Angeles City News April 2012 (2024)

Angeles City awarded best LGU on mayor’s permits issuance

• Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/angeles-city-awarded-best-lgu-on-mayors-permits-issuance-2
• Monday, April 30, 2012

By clarkphilippines.com

ANGELES CITY – The city was awarded by the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Incorporated (CLGCFI) as the region’s Best LGU for its excellent implementation of the streamlined procedure on the issuance of mayor’s permits.“This is a clear indication that our city is really serious in providing fast, accountable and transparent public service, and this award is a manifestation of our efforts,” Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said during the 6th Recognition of Outstanding Local Government Units (LGU) Implementing the Streamlining Program in Mayor’s Permit Issuance held Wednesday at the Fontana Leisure Park, Clark Freeport Zone.Angeles City emerged as the sole recipient of the award in the highly urbanized city category. The city was also nominated for the Best One-Stop-Shop (BOSS) in Central Luzon.This award recognizes cities that provide simple, effective, transparent and fast delivery of services to investors and business applicants. Such initiative makes transactions with the City of San Fernando more customer-friendly, thus elevating the level of competitiveness of Central Luzon as an investment destination.“With this recognition, we can say that we are fostering significant growth in Angeles City because we are making applications and transactions for business permits and licenses faster in our city.” Pamintuan said.Pamintuan attributes this award to the city’s compliance to the provisions of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of re-engineering the business processes and transactions through computerization.“This recognition will surely earn the trust of our constituents and prospected investors. We will generate greater income for the city in effect,” the mayor added.The city received a plaque of recognition and a P25,000 cash award.At present, Central Luzon is projected to have 100 percent compliance to the Streamlining Program.Angeles City is among the eight pioneer-LGUs complying with the program.The streamlining program is a flagship project of the CLGCFI, in cooperation with the DTI and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).DTI regional director and CLGCFI member Blesilda Lantayona said the annual recognition seeks to acknowledge the efforts of local chief executives and their Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) staff to eliminate red tape and reduce the cost of doing business in their respective municipalities and cities.Lantayona added that turn-around time, client feedback, internal monitoring system and organizational development served as the criteria in the selection of awardees.

Biggest BPO in Clark expands, to hire 900 more workers

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=531335665534
• Sunday, April 29, 2012

By William L. Beltran

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, April 29 (PIA) -- One of the biggest and pioneering business process outsourcing (BPO) firms inside this Freeport Zone is expanding again its operations following the continuing economic improvement in the United States, including the growing business climate in Clark as leading BPO sites in the country today.

Cyber City Teleservices, Inc. (CCTI) announced the need of about 900 BPO agents to boost the firms’ operations due on-going economic improvement being instituted by the US government in America.

CCTI is offering P18,000 salary for those who will qualify to become a call center agent, additional P4,000 for other company incentive, and P10,000 for those who will sign a regular contract with the BPO firm.

The salary compensation package is one of the most attractive package in Clark. At present, Cyber City has more than 1,500 workers, most of which are call center agents.

Applicants who are 18 and above with college degree, but not preferred, can apply for the various call center positions available in Cyber City.

CCTI is a holding company focused on a portfolio of BPO and contact center investments around the globe, with its majority investor being funds advised by Headland Capital Partners. Headland’s team began advising Asian private equity funds in 1989 and operated its business as HSBC Private Equity (Asia) Limited (HPEA) until 2010.

CCTI, founded in 1999, offer a wide range of call center outsourcing solutions with call center sites in Pampanga and Davao.

In 2010, Cyber City Teleservices Group merged with Interactive Response Technologies, Inc. Founded in 1993 as a software company for the Call Center Industry Interactive Response Technologies, Inc. has been operating contact centers since 1995 for a variety of Fortune 500 clients. Today, IRT operates 5 state-of-the-art contact centers in Florida, Texas and Oklahoma.

Cyber City provides its clients with dedicated, shared and hybrid call center outsourcing solutions that help drive world class customer relationships.

The BPO firm earned a reputation of unparalleled service and results by focusing their efforts on people as Cyber City is fully committed to delivering the desired outcomes for valued clients. (WLB/EVJ CDC-PRD)

Angeles City endorses Disneyland Clark bid

• Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/angeles-city-endorses-disneyland-clark-bid
• Saturday, April 28, 2012

By Rebecca Grace S. David

ANGELES CITY — The City Council has approved a resolution supporting and endorsing Pampanga Representative Carmelo Lazatin’s (1st district) invitation to Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to consider establishing Disneyland inside the Clark Freeport Zone.

The resolution, sponsored by councilors Will Rivera, Maricel Morales, Edu Pamintuan, Jericho Aguas, Alex Indiongco and Joseph Dimapilis, was unanimously approved during the council’s regular session last April 24.

Angeles City Hall of Justice to be renamed after former SC chief justice

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=541335158026
• Friday, April 27, 2012

By Rebecca Grace S. David

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 27 (PIA) -- The Angeles City Hall of Justice is set to be renamed as the Jose Abad Santos Hall of Justice.

Jose Abad Santos, a Kapampangan, became chief justice of the Supreme Court (SC) in 1941.

In the recently concluded Metro Angeles Council on the Administration of Justice (MACAJ) monthly meeting, Regional Trial Court (RTC) executive judge Omar Viola also revealed that the statue of Jose Abad Santos in front of the Museo ng Angeles will be transferred to the Hall of Justice grounds, in which the Abad Santos family has agreed.

Viola also said that it will only take an en banc resolution from the Supreme Court for the renaming to take effect.

The first official flag ceremony to be held at the Jose Abad Santos Hall of Justice will be on April 30, Monday. (CLJD/RGSD-PIA3)

Angeles City’s has improved its performance say DILG

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=551335405955
• Thursday, April 26, 2012

By Joelyn G. Baluyut

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga April 26 (PIA) -- Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 3 noted an improvement of Angeles City in its delivery of basic services to its people.

According to DILG, latest figures from the Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS) reveal that Angeles has acquired a final score of 4.88 out of 5 for the 2011 profile year. This score is .12 higher compared in 2010 when it got a 4.76 score.

The said increase was because of the local government’s programs in health care services, advocating numerous environmental protections, monthly conduct of the Sapang Balen clean-up drive, and the establishment of the city’s Renal Care Unit.

For his part, Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan disclosed that, “we will still strive to deliver the best services to our people despite what the city has already achieved.”

Pamintuan believes that through the management system, the city has acquired a higher level of cooperation of all of its program units particularly in delivering the “Contract with the Angeleños” commitments.

The Mayor also urged government officials, “to continue doing things that benefit our constituents and continue improving the implementation of these activities as well.”

The System is a self-assessment, management, and development tool that enables local governments— provinces, cities, and municipalities determine their state of performance and state of development, using governance and development indicators.

