San Fernando City and La Union Province - Compiled Threads [Archive] - Page 19

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 12:39 PM

By: Israel O. Rudio, Provincial Information & Tourism Office-La Union

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11-16_FTA.jpgTo steer continued growth and development especially among entrepreneurs, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted Dec. 7, 2010 at Hotel Elizabeth, baguio City an Information Campaign on the significance of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) entered by the country. Already in force, it includes the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA), ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and a number of ASEAN Regional FTAs namely ASEAN-China, ASEAN-Japan, ASEAN-Korea and ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand FTAs.

Speaking before exporters, distributors, traders, customs brokers, freight forwarders, members of the academe, businessmen, National Government Agency and Local Government Officials and members of the media, speakers from the Philippine Trade Training Center, Bureau of International Trade Relations, Bureau of Export Trade Promotion, Australian Embassy, Tariff Commission and Bureau of Customs representatives took turns with their respective presentation to increase awareness as well as foster appreciation for the benefits under the trade agreements. The FTAs bring a number of trade benefits, primarily tariff elimination or reduction which will make Philippine exports products more competitive.

In support to the development advocacy, successful businessmen who benefited from the FTAs also presented their respective testimonies. It includes Mr. Frank Young, President of Cordillera Products Trading & Holding Co.; Mr. Simeo Laguna, Jr. of Prime Fruits International and Ms. Noemi Madamba of International Wiring System.

The FTA information session dubbed as “Doing Business in Free Trade Areas,” which was initially held in Manila, will also be conducted in Legazpi City, Tagaytay City, Clark, Iloilo City, Cebu City, Zamboanga City, Davao City, Cagayan De Oro City and General Santos City.

The Province of La Union will benefit from the FTAs with the abundant supply of products for export which includes furniture, tobacco and Mango. Interested businessmen in the province can approach DTI-La Union office located at 2nd Floor, Shania Tower, Quezon Avenue in San Fernando City and look for Dir. Daria R. Mingaracal for assistance.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.207.2

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 12:41 PM

By: Israel O. Rudio, Provincial Information & Tourism Office-La Union

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The La Union Provincial Council of the Five Pillars of Criminal Justice System chaired by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega, in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Regional Trial Courts and Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), conducted a free Medical and Dental Mission and Free Legal Assistance Program to inmates of the La Union Provincial Jail (LUPJ) on December 13, 2010 in observance of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week with the theme, ”Karapatang Pantao: Kilalanin, Tuparin, Pagyamanin.”

Doctors from the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) led by Provincial Health Officer/Officer-In-Charge Dr. Hector T. Beñaz, led the medical and dental team. Aside from the free medicines, the X-Ray Mobile of PGLU was also brought to provide immediate assistance.

Inmates were also updated of their respective cases by Judges while lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) and IBP-La Union provided legal advice. As a result, some of the inmates’ cases were fast-tracked for decision.

Completing the event was a Basketball Tournament between the inmates and jail officers organized by LUPJ Warden Albert C. Palomique. Fostered discipline and teamwork, the sports activity was even officiated by qualified inmates of LUPJ.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/12-1-jail-basketball.jpg

12-1-jail-basketball.jpgCreated on October 2, 2008 by virtue of a Memorandum of Agreement, the Council’s ultimate goal is to eradicate crimes including but not limited to illegal fishing and illegal drugs in the province and expedite the process of Criminal Justice by bringing together officials of all agencies and offices concerned and other stakeholders into one solid team with a unified vision for much improved quality of life and sustainable peace, order and security for everyone. An initiative of Gov. Ortega as Chair of the Provincial Peace and Order Council, it consists of agencies or organizations representing Law Enforcement, Prosecution, Judiciary and Dispute Resolution, Correction and Community.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.210.2

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 12:51 PM

CAMP BGEN OSCAR M FLORENDO – “Mag-aral kayong mabuti dahil ang edukasyon ay isang matibay na tulay tungo sa inyong mga pangarap.” With such words did Chief Superintendent Orlando M. Mabutas, Region 1 police director, encourage the pupils of San Jose-San Joaquin Elementary School in Agoo, La Union yesterday morning (December 8).

The occasion was the blessing and turnover ceremony of the four-room school building donated by PCSupt Mabutas to the said school, better known as SJ-SJ to Agoo residents.

In addition, the PCSupt Mabutas also shouldered the expenses for the refurbishment of the school clinic and library, the renovation of the school stage, and the landscaping of the school grounds.

The event was attended by the whole SJ-SJ community consisting of pupils, parents and teachers headed by the school principal, Dr. Linda Fontanilla, who delivered an emotional acceptance speech, gratefully acknowledging Mabutas’ philanthropic gesture. Agoo Mayor Sandra Eriguel also gave an inspirational message through a representative.

“It may come as a surprise to some, pero dito po ako sa SJ-SJ nag-Grade 1,” PCSupt Mabutas revealed during his speech. “Indeed, my formal education started here, and today, after about half a century, and with my career in the uniformed service coming to an end, here I am in the place where it all begun. That is why this moment holds so much meaning to me.”

“Almighty God has truly blessed me and my family. I am expressing my gratitude by sharing His blessings to others,” added the Regional Director, who attended the ceremony with his wife Lorna and their youngest child.

PCSupt Mabutas ended his speech by urging the SJ-SJ pupils to seek and use knowledge wisely. “Mag-ipon kayo ng kaalaman na siyang magbibigay sa inyo ng ibayong kakayahan. Pero gamitin lamang ito sa wasto at maka-Diyos na paraan. For it is true that ‘knowledge is power,’ but as the Good Book says, ‘the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom’,” he stressed

http://pnppro1.com/news.asp?pagenum=2

:okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay:

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:26 PM

Photos by: Hannah http://www.flaircandy.com/2010/08/la-union-botanical-garden-and-butterfly-photography/

General Information

Open daily from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

General Admission: P 20

Senior Citizens and Students (with ID): P10

Children below 5 years old: Free

The La Union Botanical Garden was initially maintained and operated through the countrywide development fund (1995-1998) of the then Congressman Victor F. Ortega representative, first district of La Union. Presently, The garden is being managed by the La Union Botanical Garden Foundation and being subsidized by the city government led by the then Hon. Mayor Mary Jane C. Ortega and now presently by the Hon. Mayor Pablo C. Ortega.

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hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:29 PM

Photos by: Hannah http://www.flaircandy.com/2010/08/la-union-botanical-garden-and-butterfly-photography/

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Serpent Eagle

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Philippine Sea Eagle

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Rofus Night Heron

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:39 PM

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hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:41 PM

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hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:47 PM

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hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:49 PM

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hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 01:54 PM

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La Union's Artifacts

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Abel - making machine from Bangar

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Electric Ball

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Spectrum

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Whisper Dishes

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Magic mirror

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 02:36 PM

ang ganda nung Botanical Garden ah! mukhang malamig saka ang daming puno! ^^^^^^

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wahah.ingat kay Jollibee..:lol::lol:

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Magic mirror

wahaaha.kala ko napaaway ka sa San Fernando.:lol::lol:

hehehe 2-3 hrs ride pa mula sa tarlac ang San fernando^^^^^^

hehe.pipilitin ko...sayang yun para 2 birds in one strike.hehe:lol::lol:

Zest Air, Asia’s Most Refreshing Airline, offers a New Year and Summer 2011 seat sale promo dubbed as “Welcoming 2011 with a Big Bang!”

P411
- Busuanga, Iloilo, Kalibo, San Jose (Mindoro), Virac

P511
- Bacolod, Cebu, Legazpi, Masbate, Marinduque, San Fernando (La Union), Tablas (Romblon)

P611
- Calbayog, Catarman

P711
- Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Puerto Princesa

P1,511
- Manila to Davao

Sale Period: December 17-19, 2010
Travel Period: January 1-May 15, 2011

* Except on Embargo Dates
* Limited Seats only!
* Inclusive of Fare and Charges
* Exclusive of Aviation Security Fee (ASF) and ASF Vat
* Per CAB Approval

http://www.airlinenews.ph/promos/zest-air-offers-january-to-may-2011-new-year-and-summer-seat-sale-promo-fare/

wow! mura nga ah! haha.magkano ba pamasahe sa bus Manila-San Fernando?:)

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 02:39 PM

ang ganda nung Botanical Garden ah! mukhang malamig saka ang daming puno! ^^^^^^

wahah.ingat kay Jollibee..:lol::lol:

wahaaha.kala ko napaaway ka sa San Fernando.:lol::lol:

hehe.pipilitin ko...sayang yun para 2 birds in one strike.hehe:lol::lol:

wow! mura nga ah! haha.magkano ba pamasahe sa bus Manila-San Fernando?:)

Naku, may terminal fee pa iyan, tapos bayad din sa gasolina. aabot din ng isang libo yan, pero at least iwas traffic habang hindi pa tapos yung Tarlac- La Union Expressway.

Pag Cubao - San Fernando

Ordinary Bus- P220-P320
Aircon - P330 - P400
Deluxe - P500 +

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 02:42 PM

wahah.ingat kay Jollibee..

wahahahahahah Jollibee huwaaaaaagggg!!!!!!:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol: Aalis nalang ako sa bulaklak na iyan wahahaha

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 02:43 PM

Naku, may terminal fee pa iyan, tapos bayad din sa gasolina. aabot din ng isang libo yan, pero at least iwas traffic habang hindi pa tapos yung Tarlac- La Union Expressway.

Pag Cubao - San Fernando

Ordinary Bus- P220-P320
Aircon - P330 - P400
Deluxe - P500 +

ahhhh.haha,yung Tarlac-La Union Expressway kaduktong naman ng SCTEx? tapos ang SCTEx kaduktong naman ng NLEx..haha, very accesible na ang La Union once na matapos ang TPLUex...haha :banana::banana:

wahahahahahah Jollibee huwaaaaaagggg!!!!!!:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol: Aalis nalang ako sa bulaklak na iyan wahahaha

wahaha.ikaw ang gagawing hapunan ni Jollibee..laki nung bubuyog na yon.:lol::lol::lol:hehe

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 02:49 PM

Yup, magkakadugtong ang SCTex at NLEX. Yung TLUEx manggagaling sa SCTEx sa La Paz sa Tarlac. sa 2013, mga 2.5 hours nalang ang La Union to Bulacan! waaaa:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 02:52 PM

^^wahaha! oo nga, ilang km yung TLUex na ginagawa?ang NLEx parang 80km ata.ang SCTEx 94km naman. :)

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 02:55 PM

wow 85km pala ang TLUex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarlac-Pangasinan-La_Union_Expressway).halos kasing-haba ng NLEx Balintawak-Mabalacat.

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 02:58 PM

wow 85km pala ang TLUex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarlac-Pangasinan-La_Union_Expressway).halos kasing-haba ng NLEx Balintawak-Mabalacat.

Yup! Bale suma total, pag nagawa na yung TLUEx, may total na ang pilipinas na around 380km na expressway, pero talong talo tayo pag ikumpara tayo sa Thailand na may 1,000km+ na expressway

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 03:03 PM

meron pang isang expressway na proposed,yung North Luzon East Express Way, from Quezon City-Bulacan-Tuguegarao, Cagayan..kakabasa ko lang..456km siya sumatotal.. siguro naman kapag natapos yun lalapit tayo sa Thailand, kasi may Star Tollway sa south luzon saka SLEx, saka may mga underconstruction at proposed na express satin kagaya ng Bulacan-Rizal-Manila-Cavite Regional Expressway (C-6),Tarlac-Nueva Ecija-Aurora Expressway, Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALA) , Cebu Trans-Axial Expressway , saka iba pa.hehe
eto naman yung operational natin, Bataan Provincial Expressway (BPEx) • Manila-Cavite Expressway (Coastal Road) • Metro Manila Skyway (MMSW) • NAIA Expressway • North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) • South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) • Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR Tollway) •
wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Luzon_East_Expressway)

hugodiekonig

December 22nd, 2010, 03:21 PM

william :D

December 22nd, 2010, 03:28 PM

^^oo nga..sa L.A. California sabi ng pinsan ko ang ratio daw ng sasakyan don ay kasing dami ng population ng LA..kung ilan ang tao ganon din halos ang dami ng sasakyan...hehe, saka sana magkaroon din ng disiplina mga driver sa bansa natin....isa sa pinaka-nakakatakot na kalsada ang kalsada natin...hehe,

william :D

December 23rd, 2010, 03:31 AM

Heightened communication support to RDC-1 seen

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, -- The integration of private media organizations, including the Philippine Communications Operations Office' (PCOO) sister-agencies of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in the region have strengthened support to the Regional Development Council (RDC) – Region 1 in terms of advocacy and ultimately expanded coverage of dissemination.
This goal came out after the pledge of commitment of the different entities during the recent consultation meeting of the Development Communications Support Committee (DevCom SuCom) of the RDC chaired by Director Abraham N. Libadia of PIA held at the PIA office.
Among the vital agreements made was to come up with a "FEEDBACK HOTLINE" via texting which will be used by all media partners in the whole region, both print and broadcast, to gather comments/feedback from the people.
As agreed, PIA will be the central database, where all text messages (feedback/comments) will be received using only one identified celphone number to be provided and handled by PIA.
The text messages will be processed by PIA and call attention of concerned agency/office about the constituent's comment/s received. Response of said agency/office will be given to all media partners under the DevCom SuCom for dissemination.
In cases that no response can be generated from concerned agencies, PIA will be sending the comment to central office for proper action at the national level.
This scheme is also adopted in broadcast activities and even social networking.
Accounts in facebook, twitter, yahoo messenger and other sites will be opened purposely for this endeavor.
All materials sourced out from the RDC or even regional government agencies for dissemination to print and broadcast media partners will be given by PIA via email or fax.
The DevCom SuCom now is composed of the a) original members to include PIA, National Economic Development Authority, North Luzon Growth Quadrangle, Association of Regional Government Information Officers – 1; b) PCOO sister-agencies to include DZAG-Radyo ng Bayan in Agoo, La Union; DZMQ-Radyo ng Bayan in Dagupan, DWRS-Radyo ng Bayan in Tayug, and Philippine News Agency in Dagupan, all of the province of Pangasinan; DWFB-Radyo ng Bayan and DZRL RPN Radyo in Batac, all of Ilocos Norte; and NBN-4 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
Private organizations/non-government organizations were also tapped as members to include the Kapisanan ng mga Broadcasters ng Pilipinas – La Union and the Gunglo Dagiti Mannurat ng Ilokano (GUMIL). (PIA1-La Union)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=8592

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 08:27 AM

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Dec. 23 (PNA) — The figures reflected in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) at the end of the year could somehow provide a glimpse on which is the richest and poorest provinces in the Ilocos Region today.

The 4Ps, whose main feature is the Conditional Cash Transfer of P500 monthly for the identified poorest of the poor, is one of the three poverty reduction approaches of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the region that started in 2008.

The two other approaches are the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan –Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) and Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K).

The data on 4Ps showed there were 17,377 household families in the region that benefited from CCT, a mechanism designed by the government to provide the poorest households with social services, educational assistance and health care services.

Of these, there were 2,936 household families served in seven towns of Pangasinan since 2008, and 2,708 in four towns of La Union, 2,207 in five towns of Ilocos Sur, and 1,798 household families in three towns of Ilocos Norte, all these since 2009.

