www.headlinegl.com Want to broaden your business horizon? Let us help you! Call us at (045) 455.0781 VOLUME III • NO. 170 FEBRUARY 23, 2015 Email Us at [email protected] MONDAY Pineda to provide ‘HELP’ package for scavengers 10T dancers join Caragan 2015 by ELAINE MERCADO LUBAO, Pampanga — Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda wants Health, Edu- cation, Livelihood Program or “HELP” packages for scavengers, whom she acknowledged as environmental heroes of the province. scavengers... pagE 7 By Charlene A. Cayabyab MABALACAT CITY - About 10,000 students from different schools in the city joined the 2015 Caragan Festival. According to Dionisio “June” Magbalot, dancers started from MacArthur Highway in the Poblacion area all the way to Xevera Mabalacat. “The festival featured street dances– a festive Mardi Gras that depicts the rich cultural heritage of the people of Mabalacat, particularly the Aetas, being one of the original incaragan... pagE 7 2 suspected members of crime group killed in CSF shootout By Angelique Tuazon CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Two suspected members of a crime group involved in robbery/holdup and car theft were killed in a shootout in Barangay Maimpis here over the week. Joint elements of the City of San Fernando Police Station, Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Branch 2nd(PIB), Floor U2 Bldg., Mc-Arthur Highway, Brgy. Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga Mexico Municipal Police Station Tel/Fax No.: (045) (MPS) and Highway Patrol Group 3 455-0781, 0918-560-1861, 0918-333-9494 • Email address: [email protected] (HPG3) were initially at the scene to AID TO SCAVENGERS. Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda hands over financial assistance to scavengers – whom she considers environmental heroes’ csf shootout... pagE 7 – during her pre-birthday celebration over the week. --JUN JASO For your construction needs: Quality Gravel G-1, Gravel 3/4, Sub-base, Base Course 2nd Floor U2 Bldg., Mc-Arthur Highway, Brgy. Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga Tel/Fax No.: (045) 455-0781, 0918-560-1861, 0918-333-9494 • Email address: [email protected] 2NEWS Headline Gitnang Luzon • FEBRUARY 23, 2015 One of 3 suspects in robbery of soldiers killed in Bulacan SAN JOSE DEL MONTE CITY, Bulacan - One of three heavily armed suspected members of a robbery hold-up gang was killed after robbing at gun point the service firearms of two Army troopers conducting civic work in Purok 4 Barangay Paradise here recently. Bulacan police director Senior Supt. Ferdinand Divina identified the slain suspect as Ramillo Uclaray, 32, a resident of Buguey, Cagayan. His two cohorts who remain unidentified managed to escape. The victims were identified as PFC Junky Hidalgo, 28, single, member of Philippine Army (PA), a native of La Union and PFC Jonald Lintac, married, also a member of PA and a native of Sultan Kudarat. They are both residents of Barangay San Isidro here. Divina said the victims were conducting peace and development team (PDT) operation at around 9:30 pm Wednesday when the suspects, who were armed with high-powered guns arrived on board a Mitsubishi Delica van with plate number RAC 680 (color black) and at gun point took the caliber .45 pistols of the two victims then fled towards the direction of Igay road here. Immediately after the incident, the PDT Alpha Company, Philippine Army and a police mobile team from the SJDM City Police Station jointly conrobbery... Page 7 P10-M Aurora irrigation project junked due to right of way feud CUT IN HALF. One of the chimneys of the Pasudeco was cut in half weeks ago due to age, and not deliberately torn down as some have been speculating. Reconstruction of the smoke stack is now in the works. --CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Pasudeco chimney cut in half; reconstruction in the works by Marna Dagumboy-del Rosario CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – A decades-old chimney of the Pampanga Sugar Development Corporation or Pasudeco which was cut in half weeks ago may be reconstructed. Pasudeco officials said they are now in consultations with heritage and structural experts in reconstructing the said smoke stack. The chimney was damaged on February 8, and not torn down as speculated by some. The structure was built in March 1921, making it a historic heritage landmark. “Given the age of the structure, it just broke down on its own and there are no plans of demolishing it,” Pasudeco officials clarified. City tourism officer Ching Pangilinan-Gonzales said that there indeed was no permit for demolition filed by Pasudeco at city hall.• DINGALAN, AURORA - A P10-million communal irrigation project (CIP) in this mountain resort town has been junked by its funding agency, the National Irrigation Administration, due to problems over the road right of way (RROW). The Umiray CIP in Barangay Umiray has been cancelled by the NIA’s Bulacan-Aurora-Nueva Ecija (Bane) office which realigned the budget to other irrigation projects. The budget realignment was confirmed by Angelito Miguel, manager of the Bane division based in San Rafael, Bulacan. Bane is one of three divisions under the NIA Region 3 office headed by regional manager Josephine Salazar. The others are the Tarlac-Zambales (Tarzam) and Pampanga-Bataan (Pambat) divisions. “The project has not been started although the contract has already been awarded so we resolved to just terminate the contract,” Miguel said. The project encountered a setback after the owner of the land where the Umiray CIP is set to be constructed, lawyer Romeo Roxas, put up a makeshift checkpoint in the barangay, preventing NIA officials and fieldmen from bringing in construction materials to proceed with the project. Miguel said the project would have made an impact in the community since it will potentially irrigate 100 hectares and benefit at least 50 farmers. He said they have no choice but to transfer the funding which has already been earmarked under the so-called Fund 101 of the General Appropriations Act. The funding was actually allocated in 2014 but was carried over to the 2015 because of the RROW stalemate. The Umiray CIP is only one of two irrigation projects identified in the province. The other was the P18-million Disalit Communal River Irrigation System in San Luis town. The project site is located in this town’s biggest and second most populous barangay. irrigation project... Page 7 RWM, Viva set stage for ‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’ By Marna Dagumboy-del Rosario CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - Resorts World Manila (RWM), Full House Theater Company in cooperation with Viva Communications, Inc. (Viva) is set to produce a theater adaptation of the classic drama “Bituing Walang Ningning” that has transcended Philippine enter- tainment. The story tells of a singer’s rise up the competitive ranks of show business following her plight through love and the hardships she endured on her way up its steep ladder to success. A story originally told over a serialized comic strip by fictionist Nerissa Cabral, “Bituing Walang Ningning” was made into a blockbuster movie in 1985 starring Sharon Cuneta, Cherie Gil and Christopher De Leon and was then re-made into a hit television series back in 2006 with Sarah Geronimo, Angelika dela Cruz, and Ryan Agoncillo playing the lead roles. Similar to how the plot of the story unfolded, the doors are open for local aspirants to play the lead role of Dorina Pineda popularized in the movie by Sharon Cuneta and by Sarah Geronimo in the drama’s TV run. Staying true to its advocacy to ‘Champion the Filipino’ by supporting local artists and promoting performing arts, RWM together with Full House Theater Company and Viva will hold auditions for the musical... Page 7 FEBRUARY 23, 2015 • Headline Gitnang Luzon NRCO holds information campaign on OFW reintegration program By Charlene A. Cayabyab CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) recently promoted its flagship programs to 81 Public Employment Services Office (PESO) managers. This is the NRCO’s kick-off activity since establishing its presence at the Department of Labor and Employment in Central Luzon (DoLE 3) January this year. DoLE regional director Ana Dione reported to Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz that the NRCO’s information campaign was held on this month’s PESO Meetings in Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales. These meetings were held at the Executive House - Capitol, City of San Fernando, Pampanga; TESDA Provincial Office, Tarlac City; and Castillejos Municipality, Zambales. NRCO regional coordinator Freya Palad provided an overview of the NRCO’s flagship programs: Mag-Impok Magnegosyo Movement or OFW-M3); Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay; and P10k Livelihood Program. Palad said that the OFW-M3 is a joint-program of the DoLE, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the NRCO, launched in April 2013. “The Mag-Impok Magnegosyo Movement is envisioned to empower OFWs by helping them manage their earnings from abroad by investing them wisely and make them profitable businesses to ensure that they will have continuous regular income after their tour of duty abroad has ended,” Palad said. Another program Palad highlighted is the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay geared to help returning women-OFWs, particularly those who came from hostile countries, venture into entrepreneurship or livelihood. “This program is a package of livelihood skills training and provision of starter kits for our distressed womenOFWs to enable them to be productive again through their start-up businesses,” Palad said. Last but, not least, is the P10k Livelihood Financial Assistance Program to distressed OFWs for the creation of their micro/backyard businesses. “This program, just like the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay, is a start- up livelihood financial assistance to our returning OFWs, especially those who were unsuccessful in their tenure abroad,” Palad said. PESO Managers, for their part, expressed their willingness to build partnership with the NRCO by supporting its programs for returning OFWs. Also present during the PESO meetings are heads and staff of concerned DoLE Field Offices, TESDA Provincial Offices, and OWWA Regional Welfare Office No. 3. The NRCO is an attached agency of the DoLE which was institutionalized pursuant to Republic Act 10022 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations. It also provides mechanism for OFWs’ reintegration into Philippine society, serves as a promotion house for their local employment, and tap their skills and potentials for national development. It enables them and their families to work with entrepreneurial mind-set, primarily through creation of awareness on the value of saving, and empower them to plan for investment, business, or local employment upon their return. • 3 Tigerair PHL offers 50% off on ClarkHong Kong flights By Marna Dagumboy –del Rosario CLARK FREEPORT – Tigerair Philippines has launched a 50% discount on their Clark to Hong Kong flights from 01 March 2015 to 14 June 2015. Meanwhile, with its network made wider with Cebu Pacific, held a seat sale from February 20 2015 to February 22, 2015, where travel from Manila to Kalibo and Cebu to Cagayan de Oro or Davao is offered for as low as P788. A low fare of P988 is also offered for Manila to Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, Tacloban, and Tagbilaran flights; and P1388 from Manila to Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and General Santos. Travel period is from 01 March 2015 to 14 June 2015. Seats are limited and may be booked via www. cebupacificair.com or by calling reservation hotlines (02) 702-0888 and (032) 230-8888. Latest seat sales can also be found on CEB’s official Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) and Facebook pages and on Tigerair Philippines’ official Twitter (@tigerairPH) and Facebook (tigerair philippines) pages. With the new routes, Tigerair Philippines now offers over 240 weekly flights. It flies to Hong Kong via Clark and 13 domestic destinations: Bacolod, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Manila, Roxas, Puerto Princesa, Tacloban and Tagbilaran utilizing a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft.• SSS to accept payments through mobile phones By Marna Dagumboy –del Rosario EMPOWERING 10K WOMEN. Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Joel Villanueva (center), Quezon City 6th District Congressman Jose Christopher Belmonte (right); and Atty. Adel Tamano, Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications of Coca-Cola Far East Limited; sign the Memorandum of Agreement to train at least 10,000 women retailers, including those from Bulacan, on entrepreneurship on Friday (February 20, 2015) at the TESDA Complex in Taguig City. Since 2012, TESDA and Coca-Cola have been forging partnerships with local government units in implementing the Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program to provide women beneficiaries with formal Basic Entrepreneurship training and facilitation of access to business resources such as product and merchandising support. The STAR program is under Coca-Cola’s 5by20 Program, a global initiative to empower five million women worldwide by the year 2020. --PNA photo NTC to consult public on Mobile Disaster Alert Act QUEZON CITY – The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) urges stakeholdres to attend a public consultation and hearing on the proposed Memorandum Circular (MC) on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 10639. Enacted on June 2014, RA 10639 mandates telecommunications service providers to send free mobile alerts during times of natural and man-made disasters and calamities. The NTC together with the Department of Transportation and Communications, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) have been tasked to draft the IRR of RA 10639. As per the Regulation Branch of NTC, the public consultation and hearing aims to discuss the IRR and its MC endorsement prior submission to the House of Want to broaden your business horizon? LET US HELP YOU! Representatives, the Senate, and the President. It be will be held on February 26, 2015, 2 p.m. at the Executive Conference Room, 3rd Floor, NTC Building., BIR Road, East Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City. Copies of the proposed IRR and Circular will be made available during the hearing.• CLARK FREEPORT – The Social Security System (SSS) will soon be accepting payments via mobile phone, according to an official of the SSS. Luisa “Louie” Sebastian, SSS assistant vice president for media affairs, said during the “Balitaan” media forum organized by the Capampangan in Media, Inc. (CAMI), Clark Development Corp. and the SSS at the Bale Balita here, that mobile payments will be available soon with the memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed between the state agency and G-XChange Inc. The agreement allows SSS members to settle their SSS contributions and loan amortizations through the use of G-XChange’s mobile remittance facility called “G-Cash,” which is offered exclusively to Globe and TM Network subscribers. G-Cash is a free mobile application, which serves as a virtual wallet offering users a secure, fast and convenient money transfers using mobile phones. Sebastian said for SSS transactions, a onetime registration is required and payments are free of charge. The facility will be opened to household employers, voluntary members, and self-employed individuals including farmers, fishermen and non-working spouses. “We are encouraging our members to register in this new payment facility for prompt remittance of their contributions and loan amortizations at their convenience,” Sebastian said. To make payments using G-Cash, SSS members will need to load their G-Cash accounts to cover their payments for contributions and loans. The member will receive a confirmation text message for every successful transaction.• CALL US : (045)435-0781 EMAIL US : [email protected] VISIT US : 2nd Floor , U2 Bldg., MacArthur Hiway, Dolores, City of San Fernando (P) 4 OPINION Headline Gitnang Luzon • FEBRUARY 23, 2015 EDITORIAL Colorful tradition LAST year’s launch of the Philippine International Balloon Festival in Lubao was an astounding success – and a lot of enthusiasts are expecting this year’s event to be a bigger and better one. Slated on March 26 to 29, the 2nd PIBF will be held again at Pradera Verde, Prado Siongco here, which has been branded by balloonists as the perfect place for hot air balloons due to its ideal wind conditions. This year, a total of 45 colorful and specially shaped hot air balloons coming from different countries are expected to participate. The participants joining the event will come from countries like Japan, Malaysia, Australia, Netherland, Poland, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Slovak Republic, Spain, Thailand, United States of America, Korea, Vietnam and United Kingdom, among others. Noel Castro, chairman of the event organizer Pilipinas International Balloon Festival Inc., said spectators may expect to see, aside from the customary festival, pilots showcasing their “magic” by pumping their tethered balloons like Bobo Lobster (Belgium), Heart Shape (japan), Newspaper shape (Korea), Clown Bruno (Slovak Republic), Monster ( UK), Snobird(USA), Humpty Dumpty (uSA), Wish Cake ( USA), among others. The organizers also consider the event not just an annual occasion but a stunning tradition embedded in the culture of the province, which fervent passion is to maintain the tradition at all costs. HEADLINE Gitnang Luzon is a Daily Regional Newspaper General Manager: MARLO a. franco Editor: RIA DE FIESTA Layout Artist/Photographer: JP Manalang Reporters: CHARLENE CAYABYAB Marna dagumboy - Del rosario Administrative Staff: sherylin l. rivera Marketing Head: ELAINE MAPILES Account Executive: caren m. garcia monica bianca cabiling Publisher: I.N.I. Newspaper Email: [email protected] Website: www.headlinegl.com DISCLAIMER: Views expressed by columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of HEADLINE Gitnang Luzon or its internet website: www.headlinegl. com. The publisher does not knowingly publish false information and may not be held liable for the views of its columnists exercising their right to free expression. All rights reserved. Subject to the conditions provided for by law, no article or photograph published by HEADLINE GITNANG LUZON may be reprinted or reproduced, in whole or in part, without its prior consent. Office Address: 2nd Floor, U2 Building, MacArthur Highway, Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, 2000 Tel. Nos. (045) 455.0781 Kakurangan (SK ng Filipinas, Pang-4 sa 7 na bahagi) A NG pamagkuran o pagpa- mang kuran) upang ito ay maihog palayok ay isa sa masasa- habang ito ay sinasangkalan ng bing pinakamatandang bato sa loobang bahagi. Habang kalinangan ng mga sinaunang tao ang iba pang kasangkapan ay gamit naman sa kabuuang hindi lamang dito sa bansa kundi sa maraming dako sa ibayong dagat. Ito ang kalinangan na m a g p a s a -h a ng ga ng ngayon ay patuloy pa nating pinakikinabanangan. Sa kaso ng Kapampangan, ito ay may malalim na pinagkakaugatan ng kasaysayan Aleesus Manarang katulad ng iba pang matatandang pamayanan sa ibat-bang dako ng mun- paggawa sa nasabing kuran. Ayon naman sa mga sistemado. Ayon na rin sa tradisyon at mga tikong pagaaral arkeolojikal ng datos pangkasaysayan, ang mga mga artifact, may mga nahukay sinaunang bayan-bayan at lugar na mga klase ng kuran, banga, dito sa Pilipinas ay mga naging balanga at tapayan sa ibat-ibang sentro ng produksyon o gawaan. lugar ng Pampanga at karatig Sa Kapampangan halimbawa, lalaw igan ang nakuha ng mga ang isa pang may ebidensya ng arkeologo. Pangunahin sa mga