The program is spearheaded by the DILG. (CLJD/JGB - PIA 3)

DTI-3 bags CSC Seal of Excellence Award

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=561335272690
• Wednesday 25th of April 2012

By (WLB/CLJD-PIA 3)

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga April 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office 3 bagged the prestigious Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) after garnering a score of 95.08, the highest rating obtained by any government office to date.

DTI Central Luzon officials and employees headed by Regional director Blesila Lantayona personally received the plaque plus P75,000 cash reward from CSC Chairman Francisco Duque III and DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo in a simple ceremony held at the Board of Investments office in Makati city.

The DTI chief expressed his appreciation to DTI 3 “for projecting an image of professionalism, integrity and competence in government service at Central Luzon.”

Domingo hopes that other offices within his agency will be inspired with this feat and strive harder to achieve it as well.

“The Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award is conferred to central, regional, provincial, and field offices of national government agencies and local government units that have accumulated high marks in the report card survey (RCS) conducted by CSC as required by RA 9485 otherwise known as the Anti Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007,” Duque explained.

Surveyors interview 30 respondents that have availed of the frontline services of the office.

A systematic process is followed such that the respondents are interviewed over a three-day period wherein five clients interviewed in the morning and another five in the afternoon per day.

The major output of the RCS is an actual report card that summarizes the performance of the agency in the following areas: compliance with ARTA provisions, namely, having a Citizen’s Charter, Anti-Fixer Campaign, no hidden costs policy, public assistance and complaints desk; and no lunch break rule; frontline service provider; service quality; physical working condition; andclient satisfaction.

Offices who accumulate an average score of at least 90 points are given the merit.

Angeles City allots P83M for 2012 development projects

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=541335158406
• Tuesday 24th of April 2012

By Rebecca Grace S. David

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 24 (PIA) -- Various development projects to be implemented for 2012 in the city and funded by the 20 percent Development Fund will amount to P83 million.

Development Council of Angeles City secretariat head Engr. David D. David explained that concreting and constructing of roads takes the biggest expense.

Among the projects for concretization include Alim St. in Cutcut, Kundiman St. in Bagongbayan; Bagong Silang in Cutud; Dama de Noche and Cadena de Amor roads both in Margot; Timog Park and Cruz Avenue in Pulung Maragul; and F.A . Dizon St. in Tabun. All these cost P18 million.

Other community development projects slated for completion this year are the following: construction of various school buildings and classrooms - P13 million; relocation of Lourdes Sur East Day Care - P1 million; renovation of Capaya Barangay Hall - P1.3 million; improvement of the Virgen delos Remdios covered court - P2 million; construction of the two-storey Sto. Cristo Barangay Hall - P4 million; construction of Sta Teresita Barangay hall - P4 million; construction of Sapangbato Barangay Hall - P3 million; renovation of the waiting lounge and session hall of the Malabanias Barangay Hall - P2 million; completion of the Salapungan Barangay Hall - P1 million; renovation of the San Jose Barangay Hall - P1.5 million; construction of a greenhouse at the City Agriculture Office - P1 million; purchase of the lot as site of the San Nicolas Barangay Hall - P2 million; construction of Barangay Margot arko- P350,000; expansion of Pulungbulu Barangay Hall - P5 million; and purchase of seedlings for tree planting for P1 million.

Aside from these, P2 million was also allotted for livelihood projects and P8 million for land acquisition.

Moreover, drainage projects were also included in the workload. These include improvement of drainage along San Juan St. I Sto Domingo - P750,000; construction of drainage canals in Sapalibutad - P2.1 million; repair of drainage systems along Reyes, Claveria and Socrates St. in Sta Trinidad - P750,000; and the construction of open canal at Purok 6 in Capaya at P1.3 million. (CLJD/RGSD-PIA 3)

Angeles City allots P83M for 2012 development projects

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=541335158406
• Tuesday 24th of April 2012

By Rebecca Grace S. David

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 24 (PIA) -- Various development projects to be implemented for 2012 in the city and funded by the 20 percent Development Fund will amount to P83 million.

Development Council of Angeles City secretariat head Engr. David D. David explained that concreting and constructing of roads takes the biggest expense.

Among the projects for concretization include Alim St. in Cutcut, Kundiman St. in Bagongbayan; Bagong Silang in Cutud; Dama de Noche and Cadena de Amor roads both in Margot; Timog Park and Cruz Avenue in Pulung Maragul; and F.A . Dizon St. in Tabun. All these cost P18 million.

Other community development projects slated for completion this year are the following: construction of various school buildings and classrooms - P13 million; relocation of Lourdes Sur East Day Care - P1 million; renovation of Capaya Barangay Hall - P1.3 million; improvement of the Virgen delos Remdios covered court - P2 million; construction of the two-storey Sto. Cristo Barangay Hall - P4 million; construction of Sta Teresita Barangay hall - P4 million; construction of Sapangbato Barangay Hall - P3 million; renovation of the waiting lounge and session hall of the Malabanias Barangay Hall - P2 million; completion of the Salapungan Barangay Hall - P1 million; renovation of the San Jose Barangay Hall - P1.5 million; construction of a greenhouse at the City Agriculture Office - P1 million; purchase of the lot as site of the San Nicolas Barangay Hall - P2 million; construction of Barangay Margot arko- P350,000; expansion of Pulungbulu Barangay Hall - P5 million; and purchase of seedlings for tree planting for P1 million.

Aside from these, P2 million was also allotted for livelihood projects and P8 million for land acquisition.

Moreover, drainage projects were also included in the workload. These include improvement of drainage along San Juan St. I Sto Domingo - P750,000; construction of drainage canals in Sapalibutad - P2.1 million; repair of drainage systems along Reyes, Claveria and Socrates St. in Sta Trinidad - P750,000; and the construction of open canal at Purok 6 in Capaya at P1.3 million. (CLJD/RGSD-PIA 3)

City dads support establishment of Disneyland Clark

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=421397
• April 23, 2012, 8:52 pm

By (PNA)

DCT/LOR/zst/MDDR/ps

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 23 (PNA) -- Local officials here have expressed full support with the proposal establishment of Disneyland theme park within the confines of the Clark Freeport Zone.

City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan said the proposal of Pampanga First Rep. Carmelo "Tarzan" Lazatin is a “flourishing tourism feature with massive potentials.”

Pamintuan said the establishment of the world renowned theme park would be beneficial to contiguous local government units (LGUs) in the Metro-Clark area.

“A world class theme park like this in Central Luzon can generate hundreds or even thousands of jobs, and could be beneficial to several businesses surrounding the Clark area,” the mayor said.

He also said that a Disneyland Clark could attract investors from across the globe and could be highly favorable to tourism-oriented aspects in the region.

“We’ve been working hard to make Central Luzon as a tourism launch pad in the country, and this proposal by Congressman Lazatin keeps our hopes up,” he said.