Records of the DSWD regional office showed that 4Ps kicked off in the Ilocos Region in 2008 in four towns of Pangasinan, namely Aguilar, Bolinao, Mabini and Urbiztondo, identified under Set 1 of 4Ps. All these received a total of P41.4 million in 2008, P106.8 million in 2009; and P24.7 million in 2010 or a total of P43.8 million.

Set 2 involved the municipalities of Bagulin and Santol, La Union; and Sugpon, Ilocos Sur which received CCTs in the amount of P16.9 million in 2009; and P7.5 million in 2010 or a total of P24.4 million.

Set 3 involved the municipalities of Burgos and Rosario, La Union; Agno, Mangatarem and Sual, Pangasinan; Batac Marcos,and Pinili, Ilocos Norte; and Alilem, Suyo, Quirino and Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. Records showed all these received P12.1 million in 2009; and P18.3 million in 2010 or P30.5 million.

From the data alone, it can be deduced that Pangasinan has the highest prevalence poverty rate in all of the Ilocos, yet it is also the biggest and most populous province in the region.

As could be gleaned from 4Ps’ records, La Union comes next, followed by Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte.

These all mean that the more the people in one provinces, the lesser the economic opportunities are and the bigger is its prevalence of poverty.

This can be readily gleaned in the case of Pangasinan whose two million population comprises 54 percent of the region’s total.

Pangasinan has 48 towns and cities with Dagupan having the highest number of population at close to 200,000.

As a result of the poverty threshold survey, the DSWD headed by Secretary Corazon Soliman, has developed what it called a Convergence Framework that seeks to maximize the impact of the poverty reduction programs through an effective targeting system and a holistic community level development approach.

DSWD Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso said the three-pronged poverty reduction approach, which include the 4Ps, KLAHI-CIDSS and SEA-K, is his agency’s response to the unique contexts of various segments of the poor.

He explained that each of the three programs has its own strategies and outputs, adding that in every stage of development, both public and private sectors have identified their contributions for the improvement of the beneficiaries’ well being. (PNA)
LAP/Lvm/lmmicua/1000/rma

http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Cities_And_Towns_23/4Ps_A_benchmark_for_Ilocos_Region_s_poorest_richest_provinces.shtml

I hope the government of La Union should continue and intensify its programs on alleviating poverty. La Union has the highest possibility of attaining its targeted poverty rate by 2015 of only just 21%, from 43% in 1996, to 32% in 2006.:banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 08:35 AM

By Danny O. Calleja

LEGAZPI CITY, Dec. 23 (PNA) – Two lowly municipalities of Bicol have been awarded an amount of P1 million each by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as Performance Challenge Funds (PCF) for meeting the benchmark of good local government housekeeping.

These municipalities are Sto. Domingo, Albay and Mobo, Masbate which, along with 13 other considered top ranked local government units (LGUs) nationwide are being esteemed by the DILG for their good performance in internal housekeeping focused on good planning, sound fiscal management, transparency and accountability and valuing of performance information.

Sto. Domingo in Albay that sits near the southeastern foot of Mt. Mayon is a fourth class coastal town of nearly 35,000 population based on the 2007 official count conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO). It has 23 barangays whose residents as mostly farmers and fishermen.

This municipality under the stewardship of its local chief executive, Mayor Herbie Aguas has been excellent in the Housekeeping area of good planning, transparency and accountability, valuing performance information and sound fiscal management, according to the DILG.

Mobo, Masbate under the leadership of its lawyer-mayor, Percival Castillo is also a fourth class town located around six kilometers next to Masbate city, the provincial capital. It has a population of about 33,000 during the 2007 census distributed among its 29 barangays whose economies are mostly dependent on agriculture and fishery.

This municipality has also been showing exceptional performances in planning, fiscal management, transparency and accountability and valuing performance information, the DILG said.

The 15 LGUs including Sto. Domingo and Mobo that are within the 4th to 6th class groups were recently given formal recognition and awarded the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) in line with the DILG’s commitment to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of governance that values transparency, accountability, participation and performance into an institutionalized status.

The other municipalities are Anilao, Iloilo; Balete, Aklan; Balilihan, Bohol; Catigbian, Bohol; Clarin, Misamis Occidental; Dumulog, Bukidnon; Datu Paglas, Maguindanao; Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte; Naawan, Misamis Oriental; Pitogo, Quezon; San Agustin, Surigao del Sur; Santol, La Union; and Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte.

Wearing the SGH also entitles each LGU of the PCF that will be utilized as a counterpart fund to LGU’s allocation from the 20 percent development fund for the implementation of projects that are consistent with national objective to achieve the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goals (MDG), DILG regional director for Bicol Blandino Maceda on Wednesday said.

These 15 LGUs were the maiden batch of SGH awardees and they will also be the first grantees of the PCF that the DILG under Sec. Jesse Robredo is institutionalizing based on the Performance-Based Incentive Policy approved by the Development Budget Coordinating Committee (DBCC).

This Policy, Maceda said provides for an incentive framework to rationalize national government intergovernmental transfers to LGUs towards improving the latter’s performance in governance and delivery of basic services.

“By linking financial incentives to the LGUs own performance, the latter is motivated to perform better and deliver quality services to the people,” Maceda explained.

The PFC, he said is an incentive fund to LGUs in the form of counterpart funding to high-impact capital investment projects in the Annual Investment Program and funded the 20 percent Development Fund consistent with national priorities.

It shall seek to rationalize national government intergovernmental transfers to LGUs and encourage alignment of local development initiatives with national government development agenda and priorities, Maceda said.

The Fund shall be open to all provinces, cities and municipalities awarded with the SGH provided that the LGU shall allocate counterpart fund to implement capital investment projects aligned with the national development agenda and priorities, he added.

In a statement following the release of cash grant to the two Bicol towns last week, DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo said that “through the PCF, we are opening the window for our LGUs to manifest their competitive spirit and high-octane performance so that, hand in hand with us in the national government, we can ensure that economic development sets in at the local level to help eradicate or dramatically reduce poverty incidence throughout the country.”

The grants, according to Robredo may support capital investments from a menu of investment projects that support national priorities, particularly President Benigno Aquino III’s priority programs on improving social services, providing public infrastructure, enhancing economic services, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction and promoting good governance. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/DOC/cbd

http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Cities_And_Towns_23/Bicol_towns_get_P1M_good_housekeeping_incentive_from_DILG.shtml

:banana::banana::banana::cheers: Good Job Santol!

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 08:40 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs376.ash2/65454_477589324434_173031024434_5391410_2558309_n.jpg

At Fiesta Casino, Poro Point, San Fernando City

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 08:55 AM

Independent oil player Flying V Philippines on Thursday said it would expand its retail network next year by allotting P1 billion in capital expenditures (capex).

The company said it is “strongly bullish on the Philippine economy" that it will expand its retail network by adding 152 filling stations. This will bring to 387 the number of Flying V stations nationwide.

It plans to raise the P1 billion through additional equity investments from existing and new stockholders, and by converting assets to cash.

Some 65 percent of the capex will be spent on expanding its retail network, building more retail stations in the Visayas and Mindanao as well as in northeastern Luzon, the oil firm noted.

The rest of the capex will be used to bolster its logistics infrastructure and increase the capacity of its five existing depots, Flying V said.

The company has five storage facilities in La Union, Cebu, and Davao, as well as in Sta. Ana and Mandaluyong in Metro Manila.

Higher sales will likely boost to P15 billion the company’s gross revenues, Flying V said.

The oil firm added it plans to build three more depots in Subic, Surigao, and Cagayan de Oro to support its distribution network.

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/208977/oil-firm-flying-v-to-expand-retail-network

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 09:57 AM

Visit their site at: http://www.oasiscountryresort.com/

Sevilla, City of San Fernando, La Union, Philippines 2500 Telephone: 006372 2425621; Telefax: 006372 2425631

http://www.oasiscountryresort.com/images/home1.jpg

http://www.oasiscountryresort.com/images/home2.jpg

http://www.oasiscountryresort.com/images/home3.jpg

http://www.oasiscountryresort.com/images/home4.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs739.ash1/163117_1475773066962_1612790914_30967973_2016835_n.jpg

Tarlaqueno-ako

December 23rd, 2010, 12:18 PM

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 01:32 PM

I like these pictures. May botanical garden pala diyan sa San Fernando City.:):):cheers::banana::banana:

Yup1 bale ginawa iyan noong 1996. Noong term naman noon ni Mayor mary Jane Ortega noong 1998-2007, tinawag noon ang San Fernando na Botanical Garden City of the North^^^^

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 01:37 PM

By JOAN GARCIA
Bulatlat.com

CANDON, Ilocos Sur — The 3rd Regional Assembly of the Ilocos Human Rights Alliance (IHRA-Karapatan) paved the way for the different sectors of the region to unite and strengthen their resolve in fighting for their rights.

For the people of Ilocos, especially for the farmers and fisher folks, life is tougher than ever. Coming all the way from Agoo, La Union, Manang Billy of the TimpuyogDagitiManggalap ken Mannaloniti La Union (Timek) attended the assembly in the hope of seeking support for the scrapping or RA 8550.

Republic Act 8550 or The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 has been a big obstacle in the livelihood of the fisher folks of La Union and Pangasinan. RA 8550 sets provincial and municipal boundaries in the ocean thus, limiting access to small fishing boats. The municipal boundaries are guarded by the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) in cooperation with the local Philippine National Police (PNP).

Those who are caught crossing the boundaries are detained like the San Nicolas West 22 last July 2009. The San Nicolas West 22 were detained for two weeks on the charge of dynamite fishing even if there was no evidence of such. Their catch, three fishing boats and nets were also confiscated by the PNP. Although they were already released, their belongings were not returned to them. The cheapest fishing boat costs around P30,000.

more at http://interceder.net/list/la-union

:bash::bash::bash:

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 01:46 PM

S-5889dvMmI&feature=player_embedded#!

video by: 1eleKtriK2MAYHEM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-5889dvMmI&feature=player_embedded#!)

0:09 - Sevilla, South San Fernando City (southbound)
0:13 - San Juan (Northbound)
0:20 - Bacnotan (Northbound)
0:26 - Aringay (Northbound)
0:32 - Carlatan, North San Fernando City (southbound), overlooking Poro Point
0:38 - Bacnotan (Northbound)
0: 55 - Cadaclan, Eastern San Fernando (Eastbound) entering Botanical garden
1:39 - Botanical Garden

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 04:22 PM

BY RUELLE ALBERT D. CASTRO

Consunji-led DMCI Holdings Inc. (DMCI) has finally found a buyer for construction unit Atlantic Gulf & Pacific Co. of Manila Inc. (AG&P) in the Kuwaiti-investment company KCIC for P1.75 billion.

DMCI chief finance officer Herbert Consunji said proceeds of the sale will be used to finance equity in the P19 billion Tarlac La Union tollroad project, where DMIC holds a 32 percent interest in the project’s vehicle Private Infra Development Corp.

DMCI finance officer Aldric Borlaza said the transaction involved 973.09 million directly owned shares, and 17 beneficially owned shares, representing 98.19 percent of outstanding stock of AG&P.

The construction firm, the oldest in the country, had been on the auction block since 2008.

DMCI said the buyer of AG&P possesses "a wealth of experience in the oil and gas industry and international finance."

KCIC is expected to place the AG&P investment under newly incorporated AGP Philippines Holdings Inc.

AGP Philippines is controlled by Francisco A. Climent through two other holding firms, Global Modular Holdings I Inc., and Global Modular Holdings II Inc.

AGP Philippines has an authorized capital of P16 million, with P4 million subscribed, and P1 million paid up. It was incorporated last December 13.

Climent also sits as chief finance officer of the companies.

KCIC, founded in 2005 and regulated by the Central Bank of Kuwait, has a diversified shareholder base through its listing on the Kuwait Stock Exchange, with the Kuwait Investment Authority – Kuwait’s sovereign wealth fund – among its founding shareholders.

Other key shareholders of KCIC are National Investment Co., one of the leading investment banks in the Middle East, and Al Ghanim Industries, one of the largest conglomerates also in the region.

KCIC aims to become a premier emerging-Asia-focused investment company by facilitating and participating in capital flows between the Middle East and Asia.

KCIC invests in key growth sectors in Asia that are driven by domestic demand, namely energy, real estate, agriculture, infrastructure, and finance, DMCI said.

"We are very excited about our new ownership structure as it will allow us to further strengthen our already strong infrastructure and management team. We will become even better partners for our clients and other stakeholders. We have planned for an aggressive investment schedule that will see us with state-of-the-art equipment and capabilities. With strong shareholder support and a robust market, we are exactly where we need to be, "said Lito Bermudo, AG&P chief executive officer.

"We are proud to be Filipino and our over 100 years of history of building for the Philippines and her friends across the globe. We shall continue our tradition of serving customers all around the world with the highest standards of health and safety, quality and responsibility to our community and to our environment," he added.

Established in 1900 in West Virginia, AG&P pioneered in construction projects in the Philippines. It was however restructured on July 25, 1958, as a private Philippine corporation registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

It is known for its business of steel fabrication and modular construction.

AG&P is also a modern and high-tech player with expertise in structural mechanical/piping, electrical, instrumentation and related works, serving the needs of major multinational firms and international contractors and clients from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Europe and Africa.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/12242010/busi1.html

hugodiekonig

December 23rd, 2010, 05:06 PM

La Union November 2010 Month-end balance (Financial Statement for November 2010)

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_files/downloads/FINANCIAL%20STATEMENTS_%20AS%20OF%20NOVEMBER%202010.pdf

Tarlaqueno-ako

December 23rd, 2010, 05:48 PM

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 03:22 AM

Good news eto, assured and earmarked na ang funding sa equity ng DMCI sa nasabing project.:)

Yup! at sigurado naring tuloy - tuloy na ang pagconstruct sa TLUEx, hindi madedelay dahil sa insufficient funds:banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 03:30 AM

Photos by: philwebsupport.com http://philwebphotography.blogspot.com/2010/10/poro-point-la-union-thunderbird-resort.html

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5092333338_ef7992f9a1_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5092043517_046ebf3abd_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5092087725_2cc3e61121_b.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 03:36 AM

Halo Halo de Iloko - Along P. Burgos St.
Halo Halo de Iloko 2 Modernorte - Along National Highway, Carlatan, San Fernando City (Mejaro Hotel beside Saint Louis College)

Photos by: philweb.com http://philwebphotography.blogspot.com/2010/10/poro-point-la-union-thunderbird-resort.html

http://www.philwebsupport.com/galleries/albums/thunderbird-poro-point-la-union/philwebsupport_267.jpg

http://www.philwebsupport.com/galleries/albums/thunderbird-poro-point-la-union/philwebsupport_289.jpg

http://www.philwebsupport.com/galleries/albums/thunderbird-poro-point-la-union/philwebsupport_283.jpg

:cheers:

fall_17

December 24th, 2010, 01:08 PM

^Maligayang Pasko sa mga Taga-La union at ng probinsya nyo.:cheers:

Wish na marami pang darating na pasko at mga bagong developments..:banana::cheers2:

:dance::dance::dance::dance::dance::dance:

Greets from Cavite:)

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 02:02 PM

http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/hs219.ash2/50185_130575006987086_1895_n.jpg
http://photos.friendster.com/photos/14/64/56194641/2_156549518l.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs213.ash2/47644_1477192342443_1612790914_30969982_1846949_n.jpg

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF US!!

