PALAYAN CITY: The provincial government of Nueva Ecija intensified its employment drive using a program that matches job applicants and prospective employers called “Trabahong Una ang Mamamayan sa Abroad at Lokal na Industriya.”
The Provincial Manpower and Training Center (PMTC) under Emmanuel San Juan and the Provincial Employment Service Office spearhead this program.
Under the scheme, the PMTC will maintain a databank of skilled and semi-skilled applicants from all over Nueva Ecija and the industries that need workers.
Once the databank traces compatibility between the job applicants and the prospective employer, the provincial government through the PMTC matches them. There will be no fees to be paid to the government, San Juan said.
The program was launched in a simple ceremony led by Gov. Aurelio Umali, third district Rep. Czarina Umali, Nueva Ecija Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council President Vicky Gaetos, Nueva Ecija Chamber of Commerce and Industry head Kenny Bansale, as well as representatives from various learning institutions and industries.
Umali said the program would spare Novo Ecijanos from falling prey to illegal recruiters. This will also avoid problems between the employer and employee due to mismatch of skills and job placement. --Armand M. Galang/The Manila Times
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Friday, November 02, 2007
advocacy group bats for clean elections
San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija - An advocacy group on Wednesday called on candidates for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections to adhere to the principle of good governance even as the campaign reaches its peak.
Virginia Orogo, executive director of the Movement Yearning for Valor and Oneness through Intellectual, Cultural and Economic Development or MyVoice said that the practice of good governance should start from the barangay, being the basic unit of our political system.
"If only the barangay officials will initiate such practice, it will surely have a ripple effect on the rest of the local and national officials,” Orogo said.
She stressed that barangay officials should initiate the reform in our rotting electoral process.
They should observe election laws and let the conscience of the voters prevail in choosing their barangay leaders by not bribing them with gifts or cash.
The movement made the call even as the family of slain candidate for barangay councilor,
Numeriano Sapiandante, appealed to law enforcers for a speedy resolution of the killing.
Sapiandante was gunned down on the first day of the campaign. A former village chief of Tagumpay, he was running for a council seat in the barangay.
Police are reportedly looking into different angles, one of which would be the problem the victim had with a local politician, but they have yet to come up with concrete evidence.
MyVoice pleaded for the candidates not to practice vote buying in whatever form. (Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times)
Virginia Orogo, executive director of the Movement Yearning for Valor and Oneness through Intellectual, Cultural and Economic Development or MyVoice said that the practice of good governance should start from the barangay, being the basic unit of our political system.
"If only the barangay officials will initiate such practice, it will surely have a ripple effect on the rest of the local and national officials,” Orogo said.
She stressed that barangay officials should initiate the reform in our rotting electoral process.
They should observe election laws and let the conscience of the voters prevail in choosing their barangay leaders by not bribing them with gifts or cash.
The movement made the call even as the family of slain candidate for barangay councilor,
Numeriano Sapiandante, appealed to law enforcers for a speedy resolution of the killing.
Sapiandante was gunned down on the first day of the campaign. A former village chief of Tagumpay, he was running for a council seat in the barangay.
Police are reportedly looking into different angles, one of which would be the problem the victim had with a local politician, but they have yet to come up with concrete evidence.
MyVoice pleaded for the candidates not to practice vote buying in whatever form. (Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times)
Friday, August 24, 2007
Local exec seeks "justice" for Pantabangan people
PANTABANGAN, Nueva Ecija: The people who had their share of “supreme sacrifice” to ensure the abundant flow of irrigation to over 102,000 hectares of farmfields and Nueva Ecija and adjoining areas and production of additional electricity for Luzon grid through the construction of the giant dam must enjoy a return.
Thus Mayor Romeo Borja called on the national government to provide assistance to local residents “who remain in poverty” after the construction of the Asia’s largest earthen Pantabangan dam displaced them33 years ago.
The dam, funded by the World Bank as provided for in Republic Act 5499 passed by the Congress in May 1969 that created the Upper Pampanga River Project, was completed in 1974. The law provided for its construction through a $34-million grant given by the United States in Aug. 1969.
The project submerged some 8,100 hectares, including the Old Poblacion, forcing townsfolk to resettle to other places.
Borja said its high time the residents be provided stable means of livelihood since the families in the old Pantabangan town proper still live an hand-to-mouth existence. It was launched on June 11, 1971 by the former strongmenFerdinand Marcos which ground breaking was held at the town peoper.
Among the villages submerged were barangays Liberty, San Juan, Cadaclan, Napon-Napon, Marikit, Villarica and Conversion, representing 10 percent of the old town’s area. Affected villagers were resettled .
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of NIA-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System, has said the dam ensured enough sufficient irrigation supply during the feared prolonged dry spell in the past few weeks.
Borja recalled that when the residents were resettled, the national government only gave them two heads of pigs and goats. “anong mangyayari do’n? Hindi ‘yon ang kailangan naming,” he said.
He said it was ironic that while Pantabangan Dam provides irrigation to other areas, local residents do not benefit from the irrigation since they were brought in the uplands where there were no viable irrigation service.
“The government should now give justice to the sacrifices rendered by the townsfolk in giving up their lands and properties to play host to an irrigation facility where they have never been beneficiary,” Borja added.
Thus Mayor Romeo Borja called on the national government to provide assistance to local residents “who remain in poverty” after the construction of the Asia’s largest earthen Pantabangan dam displaced them33 years ago.
The dam, funded by the World Bank as provided for in Republic Act 5499 passed by the Congress in May 1969 that created the Upper Pampanga River Project, was completed in 1974. The law provided for its construction through a $34-million grant given by the United States in Aug. 1969.
The project submerged some 8,100 hectares, including the Old Poblacion, forcing townsfolk to resettle to other places.
Borja said its high time the residents be provided stable means of livelihood since the families in the old Pantabangan town proper still live an hand-to-mouth existence. It was launched on June 11, 1971 by the former strongmenFerdinand Marcos which ground breaking was held at the town peoper.
Among the villages submerged were barangays Liberty, San Juan, Cadaclan, Napon-Napon, Marikit, Villarica and Conversion, representing 10 percent of the old town’s area. Affected villagers were resettled .
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of NIA-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System, has said the dam ensured enough sufficient irrigation supply during the feared prolonged dry spell in the past few weeks.
Borja recalled that when the residents were resettled, the national government only gave them two heads of pigs and goats. “anong mangyayari do’n? Hindi ‘yon ang kailangan naming,” he said.
He said it was ironic that while Pantabangan Dam provides irrigation to other areas, local residents do not benefit from the irrigation since they were brought in the uplands where there were no viable irrigation service.
“The government should now give justice to the sacrifices rendered by the townsfolk in giving up their lands and properties to play host to an irrigation facility where they have never been beneficiary,” Borja added.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Fire hits Gapan City Market
GAPAN CITY - Some P200-million worth of properties and goods were razed to the ground by a 3-hour fire that gutted the public market Sunday morning, a fire official said.
Insp. Norman Fines, Gapan City fire marshal, said the fire started 2:15 a.m. and contained in three hours.
While some stall owners alleged the fire bureau, responded late to the call, Fines admitted having difficulty with water supply. The fire bureau was only 50 meters away from the market.
He said faulty electrical wiring might have caused the fire, emanating from the dry goods section.
Arson was initially ruled out, following investigation.
Fines said fire trucks from about 15 towns and cities of Nueva Ecija responded to the alarm.
Hours after the fire, text messages prodded the townsfolk to press for an impartial investigation to determine if the fire had anything to do with plans to construct a new market. “Ang pagkasunog ng Gapan public market ay dapat paimbesitigahan ng taong bayan at tingnan ang kaugnayan nito sa planong pagtatayo ng bagong palengke,” the text messages read. --Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
Insp. Norman Fines, Gapan City fire marshal, said the fire started 2:15 a.m. and contained in three hours.
While some stall owners alleged the fire bureau, responded late to the call, Fines admitted having difficulty with water supply. The fire bureau was only 50 meters away from the market.
He said faulty electrical wiring might have caused the fire, emanating from the dry goods section.
Arson was initially ruled out, following investigation.
Fines said fire trucks from about 15 towns and cities of Nueva Ecija responded to the alarm.
Hours after the fire, text messages prodded the townsfolk to press for an impartial investigation to determine if the fire had anything to do with plans to construct a new market. “Ang pagkasunog ng Gapan public market ay dapat paimbesitigahan ng taong bayan at tingnan ang kaugnayan nito sa planong pagtatayo ng bagong palengke,” the text messages read. --Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
Sunday, August 12, 2007
With rainwaters; NIA stops water release to service areas
CABANATUAN CITY - The National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System has suspended release of water from the Pantabangan Dam amid generous inflow from heavy rains the past few days, a ranking official said Friday.
Antonio S. Nangel, NIA-UPRIIS operations manager, ordered a stop on the release of water to cushion the impact of continuous rain brought about by Typhoons Chedeng and Dodong.
Before the typhoons, the dam was releasing irrigation water at an average of 110 cubic meters a second to UPRIIS’s programmed areas of 84,830-hectares farmland.
Nangel said that on Thursday the water level in Pantabangan Dam was at 190.01 meters, or about a meter higher than the 189.56 meters on August 7. The inflow was pegged at 160 cms, Nangel said.
Although the inflow is substantial, with the underground tunnel diverting water from Taan and Casecnan Rivers in Nueva Vizcaya to the giant reservoir, dam officials allayed fears of spilling.
“At 190.01 meters [Thursday], we need more rain,” said Nangel, saying that the dam’s spilling level is 221 meters. -Armand M. Galang
Antonio S. Nangel, NIA-UPRIIS operations manager, ordered a stop on the release of water to cushion the impact of continuous rain brought about by Typhoons Chedeng and Dodong.
Before the typhoons, the dam was releasing irrigation water at an average of 110 cubic meters a second to UPRIIS’s programmed areas of 84,830-hectares farmland.
Nangel said that on Thursday the water level in Pantabangan Dam was at 190.01 meters, or about a meter higher than the 189.56 meters on August 7. The inflow was pegged at 160 cms, Nangel said.
Although the inflow is substantial, with the underground tunnel diverting water from Taan and Casecnan Rivers in Nueva Vizcaya to the giant reservoir, dam officials allayed fears of spilling.
“At 190.01 meters [Thursday], we need more rain,” said Nangel, saying that the dam’s spilling level is 221 meters. -Armand M. Galang
Thursday, August 02, 2007
NIA to farmers: take care of facilities
CABANATUAN CITY - The National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System has appealed to farmers to take care of its facilities to avoid wasting the irrigation water.
The call was made amid fears of a prolonged drought.
Engineer Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the system, also advised members of irrigators’ associations to embrace recommended technology to ensure great yield without the need for excessive water.
In a letter, Nangel, along with other officials, asked the farmers to avoid activities that would destroy irrigation facilities and structures.
They also called for prompt payment of irrigation fees, which go to the improvement of the system and services.
The water elevation in Pantabangan Dam is now below the 190 meters level, far from the normal 200 meters, because of the below-normal rainfall.
The downgrade happens despite continuous inflow from the multibillion-peso Casecnan Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project, the underground tunnel that diverts water from the Taan and Casecnan River in the triboundaries of Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya and Aurora provinces.
Sources said that officials from the Lopez-owned FirstGen company, which now runs the Pantabangan hydroelectric power plant, are worried about the dwindling reserve. -Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
The call was made amid fears of a prolonged drought.
Engineer Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the system, also advised members of irrigators’ associations to embrace recommended technology to ensure great yield without the need for excessive water.
In a letter, Nangel, along with other officials, asked the farmers to avoid activities that would destroy irrigation facilities and structures.
They also called for prompt payment of irrigation fees, which go to the improvement of the system and services.
The water elevation in Pantabangan Dam is now below the 190 meters level, far from the normal 200 meters, because of the below-normal rainfall.
The downgrade happens despite continuous inflow from the multibillion-peso Casecnan Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project, the underground tunnel that diverts water from the Taan and Casecnan River in the triboundaries of Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya and Aurora provinces.
Sources said that officials from the Lopez-owned FirstGen company, which now runs the Pantabangan hydroelectric power plant, are worried about the dwindling reserve. -Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
NFA head assures public of sufficient rice on lean days
CABANATUAN CITY - About 1.5 million bags of rice imported from Vietnam were distributed to seven provinces in Central Luzon to beef up their respective buffer stocks over the weekend.
The engineer Nicolas Crisostomo, regional director of the National Food Authority in Region 3 said that the province of Aurora received 40,000 bags; Bataan,111,000; Bulacan, 397,000; Nueva Ecija, 280,000; Pampanga, 370,000; Tarlac, 185,000 and Zambales, 86,000.
The rice was shipped from Vietnam to Subic Freeport via seven vessels last week, Crisostomo continued.