The mayor admitted the fact that Central Luzon lacks an eye-catching major tourism site and the addition of this famous theme park brand could improve the region’s odds in attracting more tourists, businesses and investors.

Pamintuan, who is currently the Regional Development Council (RDC) committee chairman on tourism in Central Luzon, supports projects that would tap the great tourism potential of the region.

In line with this, the mayor has committed to solve the traffic woes in this city to make it a proper gateway for the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport and the proposed Disneyland Clark.

Earlier, a local advocacy group has described the Disneyland Clark project as “a splendid idea.”

The Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) said the group favors the establishment of a Clark Disneyland theme park.

“Congressman Lazatin should be congratulated for this initiative to level up the potentials of Clark,” PGKM chairman Ruperto Cruz said.

Exports in Clark in first two months up compared last year

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=531335069109
• Sunday 22nd of April 2012

By William L. Beltran

CLARK FREEPORT, Pmpanga, April 22 (PIA) -- Export volume inside this Freeport continues to be attractive as top exports show increase in number compared to the same period in January and February last year.

In the business updates from the Clark Development Corporation's (CDC) Marketing Department, the export volume in the first two months this year have already reached more than $594.2 million.

In the business update presented to Clark Development Corporation Chair and Officer-in-Charge Eduardo Oban Jr., on January this year, Korean firm held the number one position following export volume of more than $102.1 million of Phoenix Semiconductor Philippines Corp. (PSPC).

PSPC is also a semiconductor firm with more than $1 billion committed investments inside the Freeport zone.

While Nanox Philippines, Inc. placed second in the opening month of the year with more than $72.9 million exports volume of the Japanese firm.

But Nanox rebounded from being number two in the first month to number one in the month of February with more than $118 million exports on the various semiconductor products being manufactured the Japanese firm in Clark.

Korea’s PSPC fell to number two in February with $96 million exports volume.

Other notable firms with significant exports volume in the first two months of the year were Yokohama Tire Philippines, Inc. with total exports of $54.3 million export products ($12.8 in January with $25.5 export in February); Lhuen Thai Philippines (LNT) with more than $30.2 million exports volume ($13.6 million in January, $16.6 million in February); Hld Clark Steel Pipe Co. Inc. with $19.5 million exports in two month )$6.8 million in January and $1.7 in February; SMK with $12 million exports ($5.2 million in January and $7.2 in February this year).

Last year, the business update reports that export volume on January and February only reached $244.3 million ($111.3 million in January 2011, $133 million in February). (WLB/EVJ CDC/PIA 3)

Tourism office asked to support a Disneyland plan in Clark

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2012/04/21/tourism-office-asked-support-disneyland-plan-clark-217371
• Saturday, April 21, 2012

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY – Representative Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin (1st district, Pampanga) has sought the support of the Department of Tourism (DOT) for his plan to set up a Disneyland theme park inside the Clark Freeport.

“This endeavor, if successful, would bring in more visitors to the country and make the Philippines as one of the best, if not the best, tourist destinations in the world,” Lazatin said in his letter to DOT Secretary Ramon Jimenez.

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Lazatin was referring to his request to Walt Disney to consider Clark as the next destination of the world-famous entertainment site.

Lazatin said a Disneyland at Clark Freeport would help boost the number of visitors in the country and strengthen the tourism department’s campaign to increase government revenue through tourism.

Recently, Jimenez launched “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, the Aquino government’s new tourism slogan and program aimed at increasing the number of tourist arrivals in the country.

In his letter, Lazatin also informed Jimenez that he wrote Thomas Staggs, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts chairman, presenting Clark Freeport Zone as a viable location for a Disneyland theme park.

“In my letter, I informed the leadership of Walt Disney that Clark Freeport Zone is an ideal site for a Disneyland theme park with its 4,400 hectare main zone and 27,600-hectare subzone,” Lazatin said.

Lazatin informed the Walt Disney management that Clark can be an attractive destination for Disneyland theme park because of the tax-free privileges given to locators.

“In addition, I notified them that Clark Freeport Zone also has its own world-class airport and hotels which can accommodate the influx of foreign and local tourists,” Lazatin’s told Jimenez.

At present, Walt Disney has theme parks in Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Lazatin, at the same time, extended Jimenez his congratulations on the success and achievements the DOT has been reaping since taking the reins of the department.

“Allow me to congratulate you on the success and achievements that the Department of Tourism has been reaping under your leadership, especially the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign which has attracted millions of tourists to the Filipino since its inception,” Lazatin said.

6 firms to invest P43-M in Clark

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2012/04/20/6-firms-invest-p43-m-clark-217268
• Friday, April 20, 2012

By Reynaldo G. Navales

CLARK FREEPORT -- The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) disclosed that six firms are set to invest P43 million for their respective projects inside the Freeport.

The investment figure was based on the firms’ lease agreement with CDC approved on February this year.

In a report submitted to CDC Chair and Officer-In-Charge Eduardo Oban Jr., the CDC Marketing Department stated that close to 100 workers are expected to be hired by the six firms in the first year of their operations.

Among the investments signed last February were Pax Americana Food and Leisure Corporation with P30 million committed investment, and AdvantestPhilippines Inc. with P10 million in investment.

Other newly signed investments are MStudy I-Communication Inc., JIMEI International Travel Company Inc., Smile Make Over Dental Clinic, Transmodal International Inc., and Clark Dent Laboratory International Inc.

Pax Americana will establish a restaurant complex including other support amenities, while Adventest will put its sales technical service and support for Advantest group’s customers in the Philippines, including installation, training, warranty support, maintenance and repair, adhoc support of semiconductor test systems, electrical measuring instruments and related computer and software and other services.

The CDC recorded 36 investments since January 2012, including 17 newly leased agreements, signed in the first two months of 2012, pouring in P2.6 billion in the next five years. The projects are expected to generate 433 job opportunities for Clark.

NGOs sign agreement for environmental protection

• Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=551334719027
• Thursday 19th of April 2012

By (CLJD/JGB-PIA3)

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 19 (PIA) -- A total of 26 private and non-government organizations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the protection of the environment in Pampanga.

The MOU states that “POs and NGOs will live and work for a sustainable and responsible campaign for environmental protection and awareness, green development and healthy living.”

This undertaking was made because of the “the urgent need to unite and gather POs and NGOs resources, talent and ideas how to address the pressing issues on environment that affect every one of us.”

“These organizations also believed that they can create a massive and sustainable crusade by starting to commit ourselves to this campaign, sincerely and more responsibly.”

This commitment of campaign will be carried until local legislations are passed and such are strictly imposed in Angeles City and the rest of Pampanga. Thus, they are calling the local government units for the strict implementation of national and local environmental laws so as to protect the natural sources of water, food and energy that we need.

They have also committed to promote development in harmony with nature by encouraging the adoption of Green Architecture, especially in urbanized zones in the province primarily Angeles City.