From: SSC - La Union

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 06:40 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs616.ash2/156822_1477452788954_1612790914_30970419_8313529_n.jpg

Noche Buena na!:eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::cheers::cheers:

ordunapaulo

December 24th, 2010, 06:42 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs616.ash2/156822_1477452788954_1612790914_30970419_8313529_n.jpg

Noche Buena na!:eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::cheers::cheers:

Love it:D

Ngunit kanina pa.:D

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 06:44 PM

Love it:D

Ngunit kanina pa.:D

hehehe ^^^^^^ Sana pati rin ang mga walang makain ngayon masaya rin sila:)

ordunapaulo

December 24th, 2010, 06:45 PM

Have a Merry Christmas to all La-Union Province, and take good your Self, Giving and Loving This Seasons of Greetings.

:cheers::)

Special Greet to @Hugodiekonig.:booze::cheers1:

hugodiekonig

December 24th, 2010, 06:53 PM

Have a Merry Christmas to all La-Union Province, and take good your Self, Giving and Loving This Seasons of Greetings.

:cheers::)

Special Greet to @Hugodiekonig.:booze::cheers1:

hehehe salamat po!:cheers: Merry Christmas din!

ordunapaulo

December 24th, 2010, 07:08 PM

Medyo nasa 'SMP' ako, ngunit masaya naman kahit walang handa, di tulad nui @fall.:D

freightrunner

December 25th, 2010, 02:01 AM

http://img574.imageshack.us/img574/4973/40b74f1dc4460b47a7c125d.gif

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 03:13 AM

Merry Christmas sa ating lahat! weeee :banana::banana::banana:

pangasinense ak

December 25th, 2010, 10:52 AM

MALIGAYANG PASKO PO SA INYO MGA TAGA LA UNION AT MGA KAIBIGAN http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac251/okalim/parol-1.gif:dance::dance::dance: http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac251/okalim/parol5-1.giflate na me nakabati na pala si sir@christian joe,habol hhehee

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 12:19 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1366.snc4/163878_1478389492371_1612790914_30973008_3797657_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 12:24 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs757.ash1/164874_1478392412444_1612790914_30973029_413080_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 12:32 PM

Finally, Bauang Bridge is installed again with street lights

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1393.snc4/164540_1478387092311_1612790914_30972992_5781608_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs025.snc6/165574_1478386972308_1612790914_30972991_5390090_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 12:35 PM

Bauang Bridge 1
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1335.snc4/162723_1478388612349_1612790914_30973001_4003566_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs118.snc4/36282_1478388812354_1612790914_30973003_7609762_n.jpg

Bauang Bridge 2
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs907.snc4/72082_1478386452295_1612790914_30972988_2918797_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs007.snc6/165743_1478386572298_1612790914_30972989_6113361_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs005.snc6/165568_1478392212439_1612790914_30973027_2234078_n.jpg

william :D

December 25th, 2010, 03:14 PM

^^mukhang ang liwanag nung ilaw pag-gabi diyan sa Bauang Bridge ah..hehe,

ordunapaulo

December 25th, 2010, 03:48 PM

^Ang haba ng tulay ng bauang 1..

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 04:20 PM

nagawa yang Bauang Bridge 1 at 2 noong 1992. Bale ang nakakontrata na duration of construction niyan ay 2 years, pero natapos lang in 10 months, kaya limpak limpak na salapi ang kinita ng lahat ng mga contractor at mga trabahador nito.

Isa ang Bauang bridge 1 sa mga pinakamahabang tulay sa North Luzon noon.

Perseus II

December 25th, 2010, 04:22 PM

hehehe ^^^^^^ Sana pati rin ang mga walang makain ngayon masaya rin sila:)

agree! sana wala nang nagugutom at magugutom :)

hugodiekonig

December 25th, 2010, 04:34 PM

agree! sana wala nang nagugutom at magugutom :)

basta magkatrabaho na tayo lahat gayahin din natin yung ginagawa ng SSC Naga-CamSur, may outreach projects pa sila:):)

william :D

December 25th, 2010, 04:36 PM

^^waaaa.matagal ko ng gusto nung ganyan hugo.hehe, kaya lang hindi ko pa kaya.:) mas masaya pasko, kapag masaya ibang tao. :):):)

Perseus II

December 25th, 2010, 04:39 PM

basta magkatrabaho na tayo lahat gayahin din natin yung ginagawa ng SSC Naga-CamSur, may outreach projects pa sila:):)

in our own little way pwede naman :)

296619

December 26th, 2010, 06:56 AM

ae, Hugo... Merry Christmas at sa buong taga La Union! hehe:)... late na ko bumati...:):):):)

:cheers::cheers::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 04:58 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1382.snc4/163457_1479735406018_1612790914_30976420_5191653_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:01 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs618.ash2/157026_1479737446069_1612790914_30976428_5096748_n.jpg
Canaoay Side

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs766.ash1/165707_1479738486095_1612790914_30976433_6331876_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs049.snc4/34796_1479737966082_1612790914_30976431_2589657_n.jpg
Bauang Side

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:02 PM

ae, Hugo... Merry Christmas at sa buong taga La Union! hehe:)... late na ko bumati...:):):):)

:cheers::cheers::cheers:

Naku, 12 days naman po ang Christmas hehehe. Salamat po! Merry Christmas din po! hehehe

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:04 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs953.snc4/74631_1479739646124_1612790914_30976440_5329506_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs085.snc4/35630_1479744206238_1612790914_30976469_2621310_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:06 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1380.snc4/163203_1479744606248_1612790914_30976472_11414_n.jpg
Alekin Beach Resort

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs780.ash1/167061_1479745366267_1612790914_30976477_5570434_n.jpg
Jessica's Beach Resort

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1364.snc4/163684_1479745886280_1612790914_30976481_2814698_n.jpg
Phoebe Paraiso

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs005.snc6/165520_1479746286290_1612790914_30976484_7398106_n.jpg
Bu-boat Beach Resort

and many more!

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:31 PM

This is the center for the Sericulture (silkworm) industry in La Union. This institution also produces Bacnotan's supply of Honeybee

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs207.ash2/47036_1349107580404_1612790914_30753022_7834782_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs207.ash2/47036_1349107620405_1612790914_30753023_910481_n.jpg
Banana Farm

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs427.snc4/47036_1349107660406_1612790914_30753024_2106682_n.jpg
Goat Farm

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs207.ash2/47036_1349107700407_1612790914_30753025_4658229_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs427.snc4/47036_1349107740408_1612790914_30753026_6017046_n.jpg
Administration Building

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs407.snc4/47036_1349107780409_1612790914_30753027_2939192_n.jpg
Central Administration Building

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs424.snc4/46754_1349108500427_1612790914_30753031_7443191_n.jpg
Library

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs424.snc4/46754_1349108540428_1612790914_30753032_4327292_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs404.snc4/46754_1349108580429_1612790914_30753033_5969190_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:32 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs424.snc4/46754_1349108780434_1612790914_30753038_7058737_n.jpg
Central Administration Building Ceiling

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs365.snc4/44780_1349109380449_1612790914_30753046_1125325_n.jpg
At the Goat Farm

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs385.snc4/44780_1349109460451_1612790914_30753048_447183_n.jpg
Banana Screen House

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs185.ash2/44780_1349109700457_1612790914_30753053_2674278_n.jpg
DMMMSU NLUC is the Research Center for the Banana industry in La Union

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1335.snc4/162763_1349110460476_1612790914_30753058_3236270_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs210.ash2/47349_1349111700507_1612790914_30753071_3385987_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 05:57 PM

mDn8UYldYyY
video by: HugoLeRoiDuOttawa (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDn8UYldYyY)

hugodiekonig

December 26th, 2010, 06:10 PM

1SqQP_uOZno
video by: HugoLeRoiDuOttawa (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SqQP_uOZno)

ordunapaulo

December 26th, 2010, 07:17 PM

^Nice Pics, meron bang own large plantation ng Banana ang La-Union except sa pinicturan mo?

fall_17

December 27th, 2010, 05:36 AM

Tarlaqueno-ako

December 27th, 2010, 07:31 AM

Late na rin ako bumati, Merry Christmas and Happy new year kadakayo amin dita Launion province! Sapay la coma ta nasalun-at ken dakkel ti gracia nga sumabat kaniatayo amin kadaytoy umay nga tawen nga 2011.:):)

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 11:07 AM

^Nice Pics, meron bang own large plantation ng Banana ang La-Union except sa pinicturan mo?

Oo meron. nasa same town rin, pero sa ibang barangay. Sa Brgy. Quirino ang pinakamalaking banana plantation ng La Union, malapit ito sa Holcim La Union

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 11:11 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs365.snc4/44780_1349109380449_1612790914_30753046_1125325_n.jpg
At the Goat Farm

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs385.snc4/44780_1349109460451_1612790914_30753048_447183_n.jpg
Banana Screen House

^Nice pics, Marami din pala sagingan farm sa probinsya nyo.:)

kaya lang bakit parang nalalanta yung mga banana trees.

hindi lang tinatanggal yung mga dead leaves para magsilbing proteksyon ito sa mga insekto na maaaring makasira sa mga banana plants. Nang magpunta kami diyan, well mentained naman ang area.

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 11:12 AM

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 04:13 PM

(It's too late but I think there are still activities undone)

http://photoworldmanila.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/poster.jpg

Thunderbird Resorts Philippines will announce the winners of Express Your Art Photo Contest 2 (Go Green) on December 23, 2010 – after the final judging on December 21.

Ms. Jocelyn Henares of Thunderbird Resorts Philippines said 30 finalists have been chosen from among 1,043 entries submitted. From the thirty finalists, winners will be selected from each category in Awareness, Balance and Commitment. Category prize winners will each receive P50,000.

The entry with the highest rating from the three categories will receive the Grand Prize of P250,000. Ten consolation prizes of P5,000 will also be awarded.

The winning photos will be displayed in an exhibit to be launched at 3pm on January 27, 2011 at the Greenbelt 3 in Makati. On exhibit will be 14 winning photos from this year’s contest and 8 winning photos from last year’s. The exhibit will be open for viewing from Thursday, January 27 to Sunday, January 30.

Awarding of cash prizes will be on January 29, during Photographers’ Night of PhotoWorld Asia 2011, at Greenbelt 3.

Express Your Art Photo Contest 2 (Go Green) is a joint undertaking by Thunderbird Resorts Philippines, Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF), and Caltex Philippines.

Official announcement of winners will be made on the Thunderbird Resorts website at www.thunderbird-asia.com.

http://photoworldmanila.com/2010/thunderbird-resorts-express-your-art-photo-contest-2-winners-to-be-announced-dec-23/

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 04:49 PM

Monday, December 27, 2010

INTERNATIONAL Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) scientist Dr. Myer Mula said planting pigeonpea could prevent erosion and provide a source of income for farmers.

For a region battered yearly by several landslides, pigeonpea or cardis in Ilokano and kadyos in Tagalog is not only environment-friendly but also a profitable venture for farmers.

Mula, a Filipino scientist based in India where ICRISAT is, said pigeonpea is a fast-growing cash crop with four-feet long roots ideal for holding loosened soil and prevent erosion.

He added pigeonpea has been proven to also condition the soil already stripped of minerals due to decades of highland farming.

Fallow land may also be planted with the pigeonpea since it does not need so many farm inputs and does not take too long to grow, Mula added.

National Pigeonpea Growers Association President Fernando Sugui, a professor at Don Mariano Marcos State University in La Union, said locally grown cardis is commercially viable and nutritious.

In the Visayas and Mindanao, Sugui said this has been a favorite ingredient in cooking as it can also be processed into polvoron, bread and noodles.

Benguet State University’s food processing center has also partnered with pigeonpea growers recently to develop ways to make use of the seeds as an ingredient in baked food and other products.

Pigeonpea also has many uses; its wood can be harvested as fuel which Sugui claims has a good burning efficiency compared to other firewood.

Cost of production, he said, is also low as P60 per kilo of pigeonpea seeds could already be planted in 1,000 square meters of land. (JM Agreda)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/scientists-promotes-pigeonpea-planting

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 04:56 PM

BY JOHN LORENZE POQUIZ

A Korean company is planning to put up 10-megawatt waste-to-energy plants in different parts of the country over the next 18 months.

Bryan Kim, president of Koam Energy Green Inc., said each plant will cost $10 million.

"Our project is to convert waste to energy. We’re looking at landfills like Smokey Mountain, Payatas and any municipal landfills and dump sites because those are our raw materials to produce energy," he said.

He said the company is in talks with the local governments units of Baguio, Bauang in La Union, and other municipals and cities outside Metro Manila.

A similar project was recently inaugurated in San Pedro, Laguna.

Baca Valley Energy Corp.’s 4 MW methane plant started producing power for nearby communities early this month. The plant produces enough electricity to supply the power needs of 4,000 families. The plant utilizes methane, a by-product of solid waste, from the San Pedro landfill as fuel.

The whole Baca Valley methane plant cost about $10 million.

BVEC president Jun Fernandez earlier said the company plans to put up similar projects in other parts of the country.

He said the company is looking at developing a second 4 MW facility in Cebu and a third one in Pangasinan. Both plants would cost almost the same as the San Pedro facility, he added.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/12282010/busi4.html

I hope this firm would invest energy-producing plant here in La Union

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:02 PM

http://lorma.edu/images/stories/CCSE/lorma_colleges_alumni_natioanal_awardee.jpg

President of the Philippines Benigno Aquino III, awarded Mr. Arnel G. Palabay (second from right) as National CSC Pagasa Awardee, CY 2009. Mr. Palabay is a Senior Economic Development Specialist (ICT Team Leader, NEDA Regional Office-I) who created a system for Office Automation, now adopted by government offices nation-wide. He is one of the Lorma Colleges BSIT Graduate Batch 2005.

http://lorma.edu/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=636:ccse-alumni-presidents-awardee&catid=128:IT%20Frontpage%20&Itemid=261

Congratulations! Job well Done! :applause::cheers2:

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:12 PM

Photo source: PUGAD Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1260888894992&set=a.1257540171276.2031454.1612790914#!/photo.php?fbid=128055793921998&set=a.128055553922022.18544.100001527352978&pid=162596&id=100001527352978)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs043.ash2/35537_128055593922018_100001527352978_162589_3488069_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1128.snc4/149080_128055633922014_100001527352978_162590_4461674_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1124.snc4/148654_128055697255341_100001527352978_162592_6639994_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1170.snc4/154229_128055710588673_100001527352978_162593_4577161_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1163.snc4/150512_128055793921998_100001527352978_162596_3124111_n.jpghttp://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs590.ash2/154199_128055737255337_100001527352978_162594_6338591_n.jpg

Visit their site at/ Visitez leur site à:/ Besuchen Sie Ihre Site unter/그들의 사이트 방문:

http://pugoadventure.multiply.com/

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:25 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs586.ash2/150836_124725840921660_100001527352978_146441_1488073_n.jpg
Shuttle

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs604.ash2/155685_124723840921860_100001527352978_146430_6238354_n.jpg
Ilog

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs288.snc4/40752_118188754908702_100001527352978_116430_5261994_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs462.ash2/73587_118188838242027_100001527352978_116432_4127440_n.jpg
Dap-ay and Camping Ground

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs949.snc4/74256_124725414255036_100001527352978_146435_1609350_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1222.snc4/155484_124725447588366_100001527352978_146436_6946563_n.jpg
Playground

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs452.ash2/72547_118197051574539_100001527352978_116469_4618138_n.jpg
All Terrain Vehicles (ATV)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs288.snc4/40726_118285424899035_100001527352978_116764_5135967_n.jpg
Pool

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs471.ash2/74407_124723617588549_100001527352978_146428_5370075_n.jpg
Zipline

Photos sourced from: PUGAD Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=118197051574539&set=a.118197011574543.15178.100001527352978#!/photo.php?fbid=124723617588549&set=a.124723497588561.17440.100001527352978)

Visit their site at/ Visitez leur site à:/ Besuchen Sie Ihre Site unter/그들의 사이트 방문:

http://pugoadventure.multiply.com/

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:35 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs562.snc3/30701_1260888894992_1612790914_30553081_3487698_n.jpg

ordunapaulo

December 27th, 2010, 05:37 PM

Magandang gabi sir @ Hugo, Gising papala kayo.