“By injecting the markets with these cheaper and good quality NFA rice stocks, the commercial prices of rice remained stable at this time when supply is at a traditional low because of the planting season,” Crisostomo said.
Another batch of 2 million bags of rice is due to arrive on September, an allocation for the typhoon season, he added. -Armand M. Galang
The engineer Nicolas Crisostomo, regional director of the National Food Authority in Region 3 said that the province of Aurora received 40,000 bags; Bataan,111,000; Bulacan, 397,000; Nueva Ecija, 280,000; Pampanga, 370,000; Tarlac, 185,000 and Zambales, 86,000.
The rice was shipped from Vietnam to Subic Freeport via seven vessels last week, Crisostomo continued.
“By injecting the markets with these cheaper and good quality NFA rice stocks, the commercial prices of rice remained stable at this time when supply is at a traditional low because of the planting season,” Crisostomo said.
Another batch of 2 million bags of rice is due to arrive on September, an allocation for the typhoon season, he added. -Armand M. Galang
Friday, July 20, 2007
Army test fire rounds of mortar
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City - Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Tolentino witnessed the test firing on July 19 of 4o rounds of 60 mm and 81 mm mortar here as part of the ongoing investigation on the controversial Tipo-Tipo incident.
Of the 40 rounds fired, at least two of them misfired or a dud.
Tolentino said mishandling or poor storage can be blamed for it.
Of the 40 rounds fired, at least two of them misfired or a dud.
Tolentino said mishandling or poor storage can be blamed for it.
PhilRice launches online course for agri extension workers
SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ, Nueva Ecija - A prime rice research institution in the country has opened the door of digital technologies to agricultural extension workers whose age range from 40 to 60 with at least 16 of them currently taking up the one-and a half month online course on rice production technology.
Dr. Leocadio Sebastian, Executive Director of the Philippine Rice Research Institute based in Baranagay Maligaya here, the introductory program is being offered “to primarily run-test the viability of the e-learning system as well as to gauge the learning curve and readiness of their clients (extension workers) in this kind of learning platform.”
The current enrollees are agricultural extension workers from Cabanatuan City and the Science City of Muñoz, both in Nueva Ecija, who are each required a farmer-cooperator. The cooperator’s farm, another official explained, serves as the enrollee’s experimental field where he or she will apply his/her acquired knowledge.
Diadem Gonsalez of PhilRice Communication Division said that the online course program uses a blended pedagogical approach which deals with the Minus-One Technique (MOET) is composed of a series of lessons and discussions as well as field works. MOET is defined as the easy and cheap way to diagnose the nutrient deficiencies in the soil.
Online discussions are done through forums and chat, is supplemented with the use of texting or short messaging system “to facilitate better interaction despite geographical disparity.”
“With this pilot test, we hope to hear feedbacks from them (extension workers) on how the system works and on how we can improve it to better serve them,” Sebastian said. He added : “We envision to offer both onsite and online trainings in the near future to give our clients more learning options.”
Last July 6, the participants were taught of the basic uses of information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as computer and internet.
Dr. Leocadio Sebastian, Executive Director of the Philippine Rice Research Institute based in Baranagay Maligaya here, the introductory program is being offered “to primarily run-test the viability of the e-learning system as well as to gauge the learning curve and readiness of their clients (extension workers) in this kind of learning platform.”
The current enrollees are agricultural extension workers from Cabanatuan City and the Science City of Muñoz, both in Nueva Ecija, who are each required a farmer-cooperator. The cooperator’s farm, another official explained, serves as the enrollee’s experimental field where he or she will apply his/her acquired knowledge.
Diadem Gonsalez of PhilRice Communication Division said that the online course program uses a blended pedagogical approach which deals with the Minus-One Technique (MOET) is composed of a series of lessons and discussions as well as field works. MOET is defined as the easy and cheap way to diagnose the nutrient deficiencies in the soil.
Online discussions are done through forums and chat, is supplemented with the use of texting or short messaging system “to facilitate better interaction despite geographical disparity.”
“With this pilot test, we hope to hear feedbacks from them (extension workers) on how the system works and on how we can improve it to better serve them,” Sebastian said. He added : “We envision to offer both onsite and online trainings in the near future to give our clients more learning options.”
Last July 6, the participants were taught of the basic uses of information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as computer and internet.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Ecija top cop given 3 months to improve peace and order
PALAYAN CITY -- Newly installed Nueva Ecija police director, Senior Supt. Agrifino Javier, has three months to reshape the peace and order situation in the province, following the series of assassinations after the May polls, that is if the provincial governor would have his way.
In his first day in office, Gov. Aurelio Umali underscored that he has every intention to rewrite the political history of Nueva Ecija, particularly the elimination of political violence.
Javier, who took over the helm of the Nueva Ecija provincial police office on June 30, is reportedly the personal choice of Umali. A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1985, Javier is perceived to be efficient at solving crimes having served at the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
Umali said he wants the police to solve not only the recent killings because its “closure will not be enough to allay fears.”
Javier admitted that he received a similar directive from the PNP chief, Director General Oscar Calderon, which is to solve the series of violence.
Among the victims of assassination after the May 14 election were Mayor-elect Alfredo Vendivil and Vice-Mayor-elect Virgilio Vendivil of Lupao town, First Nueva Ecija Engineering district engineer Pacifico Berin, barangay captain Miguel Sta. Ana, village watchman Florentino Alberto Jr. and Victor Ramos, all of Barangay Dos, Quezon.
Last Monday night municipal engineer Mauro Balajadia, 47, of Barangay Mallorca, San Leonardo, was killed by still unidentified suspect. Investigation showed the victim was about to enter his compound riding a car (CRR-675) when repeatedly shot by two motorcycle-riding suspects about 10:30. Javier said they have some new leads to the killings in Quezon but he refused to elaborate further lest their ongoing investigation be jeopardized. --Armand M. Galang (The Manila Times)
In his first day in office, Gov. Aurelio Umali underscored that he has every intention to rewrite the political history of Nueva Ecija, particularly the elimination of political violence.
Javier, who took over the helm of the Nueva Ecija provincial police office on June 30, is reportedly the personal choice of Umali. A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1985, Javier is perceived to be efficient at solving crimes having served at the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
Umali said he wants the police to solve not only the recent killings because its “closure will not be enough to allay fears.”
Javier admitted that he received a similar directive from the PNP chief, Director General Oscar Calderon, which is to solve the series of violence.
Among the victims of assassination after the May 14 election were Mayor-elect Alfredo Vendivil and Vice-Mayor-elect Virgilio Vendivil of Lupao town, First Nueva Ecija Engineering district engineer Pacifico Berin, barangay captain Miguel Sta. Ana, village watchman Florentino Alberto Jr. and Victor Ramos, all of Barangay Dos, Quezon.
Last Monday night municipal engineer Mauro Balajadia, 47, of Barangay Mallorca, San Leonardo, was killed by still unidentified suspect. Investigation showed the victim was about to enter his compound riding a car (CRR-675) when repeatedly shot by two motorcycle-riding suspects about 10:30. Javier said they have some new leads to the killings in Quezon but he refused to elaborate further lest their ongoing investigation be jeopardized. --Armand M. Galang (The Manila Times)
Joson to support Umali but...
PALAYAN CITY - Vice-Governor Edward Thomas F. Joson of the influential Joson clan who won in the recent elections vowed on to cross party lines “if only for the best of the people.”
Joson, son of former four-term Gov. Thomas Joson, who himself lodged a protests versus Cabanatuan City mayoralty rival Mayor Alvin Vergara, presides over the Sangguniang Panlalawigan with a majority of board members as political allies.
Gov. Aurelio Umali has only one party mate in the 13-member provincial board, board member Joseph Ortiz from the province’s second congressional district.
Umali is the chairman of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats in the province, while Joson belongs to the family-founded Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija that coalesced with President Arroyo’s Kabalikat ng Malalayang Pilipino (Kampi) shortly before the May elections.
Umali, however, visited with Joson and shook hands at the latter’s office on Monday, the first working day for the newly elected local officials.
The governor said he did not expect political alliance but he expressed belief they could agree for undertakings that will benefit the people.
“Tayo’y handang sumuporta sa mga programa basta’t para sa kapakanan ng ating mga mamamayan,” Joson said, but he added: “Pero kung ito ay may halong katiwalian at para sa pansariling interes lamang, e labis na itong panloloko, hindi na uubra sa atin ’yon.” - Armand M. Galang
Joson, son of former four-term Gov. Thomas Joson, who himself lodged a protests versus Cabanatuan City mayoralty rival Mayor Alvin Vergara, presides over the Sangguniang Panlalawigan with a majority of board members as political allies.
Gov. Aurelio Umali has only one party mate in the 13-member provincial board, board member Joseph Ortiz from the province’s second congressional district.
Umali is the chairman of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats in the province, while Joson belongs to the family-founded Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija that coalesced with President Arroyo’s Kabalikat ng Malalayang Pilipino (Kampi) shortly before the May elections.
Umali, however, visited with Joson and shook hands at the latter’s office on Monday, the first working day for the newly elected local officials.
The governor said he did not expect political alliance but he expressed belief they could agree for undertakings that will benefit the people.
“Tayo’y handang sumuporta sa mga programa basta’t para sa kapakanan ng ating mga mamamayan,” Joson said, but he added: “Pero kung ito ay may halong katiwalian at para sa pansariling interes lamang, e labis na itong panloloko, hindi na uubra sa atin ’yon.” - Armand M. Galang
Monday, June 18, 2007
Politics? Mayor-elect, vice mayor gunned down in Nueva Ecija
LUPAO, Nueva Ecija: Unidentified gunmen shot dead the newly elected Nueva Ecija town mayor and vice-mayor of this town inside a cockpit in Barangay Sto. Nino, San Jose City late Friday evening.
Seven other people were wounded in the shooting, reports said.
Killed were Alfredo Vendivil, the mayor of Lupao, and his cousin, Vice-Mayor Virgilio Vendivil.
Wounded were Michael Jordan, 8, son of a vendor; Manuel Vendivil, 47, barangay captain of Poblacion, Lupao; Wilfredo Solano, 52; Tito Collado, 37; Albert Olimon, 31; Armando Valiente, 51; and Marcelino Gulapa, 68.
The reports said the gunmen then fired shots in the air to scatter the crowd and cover their escape.
Vendivil’s security escorts were in a canteen inside the cockpit when the attack took place.
Vendivil was mayor for three consecutive terms. In 2004 he was elected as a board member.
Last May 14, he ran under the administration party Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats against the incumbent Mayor Alex Joanino and Nestor de Guzman.
Seven other people were wounded in the shooting, reports said.
Killed were Alfredo Vendivil, the mayor of Lupao, and his cousin, Vice-Mayor Virgilio Vendivil.
Wounded were Michael Jordan, 8, son of a vendor; Manuel Vendivil, 47, barangay captain of Poblacion, Lupao; Wilfredo Solano, 52; Tito Collado, 37; Albert Olimon, 31; Armando Valiente, 51; and Marcelino Gulapa, 68.
The reports said the gunmen then fired shots in the air to scatter the crowd and cover their escape.
Vendivil’s security escorts were in a canteen inside the cockpit when the attack took place.
Vendivil was mayor for three consecutive terms. In 2004 he was elected as a board member.
Last May 14, he ran under the administration party Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats against the incumbent Mayor Alex Joanino and Nestor de Guzman.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
PMA Class undergoes field training
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City - The Field Training Exercises (FTX) of the PMA cadets was opened on 01 June 2007, 2PM at the grand stand, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City.
The FTX is an integrated activity of all Cadets in different year levels yearly conducted to practice and reinforce their acquired knowledge and skills in the academy to better prepare them as leaders on conventional warfare for internal security operations.
BAGHAWI FTX is termed after the class name of the 1st class cadets who are the most senior among the group.
Objectives of the exercise are to evaluate leadership performance of the 1st class cadets and 2nd class cadets and to evaluate the performance as well as the knowledge and skills of the lower class as members of the fire team.
In the speech of BGen. Ralph A Villanueva, the commandant of cadets, he said that the FTX is different from those previously conducted because this year, the pilots and sailors among the 1st class cadets are included in the exercise. This is according to Villanueva, to ensure that cadets will have the broad intensive military skills and the height of the character to be responsible officers.
With Villanueva are other officers of the PMA to supervise the conduct of the activity.
First class cadets will be thought on how to become good platoon leaders and good officers in preparation to their field duty. Second class cadets will be thought on how to become good squad leaders. Third class will focus on weapons training. The plebes will be tested on their obedience as the most junior among the group.