Moreover, the MOU stated to create programs, conduct activities and conceptualize projects that would support the core advocacies of SUBLI which is the head name of all the groups who have been united for this project.

Pampanga Arts Guild, Sagip-Sapang Balen-Holy Rosary Parish, Alliance for the Development of Central Luzon, Save the Trees Movement, Pinoy Gumising ka Movement, United Architects of the Philippines-Angeles, Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., Kuliat Foundation Inc., Greater Clark Visitors' Bureau, National Union of Journalists of the Philippines-Pampanga, Alpha Phi Omega, HAU Alumni Association Inc., Holy Angel Universty Spurge HS Batch '74, Musikerong Kapampangan are among those who signed in the MOU.

Also included are Taguete Realty Corp., Mother Earth Foods, Salilungan Art Gallery, Connect Plus PR and Advertising, Armando's Pizza, Sun Star Pampanga, Angeles Observer, Central Luzon Daily, Central Luzon Businessweek and Punto Gitnang Luzon.

Lawmaker wants Disneyland In Clark

• Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/357359/lawmaker-wants-disneyland-in-clark
• April 18, 2012, 2:33pm

By MARK ANTHONY N. MANUEL

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga – A Disneyland theme park in the Philippines?

First District Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin has written Robert Iger, chairman and CEO of the The Walt Disney Company based in Burbank, California, to ask him to consider Clark for their next Walt Disney park.

Lazatin said Clark’s 4,400 hectare main zone and 27,600-hectare subzone will be the best place for a new Disneyland.

“Aside from the huge space it provides, the Clark Freeport Zone can be an attractive destination for Disneyland theme park because of the tax-free privileges given to locators,” said Lazatin in his letter dated April 11.

Lazatin also boasted Clark International Airport, branding it a world-class airport which is expected to serve at least P1.6 million passengers this year.

“The airport will be making it easier for tourists to enjoy the amenities and entertainment Disneyland is famous for without the hassles of long travels,” he added.

Lazatin also told Iger that hotel accommodations will not be a problem as Clark has the best hotels in its roster where visitors can enjoy the hospitality Filipinos are known for.

The lawmaker said the Philippines is a favorite tourist destination in Southeast Asia, with an average arrival of four million foreign visitors a year and for 2012, the government is eyeing to hit the 5-million mark.

Disneyland theme parks are the highest-earning theme parks in the world.

In 2009, the company's theme parks hosted approximately 119.1 million guests, making Disney Parks the world's most visited theme park company, ahead of the second most visited, British rival Merlin Entertainments.

In Asia, Disneylands are located in Hong Kong, Tokyo (Japan), and Shanghai (China).

CDC creates positive impact on CL economic landscape

• Source: http://positivenewsmedia.com/blog/2012/04/cdc-creates-positive-impact-on-cl-economic-landscape/
• Apr 17, 2012

By (PNA)

LDV/zst/MDDR/ps

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, April 17 (PNA) — Vibrant commercial and industrial activities inside this Freeport have steadily changed Central Luzon’s economic landscape following a surge in investments, exports and employment generation 19 years since its inception in 1993.In celebration of its 19th anniversary on Saturday, the CDC looked back at its colossal makeover from a United States military installation into bustling Freeport by highlighting achievements that had created a positive impression on both the local and national economy.Because of the growing business confidence of locators and investors inside here, Clark is one among the economic zones in the country to benefit from the influx of new business and increase in expansion programs by big ticket local and international companies.In 2011, the CDC earned a staggering $ 3.912 billion in exports -a historical 161 percent increase from the state-owned firm’s US$ 1.453 billion record in 2010 due to impressive performances of its locators and investors.According to the CDC, the entry of Texas Instruments (TI) in 2010 made a remarkable contribution to the export industry of this bustling Freeport with the $ 1.53 billion it posted last year.Aside from TI’s contribution to the CDC’s 2011 exports statistics, at least $ 124 million in estimated service exports from the Freeport’s Information Communications Technology and Business Process Outsourcing (ICT-BPO) sector counted for the state-owned firm’s 161 percent record increase.The following firms were responsible for Clark’s record-high export increase: TI, $ 1,530,164,426; Nanox Philippines, Inc., $ 791,064,999.14; Phoenix Semiconductor Philippines Corp., $ 566,091,472.48; Yokohama Tire Philippines, Inc. (YTPI), $ 298,059,468.72; L&T International Group Philippines, Inc., $ 145,104,643.34; and SMK Electronics (Phils) Corp., $ 98,493,605.67.The top five exporting sectors of the Clark Freeport last year are as follows – electronics, $ 3,103,885,248.18; tires, $ 298,059,468.72; garments, $ 226,884,390.58; other manufacturing, $ 131,355,636.92; aviation-related, $ 13,246,818.88; and other sectors, $ 139,335,526.76 for a total of $ 3,912,767,090.04.Relatedly, Clark’s employment statistics also posted a significant 6 percent growth of 64,055 workers last year compared to Clark’s 60,162-strong workforce in 2010 –the highest level of employment generated at the Clark Freeport since the CDC’s inception in 1993.The CDC in 2011 has signed a total of 207 projects with a total committed investment of P22,974,896,271.00 that would provide a committed employment of 8,206 workers.Among the major investments signed last year include YTPI, which committed to infuse P14,620,000,000 worth of investments and a committed employment of 3,000 workers; SPT (Phil) Clark Corp. (investment) P285,000,000, (employment) 138; Bonsure Everrich International, Inc. (investment) P192,696000, (employment) 39; and Jamco Philippines, Inc. (investment) P171,000,000, (employment) 68.Other notable projects and accomplishments achieved last year by the state-run CDC include the following: United Asia Automotive Group, Incorporated’s $ 35-million investment for assembly lines for Foton vehicles; the $ 40 to $ 50-million state-of-the-art Philippine Academy for Aviation Training of Cebu Pacific Air and the Canadian aviation training firm CAE.A budget of over P3 billion allotted for various key infrastructure improvements inside this Freeport.Some of the key projects completed, close to full completion, and on the pipeline are the Clark-Mexico Transmission Line Project (Phase 3A and 3B); security gates improvements for Clark’s Main Gate Entry Control Facility; and initial drainage improvements, among other projects.Clark is also now one of the perfect travel destinations north of the Philippines.It offers an array of world-class leisure and recreational facilities like 36-hole championship golf courses, residential villas, specialty shops and restaurants, duty free shops, firing range, leisure parks, waterpark, hotels, casinos, and nature sight-seeing area.The CDC envisions a consistent enhancement of its revenue programs by delving into a well-focused marketing strategy on transforming the Freeport into a premier logistics hub vis-à-vis a globally competitive economic hub.

suspected robbers killed in shootout

• Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/3-suspected-robbers-killed-in-shootout
• 4:26:54 PM, Monday, April 16, 2012

By clarkphilippines.com

ANGELES CITY – Three suspected robbers were killed in a shootout with policemen inside a posh subdivision in Barangay Pampang here at dawn Sunday.Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Recomono Jr., city police director, said the suspects were about to rob a gasoline station in the area when they encountered joint elements of the Angeles City Police Station 2 and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) regional office along Arayat Boulevard inside the Forest Park Subdivision here.The fourth suspect, who was reportedly wounded in the gun battle managed to escape.Recomono said the suspects, who were riding two motorcycles, were believed to be remnants of a notorious robbery syndicate called Dan Muslim Group, which is operating in this city and other parts of Pampanga.Investigators are still establishing the identities of the suspects as of presstime.Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has commended the city police and the CIDG for neutralizing of the crime group.The City Government recently acquired patrol cars and motorcycles and other equipment to improve the capability of the city police in terms of distress calls and operation.