^Great Pics..:cheers:
That is like tagaytay.
Saan iyan makikita sa northern luzon?

Oo meron. nasa same town rin, pero sa ibang barangay. Sa Brgy. Quirino ang pinakamalaking banana plantation ng La Union, malapit ito sa Holcim La Union

Well, yung mga bunga nyan siguro ang nagiging suplay ng banana fruits ng La Union.:banana:

hindi lang tinatanggal yung mga dead leaves para magsilbing proteksyon ito sa mga insekto na maaaring makasira sa mga banana plants. Nang magpunta kami diyan, well mentained naman ang area.

Kung minsan ang mga dead leaves ang nagsisilbing protection and sometimes nagigigng daan para mapinsala ang puno dahil may posibilidad na bahayan rin yun ng mga peste.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs562.snc3/30701_1260888894992_1612790914_30553081_3487698_n.jpg

Parng Mediterranean ang dating.:D

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:38 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2542/4231922763_4b19515c95_o.jpg
Winner of 2009's Thunderbird Express Your Art Photo Contest by Alford Ronduen

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4366760792_526c7444f3_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4394997410_c6152301b1_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2798/4366760802_2e3950db6d_o.jpg

Photos are sourced from this blog: http://acrondue.multiply.com/photos/album/75

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:43 PM

Magandang gabi sir @ Hugo, Gising papala kayo.
^Great Pics..:cheers:
That is like tagaytay.
Saan iyan makikita sa northern luzon?

Thanks! bale eto ang location niya. Syempre sa probinsiya namin iyan sa Municipality of Pugo. Madadaanan ang town na ito pag papunta ng Baguio via Marcos Highway

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5228680820_46b598c1a3_z.jpg
http://pugoadventure.multiply.com/

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:45 PM

Well, yung mga bunga nyan siguro ang nagiging suplay ng banana fruits ng La Union.:banana:

yup. additional income din hindi lamang sa university kundi maging sa mga banana growers narin at sa Municipality ng Bacnotan^^^^

ordunapaulo

December 27th, 2010, 05:51 PM

Thanks! bale eto ang location niya. Syempre sa probinsiya namin iyan sa Municipality of Pugo. Madadaanan ang town na ito pag papunta ng Baguio via Marcos Highway

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5228680820_46b598c1a3_z.jpg
http://pugoadventure.multiply.com/

Iyan ba yung highway na papuntang La Trinidad at Bagiuo?

Malapit lang pala sainyo, nga pala nasubukan nyo napo mkapunta diyan?

yup. additional income din hindi lamang sa university kundi maging sa mga banana growers narin at sa Municipality ng Bacnotan^^^^

Anong university ang nakasasakop sa plantation na iyan?

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 05:54 PM

Parng Mediterranean ang dating.:D

Yup! Santorini-inspired architercture parang ito:
http://www.greekhotel.com/cyclades/santorin/oia/photos/_U9K6982.jpg
http://www.greekhotel.com/cyclades/santorin/santorini-photos/home.htm

Kaya mala-"Greece is just minutes away from my home" hehehe

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 06:00 PM

Iyan ba yung highway na papuntang La Trinidad at Bagiuo?

Malapit lang pala sainyo, nga pala nasubukan nyo napo mkapunta diyan?

Anong university ang nakasasakop sa plantation na iyan?

Naguilian road iyon. Iyon ang nagdurugtong ng Bauang, La Union sa Baguio. Ang Marcos highway naman, mula Agoo iyon. Ang mga bus na galing ng Dagupan ang usually dumaraan sa Marcos Highway, papunta at paalis ng Baguio

bale yung nasasakupan ng Banana Plantation na iyon ay sa Don Mariano marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) North La Union Campus.

ordunapaulo

December 27th, 2010, 06:11 PM

Yup! Santorini-inspired architercture parang ito:
http://www.greekhotel.com/cyclades/santorin/oia/photos/_U9K6982.jpg
http://www.greekhotel.com/cyclades/santorin/santorini-photos/home.htm

Kaya mala-"Greece is just minutes away from my home" hehehe

Galing, wala kami nyan dito sa Katagalugan, talagang makapapasyal ako ng north.:D

Naguilian road iyon. Iyon ang nagdurugtong ng Bauang, La Union sa Baguio. Ang Marcos highway naman, mula Agoo iyon. Ang mga bus na galing ng Dagupan ang usually dumaraan sa Marcos Highway, papunta at paalis ng Baguio

bale yung nasasakupan ng Banana Plantation na iyon ay sa Don Mariano marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) North La Union Campus.

Marcos highway pala ang from dagupan, mali pala ako..

Malaki siguro ang campus na iyan at for sure hindi lang banana ang tanim nila dun..

hugodiekonig

December 27th, 2010, 06:21 PM

Marcos highway ang daanan ng mga mangagaling ng Dagupan. mula iyon sa Agoo hanggang sa Baguio

Malawak talaga ang campus ng DMMMSU NLUC na iyon. marami silang taniman. iyon ang pinakamalawak na campus ng DMMMSU sa La Union^^

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 01:56 AM

The military’s new internal security plan set to be implemented next month will maximize the use of civil-military operations (CMO) and development-oriented activities while combat operations against armed groups will be intelligence-driven and calibrated.

This is the paradigm being adopted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) also known as the Bayanihan strategy approved by President Benigno C. Aquino III.

The new security agenda focuses on the people and calls for a multi-stakeholder approach to peace and security aimed at protecting human rights and civil liberties.

According to the Executive Summary of the IPSP, there are four elements that will be adopted under the plan.
These are governance, delivery of basic services, economic reconstruction and sustainable development, and security sector reform.

The new strategy is designed to draw on the support of the broadest spectrum of all stakeholders -the national and local government agencies, non-government entities and the entire citizenry in addressing peace and security concerns, particularly in containing threat groups such as the communist and Muslim rebels as well as terror groups.

“Under the plan, the AFP’s desired end state is that ‘capabilities of internal armed threats are reduced to a level that they can no longer threaten the stability of the state and civil authorities can ensure the safety and well-being of the Filipino people,’” the Executive Summary said.

It added: “The focus of this plan is on effects-based operations that are tailored for each armed threat group, AFP internal peace and security initiatives shall on the defeat of terrorist groups such as the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) and the JI (Jemaah Islamiah), in compliance with the policy of non-negotiation of the government.”

With regard to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), “the projected national end-state is a negotiated political settlement within the bounds of the Philippine Constitution to attain the conditions for a just and lasting peace in Mindanao,” the Executive Summary stated.

The government and MILF are preparing for the resumption of formal peace talks.

In the strategy against the New People’s Army (NPA), “the AFP’s internal peace and security initiatives shall focus on rendering the NPA irrelevant, with the communist insurgency abandoning its armed struggle and engaging in peace negotiations with the government,” it said.

At a time when the IPSP is implemented, the NPA’s military strength has been drastically cut down from a high of 25,600 in 1986 it has dwindled to some 4,700 at the end of November 2010.

However, despite this dwindling number, the NPA has remained a “potent force” to reckon with, according to Brig. Gen. Jose Z. Mabanta Jr., AFP spokesman.

Still, Mabanta said “among the other threat groups, it is still the most potent at this point in time.”

The NPA suffered its biggest loss in the late ’80′s and early ’90s when many of its members surrendered t the government after the rebels launched its infamous “Operation Zombies” wherein many NPAs were summarily executed on suspicion they were “spies” of the military.

Another factor was heavy combat losses sustained by the NPA, the AFP said.

Thousands of NPA rebels who had returned to the fold of the law were recipients of the government’s livelihood program supervised by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

This resulted in the declaration of 18 provinces as insurgency-free, namely, Guimaras, Siquijor, Biliran, Marinduque, La Union, Nueva Vizcaya, Romblon, Bohol, Apayao, Aurora, Cebu, Quirino, Tarlac, Cavite, Camiguin, and Ifugao, Pangasinan and Nueva Ecija.

With the implementation of the IPSP Bayanihan strategy starting in 2011 up to 2016, the insurgency problem will be a thing of the past. From 2011 to 2013, the AFP will focus its efforts on addressing internal armed threat groups.

The substantial completion of the AFP’s objectives for the first three years will allow it to devote the remaining years (2014-2016) to handing over the lead role in ensuring peace and security to appropriate government agencies and eventually allowing the AFP to initiate its transition to a territorial defense-focused force.

A province is categorized as insurgency-free when the threats posed by rebel groups are downgraded into a mere law and order problem.

Under the IPSP, the primary focus in the conduct of military operations is winning the peace and not just defeating the enemy.

But in order to win the peace, the AFP’s IPSP will be anchored on two strategic approaches: the whole of the nation approach and the people-centered security/human security approach.

The whole of the nation approach is the framework that shall guide how the AFP will implement the IPSP while the people-centered approach under the broader frame of human security reflects the paradigm shift that the AFP has undertaken in this new strategic plan.

The AFP will adhere to the Human Rights/International Humanitarian Law and the Rule f Law and Involvement of all stakeholders.

The bottom line is the AFP is committed as an able partner to peace and development to the attainment of a quality and progressive life for the Filipino people. (Reported By Ben Cal)

http://www.usnewslasvegas.com/national/afp-set-to-implement-new-bayanihan-style-internal-peace-security-plan-in-2011/

william :D

December 28th, 2010, 01:32 PM

wow!!stunning pictures of Thunderbird!! lalo na yung parang may meteor shower effect. haha, nice!! ^^ :okay:

This is the center for the Sericulture (silkworm) industry in La Union. This institution also produces Bacnotan's supply of Honeybee

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs424.snc4/46754_1349108540428_1612790914_30753032_4327292_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs404.snc4/46754_1349108580429_1612790914_30753033_5969190_n.jpg

wow parang ang tahimik naman diyan.very peaceful.:banana:
at mukhang maraming bubuyog diyan ah.hehe, di pa ko nakakakita ng proseso ng paggawa ng honeybee.hehe,

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs618.ash2/157026_1479737446069_1612790914_30976428_5096748_n.jpg
Canaoay Side

Bauang Side

weeeee..sarap magswimming.hehe:lol:

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 03:28 PM

malawak yung buong compound ng DMMMSU NLUC, kaya center ito for research at development sa silkworm industry, honeybee industry, banana industry, etc. sa La Union^^

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 04:57 PM

State gaming firm Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) remitted a total of P928 million to the state coffers in November this year, up 11.3 percent from the P834 million it turned over in October.

The remittance was 14.14 percent higher than the P813 million Pagcor remitted to the national government in November of last year.

The November remittance also brought Pagcor’s total contribution to the government from January to November to P9.475 billion, eclipsing the P9 billion it remitted during the 11-month period in 2009.

Under the law, Pagcor is required to remit 5 percent of its net winnings to the Bureau of Internal Revenue as franchise tax, and 50 percent of the balance to the Bureau of Treasury.

It was created by Presidential Decree 1067-A, and Presidential Decree 1067-B gave it a 25-year franchise to operate casinos nationwide. Both decrees took effect on January 1977, which means Pagcor’s franchise was supposed to have expired on January of 2002.

But it was given a fresh 25-year lease by an act of Congress, extending Pacgor’s franchise by another 25 years.

Remittances of the state gaming firm, however, fell in September to P813 million from the P1.062 billion turned over in the same period last year.

Pacgor ended 2009 with total remittances of P9.88 billion but still below the P11 billion it turned over as part of the government’s share in 2008.

In 2007, Pagcor contributed P10.31 billion to state coffers.

Pagcor operates 13 agency-run Casino Filipino facilities and has four licensed casinos – Fontana Casino in Pampanga, East Bay Casino in Rizal, Poro Point Casino in La Union and Fort Stotsenberg also in Pampanga.

The finance department, the Bureau of Internal Revenues (BIR) and the National Tax Research Center (NTRC), meanwhile, are pressing Pagcor to pay corporate income tax pursuant to Republic Act 9337 or the Reformed Value Added Tax law.

The law deleted Pagcor from the list of government-owned and controlled corporations that are exempt from income tax.

The government also wants to impose VAT on Pagcor, saying VAT replaced the 5 percent franchise tax imposed on the corporation.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/12292010/busi11.html

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 05:01 PM

THE Philippine pair of Asuncion "Sonica" Bruce and Maita Witheridge put up a tough fight but eventually lost 15-16 to the Australian pair of Kelsey Cottrell and Julie Keegan to settle for second in the recent Hong Kong International Lawn Bowls Classics Ladies Pairs at the Kowloon Bowling Green Club in Kowloon, Hong Kong.

On their way to the finals, Bruce and Witheridge, based in Bauang, La Union, beat the English pair of Lynne Bowen and Penny Strong 23-14 in the quarterfinals and then shocked the top-ranked pair of Malaysian Zalina Ahmed and Nor Hashimah Ismail 26-11 in the semifinals. The Filipinas win over the Malaysians was the first time ever.

Australia barely nipped New Zealand 18-17 in the quarterfinals but shut out Wales 25-0 in the semis.

A total of 24 pairs competed in the event organized by the Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Association.

In the eliminations, the Filipinas won eight matches and lost three to advance to the quarter-finals. Among their victims were Australia (15-14), Ireland (20-17) and Hong Kong (21-15).

http://www.malaya.com.ph/12292010/sports5.html

Not bad. Being at 2nd place is a great honor already to the country:banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 06:20 PM

The Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) defines housing projects ranging from P400,000 to P3M as low cost. Low-cost housing is one of the preferred activities under the BOI’s Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

Meanwhile, the BOI gave its nod to four mass-housing projects totaling P585.6M:

• the P234-M Casa Regalia Inc.’s San Marino Classic project in Cavite,

• the P186.2-M Iloilo and P114.9-M Cavite developments of Property Company of Friends Inc., and

• the P50.5-M Havilah Properties Inc.’s Havilah Residences 2 in La Union.

http://www.dti.gov.ph/uploads/DownloadableForms/PBR%20November%202010%20issue.pdf

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 06:26 PM

Clean energy projects that could reduce Philippine greenhouse gas emissions by more than 300,000 metric tons a year were presented to investors Monday during the Philippines Clean Energy Investor Forum.