In the speech of MGen. Juanito Gomez, commander of 7th Infantry Division and Guest of Honor and Speaker during the ceremony, he expressed his hope for these future “cutting edge” of the Internal Security Operations as supporters to the accomplishment of the AFP’s mission.
Gomez emphasized that in the regimented life of soldiery, the “Military Professionalism” of Charles de Gaulle must be known by heart by the Cadets.
Gomez also imposed challenge to the cadets to strive for excellence in all their endeavors and exert best efforts to the limits of their abilities.
The FTX is an integrated activity of all Cadets in different year levels yearly conducted to practice and reinforce their acquired knowledge and skills in the academy to better prepare them as leaders on conventional warfare for internal security operations.
BAGHAWI FTX is termed after the class name of the 1st class cadets who are the most senior among the group.
Objectives of the exercise are to evaluate leadership performance of the 1st class cadets and 2nd class cadets and to evaluate the performance as well as the knowledge and skills of the lower class as members of the fire team.
In the speech of BGen. Ralph A Villanueva, the commandant of cadets, he said that the FTX is different from those previously conducted because this year, the pilots and sailors among the 1st class cadets are included in the exercise. This is according to Villanueva, to ensure that cadets will have the broad intensive military skills and the height of the character to be responsible officers.
With Villanueva are other officers of the PMA to supervise the conduct of the activity.
First class cadets will be thought on how to become good platoon leaders and good officers in preparation to their field duty. Second class cadets will be thought on how to become good squad leaders. Third class will focus on weapons training. The plebes will be tested on their obedience as the most junior among the group.
In the speech of MGen. Juanito Gomez, commander of 7th Infantry Division and Guest of Honor and Speaker during the ceremony, he expressed his hope for these future “cutting edge” of the Internal Security Operations as supporters to the accomplishment of the AFP’s mission.
Gomez emphasized that in the regimented life of soldiery, the “Military Professionalism” of Charles de Gaulle must be known by heart by the Cadets.
Gomez also imposed challenge to the cadets to strive for excellence in all their endeavors and exert best efforts to the limits of their abilities.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Nueva Ecija elections: Winning polls without money
SAN JOSE CITY - This is for the record.
With a meager budget of less than P10,000, a city councilor pursued his political ambition and won a mandate for a seat in the provincial board.
For another record of sorts, San Jose City Councilor Joseph Ortiz was the only Lakas-CMD bet for the province’s Sangguniang Panlalawigan who survived, as all the nine others were candidates of the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija-Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino coalition.
Ortiz was a newsman and former member of the congressional staff of Second District Rep. Elueterio Violago before he run for councilor nine years ago. During the recent campaign, there was no singlesticker or T-shirt to promote his candidacy in the district, which covers the cities of San Jose and Muñoz and the towns of Lupao, Llanera, Rizal, Pantabangan, Carranglan and Talugtog.
“Wala po akong pera para magpagawa ng stickers, hinihiling kong idikit niyo na lamang ako sa inyong mga puso,” Ortiz would tell electorates during campaign sorties of his fellow Lakas-CMD candidates, particularly of congressman-elect Joseph Violago, which he would join.
“I also want to make a difference. Ibang pulitika na ang basehan ay pagkatao kakayahan at karanasan,” he said. “Pulitika na dapat patas sa mayaman at mahirap,” he added.
But to manifest his sincere interest in public service, Ortiz produced flyers that were photo copied for dissemination, which contained a summary of what he wanted to do and why deserved to be elected. It included his profile and achievements as councilor of San Jose since 1998, a 9-year stint that translated into some 1,013 ordinances and resolutions. He also served as national treasurer of the Philippine Councilors League during this time.
Ortiz was president of the Parish Pastoral Council, District Warden of the Knights of Columbus Council 4073, President of Cursillo in Christianity, a brother at the Catholic Charismatic Movement and Lay minister, among others.
He was a correspondent for the now defunct Philippine Daily Globe, and columnist in a local newspaper, Isyu Ngayon.
But before his stint in public service, Ortiz worked in a rice mill, was a jeepney conductor, a janitor in a travel agency and a vendor at the PNR bus station. As a councilman, Ortiz sponsored programs and activities that benefited workers, housing, social services, agriculture, fire and safety, cultural enrichment, revenue generation, among others. - Armand M. Galang
With a meager budget of less than P10,000, a city councilor pursued his political ambition and won a mandate for a seat in the provincial board.
For another record of sorts, San Jose City Councilor Joseph Ortiz was the only Lakas-CMD bet for the province’s Sangguniang Panlalawigan who survived, as all the nine others were candidates of the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija-Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino coalition.
Ortiz was a newsman and former member of the congressional staff of Second District Rep. Elueterio Violago before he run for councilor nine years ago. During the recent campaign, there was no singlesticker or T-shirt to promote his candidacy in the district, which covers the cities of San Jose and Muñoz and the towns of Lupao, Llanera, Rizal, Pantabangan, Carranglan and Talugtog.
“Wala po akong pera para magpagawa ng stickers, hinihiling kong idikit niyo na lamang ako sa inyong mga puso,” Ortiz would tell electorates during campaign sorties of his fellow Lakas-CMD candidates, particularly of congressman-elect Joseph Violago, which he would join.
“I also want to make a difference. Ibang pulitika na ang basehan ay pagkatao kakayahan at karanasan,” he said. “Pulitika na dapat patas sa mayaman at mahirap,” he added.
But to manifest his sincere interest in public service, Ortiz produced flyers that were photo copied for dissemination, which contained a summary of what he wanted to do and why deserved to be elected. It included his profile and achievements as councilor of San Jose since 1998, a 9-year stint that translated into some 1,013 ordinances and resolutions. He also served as national treasurer of the Philippine Councilors League during this time.
Ortiz was president of the Parish Pastoral Council, District Warden of the Knights of Columbus Council 4073, President of Cursillo in Christianity, a brother at the Catholic Charismatic Movement and Lay minister, among others.
He was a correspondent for the now defunct Philippine Daily Globe, and columnist in a local newspaper, Isyu Ngayon.
But before his stint in public service, Ortiz worked in a rice mill, was a jeepney conductor, a janitor in a travel agency and a vendor at the PNR bus station. As a councilman, Ortiz sponsored programs and activities that benefited workers, housing, social services, agriculture, fire and safety, cultural enrichment, revenue generation, among others. - Armand M. Galang
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
New landscape of Nueva Ecija politics
CABANATUAN CITY - A new political landscape is expected to develop in Nueva Ecija with the election of Third District Rep. Aurelio M. Umali of Lakas-CMD as the new governor, with senior board member Edward Thomas Joson of Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija-Kampi as vice-governor.
Umali was proclaimed by the provincial board of canvassers headed by Atty. Emmanuel Ignacio, provincial election supervisor on Sunday, as the winner in the May 14 gubernatorial race having garnered 434,445 votes as against his rival, Mariano Cristino Joson’s 314,335 votes.
The younger Joson, meanwhile, garnered 392,031 votes to win the vice gubernatorial fight over Jose Taruc V who got 327,015 votes.
Umali said the mandate that the Novo Ecijanos gave him only confirm that the province wants change. “This is a vote for change,” he told reporters.
Ironically, as governor, Umali has to work at the provincial Capitol where most people belong to the party of the Josons. Besides Joson as vice-governor, political observers noted that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is filled up with members affiliated with Balane-Kampi, except for Second District’s Joseph Ortiz (Lakas-CMD).
The board members-elect are Rommel Padilla, Eric Salazar, Cesar Cucio (First District), Wilfredo Munsayac, Ortiz (Second District), Raqueliza Agapito, Melchor Morales (Third District) Teresita Patiag, Zaldy Matias and Romanito Juatco (Fourth District).
For the Congress, Umali has two allies and two from the Josons. They are Congressmen-elect Eduardo Nonato Joson (First District, Balane), Joseph Violago (Second District, Lakas), Czarina Umali (Third District, Lakas) and Rodolfo Antonino (Fourth District, Balane-Kampi).
Meanwhile, in Talavera, the son-in-law of TU senatorial candidate Tito Sotto and actress Helen Gamboa, and the actor brother of action star Robin Padilla proved their showbiz connection working to their favor when they emerged winning the recently concluded midterm elections in Nueva Ecija. Not as lucky though was Barbara Milano who lost her bid for reelection as Talavera councilor.
Francis Vincent de Leon, 29, husband of Quezon City Councilor Lala Sotto (3rd district) won by a landslide as vice-mayor of Talavera with 23,142 votes over his rival and reelectionist Vice Mayor Maritess Gaboy’s 17,714.
He ran under the banner of Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija-Kampi as running mate of re-electionist Mayor Nerito Santos who won another mandate.
In his campaign, the business administration graduate from De La Salle University de Leon used the slogan “Manugang ni Tito Sotto at Helen Gamboa.” His wife, Lala, who also appeared in at least five movies during her younger years, joined him in some sorties in Talavera. His father also served as councilman of Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.
Actor Rommel Padilla, brother of Robin Padilla, also won big as member of the Nueva Ecija provincial board representing the First District. He obtained more than 104,000 votes topping the roster of elected board members. Padilla’s mother, Eva Cariño, is from Barangay Nagmisahan, Cuyapo.
But while de Leon and Padilla were a hit, former sexy start Barabara Milano, whose real name is Anabel Ramos, failed to receive a fresh mandates as councilor from her constituents in Talavera town. Milano who run under Lakas-CMD was elected number one in the race for a council seat in 2004. This time around though, she emerged ninth for the eight-member council election. -Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
Umali was proclaimed by the provincial board of canvassers headed by Atty. Emmanuel Ignacio, provincial election supervisor on Sunday, as the winner in the May 14 gubernatorial race having garnered 434,445 votes as against his rival, Mariano Cristino Joson’s 314,335 votes.
The younger Joson, meanwhile, garnered 392,031 votes to win the vice gubernatorial fight over Jose Taruc V who got 327,015 votes.
Umali said the mandate that the Novo Ecijanos gave him only confirm that the province wants change. “This is a vote for change,” he told reporters.
Ironically, as governor, Umali has to work at the provincial Capitol where most people belong to the party of the Josons. Besides Joson as vice-governor, political observers noted that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is filled up with members affiliated with Balane-Kampi, except for Second District’s Joseph Ortiz (Lakas-CMD).
The board members-elect are Rommel Padilla, Eric Salazar, Cesar Cucio (First District), Wilfredo Munsayac, Ortiz (Second District), Raqueliza Agapito, Melchor Morales (Third District) Teresita Patiag, Zaldy Matias and Romanito Juatco (Fourth District).
For the Congress, Umali has two allies and two from the Josons. They are Congressmen-elect Eduardo Nonato Joson (First District, Balane), Joseph Violago (Second District, Lakas), Czarina Umali (Third District, Lakas) and Rodolfo Antonino (Fourth District, Balane-Kampi).
Meanwhile, in Talavera, the son-in-law of TU senatorial candidate Tito Sotto and actress Helen Gamboa, and the actor brother of action star Robin Padilla proved their showbiz connection working to their favor when they emerged winning the recently concluded midterm elections in Nueva Ecija. Not as lucky though was Barbara Milano who lost her bid for reelection as Talavera councilor.
Francis Vincent de Leon, 29, husband of Quezon City Councilor Lala Sotto (3rd district) won by a landslide as vice-mayor of Talavera with 23,142 votes over his rival and reelectionist Vice Mayor Maritess Gaboy’s 17,714.
He ran under the banner of Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija-Kampi as running mate of re-electionist Mayor Nerito Santos who won another mandate.
In his campaign, the business administration graduate from De La Salle University de Leon used the slogan “Manugang ni Tito Sotto at Helen Gamboa.” His wife, Lala, who also appeared in at least five movies during her younger years, joined him in some sorties in Talavera. His father also served as councilman of Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.
Actor Rommel Padilla, brother of Robin Padilla, also won big as member of the Nueva Ecija provincial board representing the First District. He obtained more than 104,000 votes topping the roster of elected board members. Padilla’s mother, Eva Cariño, is from Barangay Nagmisahan, Cuyapo.
But while de Leon and Padilla were a hit, former sexy start Barabara Milano, whose real name is Anabel Ramos, failed to receive a fresh mandates as councilor from her constituents in Talavera town. Milano who run under Lakas-CMD was elected number one in the race for a council seat in 2004. This time around though, she emerged ninth for the eight-member council election. -Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Foreign observer denies report
CABANATUAN CITY - Disputing earlier reports circulating in the province of Nueva Ecija that a foreign observer was shot and killed, the team leader of the International Observer's Mission '07 debunked the ugly rumors, saying, "We feel safe in the countryside."
Reached through his mobile phone, American Larry Emery informed this reporter that this "ugly report" is fathest from the truth, saying "We feel safe in the countryside and, hopefully nothing much more than a stomachache will befall their group."
