailangan mayroon silang streamer na nagpapakita ng detalye ng proyekto. Kung magkano ang pondo, pangalan ng contractor, kung kailan ito magsisimula at matapos pati yung source of funds," she stressed. 

As this developed, the lady mayor tried to stop the groundbreaking for irregularities.

It was learned that the project came from the National Housing Authority upon the initiative  of Vice 

President Jejomar Binay chanelled through the priority development  assistance fund of incumbent Congresswoman Dra. Anna York Bondoc-Sagum - sister of Rimpy.

With this, an official from NHA stated in a phone interview, but requested not to be named, clarified to Sun Star Pampanga that the project was bidded and awarded to the winning bidded October last. 

However, she said, they were not properly adivsed on the supposed groundbreaking ceremony through Bondoc.

On the other hand, the mayor remained firm that a private citizen cannot interfere on projects of the government as the same involves public funds and not of the Bondoc.

Capule-Wong also noted that a lot of streamers were plastered and seen in various government projects thanking Rimpy Bondoc which she believes is  a form of deception and trying to mislead the people.

6th Ibon-Ebon Festival kicks off today

CANDABA –  An estimate of 10,000  residents and tourists are expected to witness the ‘grandest’ Ibon-Ebon (Bird-Egg) Festival today.

This does not include more than 4,000 Ibon-Ebon dancers clad in bird costumes all moving rhythmically to the beat of drums to lead the longest street dance in the province if not in the country, according to Mayor Jerry Pelayo.

Pelayo said that the festival is aimed at promoting aims  the town of Candaba, which is internationally known for its migratory birds,  delicacies such as salted duck eggs and balut.

Bird watchers regularly visit the Candaba Swamp for its 60 species of migratory birds from China, Siberia and Russia.

“Pumunta po kayo dito sa amin,  makisaya at saksihan ninyo ang mayamang kultura naming mga taga Candaba.

Pelayo explained that the  idea behind the festival is to teach the visitors and tourists Candabenios’ approach on development—focusing on agricultural productivity matched with environmental responsibility.

For the first day (Feb. 8), the activities were; judging of logo design and photo contest, on the spot painting constes, judging of paper mache bird-like mascot, trade fair, bird watching and wild bird photography presentation.

The first grand street dance parade will be held on Saturday (Feb. 9) along with fun run, trade fair, kite flying, dragon race exhibition and free concert.

For Ibon-Ebon Festival activities on Sunday (Feb. 10) were second street dance parade in Barangay Bahay Pare, karerang itik, best itik pageant, itik cooking and free concert. 

“Inaanyayahan ko po ang aking mga kababayan sa kuatro distrito at ang iba pang natin kasamahan na saksihan ang Ibon-Ebon Festival sapagkat para sa atin pong lahat ito,” the mayor lamented.

Ama Partylist call for strict implementation law on senior citizens

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO –  Advocates of the  Aagapay sa Matatanda (Ama) Partylist had called for the strict implementation of benefits to senior citizens as provided by the law enacted by Congress.

Linda Gaddi-David, Federation of the Senior Citizen Association of the Philippines president, Ama Partylist chairperson and nominee said that the senior citizens should be given priority in government programs as they have already done part in building a stronger nation.

“Isusulong natin ang mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng batas na nagbibigay ng proteksiyon at benepisyo sa ating mga senior citizens. Ito ang tamang panahon na kalingain ng gobyerno ang ating mga nakatatanda sa pamamagitan ng magagandang programa,” Gaddi-David told Sun Star Pampanga.

She added Ama Partylist is joining the 2013 midterm elections to push for programs that will promote the general well being of the senior citizens.

“Magagawa natin ito kung magkakaroon tayo ng boses sa congreso sa tulong ng ating mga kababayan,” Gaddi-David stated.

Ama Partylist  belongs to the first batch  of  partylists approved by the Commissioners of the Commission on Elections after they have proven credentials and track records  that they truly represent a marginalize sector which deserves seats in congress.

Among the list of legislative agendas were health programs, scholarship grants  for the children of senior citizens, livelihood via senior citizen cooperative drug store, social pension, establishment of legal team.

Ama Partylist  also plans to initiate the construction of Senior Citizen Regional Center and  home for the aged to provide immediate assistance to  the senior citizens.

Other Ama Partylist nominees are retired Justice Agustin Dizon, Judge Ricardo Agapito, Josue Mora and Zoilo Abenoja.

Apalit dad gets PML prexy endorsed for provincial board

APALIT - Pampanga Mayors' League President Jerry Pelayo has backed the candidacy of Kenneth Nunag who is now aspiring for a seat in the provincial board.

Nunag is a veteran public servant in this town who has been elected as a member of the Sangguniang Bayan for three consecutive terms.

Pelayo, speaking before the barangay officials and other organized groups in Candaba town publicly endorsed Board Member Ricardo Yabut and Nunag .

"Sa Candaba dalawa ang ating susuportahan sa pagka board member. Yung kababayan nating si Ric Yabut at ang masipag na anak ng Apalit na matagal ding nagsilbi bilang konsehal ng bayan si Brod Kenneth Nunag," he stated.