Over 200 financiers, clean energy experts, and representatives of financial institutions from Asia got a glimpse of projects equivalent to neutralizing the annual emissions of 50,000 cars.

The projects, which include biogas, biomass, small hydropower, and clean transport initiatives developed by Philippines entrepreneurs and companies have an investment value of $157 million.

“The private sector will play a leading role in Asia’s transition to a low-carbon, clean-energy economy," said Olivier Carduner, director of the US Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Regional Development Mission for Asia, a co-sponsor of the forum with the Climate Technology Initiative.

“Through its partnerships, CTI PFAN is able to leverage the power of the private sector to increase clean energy investments and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the region," Carduner said.

The forum builds on the success of the first one held in Manila in June 2009.

Of last year’s six finalists, two have secured financing. A $30-million biomass power plant to help Aklan province achieve self-sufficiency was launched in December 2009.

Another biomass power plant in La Union province will use rice hull and wood chips to spare the planet from 3,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year that would otherwise be generated by conventional feedstock.

“The entrepreneurs here are finding innovative solutions to address the issues of climate change and energy security," said Mario Marasigan, Philippine Energy assistant secretary.

The next generation of clean energy projects is now at the forum, Marasigan said.

“The Philippines is helping to lead the way in the Asia-Pacific region in matching clean energy projects with financing," said Elmer Holt, Climate Technology Initiative chair.

“The Philippines has tremendous potential for these types of projects and also has a forward-thinking investor community, so we expect to see more projects secure investment in the near future," Holt said.

The meeting was organized by the Climate Technology Initiative’s Private Financing Advisory Network, a global multilateral initiative dedicated to bridging the gap between clean energy project developers and investors. —VS, GMANews.TV

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/194044/investors-get-a-glimpse-of-clean-energy-projects

Where in La Union? Bauang?^^^^:)

hugodiekonig

December 28th, 2010, 06:30 PM

MANILA, Philippines - Flying V, one of the country’s leading independent oil firms, has earmarked P1 billion for its capital expenditures next year, the company’s top official said.

Flying V chairman Ramon Villavicencio said the capex fund will be sourced from equity investments and internally-generated funds.

Out of its P1-billion budget, 65 percent will be allotted for the expansion of its network of gasoline stations.

Villavicencio said their aggressive capex allocation is hinged on their optimism on the country’s economic prospects.

For 2010, he said they expect Flying V’s gross revenue to reach about P15 billion.

With 235 stations all over the archipelago, Villavicencio said 66 more stations will be added to the company’s network by the second quarter of 2011.

In keeping up with its stance as the major independent oil player with the largest number of retail stations, it is envisioned that by end of 2011, about 387 stations will rise all over the country with the next construction concentrated more in the areas of Visayas and Mindanao as well as northeast of Luzon.

To support its widened distribution network, he said the company will strengthen its logistics infrastructure, increase the capacity of its five existing depots and construct an additional three depots in key areas.

For its expansion program, Villavicencio said Flying V will generate employment opportunities for Filipinos located in the countryside.

“Flying V has to start now as it takes 10-15 years to generate one percent required to supply the world’s energy requirements. Flying V hopes to maintain its strong advocacy in leading the Philippines towards more energy independence,” he said.

At present, Flying V has five storage facilities located in key strategic areas — Poro Point, La Union in the North; Sta. Ana and Mandaluyong in Metro Manila; Cebu and Davao. Four more depots are expected to be completed next year.

Flying V launched recently the ‘Green Drive’ program where motorists can avail of ‘green’ shirts and a special collectible die-cast toy tanker, proceeds of which will — all go to indigent recipients.

Flying V has also been very active in its value formation activities under the Academe Foundation.

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=642092&publicationSubCategoryId=66

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 02:14 AM

From a blog written by Melo
link: http://outoftownblog.com/experience-luxury-living-at-the-point-residences-by-thunderbird-resorts/

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/The-Point-Residences.jpg
The Point Residencies

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/The-Grand-Launch.jpg
Grand Launching

By putting their villas or apartments in the rental program, they make sure that when they aren’t using it, they are earning an income from it. The dedicated Rental Management Office at The Point Residences makes sure that owner properties are safe…and profitable.

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Poro-Point-Golf-Course.jpg
Poro Point Golf Course

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/The-Beach.jpg
The Beach

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 02:18 AM

Photos from: Melo
Link: http://outoftownblog.com/thunderbird-resorts-in-la-union-another-day-in-paradise/

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Early-Morning-in-Santorini.jpg

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Poro-Point-Dome.jpg
Dome

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Thunderbird-Resorts-Golf-Club.jpg
http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Cliffs-Golf-Club-500x324.jpg
Golf Course

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Poro-Point-Beach-Club.jpg
Beach

http://outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Sunset-Thunderbird-Poro-Point.jpg
Sunset at Santorini Lounge

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 09:07 AM

1st La Union Blogging and e-Commerce Summit 2011

http://www.attendconferences.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/1st-la-union-blogging-e-commerce-summit-2011.jpg

for inquiries, kindly visit to this site:
http://www.attendconferences.com/tag/san-fernando-city-la-union/

balcita_RN

December 29th, 2010, 09:08 AM

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 09:21 AM

happy fiesta Bangar, L.U.!!! (dec 27, 2010)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1379.snc4/163111_1497220439702_1509842877_31116076_1086402_n.jpg

______________________________________________

LA UNION!!! SEE YA SOON! :nuts:

Wahahaha I remember my classmate whom he said he lost his cellphone on a ride at the Horror Train. Fiesta pala ng Bangar ngayon. Fiesta rin ngayon ng Bacnotan! Fiesta!!!!!!
:dance::dance::dance::dance:
Agawid ka kitdi tattan ah hehehe

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 09:37 AM

Photos from: Bangar Launion Facebook http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/photo.php?fbid=100673613287689&set=a.100673366621047.1280.100000351529469

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673649954352_100000351529469_15336_5990357_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673663287684_100000351529469_15340_652271_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673666621017_100000351529469_15341_2582142_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673613287689_100000351529469_15327_1692522_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673616621022_100000351529469_15328_5628093_n.jpg
Bangar Town Hall

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673619954355_100000351529469_15329_494952_n.jpg
Bangar Town Plaza

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673683287682_100000351529469_15345_3167302_n.jpg
Amburayan River

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1/9924_100673693287681_100000351529469_15348_4081660_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673686621015_100000351529469_15346_8181708_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 09:39 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673629954354_100000351529469_15331_5753779_n.jpg
Bangar Abel

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673636621020_100000351529469_15332_3261687_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673639954353_100000351529469_15333_6066210_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673656621018_100000351529469_15338_3065783_n.jpg
http://l10.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673659954351_100000351529469_15339_7089611_n.jpg

"Pagpapanday" (i don't know how to transform the word "Smith" into a process) was a dying industry in Bangar, but today, the demand for swords, knives, other cutting tools became high and this industry is in a boom again. These metal works are again gaining popularity in the Province as well as in the whole Region

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/photo.php?fbid=100673686621015&set=a.100673366621047.1280.100000351529469&pid=15346&id=100000351529469

hugodiekonig

December 29th, 2010, 10:42 AM

Data from http://www.nscb.gov.ph/RU1/provwatch.htm
Ranking from highest to lowest

Demographics:
Population(2007): 2nd
Population Density: 2nd
Population Growth: 1st

Agriculture: Q2 2010
Palay Production: 3rd
Corn: 4th
Fish: 2nd
Hog: 2nd
Cattle: 3rd
Chicken: 2nd

Income and Prices (Sept 2010)
CPI: 4th
Inflation Rate: 2nd
Purchasing power of Peso: 4th

Trade:
Investments: 4th :ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno:
Exports: 1st
Imports: 1st

Communication, 2009
No. of Telephone Lines Registered: 2nd

Health:
Prevalance of Malnourisedh Children under 5 years of age: 1st:ohno::ohno::ohno:

Tourism: Q2 2010
Tourist Arrivals: 3rd

Peace and Order, 2008
Total Crime Volume: 2nd
Crime Solution Efficiency Rate: 3rd

fall_17

December 29th, 2010, 11:13 AM

^Happy Fiesta Municipality of Bangar..:cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 01:48 AM

^Happy Fiesta Municipality of Bangar..:cheers:

Pati rin bayan ng bacnotan nagcecelebrate din sila ngayon ng Fiesta nila! :banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 05:44 AM

San fernando - bauang traffic jam already 6 hours old as of now! Terrible!:bash::bash::bash:

fall_17

December 30th, 2010, 08:52 AM

Happy fiesta rin sa municipality of Bacnotan.:)

San fernando - bauang traffic jam already 6 hours old as of now! Terrible!:bash::bash::bash:

Proposed to widen the road into 4 lanes closed 1 km to the town proper.:cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 09:00 AM

Happy fiesta rin sa municipality of Bacnotan.:)

Proposed to widen the road into 4 lanes closed 1 km to the town proper.:cheers:

matagal na matagal na matagal na plano iyan ng La Union government na gawing 4 lanes ang mula Bauang hanggang San fernando, pero hindi pa nasisimulan:ohno::ohno::ohno::|:|:|

saintm

December 30th, 2010, 09:27 AM

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 10:02 AM

http://www.gcbnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/300px-7-eleven-brandsvg.png

LU PROV BRANCHES

(Store Name/Tel.No./Address)
1. La Union 1 2427110 Gov. Ortega St., San Fernando City, La Union
2. Caltex Rosario -LU Rosario La Union

any additional?

Oui, 7-Eleven San Fernando 2 to open this January. Hopefully this year, Agoo ang Bauang would also have a store

fall_17

December 30th, 2010, 10:28 AM

Oui, 7-Eleven San Fernando 2 to open this January. Hopefully this year, Agoo ang Bauang would also have a store

lahat ba ng bayan ng la union ay may branches ng 7 eleven?

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 10:30 AM

lahat ba ng bayan ng la union ay may branches ng 7 eleven?

hindi. Sa San fernando at rosario lang sa ngayon. Magbubukas next month ang second 7-eleven sa San fernando. Sana pati rin Bauang at Agoo.

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 10:54 AM

Pati rin bayan ng bacnotan nagcecelebrate din sila ngayon ng Fiesta nila! :banana::banana::banana::cheers:

ui Happy fiesta Bangar at Bacnotan La Union! :banana::banana::banana:

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 10:58 AM

ui halos kasabay ng fiesta ng Bangar at Bacnotan ang fiesta ng Plaridel dito sa Bulacan ah...haha, ano patron nila?:)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673629954354_100000351529469_15331_5753779_n.jpg
Bangar Abel

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673636621020_100000351529469_15332_3261687_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673639954353_100000351529469_15333_6066210_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs252.snc1

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/photo.php?fbid=100673686621015&set=a.100673366621047.1280.100000351529469&pid=15346&id=100000351529469

parang ganito yung tela ng kumot ko.hehe.gustong gusto ko siya gamitin kesa sa ibang tela..:cheers::cheers:

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs272.snc1/9924_100673686621015_100000351529469_15346_8181708_n.jpg

wow ang ganda nung architecture ng simbahan ng bangar ah! :cheers::cheers::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:03 AM

Happy Fiesta rin sa Plaridel!:banana::banana::banana: sabay na sabay nga. Si Michael Archangel ang Patron saint ng bacnotan, samantalang si St. Christopher naman sa Bangar^^^^

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:08 AM

Mala - Sistine Chapel ang Ceiling ng Bangar Church, parang sa Candon sa Ilocos Sur^^^^

fall_17

December 30th, 2010, 11:08 AM

Mukhang maraming fiesta ngayon sa la union at bulacan nice binabati ko kayo..:)

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 11:09 AM

Happy Fiesta rin sa Plaridel!:banana::banana::banana: sabay na sabay nga. Si Michael Archangel ang Patron saint ng bacnotan, samantalang si St. Christopher naman sa Bangar^^^^

hmm..samin di ko alam patron ng Plaridel.hehe, alamin ko maya maya sa forumer sa Bulacan.:cheers::cheers:kaya siguro sobra traffic sa La Union kasi fiesta?:)

Mala - Sistine Chapel ang Ceiling ng Bangar Church, parang sa Candon sa Ilocos Sur^^^^

uu may ganyan din sa Angat Bulacan mala Sistine Chapel.hehe, kahanga hanga yung mga design sa taas...galing! :cheers::cheers::cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:10 AM

Mukhang maraming fiesta ngayon sa la union at bulacan nice binabati ko kayo..:)

Yeah! Fiesta Fiesta ngayon! :banana::banana::banana::banana:

wahahaha. :lol::lol::lol:Hanggang ngayon mabigat parin ang daloy ng trapiko dito sa Bauang, kanina pang alas-7 ng umaga:banana::banana::banana:

296619

December 30th, 2010, 11:12 AM

ui halos kasabay ng fiesta ng Bangar at Bacnotan ang fiesta ng Plaridel dito sa Bulacan ah...haha, ano patron nila?:)

parang ganito yung tela ng kumot ko.hehe.gustong gusto ko siya gamitin kesa sa ibang tela..:cheers::cheers:

wow ang ganda nung architecture ng simbahan ng bangar ah! :cheers::cheers::cheers:

OO nga.. ganda ng ceiling.. pero yung San Beda Chapel ang Sistine Chapel :)

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 11:15 AM

Yeah! Fiesta Fiesta ngayon! :banana::banana::banana::banana:

wahahaha. :lol::lol::lol:Hanggang ngayon mabigat parin ang daloy ng trapiko dito sa Bauang, kanina pang alas-7 ng umaga:banana::banana::banana:

Engr. Hugo sang bayan ka naman napadpad ngayon para makipista? :banana:

OO nga.. ganda ng ceiling.. pero yung San Beda Chapel ang Sistine Chapel :)

wahaha.di ko pa nakikita yun...pero ang galing ng mga simbahan natin iba't ibang mukha.hehe, sabi ni Perseus naalala ko kapag bago ka lang daw sa simbahan (first time makita/makapasok) magwish daw tayo.hehe :lol::lol:

296619

December 30th, 2010, 11:16 AM

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:19 AM

Check niyo to.. yung San Beda Chapel...

http://thesplendorofthechurch.blogspot.com/2009/05/san-beda-chapel-in-mendiola-manila.html

http://www.weddinginthesky.com/venue-church-sanbedachapel-mendiolamanila.html

May pagkakahawig nga! Siguro yung dati o kasalukuyang Parish priest dito ay San Bedan, siguro lang hehehe:lol::lol::lol:

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 11:24 AM

Check niyo to.. yung San Beda Chapel...

http://thesplendorofthechurch.blogspot.com/2009/05/san-beda-chapel-in-mendiola-manila.html

http://www.weddinginthesky.com/venue-church-sanbedachapel-mendiolamanila.html

wow ang ganda ahhh! :cheers::cheers: parang hindi sa Pilipinas yung simbahan at kahawig nga.:cheers:

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:27 AM

Engr. Hugo sang bayan ka naman napadpad ngayon para makipista? :banana:

In 5 or 11 months pa , God willing, engineer na ako hehehehe. Dito na ako sa Bauang tumitira. Malapit kami sa town proper. Dito ako ngayon sa Bahay. Kung may kasama sana ako sa Bacnotan sana kami makikifiesta, dalhin ko rin laptop ko dahil may Wi-fi doon hehehe

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 11:31 AM

In 5 or 11 months pa , God willing, engineer na ako hehehehe. Dito na ako sa Bauang tumitira. Malapit kami sa town proper. Dito ako ngayon sa Bahay. Kung may kasama sana ako sa Bacnotan sana kami makikifiesta, dalhin ko rin laptop ko dahil may Wi-fi doon hehehe

haha.goodluck Hugo! kayang kaya yan! :banana::banana::banana:

ang layo nga ng Bangar (nkita ko sa mapa), kaya hula ko rin sa Bacnotan ka makikipista.hehe,

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:35 AM

haha.goodluck Hugo! kayang kaya yan! :banana::banana::banana:

ang layo nga ng Bangar (nkita ko sa mapa), kaya hula ko rin sa Bacnotan ka makikipista.hehe,

Sayang sa Bacnotan sana ako ngayon, kasama ko sana bayaw at pamangkin ko. naki-birthday sila doon.