lumang pamagkuran ay makiki- ito ay ang mga site ng Porac, ta sa magkatabing bar yong Ca- Lubao, Candaba, Guagua at magpalangan ng Apalit at Gatbuca ng ing sa hangganan ng Samal at Calumpit. Dito makikita ang ma- Orani ng Bataan. Ang mga lugar tandang tradisyong pamamipi o na nabanggit partikular na ang paddle and anvil method ng pag- mga nasa Porac at Lubao ay naggawa. Ito ay ginagamitan ng mga bibigay ng magandang lalim ng simple pero mainam na kasang- kasaysayan ng pagsisimula ng kapan ng paggawa ng ibat-ibang kabihasang kakurangan. Karamikakuarangan tulad ng kuran (rice han sa mga ito ay galing sa mga pot), banga (viand pot), balanga panahong ika-13 hanggang ika-16 (water pot), gusi at tapayan. Ito siglo. May mga sampol din ng mga ay hindi ginagamitan ng torno o basag na kuran na nakitang nagikutan para sa paghulma katulad amit noong pre-2300 na katanda ng sa kasalukuyang paggawa sa sa Porac, panahon bago nangyari maraming lugar sa bansa. Ilan sa ang isa sa maraming y ugto ng mga pangunahing kasangkapan pagputok ng Bundok Pinatubo. Ang matandang tradisyong ito ay ang pamipi at batu, pamuli, aglilik, at pangay us. Ang pamipi ay ng pamagkuran ay huling nakita yari sa kahoy na siyang pampalo sa mga bayan-bayan ng Porac, sa baul (unang y ugto ng hinuhul- Mabalacat, Mexico, Bacolor at marami dito ay nakarating sa iba pang lugar sa labas ng Pampanga tulad ng sa mga bayan ng Victoria at Capas ng Tarlac, at San Isidro ng Nueva Ecija na magpasahang- “Sa kasalukuyan, ang lumilitaw na sentro ng produksyon ay makikita sa maraming baryo ng bayang Sto.Tomas, Pampanga. Ibat-ibang uri ng obrang pamagkuran ang dito ay makikita mula sa pinakakaraniwang kuran o palayok, mga ibatibang uri ng tapayan, balanga, banga at paso Magbalawe ang makitang dito ay ginagawa.” gang ngayon ay patuloy pa rin ginagawa ng mangilang-ngilang pamilya. Sa kasalukuyan, ang lumilitaw na sentro ng produksyon ay makikita sa maraming bar yo ng bayang Sto.Tomas, Pampanga. Ibat-ibang uri ng obrang pamagkuran ang dito ay makikita mula sa pinakakaraniwang kuran o palayok, mga ibat-ibang uri ng tapayan, balanga, banga at paso ang makitang dito ay ginagawa. Marami sa mga ito ay hindi lang sa mga lokal na palengke nakakarating, kundi ito ay abot ang maraming pamilihan sa ibayong dagat. Kaya naman maraming ibat-ibang bersyon ng mga tapayan, gusi at paso na may mga modernong pagkakayari ang dito ngayon makikita. Yun nga lang, ang dating gamit ng mga ito ay hindi na tulad ng dikta ng pangangaylangan ng palengke. Marami sa mga kuran ngayon ay ginagamit na bilang pandekorasyon sa hardin, sa mga bakod o basagan ng palayok tuw ing may okasyong pambayan o pangbertdey.• FEBRUARY 23, 2015 • Headline Gitnang Luzon Ang pagiging manunulat N ABUO ang araw ko kahapon nang dahil sa isang “text message” na natanggap ko kagabi mula sa aking patnugot. Nalaman ko at nakumpirma ko mula sa kaniyang mga mensahe sa akin ang katotohanan na maliban sa kaniya (at marahil ay ilan pang mga kasamahan sa pahayagang ito na pinagsusulatan ko ng aking mga artikulo para sa aking kolum) ay may ilan pa rin naman palang nagkakamaling bumasa ng ak- ABEL SOTO ing mga isinusulat. Nakakawala ng pagod, at kahit paano’y nakakataba ng puso, kahit pa aaminin ko na dumating ang pagtitiyak na ito sa isang kaparaanang hindi kaayaaya (subalit nakatutuwa at nakatatawa pa rin naman). Masaya na rin ang pakiramdam ng isang manunulat kapag natiyak niya na may kahit isa lamang na mambabasa ang pumapansin sa kaniyang mga isinulat. Ano ngayon ang maaari kong maging reaksiyon sa isang reaksiyon ng isang madamdaming mambabasa (natitiyak kong hindi siya isang regular na mambabasa ng aking kolum at natitiyak ko rin na hindi niya pipiliing maging isang regular na mambabasa ng aking kolum sa pahayagang ito)? Salamat at naglaan siya ng panahon na basahin ang aking kolum (ang hindi ko lamang ti- yak ay kung binasa ba niya ang kabuoan ng artikulo kong ito na nailimbag noong ika-18 ng buwang ito, at kung naunawaan ba niya ang konteksto at ang tunay na diwa ng ninais kong ihayag sa artikulo kong ito). Nagalit ba ako sa kaniya? Towards the Light niya, at naka-tiyempo rin siya ng isang manunulat na kagaya ko. Matagal ko na namang tinanggap ang katotohanan na bilang manunulat, magiging bukas ang iyong mga sulatin, maging ang iyong pagkatao, sa iba’t ibang mga kritisismo at pagtuligsa, ganoon “Matagal ko na namang tinanggap ang katotohanan na bilang manunulat, magiging bukas ang iyong mga sulatin, maging ang iyong pagkatao, sa iba’t ibang mga kritisismo at pagtuligsa, ganoon din sa mga posibleng mga papuri.” Nainis ba ako sa mambabasang ito? Buong katapatan, katotohanan, at sinseridad na ihahayag ko na hindi ako nagalit o nainis sa kaniya. At hindi ko nga alam kung bakit. Ang sumagi lamang sa aking isipan pagkatapos kong basahin ang mensahe ng aking patnugot hinggil sa reaksiyong ito ng isang mambabasa ay ang isang matandang kasabihan sa Ingles, “The truth hurts”. Kaya siguro hindi tumagos ang kaniyang reaksiyon sa aking kaibuturan, at kaya rin marahil naging ganoon na lamang ang kaniyang naging reaksiyon sa aking artikulo noong Pebrero 18. May kani-kaniya naman talagang opinyon ang tao sa iba’t ibang mga bagay o usapin. May iba’t ibang uri din ng mga manunulat at iba’t ibang uri rin ng mga mambabasa. Nagkataon lamang marahil na naka-tiyempo ako ng mambabasang katulad din sa mga posibleng mga papuri. Matagal ko na rin niyakap ang kabatiran bilang isang manunulat na hindi lahat ng mga mambabasa at makababasa ng iyong mga isinulat at mga akda ay makauunawa ng lubos at ng may matalinong kabatiran, pag-unawa, at pagsusuri sa iyong mga isinulat. Matagal ko na ring nilunok ang mapait na sangkap ng pagiging isang manunulat na may ilan sa mga makababasa ng iyong mga isinulat at mga akda na sadyang hanggang doon na lamang ang makakayang abutin at arukin ng kanilang pang-unawa at kabatiran sa iyong mga isinulat. May hangganan din naman kasi ang kakayahan ng utak/isip sa mga kaya nitong gawin… kasama na rito ang gawain ng matalinong pag-unawa. Bahagi na ito ng isang makulay na buhay ng pagiging isang manunulat, maging ito man ay sa pang-araw-araw na pahayatowards the light... Page 7 Candaba on the go A NOTHER set of groundbreaking ceremonies were recently held in Candaba town in Pampanga, this time for the upgrading of the portion of the Candaba-Baliwag (Bulacan) road, the renovation of the town’s public market and the construction of additional classrooms of a certain public high school. It seems that development of major infrastructures in the said town is on the rise, with different projects mushrooming for Canda- province of Pampanga but in Metro Manila and also in other provinces. While being