Together with their local counterparts here, the "Compact for Peaceful Elections," led by Jigs Claymore, Emery expressed confidence nothing untoward will come to them well knowing that Filipinos are hospitable people and reasonable to a fault.
It was learned that on election day, the foreign observers group paid courtesy to officer-in-charge of the Nueva Ecija police Senior Superintendent Alfredo Caballes.
Caballes said he offered the foreign observers group security but which they declined.The foreign observers observing the conduct of election here were were Australians Jason Grant Bray, Nathah Paul Woodard, and Swiss Lars Granberd.
They had a briefing with the various members of the "Compact for Peaceful Elections."Meanwhile, Comelec provincial election supervisor Atty. Emmanuel Ignacio urged NAMFREL to proceed with its own canvass of the votes cast and to finish it as soon.
"We have to proceed with and finish the canvassing as soon as possible to take the heat off from us," he said. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Reached through his mobile phone, American Larry Emery informed this reporter that this "ugly report" is fathest from the truth, saying "We feel safe in the countryside and, hopefully nothing much more than a stomachache will befall their group."
Together with their local counterparts here, the "Compact for Peaceful Elections," led by Jigs Claymore, Emery expressed confidence nothing untoward will come to them well knowing that Filipinos are hospitable people and reasonable to a fault.
It was learned that on election day, the foreign observers group paid courtesy to officer-in-charge of the Nueva Ecija police Senior Superintendent Alfredo Caballes.
Caballes said he offered the foreign observers group security but which they declined.The foreign observers observing the conduct of election here were were Australians Jason Grant Bray, Nathah Paul Woodard, and Swiss Lars Granberd.
They had a briefing with the various members of the "Compact for Peaceful Elections."Meanwhile, Comelec provincial election supervisor Atty. Emmanuel Ignacio urged NAMFREL to proceed with its own canvass of the votes cast and to finish it as soon.
"We have to proceed with and finish the canvassing as soon as possible to take the heat off from us," he said. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Elections in Nueva Ecija: DOJ panel formed to probe Bloody Jaen incident
CABANATUAN CITY - A panel of prosecutors have been formed here that will conduct the preliminary investigation on the cases to be filed in connection with the April 26 violent incident in a road blockade near a political rally in Jaen town that claimed the lives of a candidate for councilor and a police escort, and injured 17 others.
To-date, at least four separate cases for murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder have been filed by the camp of Jaen ex-Mayor Antonio Prospero Esquivel with the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor here.
Named respondents in the cases are: Nueva Ecija 4th District Congressman Rodolfo W. Antonino, police Inspector Gamilo, SPO2 Hermenigildo "Gil" Eduardo, PO1 Modesto Catacutan, PO1 William Catacutan and several other "John Does,"
According to Prosecutor Floro F. Florendo, Provincial Prosecutor officer-in-charge, the preliminary investigation of cases I.S. Nos. 07D-1011, 07D-1012, 07E-1038 and 07E-1047, will be conducted by a panel of prosecutors composed of Assistant Provincial Prosecutors Felicisimo Villaflor, Eddie Gutierrez and Dionisio Ledda Jr.
During an interview, Region 3 police director Chief Superintendent Ismael Rafanan said that the soon-to-be issued findings of the "Task Force Jaen" formed to probe the April 26 Jaen incident will be a "no-holds barred" finding of the group.
He said that the third version of the investigation has been submitted only last Monday and he said he expects the full report to be ready latest Wednesday, or within the week.
"Masaktan kung sino man ang masaktan, ma-pulis o sino man siyang malaking tao, kakasuhan natin ang mga iyan kung ito ang lalabas sa ating imbestigasyon. Siguradong walang white-wash dito." ("The investigation we are conducting will spare no one, be he a police officer or somebody big. If he is found guilty in our investigation he will get the full force of the law.") - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
To-date, at least four separate cases for murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder have been filed by the camp of Jaen ex-Mayor Antonio Prospero Esquivel with the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor here.
Named respondents in the cases are: Nueva Ecija 4th District Congressman Rodolfo W. Antonino, police Inspector Gamilo, SPO2 Hermenigildo "Gil" Eduardo, PO1 Modesto Catacutan, PO1 William Catacutan and several other "John Does,"
According to Prosecutor Floro F. Florendo, Provincial Prosecutor officer-in-charge, the preliminary investigation of cases I.S. Nos. 07D-1011, 07D-1012, 07E-1038 and 07E-1047, will be conducted by a panel of prosecutors composed of Assistant Provincial Prosecutors Felicisimo Villaflor, Eddie Gutierrez and Dionisio Ledda Jr.
During an interview, Region 3 police director Chief Superintendent Ismael Rafanan said that the soon-to-be issued findings of the "Task Force Jaen" formed to probe the April 26 Jaen incident will be a "no-holds barred" finding of the group.
He said that the third version of the investigation has been submitted only last Monday and he said he expects the full report to be ready latest Wednesday, or within the week.
"Masaktan kung sino man ang masaktan, ma-pulis o sino man siyang malaking tao, kakasuhan natin ang mga iyan kung ito ang lalabas sa ating imbestigasyon. Siguradong walang white-wash dito." ("The investigation we are conducting will spare no one, be he a police officer or somebody big. If he is found guilty in our investigation he will get the full force of the law.") - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Monday, April 23, 2007
Nueva Ecija elections: Three village officials killed in ambush
TALUGTOG, Nueva Ecija - A village head and two other officials were killed in an ambush after attending a political meeting in this far-flung municipality of Talugtog, Nueva Ecija Monday night.
Senior Supt. Allen Bantolo, Nueva Ecija policedirector, identified the victims as Barangay CaptainLiberato Ramos of Barangay Saverano, councilmanJuanito Tonya, and barangay treasurer Eusebio Jimenez.
The victims were shot repeatedly by still unidentifiedgun men at the adjoining Barangay Severano afterattending a meeting of Bagong Lakas nbg Nueva Ecija inthe adjoining Barangay Sampaloc, reports said.
Bantolo said they were conducting an ocularinvestigation and have yet to got lead on the suspectsas of press time.
Senior Supt. Allen Bantolo, Nueva Ecija policedirector, identified the victims as Barangay CaptainLiberato Ramos of Barangay Saverano, councilmanJuanito Tonya, and barangay treasurer Eusebio Jimenez.
The victims were shot repeatedly by still unidentifiedgun men at the adjoining Barangay Severano afterattending a meeting of Bagong Lakas nbg Nueva Ecija inthe adjoining Barangay Sampaloc, reports said.
Bantolo said they were conducting an ocularinvestigation and have yet to got lead on the suspectsas of press time.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Nueva Ecija pols sign peace covenant
CABANATUAN CITY - Rival politicians running for various positions in Nueva Ecija are set to sign a peace covenant in connection with the May 14 elections, an official of the Parish Pastoral Council said.
Initiated by the PPCRV, the Candidates’ Forum and Peace Covenant, spearheaded by Bishop Sofronio A. Bancud of Cabanatuan, is expected to “clearly reiterate our unwavering commitment to peace and justice, for the service of our people and for the good of our province,” said a letter from Fr. Aldrin B. Domingo, PPCRV-Diocese of Cabanatuan coordinator.
The priest said that the covenant fills the need to promote peace and justice as fundamental foundations of a civilized, orderly and progressive society.
He stressed that “only in an environment of peace and justice can we pursue the road to progress and harmony that we all dream about.”
Candidates for congress, governor, vice governor, mayors will participate in the peace covenant, said Fr. Domingo.
It was learned that several candidates for posts in the municipal level have already signed peace covenants.
Initiated by the PPCRV, the Candidates’ Forum and Peace Covenant, spearheaded by Bishop Sofronio A. Bancud of Cabanatuan, is expected to “clearly reiterate our unwavering commitment to peace and justice, for the service of our people and for the good of our province,” said a letter from Fr. Aldrin B. Domingo, PPCRV-Diocese of Cabanatuan coordinator.
The priest said that the covenant fills the need to promote peace and justice as fundamental foundations of a civilized, orderly and progressive society.
He stressed that “only in an environment of peace and justice can we pursue the road to progress and harmony that we all dream about.”
Candidates for congress, governor, vice governor, mayors will participate in the peace covenant, said Fr. Domingo.
It was learned that several candidates for posts in the municipal level have already signed peace covenants.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Nueva Ecija reporter killed
SANTA ROSA, Nueva Ecija - A reporter of the government-owned radio station Radyo ng Bayan was killed and dumped in the outskirts of Barangay Soledad, Santa Rosa, by still unidentified suspects.
Supt. Benjamin de la Cruz, town police chief, said the body of Mark Palacios, 42, a resident of the northern Nueva Ecija town of Guimba, was recovered about 6 a.m.
Palacios is a member of the Nueva Ecija Press Club Inc., the umbrella organization of media groups in the province.
He has also been involved in an anticrime group.
Initial investigation disclosed that Palacios was hit by a hard object in his head, said de la Cruz, sustaining bruises in different parts of his body. -Armand M. Galang
Supt. Benjamin de la Cruz, town police chief, said the body of Mark Palacios, 42, a resident of the northern Nueva Ecija town of Guimba, was recovered about 6 a.m.
Palacios is a member of the Nueva Ecija Press Club Inc., the umbrella organization of media groups in the province.
He has also been involved in an anticrime group.
Initial investigation disclosed that Palacios was hit by a hard object in his head, said de la Cruz, sustaining bruises in different parts of his body. -Armand M. Galang
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Nueva Ecija elections: bet gunned down in Licab
LICAB, Nueva Ecija - Two armed men killed a candidate for the town council on Sunday morning as he stepped out of the church where he stood as a sponsor in a wedding.
Police identified the fatality as Ariel de la Merced, a resident of San Cristobal, Licab, Nueva Ecija.
He was running for councilor under Liberal Party.
Mayoralty bet Teddy Ilagan was unhurt since he managed to cover himself from the assassins, reports said.
The two were just stepping out of the church in Barangay Villarosa when the suspects approached and shot de la Merced repeatedly until he lied dead on the ground. The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds from .45 caliber pistol, police said.
The suspects made sure their victim was already dead, before they drove away on a motorcycle. Police have yet to established the motive of the killing. --Armand M. Galang
Police identified the fatality as Ariel de la Merced, a resident of San Cristobal, Licab, Nueva Ecija.
He was running for councilor under Liberal Party.
Mayoralty bet Teddy Ilagan was unhurt since he managed to cover himself from the assassins, reports said.
The two were just stepping out of the church in Barangay Villarosa when the suspects approached and shot de la Merced repeatedly until he lied dead on the ground. The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds from .45 caliber pistol, police said.
The suspects made sure their victim was already dead, before they drove away on a motorcycle. Police have yet to established the motive of the killing. --Armand M. Galang
Friday, April 13, 2007
Tommy's certified candidate
Gov. Tomas Joson III (Kapmi-Balane) of Nueva Ecija shows his certificate of candidacy to supporters. He is running for Cabanatuan City against incumbent Vice Mayor Raul Mendoza (UNO), Celcor Pres. Alvin Vergara (Lakas-CMD) and former city Coun. Elpidio Valino (Kapartido ng Masang Pilipino). Photo by Jun Torres
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Ecija candidate dies after sortie
PEÑARANDA, Nueva Ecija - A Lakas candidate for councilor in this southeastern Nueva Ecija town succumbed to suspected heart attack hours after the party’s proclamation rally, police reported on Wednesday.
Senior Insp. Reulito Barcelo, town police chief, said Benjamin M. Naga, died before reaching a local hospital at about 2 a.m. on Tuesday.
Naga has joined his partymates, led by mayoralty candidate Gerry Geronimo with gubernatorial and vice gubernatorial bets Rep. Aurelio Umali and Popoy Taruc, respectively until midnight of Monday at the town’s poblacion.
Initial reports said Naga could have died of heart attack owing to the pressures and fatigue brought by the campaign.
Senior Insp. Reulito Barcelo, town police chief, said Benjamin M. Naga, died before reaching a local hospital at about 2 a.m. on Tuesday.
Naga has joined his partymates, led by mayoralty candidate Gerry Geronimo with gubernatorial and vice gubernatorial bets Rep. Aurelio Umali and Popoy Taruc, respectively until midnight of Monday at the town’s poblacion.
Initial reports said Naga could have died of heart attack owing to the pressures and fatigue brought by the campaign.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Army,NPAs exchange fire in Lupao
LUPAO, Nueva Ecija - An undetermined number of suspected New Peoples Army guerillas were wounded while two Armalite rifles with bunch of subversive documents were recovered in a “fierce encounter” between the government troopers and and the rebels in a narrow river in the far-flung village here Monday night, the military reported on Tuesday.