Oo, ngayong 2011, medyo magiging busy na ako, pero basta nakaharap ako dito sa computer, SSC at facebook lang ako! hehehe Kaya ko to!

hugodiekonig

December 30th, 2010, 11:38 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs031.snc6/166098_1484518285587_1612790914_30985464_2916152_n.jpg
Ito ang isa sa mga pinakamahirap na picturan na landmark dito sa San Fernando.

Hightech dati iyan, electronic ang welcome arch na iyan dati. wala na ngayon. May memo siguro sa dpwh. Nakakasagabal kasi sa konsentrasyon ng mga motorista

taon-taon pinapalitan ang mga ilaw nito.

william :D

December 30th, 2010, 11:44 AM

^^sayang naman.maganda siguro yan pag may ilaw.hehe, pero okay na rin yun iwas aksidente.:cheers:

Sayang sa Bacnotan sana ako ngayon, kasama ko sana bayaw at pamangkin ko. naki-birthday sila doon.

Oo, ngayong 2011, medyo magiging busy na ako, pero basta nakaharap ako dito sa computer, SSC at facebook lang ako! hehehe Kaya ko to!

sige hugo goodluck sating mga MILABIT forumers! lahat tayo estudyante palang pala.hehe :lol:

saintm

December 30th, 2010, 11:51 AM

Oui, 7-Eleven San Fernando 2 to open this January. Hopefully this year, Agoo ang Bauang would also have a store so 3 stores palang ang confirmed. :)

Ephesus29

December 31st, 2010, 01:58 AM

Wishing you all guyz a wonderful New Year for 2011.:cheers:

I believed that 2010, was a good year for everyone, and the 2011 brings a better outlook in life. :cheers:

296619

December 31st, 2010, 08:10 AM

Good luck hugo... yakang kaka mo yun... :)

Basta ngiti ka lang bago pumasok sa exam room.. tignan mo yung mga taong katabi mo at ngitian mo silang lahat pag nasa pintuan ka na...:)

hugodiekonig

December 31st, 2010, 12:01 PM

Thanks mod! kala ko kasi hindi niyo na buburahin :lol::lol::lol:

Wala gaanong updates ngayon dito sa LU

Anyway, I wish you all Happy New Year and the Years to come!
May you have a prosperous 2011!
Naragsak a baro a tawen tayo amin!:banana::banana::banana:

pangasinense ak

December 31st, 2010, 12:34 PM

HAPPY NEW YEAR MGA KAIBIGAN http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac251/okalim/happynewyear.jpg LA UNION GO!!!!

hugodiekonig

December 31st, 2010, 02:17 PM

http://s1.eventfinder.co.nz/uploads/events/transformed/99224-60589-7.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs791.ash1/168180_1485782837200_1612790914_30987446_5403253_n.jpg

fall_17

January 1st, 2011, 02:14 AM

Good Morning La Union Province and Happy New Year.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs031.snc6/166098_1484518285587_1612790914_30985464_2916152_n.jpg
Ito ang isa sa mga pinakamahirap na picturan na landmark dito sa San Fernando.

Hightech dati iyan, electronic ang welcome arch na iyan dati. wala na ngayon. May memo siguro sa dpwh. Nakakasagabal kasi sa konsentrasyon ng mga motorista

taon-taon pinapalitan ang mga ilaw nito.

Galing naman, kung ganon sayang naman, di na nila pinapagana..

ordunapaulo

January 1st, 2011, 02:45 AM

Happy New Year mga Taga-La Union at sa ating mga kaibigan...:cheers1::booze:

Greeting From Cavite.
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/4493/indexbs.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/i/indexbs.jpg/)

hugodiekonig

January 1st, 2011, 06:14 AM

HAPPY NEW YEAR SA ATING LAHAT!!!!!!!!:banana::banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 1st, 2011, 11:30 AM

SURFVIVOR LA UNION (Jan 22-23, 2011)

http://thetravelfactor.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/surfvivor-la-union-jan-22-23-2011.jpg?w=460&h=307

Photo by Louie Go

SURFVIVOR LA UNION
Surfing Adventure for Beginners
Jan 22-23, 2011
La Union, Philippines

Travel Factor’s Overnight Surfing Adventure for beginners in La Union. Highly recommended to all SURFERS (zero to any skill level), PHOTOGRAPHERS, and BEACH BUMMERS.

More at this link: http://thetravelfactor.wordpress.com/2010/10/04/surfvivor-la-union-jan-22-23-2011/

hugodiekonig

January 2nd, 2011, 04:03 PM

By VINCE G. LOPEZ
August 7, 2010, 9:37am

Known as the surfing capital of the north, La Union is a haven for weekend warriors looking for a friendly wave to ride. But more than the thrill of the waves, the province is also home to numerous scenic beaches, waterfalls as well as a number of heritage sites.

Urbiztondo beach is the most famous destination for surfers while churches such as Our Lady of Namacpacan and Basilica of Our Lady Charity are always filled with devotees.

The province has been one of the favorite spots for backpackers as the stretch of its wonderful beaches is filled with a number of cheap places to stay in and inexpensive restaurants with delicious local delicacies. Another great thing about the province is every place of interest is just within reach such as the ecotrail and nearby provinces, La Union is one of the provinces that are filled with adventure destination and relaxing laid back resorts.

Fast facts:

Local language: Ilocano

Festivals:

Rambak - A yearly Holy week celebration spearheaded by the Provincial Government, it features water sports, band concerts, fluvial parade, and the reenactment of the resurrection rite at the Bauang Beach after the Easter Sunday mass.

Feast of Our Lady of Caysasay -The Filipino-Chinese community in San Fernando celebrates the Feast of Our Lady by bringing the original statue from Taal, Batangas to the temple for the week-long activities held on the second week of September.

San Fernando Town Fiesta - The capital town of San Fernando is the center of festivities on February 6 to 12 to honor St. William, the Hermit.

Scenic Beaches:

Bauang Beach - fine grayish sand ideal for snorkeling and relaxation

San Juan Beach -The surf in the area is ideal for surfing during the months of November to February.

Agoo Beach - Agoo Beach is the stretch of beach fronting the Agoo Playa Hotel and which is a part of Agoo – Damortis National Park

Natural Wonders:

Balay Anito - “Balay Anito” literally translates to house of spirits. It has mystical features and a wonderful view.

Lon-oy Spring - consists of numerous natural springs, three deep waterfalls, and pristinely clear and invigoratingly cool waters.

Bolikewkew Rice Terraces - the Mountains surrounding these terraces are good venues for hiking and mountain climbing.

Arosip Ecotrail – a panoramic trail where four waterfalls await

Religious Spots:

Basilica of Our Lady of Charity -Situated in the center of Agoo town, the centuries-old Basilica is the site of one of the long venerated configurations of the Virgin in the Philippines.

Our Lady of Namacpacan - Situated along the fringes of Northern La Union coasting the China Sea

St. Christopher Parish - Constructed in 1696, the structure is also known as the only church in the Philippines with three belfries.

St. John the Baptist Parish -Established in 1707 under the care of the Augustinian missionaries

Must Try:

Sea Urchins – Locally known as Maratangtang, this Echinoderm of the Class Enchinoidia is a favorite delicacy among the Ilocanos. Even foreigners love its sweet and juicy taste, which is also a popular aphrodisiac.

Naguilian Basi (Sugarcane Rum) – a distinctively unique and intoxicating drink

How to get there:

Numerous bus companies travel to the surfing capital of the north. Aside from La Union, buses that are going to Narvacan, Vigan, Laoag, and Abra will also pass through the province.

Going Around: There are a number of ways of getting around La Union such as tricylces, jeepneys, and mini buses. Though usually not air-conditioned, mini buses are the most efficient and faster way of getting to nearby towns while tricycles provide ease in covering small distances.

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/271105

hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 12:13 PM

Qu'est ce que c'est ?
What is this?

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/4840392508_70c73f6332_b.jpg

Photo from: Oggie Ramos at http://lagalog.com/

hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 12:18 PM

Photos by: Oggie Ramos http://lagalog.com/search?updated-max=2010-08-30T21%3A25%3A00%2B08%3A00&max-results=3

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/4840504535_f3ee945e47_b.jpg
Macho Temple

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/4839779919_93a2496076_b.jpg
Luna Baluarte Ruins

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/4840368888_c1e9bc2b0c_b.jpg
Our Lady of Namacpacan

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La Union Botanical Garden

hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 12:24 PM

Photos by: Oggie Ramos
http://lagalog.com/2010/07/poro-point-la-union-sunny-mornings-and.html

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hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 01:57 PM

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hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 02:01 PM

Saturday, 04 December 2010 17:10 by Roderick L. Abad

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/images/stories/daily_images/2010/December2010/12052010/home04.jpg

Have you ever dreamt of going to Santorini, one of the majestic islands of Greece known for its barren, rocky terrain just opposite a volcano, with black and red beaches and Mediterranean towns sitting on high cliffs that offer spectacular views and beautiful sunsets?

Well, dream no more. The Point Residences by Thunderbird Resorts promises an exclusive Santorini-inspired residential, leisure and wellness community within its gated premises in Poro Point, Freeport Zone, San Fernando, La Union.

“Thunderbird Resorts has been switching from a gaming company to a nongaming company, building not only a casino facility and a hotel, but also a community where there’s a long-term presence. Such a thrust of developing a real estate is what is happening now at Poro Point, where we saw the big potential to build The Point Residences,” The Point Residences real-estate manager David Chong told the BusinessMirror during the project’s recent launch.

Nestled in a sprawling 65-hectare development north of Manila, the first residential project of Thunderbird Resorts in Asia is complete with a posh hotel, a golf course, a luxurious beach club, and various entertainment venues for the whole family. It provides residents with world-class facilities and amenities, as well as a holistic lifestyle—be it personal leisurely space or recreational family living.

Considered the best property development available in La Union, The Point Residences’ allotted area for development totals 15 hectares, expansive enough to house 123 lots divided into three phases. The first is comprised of 36 lots, while the second and third phases have 43 and 44 lots, respectively.

“So far, we have already sold out more than 60 percent of the first phase. That’s quite a feat for us,” Chong boasted. “Since Phase 1 is now developed, we should be working on Phase 3 by the third or fourth quarter of next year. As for Phase 2, we have just developed this in the last quarter of 2010, and the selling has already started.”

Dream village

AT The Point Residences, old meets new and East meets West. Such a vacation village promises future dwellers modern comforts wrapped in classic Mediterranean-styled private villas.

Offering house and lots on a leasehold right, lot cuts range from 300 sq m to 600 sq m. Cost-wise, the smallest costs P2.5 million while the high-end is priced at P6 million, which has the best view of the sea, golf course and all the developments.

Faithfully adhering to the resort’s Santorini-inspired design and architecture, The Point Residences is truly a uniquely calibrated residential zone. Residing here is akin to living in the cosmopolitan villages of Thira, Imerovigli, Firastefani and Oia perched above the sea. Similar to those villas dotting Greek villages known for their typical blue dome and white painted structures, model houses for the project include Athena (a three-bedroom villa, with a lot area of 300 sq m and a total floor area of 160 sq m), Alexa (a three-bedroom villa, with a lot area of 300 sq m and a total floor area of 158 sq m), Aphrodite (a three-bedroom villa, with a lot area of 450 sq m and a total floor area of 243 sq m) and Selene (a two-bedroom villa, with a lot area of 300 sq m and a total floor area of 136 sq m).

“Lot owners are allowed to use their own architectural designs provided that they heed the provisions of the Deed of Restrictions,” said Chong. “They may also opt to have their house built either by Impact Asia, The Point Residences’ official general contractor, or their preferred personal contractor with all the designs subject for approval.”

Because comfort and pleasure is a top priority for residents, The Point Residences provides top-of-its-class amenities and community features, including The Point Clubhouse, a health and wellness center, gym and spa, a community commercial center, chapel and meditation garden, wedding cliff pavilion, a cherry blossom garden, kid’s pavilion and play area, swimming pools, basketball court, tennis court, badminton court, cliff-side trekking, and jogging path. Residential services include housekeeping, laundry, 24-hour security, shuttle services, landscaping, automated community gates, CCTV surveillance network, waste management and rental program.

What’s more, home ownership entitles residents to easy access to Thunderbird Resort Poro Point’s leisure facilities—from exclusive membership to the golf and beach club to an array of modern amenities.

Worth the investment

THE Point Residences is the best investment you could ever have. Why is this so? Simply because apart from enjoying all the niceties in life that it provides, you could have an opportunity to offset the cost of owning a space here through the rental program provided by Thunderbird Pilipinas Hotels & Resorts Inc. as the developer.

“We all know that our hotel only has 36 rooms for this market. There’s no other hotel like this one in La Union. I think that is linked to the fact that if our hotel has only 36 rooms, that means that there’s another potential for renting out of our housing units,” Chong explained. “So if you buy a house and lot here, you may decide to use it for three or six months a year. Whichever it is, we are flexible on that. The company itself, under the whole structure, will be the one to actually rent out the villa and manage it for you. Whatever is the revenue generated, we will go on a revenue sharing that is 50:50. So the money that you can generate from the rentals will pay for the debt of your investment. That what makes it a wise investment.”

Chong likened it to Camp John Hay in Baguio, whose villas share the same status with those of The Point Residences.

“Based on what we’ve seen in Camp John Hay at present, for example, a log cabin there costs P15 million to P20 million already. I assumed that when they start selling, the original cost was maybe P10 million. So we’re talking about almost 100 percent [value appreciation]. Although we haven’t experienced that in terms of acquisition here, for sure based on their experience, ours [value appreciation] would be just like that,” he said.

“We invite everyone to invest in this property. Apart from our partnership with the BCDA [Bases Conversion Development Authority], you can have the best business partner with us with the track record of Thunderbird—13 years of solid experience, with more than 4,000 employees around the world. So living in Point Residences is definitely a hassle-free investment that gives you endless summers and rewarding adventures,” he said.