The mayor encouraged  village chieftains to stand united behind Yabut and Nunag as they are bent on promoting the interest of the people in the fourth district in the province.

"Sila ang mga magiging ka-partner natin sa Kapitolyo na tutulong kay Nanay Lilia Pineda sa pagbibigay ng magagandang programa sa mga kababayan," he added. 

Meanwhile, Nunag, in a short interview stressed that should he be given the opportunity to serve the people, he would propose legislative measures that will institutionalize the provision of a comprehensive educational assistance to the poor but deserving students in the province.

"Isang maliit na pulitiko lamang po ako na mula sa Apalit subalit mayroong po akong mga scholars sa high school at college na tinutulungan sa pamamagitan lamang ng aking mga kaibagan at koneksiyon. Nakakagpasagawa din po ako ng mga medical mission sa ilang bayan dahil rin po sa tulong ng mga taong sumusuporta at nagmamahal sa akin. Ngayon ay gusto kung magsilbi sa higit na nakararami," Nunag said. 

Guv eyes development through educating people

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The provincial chief executive believed that sustainable development in the province could only be achieved when the people are educated.

Governor Lilia Pineda said  that demand for quality and affordable education for the Kapampangans is getting bigger.

She added that this can only be achieved when education will be made available to everyone including those living in the remote communities.

Recently, the provincial government has partnered with  Don Honorio Ventura Technical State Universitay (DHVTSU) to bring education closer to  the communities.

It has funded the construction of several satellite campuses in selected towns in Pampanga  amounting to more than P20-million.

The other day, Pineda granted another  P12-million for the construction of a two-storey building for DHVTSU satellite campus in Porac town.

This came as the existing facilities can no longer accommodate the increasing number of students every year.

With this, the governor instructed the provincial engineering office to expedite the construction of building similar to that of DHVTSU Sto.Tomas Campus.

“The provincial government and the local government units provided support for the establishment of DHVTSU satellite campuses in order give chances to indigents students to finish their studies and have a brighter future,” Pineda said. 

Turtles threaten multi-million fish industry in Pampanga

MACABEBE -  Invasive species of turtle are currently  threatening the multi-million fish industry in  Pampanga and neighbouring provinces.

 

This came as fishpond owners from the towns of Macabebe, Arayat, Candaba, San Luis, Minalin, and Apalit sought the help of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on the proliferation of turtles in their respective locality.

 

They  likened the turtle menace to the “golden kuhol” that wreaked havoc in rice farms during the 80s.

 

Maximo Dichoso, executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Luzon , in a statement,  said his office received complaints from fishpond owners and operators about the turtle preying on local fish species, bangus and tilapia fingerlings.

 

“The Chinese softshell turtle has been classified as an invasive alien species (IAS) introduced in the country in the 90’s,” he explained.

 

With this, a team of biologists and conservation experts had been formed to conduct a six-month study to determine the impact of the softshell turtle on the environment and the local fishing industry of the affected provinces.

 

“We want to determine the rate of reproduction of this turtle species and come up with a regional policy on the allowable quota for its collection either for food or export,” Dichoso explained.

 

Environment authorities, on the other hand, said that there is a need to regulate turtles collection and trade to avoid unnecessary competition among individuals issued with Wildlife Special Use Permit, and to ensure a sustainable turtle population without affecting the local fish industry.

 

In Pampanga alone, three individuals have been issued permits to collect a combined 36,820 heads of live turtles this year, or about 30,700 kilos of turtle meat. Last year, 349,170 heads of live turtles, or 236,250 kilos of turtle meat were also harvested.

 

Law classifies bloggers as media practioners

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The law governing the conduct of 2013 mid terms elections has classified bloggers as media practioners.

As this developed,  a group province based bloggers had welcome the initiative of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) categorizing them as media practioners.

Under Republic Act No. 9006, otherwise known as the “Fair Election Act,” the term media practioner was also defined as a person who is not employed by a media entity but performs similar functions or has control over what is printed or broadcast such as a talent or a block timer.

Individuals who create online content for personal, collective blogs and micro-blogs were considered media practitioners.

Engr. Joliber Mapiles, an IT professional and founder of the Candaba Bloggers Association said they were happy because the government is now recognizing their role in the conduct of 2013 mid term elections.

“Just like any media entity in the province, we likewise provide the electorate of basic information about political parties, candidates and other announcement emanating from the Comelec itself,” he stated.

“Katulad namin mga bloggers from time to time we are posting election related stories. Sa simpleng pagba-blog namin ay nae-educate natin ang mga botante na maging mapanuri at responsable sa pagpili ng ibobotong kandidato,” Mapiles added.

The  terms “blog” and “collective blog” refer to websites on which an individual or group of users, respectively, record news, opinions, and information, in varying degrees of regularity.

With this, the bloggers promised to be more careful in doing stories which might influence people in selecting new sets of local leaders.

“Kailangan lalung maging  maingat tayo sa pagba-blog natin dahil  kasama na tayo sa mga babantayan ng Comelec ngayong papalapit na ang halalan,” another blogger here noted.