agro-fishery based, it lacks farm-to-market roads and better road networks that can give access to other provinces such as Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. There are however earth roads but are rendered impassable especially during the rainy season. The town is one of the low-lying areas in the province, thus accessible road galog regions. The latter are those which are nearer to the town of Baliwag, hence the Tagalog-speaking residents. Upon his assumption into office, Mayor Maglanque aspired for the giving of more access and road interconnection of barangays of the town through the construction of more concrete roads and the upgrading of existing road networks. Among his other priorities in his 10-point agenda is the promotion of business and trade in his town. The improvement of roads redounds to the improvement of business atmosphere where investors are given the access and convenience of providing goods and services for the people of Candaba. He plans to put up a business hub in a barangay leading to the central poblacion, an area where it is not usually flooded during the rainy season. The place can be a show window too for the Candaba as a commercial town aside from its being agricultural fishing municipality. On education, he prioritizes the construction of additional classrooms for the growing number of schoolchildren every year. It can be observed that many schools in the town still comprise of the Gabaldon-type classrooms and their construction date back even before the war. With his stewardship, he is bent on the construction of more mod- “Slowly but steadily, the town is morphing into an ideal countryside town where farm produce are aplenty and there are more accessible roads.” As of this beños. This is aside from the fact that the town is basically agricultural, with the abundance of rice farmlands and fishponds. Candaba town is located at the eastern portion of the province, with boundaries adjacent to the provinces of Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. It is known for its swampy areas, thus the place Candaba Swamp. It has its marshland where migratory birds come during the onset of winter in other countries in Asia. It’s a favorite place not just of birds but also of bird watchers. Aside from rice farmlands, it has its plantations of watermelons and cantaloupes of different varieties that are sold not only in the writing networks are very Alvin H. Arceo necessary for the lives of Candabeños during the wet season. With the effort of the municipal government, under the leadership of Mayor Rene Maglanque, Candaba now is being transformed into an agriculture hub because of the construction of road networks and its public market. Slowly but steadily, the town is morphing into an ideal countryside town where farm produce are aplenty and there are more accessible roads. It can be noted that Candaba town is composed of the Poblacion area, the Kapampangan and the Ta- as of this writing.. Page 7 OPINION 5 Parnasong Kapampangan Neng Capa M. Pangan ABIAS “Dispu”, nganing bosis Malino dindam ku tukuran ning eran, Nung nu’ ing lagyu na Ning abe ku bale yang keta na ausan; “Ninu yan?” ngana ning Anting pekibat ku king migpaindispung yan, Kagnan ning dapal kung Tinikdo at layun tinando king awang; “Aku pu y Tektek, A bunsung anak nang kumara yung Kobang, Papanamdam ya pung Itin mi ima ku kang dara kung Minyang” King agiang balu kung Atlu nang gatang ing abias mi king tukung,, Binie ku ngan kaya, Ketang oras a ita balang ating itun; Uling aisip ku, King bili rang itang ume nang dalumdum, Nung atin lang pera, Baket e la pamo minta kang Mang Anung? Inia makanian kung Inari king lub ing antiting kongklusyun, King ila ala nong’ Aliwang pikuanan nu’la man lumuyun! Paniatang nang ibat King palengking misis, ing agad nang kitang: “Tinun na ka, abe? Sanduk na ka” ngana, “magdala kung ulam”; “Ali ku pa” ngaku, “Kase ala ta’nang abias a mitagan”; “Nano?” ngana niting Mituklip a kile, mengulurut kanuan, “E wari keng tukung Atin pang sobra kung menese paugtuan?” “Wa” ngaku, “atin pa Dapot nandin ating dinatang menandam” At kaibat antini King malumeme at banayad a sabi, King mal kung asawa Inisplika ku nung nanu ing miliari; “King agiang ya kabud Abias ta’ king tukung peparam ku iti Uling agiang kenu Kata manutang ken dinan dakang pilmi; Pero king bili ra, Uli ning ala lang panaratus deti, Ninu mo pin kaya Ing pautang karen a magtinda keti?” • “Big jobs usually go to the men who prove their ability to outgrow small ones.” Theodore Roosevelt Be heard! Send us your comments & opinions mail US: 2nd Floor, U2 Building, Dolores, McArthur, Hi-way, City of San Fernando, Pampanga EMAIL US: [email protected] 6 ENTERTAINMENT Headline Gitnang Luzon • FEBRUARY 23, 2015 PcsO LOTTO RESULTS Lotto Game Superlotto 6/49 6Digit Swertres Lotto 11AM Swertres Lotto 4PM Swertres Lotto 9PM EZ2 Lotto 9PM Lotto 6/42 EZ2 Lotto 11AM EZ2 Lotto 4PM AS of February 19, 2015 Combinations Draw Date JackpotWinners 01-39-49-35-03-10 2/19/2015 16,000,000.00 0 9-0-9-6-5-7 2/19/2015358,756.90 0 3-0-9 2/19/2015 4,500.00 882 8-6-8 2/19/2015 4,500.00 265 3-7-5 2/19/2015 4,500.00 993 08-06 2/19/2015 4,000.00 501 09-15-23-13-42-25 2/19/2015 20,133,564.00 0 28-12 2/19/2015 4,000.00 91 31-12 2/19/2015 4,000.00 48 Former lovers nga ba sina Jennylyn Mercado, Julian Trono at Bianca Umali? tinilian sa kanyang Skydome concert F P AREHONG nasa limelight ngayon ang dating pinagtatambal ng GMA 7 na sina Julian Trono at Bianca Umali. Si Bianca ay nasa ilang shows ng GMA 7 katambal si Miguel Tanfelix at si Julian naman is very busy sa kanyang K-Pop career. Natanong namin si Bianca about Julian’s success sa kanyang K-Pop adventures at ayon sa kanya ay masaya siya about Julian’s success. “Siyempre, I’m very happy for him po kasi matagal ko na siyang friend since our ‘Tropang Potchi’ days pa,” sabi niya. “Pero hindi po talaga naging kami, gaya ng gustong palabasin ng ibang tao. Magkaibigan lang talaga kami. Hindi po ako ready magkipagboyfriend kasi sobrang bata ko pa. Puro trabaho lang ako, taping ‘Once Upon a Kiss’ and ‘Ismol Family’.” So far maganda rin ang naging sagot ni Julian nang siya naman ang tinanong about Bianca’s partnership with Miguel Tanfelix. “Pareho ko silang kaibigan kaya proud ako sa tagumpay ng show nila,” he says. “Wala naman kami talagang relasyon ni Bianca kaya walang dapat ikabahala ang fans ng love team nila. Lately nga, halos hindi na kami nagkikita dahil sa trabaho, lalo na’t I went julian trono bianca umali abroad for a while. Ni hindi nga kami nakakapag-text at all sa isa’t isa.” It’s said they broke up to give way to the Biguel love team. “Paano naman kami magbe-break? E, never