Muntinlupa cops Big League plum

• Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/40375/muntinlupa-cops-big-league-plum
• 12:53 am | Sunday, April 15th, 2012

By sports.inquirer.net

THE MUNTINLUPA team copped the Big League Division championship in the 2012 Little League Philippine Series yesterday at the Parade Grounds of Clark Freeport Zone.Behind pitcher Carlos Muñoz’s no-hitter over four innings, MLL Big leaguers, aged 16 to 18, clobbered Antipolo, 19-0.In the semifinals last Friday, MLL trounced defending champion ILLAM,13-3, while Antipolo routed traditional powerhouse Tanauan, 10-0.Coached by Iking Jimenez, the MLL batters jumped to a 10-0 lead right in the first inning. Antipolo conceded the game in the fourth after MLL nearly doubled the margin behind power hitters Dio Remollo, Paco Tantuico, Luis Puno, Justin Mathay, Quito Castro and Ado Iñigo.Muntinlupa will represent the Philippines in the Regional Little League Series in Guam on the last week of June.

Angeles City launches “Operation Tuli”

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=551334294457
• Saturday 14th of April 2012

By Joelyn G. Baluyut

A HONG KONG national, long wanted for allegedly carting away some P5 million worth of casino chips from Angeles City, was nabbed by operatives from the Manila Police District.Now detained at the MPD headquarters is Leung Wai Kwong alias Michael Leung, 46, presently residing at the Grand Residence located at the corner of Adriatico and Salas Sts., Malate, Manila.Leung was nabbed at 9 p.m. the other night by virtue of an arrest warrant issued against him way back in June last year by Judge Philbert Eturaldo of the Angeles City Regional Trial Court Third Judicial Region Branch 58.It was learned that Leung had been in hiding since a case of qualified theft was filed against him. He was arrested by SPO2 Rodrigo Bonca and SPO1 Jessie Manalang while eating at a restaurant on Adriatico St.

HK nat’l held for theft

• Source: http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/news/metro/27803-hk-natl-held-for-theft
• Friday, April 13, 2012

By Itchie G. Cabayan

A HONG KONG national, long wanted for allegedly carting away some P5 million worth of casino chips from Angeles City, was nabbed by operatives from the Manila Police District.

Now detained at the MPD headquarters is Leung Wai Kwong alias Michael Leung, 46, presently residing at the Grand Residence located at the corner of Adriatico and Salas Sts., Malate, Manila.

Leung was nabbed at 9 p.m. the other night by virtue of an arrest warrant issued against him way back in June last year by Judge Philbert Eturaldo of the Angeles City Regional Trial Court Third Judicial Region Branch 58.

It was learned that Leung had been in hiding since a case of qualified theft was filed against him. He was arrested by SPO2 Rodrigo Bonca and SPO1 Jessie Manalang while eating at a restaurant on Adriatico St.

Western Visayas little leaguers sweep rivals

• Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/04/12/12/western-visayas-little-leaguers-sweep-rivals
• 04/12/2012 12:38 PM | Updated as of 04/12/2012 12:38 PM

By The Philippine Star

MANILA, Philippines - Iloilo scored a double kill and Bacolod shutout Alabang as Western Visayas completed a perfect performance in the 2012 Little League Philippine Series held at Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles City yesterday.

The Ilongas crushed Cavite, 9-1, in the major league softball and booked a semifinal seat then whipped Tarlac, 5-2, in the senior league softball and handed the Tarlacqueñas their first defeat in two games.

Bacolod, the reigning junior league softball champion, went 3-for-3 for Western Visayas by blanking Alabang, 6-0.

The Ilongas, who beat Bacolod and Tarlac, dominated the Caviteñas to clinch their third straight victory in the 11-12 years old division for a seat in the next round.

Riflayca Basa yielded three hits and had four strikeouts in seven innings to give Bacolod its second successive shutout win since blanking ILLAM, 6-0.

Injunction vs revenue bureau’s regulation issued

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2012/04/11/injunction-vs-revenue-bureau-s-regulation-issued-215675
• Wednesday, April 11, 2012

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY – A regional trial court here has issued a writ of preliminary injunction, stopping the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) from enforcing "directly or indirectly" Revenue Regulation No. 2-2012 as it runs contrary to the law that created the Subic and Clark Freeport Zones.

This said regulation is about applying value-added tax (VAT) on all petroleum and petroleum products that are imported and/or brought directly from abroad to the Philippines including Freeport and Economic zones.

"This Court, in the exercise of its sound judicial discretion, finds the prayer for the issuance of the writ of preliminary injunction to be impressed with merits and hereby grants the same," branch 58 Presiding Judge Philbert Iturralde said in his seven-page decision issued April 4, 2012.

Iturralde ordered the "BIR, its agents, representatives, or assigns, and all persons acting in its place and stead" to cease and desist from enforcing the said regulation.

Iturralde also ordered petitioner, Pampanga 1st District Representative Carmelo Lazatin, to post a P15-million injunction bond to answer for any damage that may be suffered by the BIR in the event that the Court should later determine that the lawmaker is not entitled to the relief prayed for.

Lazatin hailed the BIR and the Finance Department to court after finding that the controversial regulation contradicts Republic Act 7277, the law that created Subic and Clark Freeport Zones. Republic Act 9400 later amended RA 7277.

In his petition, Lazatin emphasized that RA 9400 provides that no national or local taxes shall be imposed on registered business enterprises within the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ).

In his decision, Iturralde sided with Lazatin, saying "there appears to be a patent conflict between the questioned regulation and RA 9400, in order to prevent injury to the registered businesses inside CFZ, there is a need to restrain the BIR from implementing Revenue Regulations No. 2-2012 until the main case has been heard."

Iturralde also contradicted BIR’s claim that the regulation merely intends to implement corrective measures which appears to be lacking in the basic law to stop smuggling.