Lt. Col. Gregory Cayetano, commander of the Army’s 71st Infantry Battalion, said the rebels, reportedly led one Antonio Layco alias Ka Domeng of Sandatahang Yunit sa Platun, Pangasinan – Front Nueva Ecija Provincial Command, initially positioned to engage the soldiers in firefight but after a considerable period of exchange of fire scampered to different directions carrying with them “their wounded comrades.”
The rebels, Cayetano, run through the “cover of darkness and thick vegetation,” in Sitio Pinggan, Barangay Parista, Lupao. The place, the military said, is a remote village situated at the foothills of Caraballo Mountain range. The encountered happened at about 9:15 p.m., he said.
Cayetano said that the soldiers, led by 2Lt. Roselio Cabarliza conducted a tactical offensive after receiving reports from some residents that the NPAs were allegedly “terrorizing” the residents in an attempt “to regain mass base in the area.”
Cabarliza, in his report to the 7th Infantry Division based in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City, noted the alleged inferiority this time of the rebels owing to low quality manpower and evident lack of training.
“The communist insurgents were trying to regain influence over their lost mass base in Lupao,” which he said, “is the life blood of the rebels as it provides them crucial supports such as food, finance and information.”
Cayetano noted that a number of former NPA supporters have joined the military-inspired Barangay Defense System, a project supported by various private institutions which provided training and supports for livelihood. -Armand M. Galang
Lt. Col. Gregory Cayetano, commander of the Army’s 71st Infantry Battalion, said the rebels, reportedly led one Antonio Layco alias Ka Domeng of Sandatahang Yunit sa Platun, Pangasinan – Front Nueva Ecija Provincial Command, initially positioned to engage the soldiers in firefight but after a considerable period of exchange of fire scampered to different directions carrying with them “their wounded comrades.”
The rebels, Cayetano, run through the “cover of darkness and thick vegetation,” in Sitio Pinggan, Barangay Parista, Lupao. The place, the military said, is a remote village situated at the foothills of Caraballo Mountain range. The encountered happened at about 9:15 p.m., he said.
Cayetano said that the soldiers, led by 2Lt. Roselio Cabarliza conducted a tactical offensive after receiving reports from some residents that the NPAs were allegedly “terrorizing” the residents in an attempt “to regain mass base in the area.”
Cabarliza, in his report to the 7th Infantry Division based in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City, noted the alleged inferiority this time of the rebels owing to low quality manpower and evident lack of training.
“The communist insurgents were trying to regain influence over their lost mass base in Lupao,” which he said, “is the life blood of the rebels as it provides them crucial supports such as food, finance and information.”
Cayetano noted that a number of former NPA supporters have joined the military-inspired Barangay Defense System, a project supported by various private institutions which provided training and supports for livelihood. -Armand M. Galang
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Popoy Taruc hits report
GAPAN CITY, Nueva Ecija - A neophyte politician running for a top position in Nueva Ecija deplored over the weekend alleged attempt to discredit him by identifying him as the one involved in the fatal accident along Olongapo-Gapan Road in Arayat, Pampanga.
Jose Taruc V, son of veteran broadcaster Joe Taruc, expressed belief that the linking of his name in an incident which actually involved his elder brother, Jose “Jekjek” IV, could be a try to attack his candidacy.
"Palibhasa ako ang kandidato kaya iniintriga tayo,” Taruc who is running for vice governor under Lakas-CMD told the media. He is teamed up with gubernatorial bet Aurelio Umali, incumbent third district representative.
The accident resulted to the death of tricycle driver Marlon Lumbang and serious injuries on Enrique Moranos and Ernesto Pacheco. The three were riding on a motorcyle when it collided with a car driven by Taruc IV, reports said.
Lumbang died instantly. Moranos is in unstable condition while Pacheco suffered a broken pelvis.
Weekend reports said that the driver of the car was Jose Taruc IV, a vice-gubernatorial candidate for Nueva Ecija and son of veteran broadcaster Joe Taruc.....". The report, he said, “was all wrong for he was then in Manila when the accident happened".
Investigation showed that the motorcycle, with the three on board suddenly swerved to the left lane of the road, but was hit by the vehicle driven by nger Taruc IV.
Police noted an attempt by the Taruc IV to avoid the swerving motorcycle, as evidenced by “17-meters skid mark on the road”.
Jose Taruc V, son of veteran broadcaster Joe Taruc, expressed belief that the linking of his name in an incident which actually involved his elder brother, Jose “Jekjek” IV, could be a try to attack his candidacy.
"Palibhasa ako ang kandidato kaya iniintriga tayo,” Taruc who is running for vice governor under Lakas-CMD told the media. He is teamed up with gubernatorial bet Aurelio Umali, incumbent third district representative.
The accident resulted to the death of tricycle driver Marlon Lumbang and serious injuries on Enrique Moranos and Ernesto Pacheco. The three were riding on a motorcyle when it collided with a car driven by Taruc IV, reports said.
Lumbang died instantly. Moranos is in unstable condition while Pacheco suffered a broken pelvis.
Weekend reports said that the driver of the car was Jose Taruc IV, a vice-gubernatorial candidate for Nueva Ecija and son of veteran broadcaster Joe Taruc.....". The report, he said, “was all wrong for he was then in Manila when the accident happened".
Investigation showed that the motorcycle, with the three on board suddenly swerved to the left lane of the road, but was hit by the vehicle driven by nger Taruc IV.
Police noted an attempt by the Taruc IV to avoid the swerving motorcycle, as evidenced by “17-meters skid mark on the road”.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Gov't says open to redeploy Pinoys not ready to return
by KRISTY ANNE C. TOPACIO-MANALAYSAY
MANILA—SUCCESSFULLY building a business after working abroad, Alberto Limbo Perez still couldn’t be pinned down in his own country. Luckily for him, a recently-built government center can give him that chance.
“Who would reject the opportunity of working abroad?” the 47-year-old Perez said in Tagalog. “Earnings from abroad are a big help to meet our needs. It’s a waste to let the opportunity pass.”
This comes from a man whose seven-year-old work abroad is being poured on a house with swimming pool at a cost of P4 million, almost half of what the Philippine government spent on a building to mold Filipinos like him to either stay home for good or go back to migrant work.
The building in Intramuros, Manila, was funded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration with a P7-million purse (US$140,000 at US$1=P48) according to Labor Attache to Japan Reydeluz Conferido.
Conferido said the National Reintegration Center for Overseas Filipino Workers would allow temporary migrant Filipino workers with plans to return permanently here to adjust first by allowing them go back to overseas work.
MANILA—SUCCESSFULLY building a business after working abroad, Alberto Limbo Perez still couldn’t be pinned down in his own country. Luckily for him, a recently-built government center can give him that chance.
“Who would reject the opportunity of working abroad?” the 47-year-old Perez said in Tagalog. “Earnings from abroad are a big help to meet our needs. It’s a waste to let the opportunity pass.”
This comes from a man whose seven-year-old work abroad is being poured on a house with swimming pool at a cost of P4 million, almost half of what the Philippine government spent on a building to mold Filipinos like him to either stay home for good or go back to migrant work.
The building in Intramuros, Manila, was funded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration with a P7-million purse (US$140,000 at US$1=P48) according to Labor Attache to Japan Reydeluz Conferido.
Conferido said the National Reintegration Center for Overseas Filipino Workers would allow temporary migrant Filipino workers with plans to return permanently here to adjust first by allowing them go back to overseas work.
Ecija families in political stints
CABANATUAN CITY - Political families in Nueva Ecija are presenting themselves to voters in pack in an apparent move to thwart future disagreement with non-relative officials.
The list Mayor Antonio Esquivel for mayor with his son, Tony Boy for vice mayor in Jaen town; Mayor Lucio Uera with son Charrys in Pantabangan; Mayor Nestor Alvarez of the Science City of Muñoz has his former mayor brother Efren; Mayor Marcial Vargas of Aliaga has his wife, Beth as running mate.
The Josons first encountered trouble with Vice-Gov. Narciso Nario, now with the Philippine Commission on Good Government, when the patriarch, the Gov. Eduardo L. Joson died in early 90’s. Nario initially resigned from the position to give way to Tomas 3rd who was then senior board member in the succession but later retracted.
When another Joson, Eduardo Nonato was elected with businessman Oscar Tinio as vice-governor, he sustained series of suspension attempts with the latter siding with their political archrivals.
This prompted Tomas 3rd to field his younger brothers, Eduardo IV and Mariano Cristino, in 2001 and 2004 elections, respectively, where they won and finished terms without much bickering.
This election, as Tomas 3rd runs for the Cabanatuan City mayoralty post, Mariano Cristino is running for governor with nephew, senior board Member Edward Thomas as running mate.
In Jaen, Esquivel has been replaced at the town hall since January by Vice-Mayor Santiago Austria after the former was ordered dismissed by the Ombudsman while Uera is in a deadlock with his vice-mayor in Pantabangan.
When Beth Vargas was elected mayor with an opposing party at the vice- mayor’s office, she claimed to have her projects derailed, prompting the couple in 2004 to launch their husband-and-wife tandem, which they succeeded.
Meanwhile, Mariano Cristino’s rival for governor, Third District Rep. Aurelio Umali has his wife running for the Congressional seat.
Former Fourth District representative Julita Villareal who is geared for a comeback has her sons, Jojo and Chris, for board member and Mayor of San Isidro town, respectively. Armand M. Galang
The list Mayor Antonio Esquivel for mayor with his son, Tony Boy for vice mayor in Jaen town; Mayor Lucio Uera with son Charrys in Pantabangan; Mayor Nestor Alvarez of the Science City of Muñoz has his former mayor brother Efren; Mayor Marcial Vargas of Aliaga has his wife, Beth as running mate.
The Josons first encountered trouble with Vice-Gov. Narciso Nario, now with the Philippine Commission on Good Government, when the patriarch, the Gov. Eduardo L. Joson died in early 90’s. Nario initially resigned from the position to give way to Tomas 3rd who was then senior board member in the succession but later retracted.
When another Joson, Eduardo Nonato was elected with businessman Oscar Tinio as vice-governor, he sustained series of suspension attempts with the latter siding with their political archrivals.
This prompted Tomas 3rd to field his younger brothers, Eduardo IV and Mariano Cristino, in 2001 and 2004 elections, respectively, where they won and finished terms without much bickering.
This election, as Tomas 3rd runs for the Cabanatuan City mayoralty post, Mariano Cristino is running for governor with nephew, senior board Member Edward Thomas as running mate.
In Jaen, Esquivel has been replaced at the town hall since January by Vice-Mayor Santiago Austria after the former was ordered dismissed by the Ombudsman while Uera is in a deadlock with his vice-mayor in Pantabangan.
When Beth Vargas was elected mayor with an opposing party at the vice- mayor’s office, she claimed to have her projects derailed, prompting the couple in 2004 to launch their husband-and-wife tandem, which they succeeded.
Meanwhile, Mariano Cristino’s rival for governor, Third District Rep. Aurelio Umali has his wife running for the Congressional seat.
Former Fourth District representative Julita Villareal who is geared for a comeback has her sons, Jojo and Chris, for board member and Mayor of San Isidro town, respectively. Armand M. Galang
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Cloned carabao coming soon? RP's scientists
SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ - K-18 AND H-4.
They are the identifying tags for two of the super dairy water buffaloes at the gene pool of the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) here.
They are among the herd of imported Bulgarian buffaloes maintained by the PCC for the improvement of the carabao breed in the country. Based on records, they produce from a low of 12 liters and a peak of 18 liters of milk a day during their lactation period. Decidedly, they are
very superior compared to the native carabaos which produce an average of 1.5 liters of milk a day.
Scientists of PCC have started the process of producing precise copies of K-18 and H-4. It is thru the cloning technology.
To be exact, this PCC’s project, according to Dr. Libertado Cruz, the agency’s executive director, is “cloning thru somatic cell nuclear transfer”. It is cloning thru the use of a body cell.
(Cloning is defined as a means of making copies of individual or the production of large number of dentical offspring. Cloning by nuclear transfer involves the transfer of genetic material from a donor cell (karyoplast) to the cytoplasm of a matured oocyte from which the nucleus, which contains the genetic materials, has been removed. This matured oocyte whose nucleus has been removed is known as the recipient cytoplast. Somatic means bodily or corporeal.)
Reproductive biotechnology
“Our aim is to develop an efficient system for the production of clones toward genetic improvement of the water buffaloes in the country,” Cruz said. “It is in addition to the
reproductive biotechnologies already successfully researched and now being used by the PCC,” he added.
The first major tool employed in reproduction by the PCC, Cruz said, were estrus synchronization and artificial insemination using frozen semen. This, however, required considerable time to attain a purebred animals thru a series of backcrossing.