po talaga naging kami. At this point na may kakaibang opportunity na ibinibigay sa akin ang GMA to develop my talent as a singer and dancer, trabaho muna ang focus ko. Dito ko gusto magseryoso.” At 17, Julian is on the threshold of an international career. He just returned from Seoul, Korea where he trained in their K-pop style of singing and dancing. He was a guest in the popular program, “Show Champion”, at a top network there, MBC. “It was a great experience kasi nabigyan ako ng chance to interact and learn mula sa iba’t ibang local groups doon. I train for six hours a day nang singing and dancing. Ni hindi nga ako nakapasyal kasi hotel at rehearsals lang ako everyday. Isa pa, winter sa kanila at sobrang lamig sa labas. Nag-shoot din ako ng music video roon at nakilala ko ang ilang performing students sa kanilang Kimpo College, a famous international education center in Korea. Naging guest din ako in Arirang’s ‘Korea Today’, a morning magazine news program sa Korea, and was interviewed on TV Chosum at sa ilang print media. Talagang it’s a great experience for me.” He recorded a single there, “Wiki Me”, which had a worldwide release on Valentine’s Day. “Pagkatapos kong mag-perform sa ‘Show Champion’, excited ako ngayon sa launching ng ‘Wiki Me’ on ‘Sunday All Stars’ and to perform all the dance moves na natutuhan ko sa Korea,” says Julian. “Feeling ko kasi, kung nakapag-perform ako roon at naimpress ko yung audiences doon, dapat magawa ko rin yun dito.”• makasal sila. Sina Toni at Yeng ay kapwa 30 taong gulang na samantalang si Nikki ay nasa late 20s na rin. Nangangahulugang matibay rin ang relasyon nila sa kanilang napiling mapapangasawa at malaki ang posibilidad na “they will live happily ever after.” Umani na ng masigabong paghanga ang relasyon ni Toni kay direk Paul Soriano na umabot ng 7½ years ng paghihintay bago siya naging handa para maging Mrs. Celestine Soriano. Sa Taytay (Rizal), lugar ni Toni sila ikakasal. Actually, humirit pa nga si Toni ng isang pelikula with Coco Martin at tatapusin daw niya ito before her big day. Buti na lang at excited din si Coco dahil matagal na rin daw niyang pangarap na maging leading lady ito. Big hit ang team up ni Toni kay Piolo Pascual sa “Starting Over Again.” “Mataas din ang rating ng combination nila ni John Lloyd Cruz sa “Home Sweetie Home.” Actually, ganito rin ang nangyari sa pelikulang gagawin ni Coco with his amazing BFF na si Vice Ganda. “Minsang nag-usap kami, nabanggit na puwede rin kaming magsama para makabuo ng isang kakaibang pelikula,” patuloy ni Coco. “Nang i-present niya sa ABS management, agad, pumayag. Tulad namin ni Vice, kinilig din sila.”• Virgin brides, ikakasal na H INDI lang si Toni Gonzaga ang “Virgin Bride” celebrity na ikakasal sa taong ito, kundi sina Yeng Constantino at Nikki Gil. Pare-pareho sila ng relihiyon at isinasapuso nila ang paghihintay ng tamang panahon para i-surrender ang kanilang virginity hanggang sa Yeng constantino & victor asuncion UNNY, entertaining at relatable ang sold-out pre-Valentine concert ni Jennylyn Mercado held last Feb. 13 sa SM Skydome. Kakaiba ang concept na take-off sa hit movie nila ni Derek Ramsay na “English Only, Please” kaya all throughout ay in character siya as Tere Madlansakay na pangalan ng karakter niya sa nasabing Metro Manila Film Festival 2014 movie. Ang daming naka-relate sa mga monologue ni Jen tungkol sa pagiging tanga sa pag-ibig ng mga babae. Bale ba ay guests pa ang mga ex-boyfriend ng aktres na sina Mark Herras at Dennis Trillo kaya swak na swak talaga sa mga dialogue ng aktres. Panalo ang script ni Antoinette Jadaone na siya ring sumulat ng EOP. Nakakatuwa naman dahil buhay na buhay pa rin ang Mark-Jennylyn fans dahil nang sumayaw ang aktor, ang lakas ng tilian sa audience. In fairness to Mark, hindi pa rin kumukupas ang husay niya sa pagsasayaw na naging dahilan para bansagan siyang Bad Boy of the Dance Floor. Parang bitin nga dahil isang sayaw lang siya at konting dialogue with Jen and exit na siya. Pero ang lakas din ng tilian ng fans kay Jen and Dennis. Nag-duet sila ng After All at may kilig pa rin sila, sa totoo lang. Sa last part ng kanta ay hinawakan ng aktor ang kamay ng ex-girlfriend at halos mabingi kami sa sigawan ng mga tao. Ewan pero at that moment, parang feeling namin, love pa nina Jen at Dennis ang isa’t isa at halata ito sa kanilang tinginan. Actually, parang nahihiya nga silang tumingin sa isa’t isa. Sa spiel ni Dennis ay sinabi niyang happy siya sa lahat ng success ni Jen ngayon at wish niyang mas marami pang tagumpay ang makamit nito. Kwela ang Karaoke medley ni Jen kung saan ay ang kinanta niya ang OPM songs na Pusong Bato, Halik, Gayuma, Ulan, Buko at Sabihin Mo Kung Anong Gusto Mo. In between songs ay may spiel siya tungkol sa pag-ibig na makaka-relate talaga ang kahit sino’ng nagmamahal. Marami naman ang nagalingan sa theater actor/comedian na si Jerald Napoles na isa rin sa guests at nakasama rin ni Jen sa English Only, Please. May monologue siya na super nakakaaliw talaga pati na ang kanyang song number. Finale si Derek na may dala-dala pang malaking teddy bear kay Jen bilang Valentine gift. In character din ang aktor bilang Julian Park na role niya sa EOP. Mahigit sa 25 songs ang kinanta ni Jen sa concert at naka-limang sexy outfit change siya. Sold out ang Skydome at ang dami pang hindi nakarating dahil sa traffic. Dahil sa success ng show na idinirihe ni Calvin Neria at musical director naman si Louie Ocampo, plano nila itong iikot sa mga probinsiya. By the way, nagpapasalamat ang producers na sina Becky Aguila, Edgar Mangahas at Atty. Joji Alonzo sa sponsors na napakalaki ng naitulong sa concert namely: Tanduay, Belo Medical Group, F/X, CDO and ZH&K Mobile.