Link: http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/home/properties/4507-greece-is-the-word?awesm=fbshare.me_AYNsS

hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 02:08 PM

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GOLF

Within Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point is a sprawling all-weather golf course, The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club.

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Designed by IMG, the golf course is seated at the highest point of the Poro peninsula and offers a distinct variety of terrain, character, and contours – sand-capped according to the specifications of the US Golf Association. Add to that, every single hole of the Par 72 Golf Course is gifted with stunning views.

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Link: http://enjoythunderbirdresorts.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2010-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2011-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=38

hugodiekonig

January 3rd, 2011, 02:13 PM

BEACH

Reminiscent of the Santorini Island in Greece, Thunderbird Resorts is nestled on a scenic cliff, overlooking the sandy beaches of the South China Sea. Yet another extension to your extraordinary experience - stroll on the beach, have a good tan, or go for the water sports.

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Have your massage here, or meditate as you watch the sunset over the vast sea, the beach club is a perfect setting to relax and unwind.

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The captivating scenario the Beach Club has, makes it a favorite for wedding engagement shoots, ceremonies and receptions.

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We invite you to be a member of The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club. Where you can have an active lifestyle coupled with the luxury you deserve.

Link: http://enjoythunderbirdresorts.blogs...max-results=38

william :D

January 4th, 2011, 04:20 AM

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Our Lady of Namacpacan

wa..wow! nice shot! daming simbahang magaganda sa La Union ah.:cheers:
Qu'est ce que c'est ?
What is this?

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Photo from: Oggie Ramos at http://lagalog.com/

waha! ano nga ba?yung kisame/taas ng isang chinese temple? :cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 05:32 AM

wa..wow! nice shot! daming simbahang magaganda sa La Union ah.:cheers:

waha! ano nga ba?yung kisame/taas ng isang chinese temple? :cheers:

Yup, magaganda rin talaa ang mga simbahan dito sa La Union. gusto kong puntahan ang sa Luna

Oo, sa kisame nga iyan sa Chinese temple ng Macho Temple^^^^:)

william :D

January 4th, 2011, 05:43 AM

Yup, magaganda rin talaa ang mga simbahan dito sa La Union. gusto kong puntahan ang sa Luna

Oo, sa kisame nga iyan sa Chinese temple ng Macho Temple^^^^:)

sa Luna ba yung Our Lady of Namacpacan?:)

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 09:22 AM

sa Luna ba yung Our Lady of Namacpacan?:)

Oo tama, sa mismong town proper iyon. Sinasabing milagrosa ang balon malapit sa simbahan na iyon kaya marami ang pumupunta roon para makakuha ng tubig na galing sa balon.

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 09:25 AM

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Jan.3 (PIA) --- La Union made its name in the national and international markets for its splendid products, or the “One Town One Product” or OTOP from its 19 municipalities and lone city.

La Union’s FAIRest, launched first on November 20-26, 2001 with the title, “La Union’s FAIRest sa Alabang ... Treasures from the North” drew support from different stakeholders, thereby generating a total cash sale of P4.5 million.

Initially, it was launched with 22 exhibitors, bringing exquisite products from La Union to the Carousel Court, 2nd Level, Festival Supermall, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

On its second year (November 22-December 1, 2002), it posted a 50 percent sales increase (from cash and booked orders) from its previous year’s sales of P4.5 million to P6.75 million, still in Alabang.

Injecting innovation on its third year (November 21-30, 2003), thereby addressing the plight of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the government launched the National SME Agenda with marketing as one of its key component.

Marketing covers trade fairs- local and international- buyer-supplier matching, and permanent display center.

As such, “La Union’s FAIRest sa Alabang ...An SME Market Encounter” has proven its importance to SMEs in La Union particularly those under the Plus 1 Project. It posted an P8.25 million total sales.

On its fourth year (November 19-30, 2004), 38 SMEs from the province participated, mostly from the home furnishing sector and producing a remarkable P11.2 million total sales to include cash sales and booked orders made.

Export market was ventured by the exhibitors in this undertaking.

On the 5th year (November 18-30, 2005), “La Union’s FAIRest sa Alabang…a One Town One Product (OTOP) Trade Fair” generated a total sales of P16 million with 36 exhibitors from the province.

Antique furniture, the model OTOP of La Union and Region 1, was the main product focus during the year, aside from the tiger grass brooms of San Fernando City and the municipality of Burgos.

Dubbed as “La Union’s FAIRest sa Festival Super Mall…an OTOP Trade Fair 2006”, its sixth year (November 18-30, 2006) posted a total sales of P16.8 million with 37 participating SMEs.

In November 17-30, 2007’s La Union’s Fairest, the seventh year, the first ever La Union OTOP brochure was launched during the opening ceremonies to strengthen advocacy of the province’s greatness.

On its eight year, the fair could aptly be described as a pillar that depicts the commitment of La Union, San Fernando City, and the Department of Trade and Industry La Union provincial office. It generated an P8.71 million sales with 40 participating MSMEs.

For eight years mounting the fair in Alabang, Metro Manila, the fair came home to exude its grandeur among the province’s very own people with a very good sales of P4.25 million in 2009.

Among the local products exhibited include home furnishings, antique furnitures, holiday decors and baskets, processed foods, loomwoven items, cutflowers, and ornamental plants.

For 2009 and 2010, the fair was mounted at the Atrium, CSI The City Mall in the San Fernando City.

La Union’s FAIRest serves as a venue to showcase and promote the creative flair of the Ilocano craftsmen in an array of unique holiday decors, artistically handcrafted gifts, toys and house wares, and intricately designed reproductions of antique furniture made by micro, small, medium enterprises (MSMEs) in La Union.

Likewise, it showcases the Ilocano talents in making processed foods and ornamental plants/flowers.

Indeed, La Union’s FAIRest has become the province’s pride.(PIA1-La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=9892

:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 09:29 AM

January 4, 2010 press release by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process

Baguio – To effectively outline its economic and development priorities for the next six years, the government today has started to gather representatives of various regional agencies to consult them on the draft Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) 2011-2016.

Led by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the consultations aim to ensure that regional issues and concerns are considered in the policies, programs and strategies indicated in the MTPDP.

Sessions have begun today in Baguio, La Union and Pampanga where government agencies from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Region 1 and Region 3 participated, respectively.

The next consultations will be conducted on January 5 in Regions 4B, 5, 9, 11 and 12; January 6 in Regions 2, 4A, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 13; and January 7 in National Capital Region (NCR).

Highlights of the draft MTPDP, such as the vision and emerging priorities, will be presented to participants.

This will be followed by a workshop to generate comments and recommendations on all the chapters of the Plan.

The MTPDP serves as the government’s economic blueprint which identifies growth sectors for the next six years.

Memorandum Circular No. 3 issued by President Benigno Aquino III directs the NEDA to coordinate the preparation of the MTPDP and the Medium Term Investment Program (MTPIP) for 2011-2016.

These will be jointly formulated by the executive and legislative branches of the government through a participatory process involving stakeholders from different sectors.

http://www.gov.ph/2011/01/04/regional-consultations-on-the-medium-term-philippine-development-plan-kick-off/

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 02:22 PM

Photos from Manna Residencies Facebook http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=187039797978390&set=a.159206780761692.38234.100000171140677&ref=notif&notif_t=photo_reply#!/photo.php?fbid=448455179046&set=t.100000942267127

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Manna Residencies is a Real Estate Business located at Pagdaraoan, San Fernando City, near the CSI Mall. It's location is highly accessible to the malls, schools, transportation terminals, hospitals and other places in San Fernando

hugodiekonig

January 4th, 2011, 02:23 PM

Photo by Manna Residencies Facebook

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Zest Air flies 3x a week Manila-San Fernando and v.v.

fall_17

January 4th, 2011, 06:54 PM

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 08:38 AM

Pre-Modern na kasi tayo, kaya ganyan ang mga design ng mga unit ng houses, kaya lang parang mliit na talaga itong mg pbahay na ito, parang halos 7 by 7 nalang ang lot ng floor size.

Low-cost houses ang mga ito, ang range ay mula 900k hanggang 2.5M ang presyo

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 11:52 AM

A January 5, 2011 press release prepared by the Department of Labor and Employment

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office No. 1 (Ilocos Region) remained steadfast in fulfilling its mandate in the past year and has manifested its strong commitment to provide quality employment to workers, increase their competitiveness, promote industrial peace within the context of social justice, promote workers rights and welfare while elevating the standards of safety and productivity at the workplace this year.

In a nutshell, this basically sums up the report of DOLE-Region 1 Director Henry John Jalbuena to Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz as the former said the 2010 accomplishments of the Regional Office was the result of its “going the extra mile” in delivering its targets.

Jalbuena said that for its Job Search Assistance for Wage Employment, a total of 10,284 job applicants were placed in the private sector with 5,620 workers placed; government sector (4,363); and through job contractors/subcontractors (301) from July to November 2010.

He said that under the Labor Market Information (LMI) Program, 22,234 jobseekers were provided with information on job openings, while 201 employers received information regarding jobseekers.

For the region’s capacity building services for livelihood, Jalbuena said a total of 2,459 persons received assistance under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, adding that through its livelihood formation, 471 disadvantaged workers received assistance, namely, parents of child laborers (32), youth (120), OFWs and their families (56) and other disadvantaged groups (263).

The DOLE-Region 1 chief said that for livelihood enhancement, 1,988 workers in the informal sector were provided with assistance, i.e. farm workers (1,053), fishery workers (21), Indigenous People (IP) workers (280), ambulant vendors/peddlers (64), home-based workers (281) and other IS workers (289).

Jalbuena also reported that under the Speedy and Efficient Delivery of Labor Justice (SpeED 2) project, the Regional Office has efficiently disposed 100% of all its 23 pending cases, adding that its disposition rate for all its cases handled/overall target was at 45%, or 26 out of the 58 cases.

He likewise reported that under the Labor Standards Enforcement Program (LSEP), a total of 449 establishments were assisted through self-assessment (26), inspection (87) and Technical Assistance Visit (TAV) (336).

“The compliance rate of establishments with General Labor Standards was at 83 percent, and 87 percent under the Project Labor Enforcement Action Program (LEAP), yielding an average compliance rate of 86.4 percent,” he said.

For its Social Protection Program, DOLE-RO 1 was able to facilitate the enrollment of 261 workers in the informal economy (i.e. farm workers, fishery workers, IP workers, youth) in various social security schemes such as SSS and Philhealth.

The DOLE Regional Director enumerated its other accomplishments as follows;

· Addressed the labor mismatch problem by forming the Regional Network of Career and Employment Coachers (RNCECs) which put together specialized guidance and counseling modules into a standard module which will guide and prepare secondary and tertiary students

in respectively choosing a career and finding quality employment.

· Alongside Career Employment Counseling efforts, the DOLE, CHED, RTWPB, Department of Trade and Industry and the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines are conducting Employability and Productivity Enhancement seminars for all graduating tertiary students.

· Established the first school-based Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in the province of La Union, the second in region 1, after a Memorandum of Agreement was signed with Lorma Colleges, Inc. and the DOLE.

· Conducted advocacy on the Phil-Jobnet and Project Jobs Fit for 72 local government units to firm up broader support at the grassroots level.

· PESO advocacy conducted for 20 newly elected Local Chief Executives in La Union, Ilocos Sur, and Pangasinan.

· Implemented the Emergency Employment Program with a corresponding budget of P7,499,250.00, benefiting at least 1,225 workers from 22 identified municipalities regionwide.

· Established the DOLE Field Office at the Rosales Government Center, Bgy. Carmay, Rosales, Pangasinan.

· Deployment of staff and creation of two additional Field Offices in the Province of Pangasinan

“These are the fruits of established partnerships with partners from government, private sector, labor, management, academe, workers organization/association, and communities; these are outcomes of its people’s increasing ability to innovate and think out-of-the box to maximize the benefits of DOLE programs and services,” Jalbuena said.

http://www.gov.ph/2011/01/05/dole-region-1-was-steadfast-in-2010-gears-up-for-2011/

william :D

January 5th, 2011, 12:01 PM

Low-cost houses ang mga ito, ang range ay mula 900k hanggang 2.5M ang presyo

pwede na.haha, nasa pusod naman ng lungsod saka mukhang maganda ang pwesto.:):)

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 12:17 PM

pwede na.haha, nasa pusod naman ng lungsod saka mukhang maganda ang pwesto.:):)

Commercial lot ang pinagtayuan, napaka-accessible sa mga mall, hospital, sa city proper at sa highway. Mahal ang lote sa San Fernando, kaya mahal rin ang mga bahay na ito kahit masasabi maliit ang mga bahay na ito:)

william :D

January 5th, 2011, 12:37 PM

Commercial lot ang pinagtayuan, napaka-accessible sa mga mall, hospital, sa city proper at sa highway. Mahal ang lote sa San Fernando, kaya mahal rin ang mga bahay na ito kahit masasabi maliit ang mga bahay na ito:)

oo nga.naalala ko nga sabi mo dati sobra mahal ng lupa sa San Fernando.haha, kaya siguro tama lang yung presyo nung maliliit na bahay, napaka-accesible pa nila sa city proper.haha, yun nga masyadong dikit dikit ang bahay.hehe

william :D

January 5th, 2011, 12:42 PM

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 03:02 PM

oo nga.naalala ko nga sabi mo dati sobra mahal ng lupa sa San Fernando.haha, kaya siguro tama lang yung presyo nung maliliit na bahay, napaka-accesible pa nila sa city proper.haha, yun nga masyadong dikit dikit ang bahay.hehe

ang disadvantage lang pag dikit dikit ang bahay ay kapag incase may sunog. hehehe huwag naman sana.

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 03:05 PM

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Sunset at La Union Bay by Ding Oteyza

photo credits to the owner. (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=143324399029392&set=a.138823082812857.20956.119418201420012)

:master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master: Ang ganda ng pagkakakuha ng litrato. Magaling ang Photographer nito!

Sa byaheng pa-Norte, sa San fernando mo masisilayan nang malapitan ang dagat nang malapitan mula sa highway. maganda ang view lalo na kapag sunset. pinakamaganda ang sunset view pag nasa san fernando ka

I think ang photo na ito ay kinunan sa Bauang:banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 03:13 PM

January 4, 2011, 5:13pm

MANILA, Philippines - Geocycle, the waste management unit of cement manufacturer Holcim Philippines, was recently recognized as having management systems for its operations, environmental impact and occupational health and safety that are up par with international quality standards.

On Dec. 21, Geocycle received an Integrated Management System (IMS)certificate that covers ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2004, and OHSAS 18001:2007. The three are a set of quality practices used globally to measure management systems for operations and processes, environmental compliance, and occupational health and safety, respectively.

Geocycle is the first co-processing business in the Philippines to qualify for an IMS, said the local unit of British firm Certification International (CI) which conducted the
audits for the certification. CI Managing Director Renato Navarrete explained that the certification means “quality is being achieved but not at the expense of the environment
and the health and safety of employees.”

Co-processing is a safe and secure method of waste management that destroys hazardous components while capturing its energy and mineral content in the production of
cement.