"A careful examination of the statute provides a penal sanction for such act," Iturralde said, citing Section 9 of RA 9400, which states that "Any registered business enterprise found guilty of smuggling by final judgment, either as principal, accomplice or accessory shall be perpetually barred from doing business in any freeport and special economic zone, in addition to the penalties and sanctions imposed by existing laws."

The judge also ruled that a department regulation like Revenue Regulations No. 2-2012 cannot go beyond the terms and provisions of the basic law, as decided by the Supreme Court in the case of Philippine Amusem*nts and Gaming Corporation vs BIR.

"Revenue Regulations No. 2-2012 cannot go beyond the provisions of RA 9400 which amended RA 7227," said Iturralde.

Angeles City to employ students this summer

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R03&article=531334030543
• Tuesday 10th of April 2012

By (WLB-PIA3)

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 10 (PIA) -- The city government is set to provide jobs for 410 students from poor families this summer through the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

According to Adelina Deocales, Public Employment Services Office (PESO) manager, the SPES beneficiaries will be assigned to the different offices in the city government, in barangays and in private companies.

Of the total summer job slots, 350 applicants will be assigned in the city government offices and in the villages.

They will conduct and work on the Barangay Skills Registration of the jobseekers aiming to capture the manpower supply available for employment locally and abroad to induce employment matching.

“We intend to bring the PESO program to the barangay level to directly facilitate employment information assistance to job seekers from the communities,” Deocales said.

Offices like the Angeles City Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign (ACADAC) will have SPES beneficiaries to help in their anti-drug symposium, Barangay Affairs and Public Awareness Council (BAPAC), while the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the City Agriculture Office (COA) will be assisted in their environmental awareness programs and tree planting activities.

The Angeles City Sports Office (ACSO), Youth Bureau, City Health Office (CHO), PESO, Information, Communication and Technical Division (ICTD) and the City Information Office (CIO) will also be provided with SPES trainees who will perform clerical duties.

Aside from the 350 slots, 45 student-beneficiaries will be employed for business process outsourcing in partnership with Sutherland Global Services and the remaining 15 will be dispensed for food service at Jollibee Foods Inc.

As mandated by Republic Act No. 7323 and as amended by RA 9547, otherwise known as Special Program for Employment of Student (SPES), the program aims to make student’s vacation meaningful and productive, make students earn money to pursue their education and to exercise and enhance the employability of the youth.

The program is open to indigent but deserving students and dropouts in Angeles City with ages 15 to 25 years old and with good scholastic performance during their last term of schooling.

Also, parent’s combined net income should not exceed P36,000 per annum.

Deocales disclosed that 60 percent of the salaries of the SPES students would be shouldered by the city government, while the remaining 40 percent would come from DOLE.

SPES beneficiaries will start to work on April 10 until May 15, 2012 on their designated companies, barangays and offices.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan believes that the early exposure of the youth in the working environment is vital since these students will eventually be the next generation of the country’s workforce.

PESO attributes these efforts to the City’s mission of alleviating poverty through intensified public education and employment programs.

It is remembered that under Pamintuan’s term, the city employment office bagged the PESO Hall of Famer award during the 11th National PESO Congress held in Davao City, for executing programs intended to provide trainings and employment to the jobless Angeleños.

Heroism of Scouts recalled

• Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/173585/heroism-of-scouts-recalled
• 12:42 am | Monday, April 9th, 2012

By Tonette Orejas

Inquirer Central Luzon

CLARK FREEPORT—Sergeant Dominador Figuracion, 92, begged off from talking about the Fall of Bataan to the Japanese Imperial Army on April 9, 1942, and how he and some 70,000 Filipino and American soldiers had been forced to march to a concentration camp in Tarlac.Around 7,000 to 10,000 soldiers perished during the Death March. About 26,000 of the 50,000 Filipino prisoners of war at Camp O’Donnell in Tarlac died of dengue, malaria, dysentery or starvation when this was closed in January 1943, according to historical accounts.Instead, in a room filled with war veterans on Saturday, Figuracion, garbed in his military uniform, declared: “The Philippine Scouts (PS) is not a Boy Scouts organization.”This mistake, he said, diminishes or erases the role the PS made in defending freedom during World War II.Historian Chris Schaefer wrote: “In 1901, the United States Army organized the Philippine Scouts to combat insurgents and bandit groups in the islands, and when the insurgency was over the Scouts became the US Army’s front line troops in the Pacific.”Schaefer said the PS bore the brunt of the Japanese attack on the Philippines at the outset of World War II. “Survivors of the Battle of Bataan, to a man, describe the Philippine Scouts as the backbone of the American defense there,” he said.Figuracion came all the way from his Lakewood City home in Washington to set the record straight—a matter that he said meant a lot to him, his few surviving comrades, fallen soldiers and their relatives.The event marked the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society’s (PSHS) 28th annual reunion, the first to be held in the Philippines.On Saturday in this free port, the reunion was hosted by PSHS’s Fort MacKinley chapter that was cofounded by Philip Garcia and led by Jojo Dy.Surviving members have dwindled to between 60 and 70, said Jose Calugas Jr., PSHS president.MacArthur’s elite troopsRhode Island Senator John Patterson and PS officers founded the PSHS in 1989 to preserve the history and legacy of what they call outstanding soldiers.“Not too many people know about the PS. Some thought them to be Boy Scouts. They were the elite soldiers of (US General Douglas) MacArthur. They were American-trained, disciplined, good marksmen,” Calugas said.As in the United States, there has also been a lack of recognition for the PS in their native country.“The museum of the [Armed Forces of the Philippines] has not mentioned the PS,” said Donald Plata, who documented the exploits of PS in the film, “Forgotten Soldiers.”This was because the AFP might have “considered them Americans,” Plata said.Schaefer, in a report on the PSHS website, provided the context:“After the surrender of Japan in August 1945, the US made good on its previous commitments and granted the Philippines full independence on July 4, 1946. At that point the Philippine Scouts held a unique status in US military history: They were soldiers in the regular US Army, combat veterans at that, but now they were citizens of a foreign country. To solve the dilemma, the United States offered the Philippine Scouts full US citizenship.”Not a citizenship issueSchaefer said most of the surviving Scouts accepted the offer and the US Army transferred them to other units to finish their military careers. He said in 1946, President Harry Truman disbanded the unit.Citizenship should not be an issue, said Figuracion whose father, Juan, signed up in the early batches of the PS.“I followed my father’s footstep. We were then under the US. You have to get involved. The Japanese were invading the Philippines,” he said. “I took my US citizenship on Nov. 10, 1946, because the Philippines was in ruins, the socialists and communists were harassing us in Pampanga and the US was where the jobs were.” He joined Boeing.“I love this country. Every year I come here,” Figuracion said.“The truth is, we did suffer much. I should never forget. We tried our very best. We are brothers. This togetherness and solidarity [between Filipino and American soldiers] should be passed on to the next generations,” he said.The PS is credited with delaying the advance of Japanese troops to the last stronghold of the Allied Forces in the Pacific.Distinguished recordThe 26th Cavalry Regiment, to which Figuracion belonged, had a distinguished record. Backed artillery, it attacked the Japanese during initial landings at Lingayen Gulf, said retired Colonel John Olson, PSHS historian emeritus, in an account posted on its website.In the withdrawal to Bataan, the regiment served as rear guard, becoming the last to reach the peninsula with only 200 of 600 troops alive, Figuracion said.Members of the regiment, he said, were the last to charge the enemy on horseback, sending the Japanese fleeing the defense line in Abucay, Bataan.Half of the PS units were killed in Bataan. Some escaped the O’Donnell and Cabanatuan camps and led guerrilla forces. They later rejoined the PS to liberate Manila.Capt. Felipe Fernandez, 96, attended the reunion but refused to talk about the war “because some wounds have not healed.” He talked about Fort Stotsenburg (Clark Air Base) as a pasture for horses.He was on the verge of tears when he recounted that for lack of food during the Japanese onslaught, the PS butchered their horses, including his own, Mike.