• FEBRUARY 23, 2015 • Headline Gitnang Luzon scavengers... from Page 1 towards the light... from Page 5 The governor said scavengers play a lead role in the provincial waste management program, in line with her administration’s advocacy in making Pampanga as one of the most beautiful, clean and environment-friendly provinces in the country. With this view in mind, the governor said the scavengers and their families, through an ordinance to be passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, will be provided with HELP Packages. The provision of HELP packages for the scavengers and their families was announced during the pre-birthday celebration of Governor Pineda, who opted to be with the 1,010 scavengers gathered inside the Pineda Sports Complex in Concepcion, this town over the week. She said the scavengers, who will help in the segregation of waste in their respective material recovery facilities (MRFs), will be compensated. Their children will likewise receive educational financial assistance and they will be given free Philhealth cards through the Point of Care (POC) Program of the Capitol. As part of the HELP package, Governor Pineda and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Dennis Pineda is working for the upgrading of their status in the community through the provision of proper Identification Cards, T-Shirts and pocket calendars with signature of the governor for their recognition and personal identification. She said the pocket calendar will also serve as a Philhealth Card for the use of the scavengers and their families. To push through with the educational program, the governor is now requesting the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to include in their ordinance the provision of scholarship programs for the children of scavengers up to college regardless of academic standing. This is also in line with the expression of personal appreciation of Governor Pineda to the members of Pampanga Junkshop Federation and Mangangalakal ng Pampanga, among others, on their contribution to help their respective municipalities and cities in proper waste segregation. The provincial government also distributed food packs and a cash gifts to the scavengers.• the spirits of Mabalaquenos who were hard hit by natural calamities such as the Mount Pinatubo eruptions and the pull-out of US forces at the former Clark Air Base. Aside from Morales, the festival was supported by Mabalacat City Water District, the Sangguniang Panglunsod, the Mabalacat Performing Arts, Department of Education, local schools and colleges, Ma- balacat Traffic Enforcement Group, DPWH, transport groups, local PNP and business enterprises. The festival is named after the first chieftain of Mabalacat called “Garagan” an Aeta married to a Mabalaquena named Laureana Tolentino. The ethnic Aeta group lorded it over Mabalacat before they dwindled in population as modernization set in. • robbery with homicide issued last December. Before the encounter, his whereabouts were unknown until a series of intelligence reports were gathered pinpointing his exact location. Badillo was accompanied by one Jessie Romero, also known by his aliases Jessie Mallari or Jessie Dela Peña. Both were reportedly members of a crime group involved in robbery/holdup and carnapping activities in this city and nearby mu- nicipalities. Scene of the Crime Operatives recovered two firearms from the suspects, along with a motorcycle which was later found out to be stolen from an Indian national residing in Mexico. Duldulao has issued a warning to other criminal elements in the city that “their days are numbered” since the police forces of San Fernando and Pampanga are bent on apprehending any and all law breakers.• Uclaray. The two other suspects managed to escape and are now the subject of a police manhunt. Recovered from the crime scene were the following pieces of evidence: one caliber .45 PT 1911 Taurus pistol with serial number NDP0517 owned by PFC Hidalgo; one UZI machine pistol with serial number S91027702 with long magazine loaded with live ammunition of caliber 9mm; 20 pieces fired cartridges from M16 rifle; one piece live ammunition from M16 rifle; one fired cartridge from caliber 9mm and the Delica van get-away vehicle. (PNA)• caragan... from Page 1 habitants of the area,” Magbalot said. The Caragan Festival is held every 4th week of February as part of the month-long celebration of the city fiesta. “Again we will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the vibrant city,” according to Mabalacat City Mayor Marino “Boking” Morales. Morales initiated the festival during rebuilding efforts to lift up csf shootout... from Page 1 serve a warrant of arrest against one of the suspects identified as Francis Badillo, a resident of Acli Resettlement in nearby town of Mexico. According to Supt. Rechie Duldulao, CSF police chief, Badillio and his companion refused to cooperate and started firing on her men, which ultimately led to the armed encounter resulting to the death of both suspects. It was learned that Badillo had an outstanding warrant of arrest for robbery... from Page 2 ducted a hot pursuit operation against the holdup men, who were also believed to be members of a gun for hire group. Divina said the joint team caught up with the fleeing suspects who opened fire at the pursuing lawmen. He said a running gun battle ensued that resulted in the death of irrigation project... from Page 2 Shierwin Taay, executive director of the National Youth Commission (NYC) who hails from this town, said appropriate remedies such as a legal action should be taken against Roxas. He said the Roxas property is also locked up in a dispute with the provincial government over a provincial road which has allegedly encroached on his land, part of the sprawling estate covering several thousands of the musical... from Page 7 hectares which Roxas is eyeing to develop into a master planned industrial complex called the Pacific Coast City. He said the provincial and municipal governments have already talked with Roxas and his representative but to no avail. “I think that the provincial government should now take legal action. The government can have the property expropriated,” he said. (PNA)• 2 the lead of “Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical”. The role calls for females with the following criteria: 1) Between 16 to 20 years of age; 2) Exceptional talent for singing and acting and can speak Filipino fluently; and must have 3) Pleasing personality and good moral character. The open auditions will be held at The Plaza in Newport Mall on February 28 and March 1, 2015 and is open to both amateur and professional artists. The upcoming musical will mark the first time a contemporary drama has crossed over mainstream Filipino media. From print, cinema, television, and now on stage, “Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musi- cal” promises to shine anew under the bright lights of RWM’s award winning Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) with veteran director Freddie Santos at the helm. For more information about RWM shows and events visit www.rwmanila.com or contact the Tourist/Visitor Hotline at (632) 908-8833.