This was followed by in vitro maturation-in vitro fertilization.
To date, he said, several buffalo calves had already been produced thru in vitro embryo production technique coupled with embryo cryopreservation by vitrification and embryo transfer.
Cruz added that these biotechnologies are needed as ways of hastening reproduction of water buffaloes as this large animal species are known to have very poor reproductive performance. Compared to domestic cattle, he said, the water buffaloes have smaller ovarian
follicular populations.
(Incidentally, water buffalo is the general name for the animal which is commonly called in the country as “carabao”.)
Comes now the cloning technology thru somatic cell nuclear transfer as another biotechnology being researched by PCC.
Dr. Edwin Atabay, team leader of the project, bared that cloned embryos were already transferred last September 23 to three surrogate buffalo dams (mother). He added that as their work progresses, more cloned embryos would be transferred weekly to selected dams. -Anselmo S. Roque
They are the identifying tags for two of the super dairy water buffaloes at the gene pool of the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) here.
They are among the herd of imported Bulgarian buffaloes maintained by the PCC for the improvement of the carabao breed in the country. Based on records, they produce from a low of 12 liters and a peak of 18 liters of milk a day during their lactation period. Decidedly, they are
very superior compared to the native carabaos which produce an average of 1.5 liters of milk a day.
Scientists of PCC have started the process of producing precise copies of K-18 and H-4. It is thru the cloning technology.
To be exact, this PCC’s project, according to Dr. Libertado Cruz, the agency’s executive director, is “cloning thru somatic cell nuclear transfer”. It is cloning thru the use of a body cell.
(Cloning is defined as a means of making copies of individual or the production of large number of dentical offspring. Cloning by nuclear transfer involves the transfer of genetic material from a donor cell (karyoplast) to the cytoplasm of a matured oocyte from which the nucleus, which contains the genetic materials, has been removed. This matured oocyte whose nucleus has been removed is known as the recipient cytoplast. Somatic means bodily or corporeal.)
Reproductive biotechnology
“Our aim is to develop an efficient system for the production of clones toward genetic improvement of the water buffaloes in the country,” Cruz said. “It is in addition to the
reproductive biotechnologies already successfully researched and now being used by the PCC,” he added.
The first major tool employed in reproduction by the PCC, Cruz said, were estrus synchronization and artificial insemination using frozen semen. This, however, required considerable time to attain a purebred animals thru a series of backcrossing.
This was followed by in vitro maturation-in vitro fertilization.
To date, he said, several buffalo calves had already been produced thru in vitro embryo production technique coupled with embryo cryopreservation by vitrification and embryo transfer.
Cruz added that these biotechnologies are needed as ways of hastening reproduction of water buffaloes as this large animal species are known to have very poor reproductive performance. Compared to domestic cattle, he said, the water buffaloes have smaller ovarian
follicular populations.
(Incidentally, water buffalo is the general name for the animal which is commonly called in the country as “carabao”.)
Comes now the cloning technology thru somatic cell nuclear transfer as another biotechnology being researched by PCC.
Dr. Edwin Atabay, team leader of the project, bared that cloned embryos were already transferred last September 23 to three surrogate buffalo dams (mother). He added that as their work progresses, more cloned embryos would be transferred weekly to selected dams. -Anselmo S. Roque
Cabanatuan City: Umali, Vergara alliance forged
CABANATUAN CITY - It's now official, Cherry Umali, wife of Nueva Ecija's 3rd District Rep. Aurelio "Oyie" Umali, is Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party candidate for Nueva Ecija's third congressional district in the coming May 14 elections.
"I now hold the certificate attesting to that fact," Umali, the provincial Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats chairman told Manila Bulletin in an interview on Monday during the flag-raising ceremony at city hall.
On the same occasion, Umali has endorsed the candidacy of Alvin Vergara, cousin of incumbent Mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara and his anointed candidate to replace him at city hall.
The young Alvin Vergara, a virtual unknown general manager of Cabanatuan Electric Company or CELCOR, was propelled to instant household name here after Mayor Jay started building him up as his likely successor.
This move of Umali has bashed the hope of come-backing Rep. Pacifico "Rico" Fajardo of getting declared Lakas-CMD official candidate. - Magtanggol Vilar
"I now hold the certificate attesting to that fact," Umali, the provincial Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats chairman told Manila Bulletin in an interview on Monday during the flag-raising ceremony at city hall.
On the same occasion, Umali has endorsed the candidacy of Alvin Vergara, cousin of incumbent Mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara and his anointed candidate to replace him at city hall.
The young Alvin Vergara, a virtual unknown general manager of Cabanatuan Electric Company or CELCOR, was propelled to instant household name here after Mayor Jay started building him up as his likely successor.
This move of Umali has bashed the hope of come-backing Rep. Pacifico "Rico" Fajardo of getting declared Lakas-CMD official candidate. - Magtanggol Vilar
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Nueva Ecija hosts Central Luzon's agri-aqua trade fair
Nueva Ecija Gov. Tomas Joson III visits a booths at the Agri-Aqua trade far on going festivity of agricultural and fishery products from Central Luzon at the Ninoy Aquino Freedom Park in Cabanatuan City. (Photo by Jun Torres)
Monday, March 05, 2007
Fratmen attacked while in drinking spree
CABANATUAN CITY - Seven fraternity members were wounded when a hand grenade hurled by an unidentified suspect exploded on Mabini Street, Barangay Quezon, over the weekend.
In his report, Supt. Eliseo Cruz, city police chief, identified the victims as Jonathan Diaz, 25; Robert Jacinto, 32; Ariel Chavez, 27; Giovani Soriano, 22; all of Sapiandante Street, Barangay Quezon; Eliseo Manuel, 33, of Nabao; James Ganao, 20, of Barangay Dimasalang; and Joven Ordonia of Barangay Kapt. Pepe, all of Cabanatuan City.
Investigation disclosed the victims, who are members of Tau Gamma Fraternity, were having a drinking spree Sunday night when a suspect threw the hand grenade in their direction.
The victims were taken to a local hospital for medical treatment, police reported.
Meanwhile, elements of the police special operations group, led by Police Insp. Jose G. Cucal, netted 1.9 kilos of dried marijuana bricks in an operation in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, on Monday.
In a report to Senior Supt. Allen Bantolo, provincial police director, Cucal said the marijuana bricks were recovered from Peter Conoy, 53, and Francisco Pascual, 39, both of Barangay Galintuja, Maria Aurora, Aurora.
Also confiscated from the suspects was a tricycle with license plate EP 8617, which was used in transporting the illegal drugs. Cucal said the suspects and the confiscated items were brought to the crime laboratory for the necessary tests. --Armand M. Galang.
In his report, Supt. Eliseo Cruz, city police chief, identified the victims as Jonathan Diaz, 25; Robert Jacinto, 32; Ariel Chavez, 27; Giovani Soriano, 22; all of Sapiandante Street, Barangay Quezon; Eliseo Manuel, 33, of Nabao; James Ganao, 20, of Barangay Dimasalang; and Joven Ordonia of Barangay Kapt. Pepe, all of Cabanatuan City.
Investigation disclosed the victims, who are members of Tau Gamma Fraternity, were having a drinking spree Sunday night when a suspect threw the hand grenade in their direction.
The victims were taken to a local hospital for medical treatment, police reported.
Meanwhile, elements of the police special operations group, led by Police Insp. Jose G. Cucal, netted 1.9 kilos of dried marijuana bricks in an operation in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, on Monday.
In a report to Senior Supt. Allen Bantolo, provincial police director, Cucal said the marijuana bricks were recovered from Peter Conoy, 53, and Francisco Pascual, 39, both of Barangay Galintuja, Maria Aurora, Aurora.
Also confiscated from the suspects was a tricycle with license plate EP 8617, which was used in transporting the illegal drugs. Cucal said the suspects and the confiscated items were brought to the crime laboratory for the necessary tests. --Armand M. Galang.
Ocean to ocean highway to pass Nueva Ecija
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City: The Department of Public Works and Highways formally unveiled on Wednesday the plan for the construction of an ocean-to-ocean road project, a part of the administration’s super regions scheme.
Ramon Aquino, DPWH assistant secretary, presented to the public, especially to soldiers, the blueprint of the Subic-Dingalan Port Highway that traverses this huge military reservation.
Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane who made his first official visit in this camp as top defense man, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo Tolentino, also viewed the giant road plan.
The road, Aquino explained, will link the port of Subic from the western port of Central Luzon to the Port of Dingalan in the east.
Mentioned during President Arroyo’s State of the Nation address in July last year, Aquino said the project is expected to spur development in the region. It passes by Tarlac and Nueva Ecija provinces. Subic areas are considered industrial while the other provinces involved in the project are mostly agricultural. --Armand M. Galang
Ramon Aquino, DPWH assistant secretary, presented to the public, especially to soldiers, the blueprint of the Subic-Dingalan Port Highway that traverses this huge military reservation.
Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane who made his first official visit in this camp as top defense man, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo Tolentino, also viewed the giant road plan.
The road, Aquino explained, will link the port of Subic from the western port of Central Luzon to the Port of Dingalan in the east.
Mentioned during President Arroyo’s State of the Nation address in July last year, Aquino said the project is expected to spur development in the region. It passes by Tarlac and Nueva Ecija provinces. Subic areas are considered industrial while the other provinces involved in the project are mostly agricultural. --Armand M. Galang
May 14, '07: Ecija giants stage comeback
CABANATUAN CITY – Two known political families in Nueva Ecija, which fell apart in the 2001 and 2004 local elections following a head-on collision with the Josons, are staging a comeback in the May 14 elections.
The Fajardo and Villareal clans, which were dismantled by the Josons –the acknowledged political kingpins in the province – are attempting to reclaim their old glory by fielding candidates in their former turfs.
Former three-term third district congressman Pacifico Fajardo is eyeing to regain his old seat in the House of Representatives in his district, which covers the cities of Cabanatuan and Palayan and the central towns of Sta. Rosa, Bongabon, Laur, Gabaldon and Gen. Natividad.
Fajardo’s wife, former three-term mayor of Palayn, will also gun for her old post and will run against re-electionist Mayor Romeo Capinpin. The Fajardos used to be the second biggest political dynasty in the province after the Josons. Pacifico, a second cousin of President Arroyo, was OIC mayor of Palayan in 1986 and won the regular elections in 1988. In 1992, Fajardo defeated former Rep. Hermogenes Concepcion Jr. and was re-elected twice. Following the expiration of his third and last term in 2001, he challenged outgoing three-term Gov. Tomas Joson III but lost. He was later appointed by Mrs. Arroyo as administrator of the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) but was later replaced by Mel Robles.
Pacifico was replaced by his wife Leonora as city mayor in 1992 and also won three successive terms. In 2001, she ran for the House seat vacated by her husband but lost to the incumbent Rep. Aurelio Umali. She was succeeded by their eldest daughter, Lorelei, as Palayan mayor in 2001 but lost in her re-election bid against Capinpin.
On the other hand, the Villareals are seeking to recover lost ground with former two-term Rep. Julita trying to exact revenge in the fourth district against re-eleci nist Rep. Rodolfo Antonino, who defeated her husband, R ul, in 2004. Antonino is an uncle of Gen. Santos City Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio, a potential rival of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.
Former provincial board member Chris Villareal will also try to regain his old post in the district to be vacated by his brother, incumbent board member Jojo. Chris lost to his aunt, re-electionist San Isidro Mayor Sonia Lorenzo, in the mayoral polls in 2004. Lorenzo is the wife of Julita’s elder brother, former congressman Victorio Lorenzo who lost to Julita in 1992.
Chris is also contemplating on running for mayor of San Isidro in a return bout with Lorenzo but on condition that he wins his election protest before the polls. The Villareals, scions of the late former San Isidro mayor Maximino Lorenzo, replaced the Fajardos as the second most powerful dynasty in 2001, lording it over the fourth district for 10 years.
The district covers the towns of San Leonardo, San Isidro, Cabiao, Jaen, Peñaranda and Gen. Tinio and Gapan City. But it crumbled in 2004 when Julita lost to Tomas III in the gubernatorial elections, Raul to Antonino and Chris to Lorenzo. Only Jojo
The Fajardo and Villareal clans, which were dismantled by the Josons –the acknowledged political kingpins in the province – are attempting to reclaim their old glory by fielding candidates in their former turfs.
Former three-term third district congressman Pacifico Fajardo is eyeing to regain his old seat in the House of Representatives in his district, which covers the cities of Cabanatuan and Palayan and the central towns of Sta. Rosa, Bongabon, Laur, Gabaldon and Gen. Natividad.