14 Clark firms hire workers

• Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/14-clark-firms-hire-workers
• 8:26:35 PM, Saturday, April 7, 2012

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia, ABS-CBNnews.com

CLARK FREEPORT — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has announced that at least 14 firms inside the Freeport have a total of 3,255 job openings which they intend to fill up within the next three months.

In a report to CDC President Benigno Ricafort, Assistant Vice President for Business Development Group Bernardo Angeles Jr. said most of the job positions that are available here are for customer service representatives and call center agents.

For updates from around the country, follow Sun.Star on Twitter

Angeles said the firms will be conducting a job fair at the SM City Clark event center on September 30 in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), Pampanga Employment Services Federation, and SM City Clark.

He said that NCO Philippines and Sutherland Philippines are hiring 1,000 customer representatives each.

Other firms looking for applicants are Cyber City Teleservices, 500 customer services agents; 320 apprentices and 300 engineers and production staffers (regular positions) at Texas Instrument Philippines; 50 customer services agents at UPS Clark Philippines; 41 production staff positions at Apex Intec Philippines, C. Ltd. Inc; 25 casino managers, supervisors and staff at Hotel Stotsenberg; 10 administrative staffers and engineers; nine cutters and other positions at O&G Leather Manufacturing Inc.

The Clark Freeport now has a total of 55,500 workers.

Authorized personnel who will be assisting in the job fair are Jhoy Santiago of SMK Electronics Philippines; Sharon Ray Sagansay of WALLEM Innovative Solutions Phils. Inc.; Raides Garcia and Timothy dela Cruz of Yokohama Tires Philippines; Glenda Cerdenola of Fontana Development Corp.; and Christian Mesina of Global Standard Learning Center, Inc.

At Tune Hotels, guests pay extra for towels, air-conditioning

• Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/business/04/05/12/tune-hotels-guests-pay-extra-air-conditioning-towels
• 04/05/2012 8:59 AM | Updated as of 04/05/2012 11:40 AM

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia, ABS-CBNnews.com

Budget hotel chain eyes rapid expansion in the Philippines

CLARK, Pampanga - If a hotel charges its customers extra for air-conditioning, towels and even cable TV, you would think customers would stay away. But Tune Hotels' "pay-as-you-use" model has been a hit with budget travelers in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and even London.

Now, Tune Hotels is hoping backpackers and budget-savvy tourists in the Philippines will embrace this "limited service" concept as well.

"We really have just the basic essentials in the room. I think what's really unique about Tune Hotels is its 'pay-as-you-use' amenities. For a budget-savvy traveler, you have an option for paying only what you need. If you use the airconditioning, that's only what we charge you. You have an option to select the amenities that you need," Ann Olalo, Tune Hotels country head, told ABS-CBNnews.com in a recent interview.

Under the concept, guests pay a basic rate for a double or twin room with bed, toilet and bath. Guests have the option of adding amenities such as in-room cable TV, Wifi, air-conditioning, towels and toiletries. This would allow the hotel not only to save energy, but also help guests save money.

Tune Hotels Philippines offers a basic double room or twin room for P588 (excluding taxes). If you add 12-hour air-conditioning, it will cost an additional P200, bringing your entire bill for a one night's stay at Tune Hotel to less than P1,000.

Olalo is quick to emphasize that Tune Hotel is "an economy hotel but with international standards." She noted the hotel rooms have comfortable beds, high-pressure showers and are usually conveniently located within the commercial and business districts.

If guests book rooms months in advance, Olalo said they can take advantage of "very low" rates.

"We start with P588, but we have on-going promotions. We partner with AirAsia Go, where you have rates that are even 50% off the P588," she said.

Expansion in the Philippines

Tune Hotels has opened 3 branches in the country this year in Angeles City, Pampanga; Ermita, Manila and Cebu City. A fourth hotel will open in Makati City by the end of June.

Olalo said the hotel is eyeing not just foreign tourists, but also local travelers.

"We want it to be more of the domestic market. But again the foreign travelers, those who have stayed in Malaysia, and other countries, are happy to know that the brand is here in the Philippines. No doubt they want to stay in a Tune Hotel because they have experienced it outside. But we'd really like to be known in the domestic market that there's a hotel where you can come and stay in," she said.

By next year, Tune Hotels is planning to open 6 more hotels in the Philippines, namely Davao City, Cagayan de Oro, Ortigas (Pasig), Quezon City and Iloilo. Olalo said the sixth hotel may be located somewhere near the Mall of Asia, but plans have not been firmed up as of yet.

"We opened only 6 weeks ago. Even though we haven't fully opened, we haven't gone full-blast marketing, but so far it has been very encouraging. I see with AirAsia (Philippines) right now, they're flying to Kalibo and Davao, so we'd be able to capitalize on domestic travelers coming in to Clark," Olalo said.

Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes, who also founded budget carrier AirAsia, started the hotel chain Tune Hotels in 2007. It was patterned after the "no-frills" concept he started with the airline.

In the Philippines, Tune Hotels is owned by Red Planet Hotels Limited, a privately owned regional hotel investment company based in Bangkok. It owns many of the hotels it operates under the regional franchise agreement with Malaysia's Tune Hotels.

"We're very aggressive. We really believe in the business model. We also want to ride on the fact that AirAsia is here now. They know that both Tune and AirAsia are affiliates," Olalo said.