• Want to broaden your business horizon? LET US HELP YOU! gan, o maging ito ay sa isang aklat o ano pa mang uri ng mga nailathala/nailimbag at naisa-publikong akda o sulatin. At bilang isang manunulat sa isang mahusay, matino, at mabuting pahayagang kagaya ng pahayagang ito, kailangan kong mabuhay sa mga katotohanang ito at tanggapin ng buong puso ang bahaging ito ng aking isang makulay na buhay sa mundo ng pamamahayag. Batid ko naman na hindi lamang ako ito… ang aking pagiging manunulat. Marami pa ang tungkol sa akin at ang tungkol sa kung sino ako na hindi naman saklaw ng aking pagiging manunulat lamang sa larangan ng pamamahayag, at na hindi rin kayang lagumin ang kabuoan ng aking buong pagkatao sa limitadong saklaw lamang na aking mga artikulo sa pahayagang ito…kung kaya’t hindi ko rin dapat husgahan ang kalidad at uri ng pagkatao mayroon itong isang mambabasa na tumawag sa akin ng “mayabang”, “mababaw ang pagkatao”, “walang modo”, at “walang pinag-aralan”, sapagkat batid ko rin naman na hindi ko maaaring ikulong at lagumin ang kabuoan ng kaniyang pagkatao sa mga tuligsa niyang ito sa aking pagkatao at sa isa sa aking mga artikulo sa kolum kong ito. Masyado nga naman akong magiging mababaw kung huhusgahan ko ang kaniyang pagkatao, kakayahan, at katalinuhan nang dahil lamang sa mga inihayag niyang ito tungkol sa aking pagkatao at sa aking artikulo. Hindi ko rin naman dapat na bigyan ng pagtitiyak ang lahat ng kaniyang mga paratang sa aking pagkatao sa pamamagitan ng mga pagsalungat sa kaniyang mga opinyon hinggil sa aking pagkatao at sa aking artikulo noong Pebrero 18. Sapat na ang nalaman ko na nakaya niyang basahin ang artikulo kong ito sa kabila ng hindi siya sang-ayon sa mga inihayag ko rito. Ganoon naman talaga sa isang demokratikong lipunan. “To each his own” ika ng isa pang kasabihan sa Ingles. Sa huling sandali ng aking pagmumuni sa pangyayaring ito sa aking pagiging manunulat, naalala ko ang isang kuwento na gustong-gustong ikuwento ng mahusay at premyadong manunulat at direktor na si Bibeth Orteza. Heto ang kuwentong iyon: “Minsan, habang may panayam ang Diyos sa mga taong yumao na at nasa pintuan na ng Kaniyang Kaharian, ay tinanong niya isa-isa ang mga ito kung ano ang kanilang naging propesyon/ hanapbuhay/bokasyon noong sila pa ay nasa lupa. May isang nagsabi na siya ay isang pari, at kinamayan niya nang nakangiti at nagpasalamat Siya rito. May isang nagsabi na isa siyang Inhinyero Sibil, at tinapik niya ito sa balikat at masaya rin siyang nagpasalamat rito. Hanggang sa dumating siya sa isang yumao na umiiyak bago pa man maitanong ng Diyos sa kaniya kung ano ang kaniyang naging hanapbuhay noong siya ay nabubuhay pa sa lupa. Kung kaya’t bago itanong ng Diyos sa taong umiiyak kung ano ang kaniyang naging hanapbuhay sa lupa, tinanong muna niya ito kung bakit siya umiiyak. At ito ang naging sagot ng taong ito: AKO PO KASI AY ISANG MANUNULAT NOONG AKO AY NABUBUHAY PA SA LUPA. At hindi na naka-imik pa ang Diyos at niyakap na lamang niya itong tumatangis na yumaong manunulat at umiyak Siyang kasama niya.”• as of this writing... from Page 5 ern classrooms that will benefit incoming generation of students of his town. A couple of years ago, Mayor Maglanque has decided to shelve the Ibon-Ebon Festival, an annual street merriment and festivities in recognition for the town’s egg industry and the influx of migratory birds. The festival, although it has put the town in the tourism map of the country, has been set aside with the funds supposed to be allotted for it diverted for the education program of the municipal government. This writer welcomes other views, comments, and reactions. You may send your message at 0919-5107665.• CALL US : (045)435-0938 • 436-1576 EMAIL US : [email protected] VISIT US : 2nd Floor , U2 Bldg., MacArthur Hiway, Dolores, City of San Fernando (P) SPECIAL FEATURE VOLUME III • NO. 170 • FEBRUARY 23, 2015 • MONDAY Pelco I holds 33rd Annual General Membership Assembly A pose for posterity with VP Jejomar Binay . text & photos dencio pacheco L AST February 15, 2015, the Pampanga I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Pelco I) has conducted its 32nd Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) at its main office in Barangay Sto. Domingo, Mexico town, and in other venues in the towns of Arayat, Magalang, San Luis. The said annual event is one of the major activities of the electric cooperative where its management renders reports of its accomplishments on technical, financial and institutional aspects and audit programs to its consumers. Also reported to the consuming public were the different plans for activities and upcoming programs and projects for the welfare of its member-consumers. For this year’s assembly, none other than Hon. Jejomar C. Binay, the Vice President of the Republic, was made guest of honor and speaker. In his message, he acknowledged the role of electric cooperatives in the development and growth of communities. He likewise expressed his profuse gratitude for being invited to take part in the activity that was conducted for Pelco I member-consumers. Zambales Congresswoman Mitos Magsaysay also attended the activity along with other local officials in the municipalities of Pampanga that are within the coverage area of PELCO I. Meanwhile, member-consumers were likewise thankful for the opportunity given to them to know the status of the electric cooperative and its different programs for the improvement of its services for the welfare of consumers. “Dahil po sa AGMA, kami po ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na malaman ang kasalukuyang katayuan ng aming kooperatiba,” said a consumer from Candaba. Coinciding with the activity is the oathtaking of the newly elected Board of Directors of Pelco I namely: Myrna Calma for Arayat; Nestor Salac for Candaba, Ofelia Quizon for Mexico and Estrellita Gulapa for Sta. Ana town. Engr. Loliano Allas, Pelco I General Manager, took the opportunity to thank all the member-consumers of the said power distribution firm for their untiring support to the electric cooperative as well as to its programs, projects and activities. He also vowed for the furtherance of the continuing improvement on the services of Pelco I for the benefit of the public. Part of the program was the raffle draws that were held wherein six (6) tricycles, LED television sets, refrigerators, washing machines and other appliances were given away to lucky consumers. ● PELCO I consumers register for the 33rd AGMA via computerized registration. The arrival of the Hon. Jejomar C. Binay, Vice President of the Republic . Vice-President Jejomar Binay imparts a message to the member-consumers of Pelco I . Engr. Roy De Leon reports Pelco I’s institutional programs, plans and accomplishments to the member-consumers. A lucky PELCO I member-consumer wins a washing machine . A plaque of appreciation was given to VP Jejomar Binay by the Pelco I Board and Management. Thousands of member-consumers attend the AGMA. Mexico Mayor Roy Manalastas greets Pelco I member-consumers.
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