Fajardo’s wife, former three-term mayor of Palayn, will also gun for her old post and will run against re-electionist Mayor Romeo Capinpin. The Fajardos used to be the second biggest political dynasty in the province after the Josons. Pacifico, a second cousin of President Arroyo, was OIC mayor of Palayan in 1986 and won the regular elections in 1988. In 1992, Fajardo defeated former Rep. Hermogenes Concepcion Jr. and was re-elected twice. Following the expiration of his third and last term in 2001, he challenged outgoing three-term Gov. Tomas Joson III but lost. He was later appointed by Mrs. Arroyo as administrator of the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) but was later replaced by Mel Robles.
Pacifico was replaced by his wife Leonora as city mayor in 1992 and also won three successive terms. In 2001, she ran for the House seat vacated by her husband but lost to the incumbent Rep. Aurelio Umali. She was succeeded by their eldest daughter, Lorelei, as Palayan mayor in 2001 but lost in her re-election bid against Capinpin.
On the other hand, the Villareals are seeking to recover lost ground with former two-term Rep. Julita trying to exact revenge in the fourth district against re-eleci nist Rep. Rodolfo Antonino, who defeated her husband, R ul, in 2004. Antonino is an uncle of Gen. Santos City Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio, a potential rival of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.
Former provincial board member Chris Villareal will also try to regain his old post in the district to be vacated by his brother, incumbent board member Jojo. Chris lost to his aunt, re-electionist San Isidro Mayor Sonia Lorenzo, in the mayoral polls in 2004. Lorenzo is the wife of Julita’s elder brother, former congressman Victorio Lorenzo who lost to Julita in 1992.
Chris is also contemplating on running for mayor of San Isidro in a return bout with Lorenzo but on condition that he wins his election protest before the polls. The Villareals, scions of the late former San Isidro mayor Maximino Lorenzo, replaced the Fajardos as the second most powerful dynasty in 2001, lording it over the fourth district for 10 years.
The district covers the towns of San Leonardo, San Isidro, Cabiao, Jaen, Peñaranda and Gen. Tinio and Gapan City. But it crumbled in 2004 when Julita lost to Tomas III in the gubernatorial elections, Raul to Antonino and Chris to Lorenzo. Only Jojo
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Gapan City mayor linked to murder cases; charges belied
Gapan City Mayor Ernesto Natividad has been implicated by two witnesses in the killing of five people in a cockpit in March 2006 attack.
The witnesses went to the National Bureau of Investigation and reportedly identified him as among the masterminds in the attack.
Natividad called the charges as baseless and pure lies, and said he is ready to face them with a clean conscience.
Pedro Roque, chief of the NBI field office in Nueva Ecija, refused to comment, saying that the witnesses, Virgilio Malgapo and Conrado Ortiz, were under the custody of the agency’s main office in Manila.
The witnesses alleged that Natividad was behind the attack in the cockpit arena in Barangay Pambuan in Gapan City owned by a businessman Boy Pascual on March 20, 2006.
Pascual’s two sons, Ericson and Evertson, along with three security guards identified as Juanito Reyes, Jessie Pablo and Carino Caring, were gunned down in the incident.
Pascual, who is reportedly out to challenge Natividad for the mayoralty post, survived the raid because he was in a closed room at the time.
The witnesses went to the National Bureau of Investigation and reportedly identified him as among the masterminds in the attack.
Natividad called the charges as baseless and pure lies, and said he is ready to face them with a clean conscience.
Pedro Roque, chief of the NBI field office in Nueva Ecija, refused to comment, saying that the witnesses, Virgilio Malgapo and Conrado Ortiz, were under the custody of the agency’s main office in Manila.
The witnesses alleged that Natividad was behind the attack in the cockpit arena in Barangay Pambuan in Gapan City owned by a businessman Boy Pascual on March 20, 2006.
Pascual’s two sons, Ericson and Evertson, along with three security guards identified as Juanito Reyes, Jessie Pablo and Carino Caring, were gunned down in the incident.
Pascual, who is reportedly out to challenge Natividad for the mayoralty post, survived the raid because he was in a closed room at the time.
Ex-rebels, residents of Lupao get business aid
LUPAO, Nueva Ecija - The government’s anti-insurgency campaign received a big boost after a group of businessmen and civic organizations poured in both technical and financial assistance to an association of residents in a former insurgency hotbed here.
Vicky Gaetos, chairman of the Nueva Ecija Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NECCI), said the mushroom production project that was launched on Tuesday was only one of three projects they drew up for the Parista Barangay Defense System Development Association (PBDSDA), a group composed of residents and families of former rebels and communist sympathizers in Barangay Parista, Lupao.
Gaetos said that besides the NECCI, the stakeholders in the project aimed at improving the lives of those who had turned their back from armed and ideological struggle are the Nueva Ecija Small and Medium Development Enterprise Development Council which provides training and marketing support and the Army’s 71st Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Gregory Cayetano and Rotary Club and the local government.
Roberto Gaid, PBDSDA president, said they set up at least seven mushroom growing huts in different purok (district) of Parista where the initial 2,000 mushroom fruiting bags were placed for production.
Gaetos said the initial P50, 000 they extended as grant to the residents can be increased should the funds be managed well. “Our friends are always willing to help, only they don’t want to see money go to waste,” she stressed. “It’s actually not the project but the way the project is managed,” Gaetos explained. (Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times)
Vicky Gaetos, chairman of the Nueva Ecija Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NECCI), said the mushroom production project that was launched on Tuesday was only one of three projects they drew up for the Parista Barangay Defense System Development Association (PBDSDA), a group composed of residents and families of former rebels and communist sympathizers in Barangay Parista, Lupao.
Gaetos said that besides the NECCI, the stakeholders in the project aimed at improving the lives of those who had turned their back from armed and ideological struggle are the Nueva Ecija Small and Medium Development Enterprise Development Council which provides training and marketing support and the Army’s 71st Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Gregory Cayetano and Rotary Club and the local government.
Roberto Gaid, PBDSDA president, said they set up at least seven mushroom growing huts in different purok (district) of Parista where the initial 2,000 mushroom fruiting bags were placed for production.
Gaetos said the initial P50, 000 they extended as grant to the residents can be increased should the funds be managed well. “Our friends are always willing to help, only they don’t want to see money go to waste,” she stressed. “It’s actually not the project but the way the project is managed,” Gaetos explained. (Armand M. Galang, The Manila Times)
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Comelec Control pushed; opposed
CABANATUAN CITY - An administration congressman stressed the other day the need to place Nueva Ecija under the direct control of the Commission on Elections in the coming midterm elections.
Rep. Aurelio Umali of the Third District of Nueva Ecija said that Comelec control is needed to “avoid the eruption of violence,” saying even Gov. Tomas Joson III reported a death threat.
But Joson’s brother, Vice-Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson, slammed their “political rivals” of allegedly creating a dark image of the province.
Umali, the provincial chairman of administration party Lakas, is headed for a fight against the younger Joson, chairman of the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija, for the gubernatorial post.
Umali said that even the private sectors, including church-based, organizations and former governor Eduardo Nonato Joson, have call for the Comelec control. Former representative Renato Diaz, presidential assistant for North Luzon, agreed.
Vice-Governor Joson, however, stressed that no violence has erupted in Nueva Ecija since 1998, saying that any official like him can walk through barangays without a security escort.
Without mentioning names, he slammed those who would claim to be having a good fight only if they survived until May 14.
The governor, on the other hand, said the police only have to create clear-cut guidelines on responding to election-related calls.
Maintaining the peace and order is sound; he said Comelec control could only be good for the implementation of a gun ban. --Armand M. Galang
Rep. Aurelio Umali of the Third District of Nueva Ecija said that Comelec control is needed to “avoid the eruption of violence,” saying even Gov. Tomas Joson III reported a death threat.
But Joson’s brother, Vice-Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson, slammed their “political rivals” of allegedly creating a dark image of the province.
Umali, the provincial chairman of administration party Lakas, is headed for a fight against the younger Joson, chairman of the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija, for the gubernatorial post.
Umali said that even the private sectors, including church-based, organizations and former governor Eduardo Nonato Joson, have call for the Comelec control. Former representative Renato Diaz, presidential assistant for North Luzon, agreed.
Vice-Governor Joson, however, stressed that no violence has erupted in Nueva Ecija since 1998, saying that any official like him can walk through barangays without a security escort.
Without mentioning names, he slammed those who would claim to be having a good fight only if they survived until May 14.
The governor, on the other hand, said the police only have to create clear-cut guidelines on responding to election-related calls.
Maintaining the peace and order is sound; he said Comelec control could only be good for the implementation of a gun ban. --Armand M. Galang
Friday, February 09, 2007
NFA region 3 hosts National Board meet
The National Food Authority in Cabanatuan City hosted the NFA Employees’ Association (NFAEA) 2007 1st Quarter National Board Conference held on February 5-9, 2007. Photo was taken during the opening ceremonies at the Farmers Training Center in NFA Cabanatuan City. With the NFAEA National Board Officers headed by President Roman Sanchez are NFA Region 3 Director Nicolas Crisostomo and NFAEA Region 3 President Rebecca Santiago.
Issues discussed during the conference are : the welfare and benefits of NFA employees; the joint cost-saving measures of the Union and Management; the fight against graft and corruption and; to work for the non-privatization/abolition of the NFA.
The NFAEA and newly-appointed NFA Administrator Jessup Navarro also recently signed a Pact of Unity at the NFA Central Office in Quezon City. This was followed by a Transparency, Empowerment and Accord (TEA) Forum attended by the NFAEA National Board Officers led by Pres. Sanchez and the NFA management headed by Adm. Navarro.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Galang is new Nueva Ecija Press Club president
CABANATUAN CITY - Nueva Ecija newspapermen and broadcasters elected a new set of officers on Friday with The Manila Times correspondent Armand M. Galang voted unanimously after a lawyer opted to run for a board seat.
Galang who also hosts a public affairs program on dzXO, led the new set of officers of the Nueva Ecija Press Club in taking their oath of office before Judge Rodrigo Caspillo, executive judge of the Regional Trial Court of Cabanatuan.
Elected officers were Light Nolasco (Balita/dwJJ/dwIZ), executive vice-president; Elsa Rivera (Police Files Tonight), VP for Print Media; Julius Caesar Cauzo (dwJJ), VP for Broadcast Media; Gina Caling (dwNE), secretary; Celso Cajucom (Manila Standard Today), treasurer; Jessica Eraña (Hataw), auditor; Ferdie Domingo (Tempo), business manager and Cris de los Trinos Jr. (dwNE), public relation officer.
The lawyer Carlito Inton (dwJJ), is the chairman of the board which is composed of Mirriam Tangunan-Garcia (dwNE), Venci Datol (dwJJ), Mel Ciriaco (dwNE), Boy Verde (dwJJ), Mayette Lucas (dwNE) and Jojo de Guzman (dzXO/ Abante) as an ex-officio member.
The Nueva Ecija Press Club is the umbrella organization of media groups in Nueva Ecija with about 90 members from national and local media entities.
Galang also publishes the community paper Novo Chronicle.
Galang who also hosts a public affairs program on dzXO, led the new set of officers of the Nueva Ecija Press Club in taking their oath of office before Judge Rodrigo Caspillo, executive judge of the Regional Trial Court of Cabanatuan.
Elected officers were Light Nolasco (Balita/dwJJ/dwIZ), executive vice-president; Elsa Rivera (Police Files Tonight), VP for Print Media; Julius Caesar Cauzo (dwJJ), VP for Broadcast Media; Gina Caling (dwNE), secretary; Celso Cajucom (Manila Standard Today), treasurer; Jessica Eraña (Hataw), auditor; Ferdie Domingo (Tempo), business manager and Cris de los Trinos Jr. (dwNE), public relation officer.
The lawyer Carlito Inton (dwJJ), is the chairman of the board which is composed of Mirriam Tangunan-Garcia (dwNE), Venci Datol (dwJJ), Mel Ciriaco (dwNE), Boy Verde (dwJJ), Mayette Lucas (dwNE) and Jojo de Guzman (dzXO/ Abante) as an ex-officio member.
The Nueva Ecija Press Club is the umbrella organization of media groups in Nueva Ecija with about 90 members from national and local media entities.
Galang also publishes the community paper Novo Chronicle.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Swiss Embassy "blesses" villagers
PALAYAN CITY - Townsfolk from a far-flung village in this capital city of Nueva Ecija received a big boost after the Swiss Embassy recently granted a state-of-the art potable water faciulity.
Ambassador Peter Suetter of Switzerland led on Monday the opening of the potable spring water program inBarangay Langka, Palayan City, a project that realizedthe dream of the hundreds of households, according toMayor Romeo Capinpin.
Capinpin said the Swiss Emabassy provided P800,000 to cover basic materials, the LGU answered for additionalconstruction needs while the residents did “bayanihan”for labor.