AirAsia offers low fares for local destinations

• Source: http://www.clarkphilippines.com/airasia-offers-low-fares-for-local-destinations
• 5:00:17 PM, Wednesday, April 4, 2012

By clarkphilippines.com

CLARK FREEPORT – The Philippines’ AirAsia announced Wednesday, an all-in promo fare of only P799 one-way for Clark-Kalibo (Boracay) and Clark-Puerto Princesa (Palawan).It also offers an all-in low fare of only P999 one-way for Clark-Davao.AirAsia began serving Filipinos last March 28 when it launched its twice daily flights from Clark to the popular tourism destinations of Kalibo (Boracay) in the Visayas and Davao in Mindanao. Clark to Puerto Princesa route, on the other hand, starts on April 20.Staying true to its commitment to transparency, efficiency, high-value service and affordable fares, AirAsia said its red hot all-in promo include base fare, fuel surcharge, processing fee and government-mandated fees such as aviation security fee and value added tax.“Summer in the Philippines is now more fun with AirAsia’s awesome connectivity. Local and international tourists now have easy access to Philippine’s hot destinations such as Pearl Farm in Davao, Boracay beach and the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan,” AirAsia Inc. CEO Maan Hontiveros said.The promo will run from April 2 to April 8, 2012.Guests will be able to travel from April 10 to July 31, 2012 with these all-in fares which are available online atwww.airasia.com and also available via mobile at mobile.airasia.com as well as via AirAsia apps for Blackberry, iPhone and Android phones.The apps are available for download at Blackberry App World, iTunes App Store and Google Play by searching for the keyword AirAsia.Philippines’ AirAsia call center also accepts booking via +632 588 9999 from Monday to Sunday at 0800hrs to 2100hrs (GMT +8) which includes a booking service fee of only P310.AirAsia’s new service to Puerto Princesa from Clark will provide the accessibility to visit Calauit Island Wildlife Sanctuary, The Coron Reef, Tubbataha Reefs National Marine Park, the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River which has been voted as one of the seven wonders of nature.AirAsia Inc. is a Filipino Low Cost Carrier established to serve the Philippines’ regional and domestic air travel market.For inquiry and to receive real-time updates on latest promotions, interact via facebook.com/AirAsiaPhilippines and twitter.com/AirAsiaPh.

Retired AFP chief is new CDC chair

• Source: http://punto.com.ph/News/Article/13889/Volume-5-No-134/Headlines/Retired-AFP-chief-is-new-CDC-chair
• Tuesday - April 3, 2012 3:58 PM

By punto.com.ph

CLARK FREEPORT – The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) today announced the appointment of retired Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Eduardo Oban, Jr. as Chairman of CDC Board of Directors and officer-in-charge of the state-run firm.

The announcement was made by CDC Executive Vice President Philip JB Panlilio during Monday’s flag raising ceremonies. Panlilio said Oban “will report to the CDC at 2 p.m. today.”

Oban will assume CDC's top executive post in view of Remollo's resignation that took effect on March 30, 2012.

The former AFP chief of staff is a member of Philippine Military Academy Matatag Class 1979. He was born in Castilla, Sorsogon and is married to the former Ms. Maria Concepcion Paderon.

They have a son, Tobit Eric Raphael. Prior to the appointment as the Chief of Staff, Oban served as the Vice Commander of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans in the AFP and as Deputy Chief of Staff for the administration and supervision of the joint coordinating, technical and special staffs of the military headquarters.

He is a recipient of four Distinguished Service Stars, a number of Military Merit Medals, a Golden Aviator Award, two Group Commander of the Year Awards, a PAF Group Commander of the Year Award and Military Commendation Medals.

He finished a master's degree in business economics from the University of Asia and the Pacific in 2005 while he was the director for operations of the 5th Fighter Wing.

Angeles City to employ student-jobseekers this summer

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=417154
• April 2, 2012, 4:39 pm

By (PNA)

LDV/zst/FEM/ps

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 2 (PNA) -- The city government here is set to provide jobs for 410 students from poor families this summer through the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE).

Adelina Deocales, Public Employment Services Office (PESO) manager, said the SPES beneficiaries will be assigned to the different offices in the city government, in barangays and in private companies.

Of the total summer job slots, 350 applicants will be doled out in the city government offices and in the villages.

They will conduct and work on the barangay skills registration of the jobseekers aiming to capture the manpower supply available for employment locally and abroad to induce employment matching.

“We intend to bring the PESO program to the barangay level to directly facilitate employment information assistance to job seekers from the communities,” Deocales said.

Offices like the Angeles City Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign (ACADAC) will have SPES beneficiaries to help in their anti-drug symposium, Barangay Affairs and Public Awareness Council (BAPAC), while the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the City Agriculture Office (COA) will be assisted in their environmental awareness programs and tree planting activities.

The Angeles City Sports Office (ACSO), Youth Bureau, City Health Office (CHO), PESO, Information, Communication and Technical Division (ICTD) and the City Information Office (CIO) will also be provided with SPES trainees who will perform clerical duties.

Aside from the 350 slots, 45 student-beneficiaries will be employed for business process outsourcing (BPO), in partnership with Sutherland Global Services and the remaining 15 will be dispensed for food service at Jollibee Foods Inc.

As mandated by Republic Act (RA) 7323 and as amended by RA 9547, otherwise known as Special Program for Employment of Student (SPES), the program aims to make student’s vacation meaningful and productive; make students earn money to pursue their education, and to exercise and enhance the employability of the youth.

The program is open to indigent but deserving students and dropouts in Angeles City with ages 15 to 25 years old and with good scholastic performance during their last term of schooling.

Also, parent’s combined net income should not exceed P36,000 per annum.

Interested students may coordinate with the PESO Office located at the City Hall Compound, Pulung Maragul, Angeles City.

Deocales disclosed that 60 percent of the salaries of the SPES students would be shouldered by the city government, while the remaining 40 percent would come from DOLE.

SPES beneficiaries will start to work on April 10 until May 15, 2012 on their designated companies, barangays and offices.

Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan believes that the early exposure of the youth in the working environment is vital since these students will eventually be the next generation of the country’s workforce.

PESO attributed these efforts to the city’s mission of alleviating poverty through intensified public education and employment programs.

It is remembered that under Pamintuan’s term, the city employment office bagged the PESO Hall of Famer award during the 11th National PESO Congress held in Davao City, for executing programs intended to provide trainings and employment to the jobless Angeleños.

Oban named new CDC chairman

• Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=793181&publicationSubCategoryId=63
• April 01, 2012 12:00 AM

By Ding Cervantes

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Philippines – President Aquino appointed former Armed Forces chief Eduardo Oban as chairman of the state-owned Clark Development Corp. (CDC) which runs this freeport.

CDC president and chief executive officer Felipe Remollo confirmed the appointment yesterday. Remollo said he tendered his resignation from CDC but the President has not announced acceptance.

Oban’s appointment was relayed by the office of Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. to the members of the CDC board last Friday.

Oban retired last December in the wake of the exposé by former military budget officer retired George Rabusa on the diversion of funds for military personnel for the retirement cash gifts or “pabaon” of past top military officials.

Oban will take over the CDC and replace Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova who held the post in acting capacity.

There had been appeals from a number of investors here for Aquino not to accept Remollo’s resignation.