The non government organization calledNorthern Philippines Tribal Communities Development Center facilitated the project all the way to Suetter’s office. Capinpin said that the project which is a level II potable water system, having faucets on strategic areas for residents to get water, actually cost a bitless than a million pesos, considering the inter-party cooperation.Suetter, on his part, lauded the villagers for the success of the project even as he expressed surprisethat the amount his office released can serve a massof people.
He went to the place almost unnoticed if not for thepolice escorts, according to Roberto Bolinao, cityplanning and development coordinator.The water system, said Bolinao, answered one of the basic needs of our people in the area and we thankeveryone, specially the Swiss Embassy and our NGO facilitator,” he added.
Ambassador Peter Suetter of Switzerland led on Monday the opening of the potable spring water program inBarangay Langka, Palayan City, a project that realizedthe dream of the hundreds of households, according toMayor Romeo Capinpin.
Capinpin said the Swiss Emabassy provided P800,000 to cover basic materials, the LGU answered for additionalconstruction needs while the residents did “bayanihan”for labor.
The non government organization calledNorthern Philippines Tribal Communities Development Center facilitated the project all the way to Suetter’s office. Capinpin said that the project which is a level II potable water system, having faucets on strategic areas for residents to get water, actually cost a bitless than a million pesos, considering the inter-party cooperation.Suetter, on his part, lauded the villagers for the success of the project even as he expressed surprisethat the amount his office released can serve a massof people.
He went to the place almost unnoticed if not for thepolice escorts, according to Roberto Bolinao, cityplanning and development coordinator.The water system, said Bolinao, answered one of the basic needs of our people in the area and we thankeveryone, specially the Swiss Embassy and our NGO facilitator,” he added.
Top cop sees no reason to place Nueva Ecija under Comelec Control
CABANATUAN CITY – “There is no dire need to place Nueva Ecija under ‘Comelec control.’”
Thus declared Nueva Ecija police provincial director, Senior Superintendent Allen Bantolo in contrast with the appeals to place Nueva Ecija under control made by former Nueva Ecija governor and erstwhile National Food Authority Administrator Eduardo Nonato “Edno” Joson, and elder brother Gov. Tomas N. Joson.
Nueva Ecija police provincial director, Senior Superintendent Allen Bantolo told newsmen his advantage over some 50 fellow “senior superintendent” aspirants to the post is his familiarity with the terrain and the sentiments of the local folks here.
Meeting for the first time with the local press, Bantolo said he sees no dire need to place the province under Comelec control, saying “that the political situation here appears under control and the local police are on top of it,” adding, “Compared with that in the Metro Manila area “It is generally peaceful and quiet here. I am going to like it here,” he stressed.
Former Gov. Eduardo Nonato “Edno” Joson had written to the Commission on Elections national office to place the province under Comelec control in order to counter the growing public apprehension about the uneasy conduct of the campaign and outcome of the election. This was endorsed by his brother, three-termer Gov. Tomas N. Joson III, The plea came at the heels of two incidents involving the killing of the president of the Association of Barangay Captain Augusto “Augie” Santiago and the botched up ambush-slay try on a Gapan city councilor where his security aide was killed.
In this regard, Bantolo said his post-election priority project is geared toward increasing high rate of success in the prosecution of cases, especially concerning high-profile personalities.
Vowing to “serve and protect” the people and ensure that the laws are implemented without fear or favor from any persons or groups, Bantolo also promised to conduct an in-depth investigation into the so-called “cold cases” of high-profile personalities including journalists made an issue by human rights bodies both domestic and international.
As chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group “Task Force Maverick” he had strung up a string of successful operations against organized crimes,
Bantolo appealed to the members of the police press corps, headed by Nueva Ecija Press Club president Jojo de Guzman, “to help in the peace-keeping process by not feeding rumors being peddled by some groups with the mere intention of gaining some media mileage, to the damage and detriment of the province and its people.”
He said mediamen could also help the police a lot by projecting the true picture of the more positive and sensitive aspects of crimes solved and the investigative efforts put in by the local police, without injecting unfounded observations by persons with some hidden political agenda.
As 2nd Lieutenant, Bantolo first served here as ommanding officer of the then 183rd PC company based in Gapan city in 1986, during the term of former CIDG director Eduardo Matillano, who served as provincial commander. (Magtanggol Vilar)
Thus declared Nueva Ecija police provincial director, Senior Superintendent Allen Bantolo in contrast with the appeals to place Nueva Ecija under control made by former Nueva Ecija governor and erstwhile National Food Authority Administrator Eduardo Nonato “Edno” Joson, and elder brother Gov. Tomas N. Joson.
Nueva Ecija police provincial director, Senior Superintendent Allen Bantolo told newsmen his advantage over some 50 fellow “senior superintendent” aspirants to the post is his familiarity with the terrain and the sentiments of the local folks here.
Meeting for the first time with the local press, Bantolo said he sees no dire need to place the province under Comelec control, saying “that the political situation here appears under control and the local police are on top of it,” adding, “Compared with that in the Metro Manila area “It is generally peaceful and quiet here. I am going to like it here,” he stressed.
Former Gov. Eduardo Nonato “Edno” Joson had written to the Commission on Elections national office to place the province under Comelec control in order to counter the growing public apprehension about the uneasy conduct of the campaign and outcome of the election. This was endorsed by his brother, three-termer Gov. Tomas N. Joson III, The plea came at the heels of two incidents involving the killing of the president of the Association of Barangay Captain Augusto “Augie” Santiago and the botched up ambush-slay try on a Gapan city councilor where his security aide was killed.
In this regard, Bantolo said his post-election priority project is geared toward increasing high rate of success in the prosecution of cases, especially concerning high-profile personalities.
Vowing to “serve and protect” the people and ensure that the laws are implemented without fear or favor from any persons or groups, Bantolo also promised to conduct an in-depth investigation into the so-called “cold cases” of high-profile personalities including journalists made an issue by human rights bodies both domestic and international.
As chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group “Task Force Maverick” he had strung up a string of successful operations against organized crimes,
Bantolo appealed to the members of the police press corps, headed by Nueva Ecija Press Club president Jojo de Guzman, “to help in the peace-keeping process by not feeding rumors being peddled by some groups with the mere intention of gaining some media mileage, to the damage and detriment of the province and its people.”
He said mediamen could also help the police a lot by projecting the true picture of the more positive and sensitive aspects of crimes solved and the investigative efforts put in by the local police, without injecting unfounded observations by persons with some hidden political agenda.
As 2nd Lieutenant, Bantolo first served here as ommanding officer of the then 183rd PC company based in Gapan city in 1986, during the term of former CIDG director Eduardo Matillano, who served as provincial commander. (Magtanggol Vilar)
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Ex-gov wants Ecija placed under Comelec control
PALAYAN CITY - In strange move, former Gov. Eduardo N. Nonato Joson has asked the Commission on Elections to place Nueva Ecija under the poll body’s control
But incumbent Gov., Tomas N. Joson 3rd , who himself disclosed the move, welcomed the move of his brother who run for senator under the late Senator and Presidential candidate Raul Roco during the 2004 elections, saying this in a way erase doubt on the result of voting which, he believes, will be favourable to his family.
While his brother supported the candidacy of Roco, Joson 3rd supported Pres. Arroyo even as another sibling, then vice Gov. Eduardo Joson IV supported the presidential campaign of the late actor Fernando Poe, Jr. That was the first time the public saw such differences among the siblings.
“Sa isang banda e para sa akin okay lang ‘yun,” Joson, who is reportedly eyeing the mayoralty post of the highly urbanizing city of Cabanatuan, said in his “last speech as governor” before the top police and elections officials at the Nueva Ecija Convention Center here where he also urged them to keep being apolitical.
He said he was just informed of his brother’s letter requesting the Comelec to place the province under control.
Besides Joson 3rd, other relatives aspiring for elective positions are incumbent Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson, for governor against third district Rep. Aurelio Umali of Lakas, his eldest son Edward Thomas, as the uncle’s vice gubernatorial tandem for vice governor, and Dale Joson, son of the vice governor incumbent first district Rep. Josie M. Joson for reelection as mayor of their hometown Quezon.
Ed-No who has been elected as governor in 1995 was a former member of the Batasang Pambansa and administrator of National Food Authority during the administration of deposed Pres. Joseph Estrada.
A place under Comelec control, sources said, is poured with beefed up security from various law enforcement agencies with an election commissioner especially overseeing the conduct of elections .
But incumbent Gov., Tomas N. Joson 3rd , who himself disclosed the move, welcomed the move of his brother who run for senator under the late Senator and Presidential candidate Raul Roco during the 2004 elections, saying this in a way erase doubt on the result of voting which, he believes, will be favourable to his family.
While his brother supported the candidacy of Roco, Joson 3rd supported Pres. Arroyo even as another sibling, then vice Gov. Eduardo Joson IV supported the presidential campaign of the late actor Fernando Poe, Jr. That was the first time the public saw such differences among the siblings.
“Sa isang banda e para sa akin okay lang ‘yun,” Joson, who is reportedly eyeing the mayoralty post of the highly urbanizing city of Cabanatuan, said in his “last speech as governor” before the top police and elections officials at the Nueva Ecija Convention Center here where he also urged them to keep being apolitical.
He said he was just informed of his brother’s letter requesting the Comelec to place the province under control.
Besides Joson 3rd, other relatives aspiring for elective positions are incumbent Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson, for governor against third district Rep. Aurelio Umali of Lakas, his eldest son Edward Thomas, as the uncle’s vice gubernatorial tandem for vice governor, and Dale Joson, son of the vice governor incumbent first district Rep. Josie M. Joson for reelection as mayor of their hometown Quezon.
Ed-No who has been elected as governor in 1995 was a former member of the Batasang Pambansa and administrator of National Food Authority during the administration of deposed Pres. Joseph Estrada.
A place under Comelec control, sources said, is poured with beefed up security from various law enforcement agencies with an election commissioner especially overseeing the conduct of elections .
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Nueva Ecija's most wanted falls
PALAYAN CITY: Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd put an “X” mark on the poster picture of the most wanted person in the Second District of Nueva Ecija even as the man accused of murder was presented to him on Tuesday.
Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, director of the Nueva Ecija police provincial office, presented the suspect to Joson at the Nueva Ecija Convention Center.
The accused was identified as Ariel B. Buban, 29, a resident of Romano Street, Rafael Rueda, San Jose City.
Buban, who was subject of the warrant of arrest issued by Judge Joselito Villarosa of Regional Trial Court Branch 39, was arrested by elements of the provincial mobile group, led by Supt. Rolando Santos, in Mandaluyong City the other day.
He was accused of killing a certain Teofilo Gines last year.
Monteagudo told Joson that the arrest of Buban was a result of the production of various posters, which was funded by the provincial government. “We intended to gain public support when we produced these posters,” Monteagudo explained. - Armand M. Galang,
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Fire hits Cabanatuan City Market
CABANATUAN CITY - A fire caused by firecrackers razed at least P8-million worth of properties in the Cabanatuan City Public Market Saturday night.
Senior Insp. Cesar Balane, Cabanatuan City fire marshal, said that besides the market structures and contents, four tricycles and an owner-type jeep were burned by fire that broke out at about 9:05 p.m. Firemen said the blaze was contained before 11 p.m.
Investigators said the fire started when a kwitis or baby rocket being test fired in a nearby shopping center on Paco Roman Street hit a firecracker stall.
Balane said the firecracker stalls were all without permits even as they were located in an area different from what his office had earlier recommended.
No one was reported hurt.
The fire burned down some 20 stalls in the public market and three stalls in the Ventanilla Building along Burgos Street, which included dry goods, a bakery and drugstores.
At least 17 fire trucks from all over Nueva Ecija and one from a Tarlac City-based civic group beefed up the nine Cabanatuan City trucks in containing the blaze, Balane said. -Armand M. Galang
Senior Insp. Cesar Balane, Cabanatuan City fire marshal, said that besides the market structures and contents, four tricycles and an owner-type jeep were burned by fire that broke out at about 9:05 p.m. Firemen said the blaze was contained before 11 p.m.
Investigators said the fire started when a kwitis or baby rocket being test fired in a nearby shopping center on Paco Roman Street hit a firecracker stall.
Balane said the firecracker stalls were all without permits even as they were located in an area different from what his office had earlier recommended.
No one was reported hurt.
The fire burned down some 20 stalls in the public market and three stalls in the Ventanilla Building along Burgos Street, which included dry goods, a bakery and drugstores.
At least 17 fire trucks from all over Nueva Ecija and one from a Tarlac City-based civic group beefed up the nine Cabanatuan City trucks in containing the blaze, Balane said. -Armand M. Galang
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