Holcim Philippines Vice President for Geocycle Ernesto Paredes welcomed the certification, and noted this is in line with Holcim Philippines’ goal of offering highquality services.

“This is part of our continuing efforts to provide even better services to our clients,” he said. “The certification also bolsters our credibility with our customers who are mostly multinational companies that put premium on getting quality services in terms of safety, environment and processes,” Paredes added.

The IMS certificate covers Bulacan and head office operations, and is valid for three years. CI will conduct an annual assessment to check whether the Geocycle Group is able to stick to the standards set under the IMS. Geocyle underwent three audits prior to getting the IMS certificate: in April for baseline assessment; in August to evaluate
documentation procedures; and in November to check the implementation of its policies.

Holcim is one of the world's leading suppliers of cement and aggregates (crushed stone, gravel and sand) as well as downstream activities such as ready-mix concrete and asphalt. The Group holds majority and minority interests in more than 70 countries on all continents.

Holcim Philippines, Inc. (HPHI) is a Philippines-based cement manufacturer and a member
of Holcim Group. Holcim Philippines is involved in the manufacture, sale and distribution of cement to the domestic and export markets. The Company produces four cement products: Holcim Excel, Holcim WallRight, Holcim Premium Bulk and Holcim 4X. Its products are sold in bags, jumbo bags and in bulk.

Holcim Philippines operates four cement plants in La Union, Bulacan, Misamis Oriental, and Davao. It currently has 1,500 employees in the Philippines.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/296580/holcim-philippines-coprocessing-business-gets-quality-certifications

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 03:38 PM

Here’s the article written by Jill Lejano last December 4, 2010:

1. Go white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro.
2. Visit Batanes.
3. See Mt. Mayon up close.
4. Swim with the whale sharks in Donsol.
5. Climb Mt. Pulag and be awed by its sea of clouds.
6. Dive, swim and explore Palawan’s underground river.
7. Hike and let the view of Mt. Pinatubo crater take your breath away.
8. Party in your bikini in Boracay.
9. Surf’s up! Choose your wave—La Union, Zambales or Real, Quezon.
10. Missed out on the pristine beauty of Boracay 15 years ago? Visit Malapascua, Cebu.
11. Dive and see the rich marine life of Anilao, Batangas.
12. Travel back in time—go to Vigan.
13. Let Bohol wow you with its many offerings—the Chocolate Hills, the tarsier, the Loboc River Cruise, old churches and the beach.
14. Go high! Drive to the Mountain Province of Sagada. Check out the caves, the hanging coffins and enjoy the laidback lifestyle.
15. Grab a Viaje del Sol map, visit Ugu Binyan’s pottery studio, eat at Kusina Salud and unwind at Casa San Pablo.
16. Spend an entire week up north. Take a road trip from Manila to Vigan, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Aparri and Isabela!
17. Try wakeboarding in Camsur.
18. Check out Malate, Old Manila and all their secret spots.
19. There are many reasons to love Davao. Kublai’s artworks, its proximity to the beach, the tasty pastil and juicy suha. And did I mention that it’s a smoke-free city?
20. Spend a weekend roughing it in Anawangin and Capones in Zambales.
21. Check out our colorful fiestas and document them with your camera. Ati-atihan, Dinagyang, Masskara, Sinulog, Higantes, Panagbenga and more.
22. Pick your own strawberries at the Strawberry Fields in La Trinidad, Benguet.
23. Go to Pampanga for sisig.
24. If it’s too hot in Manila, grab a few friends and take a quick trip to Tagaytay.
25. Enjoy a food trip in Iloilo. You’ll never go hungry in this city.

http://www.explorecdo.com/cagayan-de-oro-whitewater-rafting-top-25-things-to-do-in-the-philippines/

Let's Surf!!!!:horse::horse::horse: ngee! :lol::lol::lol:

william :D

January 5th, 2011, 03:45 PM

:master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master::master: Ang ganda ng pagkakakuha ng litrato. Magaling ang Photographer nito!

Sa byaheng pa-Norte, sa San fernando mo masisilayan nang malapitan ang dagat nang malapitan mula sa highway. maganda ang view lalo na kapag sunset. pinakamaganda ang sunset view pag nasa san fernando ka

I think ang photo na ito ay kinunan sa Bauang:banana::banana:

oo magaling nga ang photographer! hehe,nakakaintriga ang sunset sa San Fernando ah!haha:cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 5th, 2011, 03:48 PM

US-based Deep Ocean Power Inc. is planning to put up 10 to 300 megawatt wind and solar farms in the 36 sites awarded it by the Department of Energy for ocean thermal energy development.

Jonathan Wong, Deep Ocean (Philippines) vice president of project development, said the capacity of the wind and solar farms would depend on the potential of the sites.

"Each site will be used not only for ocean thermal energy conversion but for on-shore and off-shore wind farms and solar energy as well, if it is determined they are suitable for such technology," he said.

Ocean thermal energy conversion is a power generation technology which uses the temperature difference between deep and shallow waters to run a heat engine.

Wong said the company is finalizing the development of its first ocean thermal facility.

Deep Ocean was awarded the 36 service contracts for ocean thermal energy development in October 2009.

The sites covered 910 prospective blocks of 73,710 hectares in Ilocos Norte, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Occidental Mindoro, Isabela, Aurora, Masbate, Antique, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Zamboanga del Norte, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Sulu, Southern Leyte, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Ilocos Sur, Sorsogon and Albay.

Derek Murray, Deep Ocean vice president, earlier said that for the first two sites, the company expects to generate about 10 to 20 megawatts. He said according the DOE, the country has 170,000 MW potential ocean thermal power.

"The Philippines is one of the premier locations within the world for our technology due to the extreme thermal difference between the warm surface water and the deeper cold water because those are the two required elements for our technology. And we have a deep shelf here locally in the Philippines. That’s the reason why we chose the Asia Pacific region," he said.

Murray said that it will take the company three years to finish the project. Commercial operation is expected to begin in 2012, he said.

He said the cost of ocean thermal technology is comparable with the cost of wind and solar power.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan06/busi8.html

Windmill, perhaps in La Union? I think it is best to put up in Rosario. Ocean Thermal Energy? I think Bauang would be suitable

fall_17

January 5th, 2011, 05:35 PM

Gud morning La Union.......:)

Kung sino man my pics sainyo ng Old PNR row, paki post, may gusto lamang ako makita...

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 02:43 AM

Photo by: express000 http://www.flickr.com/photos/25653307@N03/3403781107/sizes/z/in/photostream/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3403781107_fa19325853_z.jpg

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 05:54 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1358.snc4/162996_483694598411_161064168411_6124145_5182578_n.jpg

see photo from this link: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/photo.php?fbid=483694598411&set=a.183858778411.125848.161064168411&pid=6124145&id=161064168411

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 06:01 AM

http://www.thunderbirdresorts.ph/videocontest/templates/rhuk_milkyway/images/banner.jpg

Dubbed as “Extraordinary”, Thunderbird Resorts launches its first Online Video Contest. Participants will get the chance to win P100k, a Vacation Getaway for Four at Thunderbird Resorts Rizal and La Union, Enjoy Philippines Card and other cool prizes.

Just answer “What Makes you Extraordinary” in a video to join. Full mechanics is posted on www.thunderbirdresorts.ph/videocontest. Shoot the video at Thunderbird Resorts – either in Rizal or Poro Point – to have your hands on an Apple iPad.

“Extraordinary” is Thunderbird Resorts way of saying thank you to all its online fans and followers. Special mention to Enjoy Philippines, Travelbook.ph, and Nuffnang Philippines for supporting the contest.

For more information on the “Extraordinary” Online Video Contest, go to www.thunderbirdresorts.ph/videocontest or visit the official website www.thunderbird-asia.com.

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 06:08 AM

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN LA UNION (http://enjoythunderbirdresorts.blogspot.com/2010/05/top-10-things-to-do-in-la-union.html)

1. Surf’s Up!

http://www.travelandtourpackages.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/surfing-in-la-union-tour-packages.jpg

La Union is known as the Surfing Capital of the North and is famous not just to the local surfers but even to the world surfing circuit. The beaches in San Juan are said to have some of the most perfect waves in the region. It is perfect for board surfing from November to February. Carlatan and Wallace in San Fernando are also good spots.

2. Dive Deep in Fagg Reef

http://www.etravelpilipinas.com/dive_sites/images/la_union5.jpg

If you prefer to dive rather than surf, then Fagg Reef is for you. It’s the most famous dive site in the area and marks the divide between the Lingayen Gulf and the South China Sea. The site is also known as The Tanks, after the three World War II tanks that were dropped off here, resulting in a wide and diverse marine life, perfect for scuba diving.

3. Visit Our Lady of Namacpacan

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_e3NYyBv7yNA/S_CkQtxuNaI/AAAAAAAAABY/ILGnLO98GlQ/s320/Picture3.jpg

For Marian devotees, the Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan in the centuries-old church of St. Catherine in Luna is a site to behold. History gives importance to Our Lady because indigenous people claimed that she appeared as an old woman and offered them food and invited them to be baptized. Her image, which came from Spain through the galleons, reportedly performed miracles ever since she landed on the shores of Luna

4. Learn History at Museo de Iloko and Museo de La Union

Museo de La Union, which is in the Provincial Capitol in San Fernando, houses archaeological finds in La Union during the pre-Spanish period. On the other hand, Museo de Iloko is the old “presidencia” of Agoo houses artifacts and other pieces of cultural importance to the Ilocanos. Both museums are open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 8AM-5PM

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 06:10 AM

5. Soak up nature in La Union Botanical Garden

http://www.launionbiz.com/places/places_photos/La%20Union%20Botanical%20and%20Zoological%20Garden.jpg

The first of its kind in the Philippines, this is a 20-hectare scientific garden that’s the center of laboratory research in Northern Luzon. Showcases include the Sunken Garden, Medicinal Garden, Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and Fragrance Garden.

6. Breathe in history at the Pindangan Ruins

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_e3NYyBv7yNA/S_ChVBONCVI/AAAAAAAAABQ/A_vCddNfBrE/s320/Picture2.jpg

Pindangan was the original name of San Fernando and in the Ilocano dialect, literally means a place where meat is sun dried with salt for preservation. This was the place where the Spanish built the original church to start the evangelization of the locals. They transferred the church because of constant pirate raids and looting. Today, the ruins’ buttresses and walls are still standing. An old well which supplied the area with cool water through the centuries, can still be found at the side of the church. Made of corals and bricks, the enchanting well is still in good condition.

7. Taste the Culture of the Region Through Its Industries

http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumb_194/1192104138qgV6Do.jpg

Learn Pottery Making in Taboc, San Juan. Watch the age-old art of blanket weaving in Bangar. Have a taste of Basi, the Ilocano native wine in Lioac, Naguilian. You can learn much about a place’s culture by observing and understanding these industries

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 06:11 AM

8. Salute the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_e3NYyBv7yNA/S_ChBzFMxkI/AAAAAAAAABI/DRMQQDdPKE0/s320/Picture1.jpg

Located at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue, Quezon Avenue and Diversion Road leading to Poro Point, the structure is a reminder of the noble deeds of the Filipino and US soldiers who died in the name of freedom.

9. Lose yourself in the San Francisco-Canaoay-Pagudpud Beach

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_e3NYyBv7yNA/S_CgZsArTGI/AAAAAAAAABA/3kRh8AuxkL8/s320/untitled.bmp

Splendid white sand beaches that offer a spectacular sunset view adorn the San Fernado City’s coastline. It can be found in eleven of the coastal barangays of the city (and Thunderbird Resort Poro Point is part of that!)

10. Dream, Play and Live at Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_e3NYyBv7yNA/S_CfCaQeocI/AAAAAAAAAA4/xHpja3Vjfbw/s320/poro-510x285px.jpg

Paradise is nestled on a scenic cliff, overlooking the white sand beach and the edge of a headland that dips into the South China Sea. Thunderbird Resorts is slowly becoming famous for the beauty of its Meditteranean-inspired architecture, the exquisite dining pleasure of Olive’s Restaurant, Vegas Café and Patio Santorini, the world-class 9 hole golf course of The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club, the world-class gaming facilities of Fiesta Casinos and the over-all extraordinary experience that guests can enjoy. (http://www.thunderbird-asia.com/)

296619

January 6th, 2011, 06:16 AM

fall_17

January 6th, 2011, 08:16 AM

Photo by: express000 http://www.flickr.com/photos/25653307@N03/3403781107/sizes/z/in/photostream/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3403781107_fa19325853_z.jpg

Nice post, Buo papala ang stasyon mismo ng PNR sa San Fernando,:cheers:

How about yung rail tracks, feassible pa ba sila kahit yung mismo sa station?

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 01:06 PM

Nice post, Buo papala ang stasyon mismo ng PNR sa San Fernando,:cheers:

How about yung rail tracks, feassible pa ba sila kahit yung mismo sa station?

yup, buo pa. Malawak ang lote sa paligid nito. Sa Kasalukuyan, nagiging venue dito ng peryahan kapag fiesta ng San Fernando (malapit na pala, sa Feb 9)

May plano noon ang San Fernando (puro nalang plano na napako) na gawing terminal ng jeepney itong naabandona na PNR station.

Yung rail tracks, unti unting ninanakaw ang mga bakal nito. pinamayahan narin ang gilid ng riles, kadalasan puro mga iskwater. bahala sila kung sakaling palayasin sila ng gobyerno once maconstruct ang phase 4 ng PNR.

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 01:08 PM

Hugo.. ano po yung itatayo dyan? or itinatayo? :)

yung lote is for commercial use, pero pinatayuan ng real estate na nagbebenta ng mga low-cost houses

hugodiekonig

January 6th, 2011, 01:15 PM

The province of La Union is popularly known for its fine beaches. But it is fast becoming more than these fine beaches and its monicker as the surfing capital of the Ilocos. “Pugad” which means bird’s nest is one reason for this transformation.

Pugo, a municipal town of La Union is the site of the newly opened adventure and recreation destination in Ilocos. This picturesque destination with more than 3 hectares of lush mountain and clean river is called PUGAD or Pugo Adventure.

Zip Line Adventure

For adventure seekers, PUGAD offers a new kind of adventure. For instance, you can fly high like a bird with its zip line facility. Pugad boasts the longest zip line (380 meters) in Luzon. It is reportedly 2nd in the entire Philippine archipelago. As of this date, two more zip lines are in the pipe line to provide visitors a much better view of the entire scenery.

Rapelling, wall climbing and trekking

If you would like to test your stamina, try its breath taking rappelling and wall climbing facilities. Trekking in the area is also fun because of its natural sceneries. The place is endowed with a clean river and sloping terrain that flows right at the heart of the village of Kagaling.

All terrain vehicle driving

Are you looking for a unique driving experience? PUGAD offers all terrain vehicle driving adventure. You do not need to be a professional driver to try this driving adventure and tour around the premises. PUGAD is a three-hectare land in the peaceful barangay of Palina.

Swimming pool and other facilities

For a relaxing atmosphere, enjoy PUGAD’s crystal clear swimming pool suitable for children and adults. For the meantime, PUGAD caters to team-building and to small-group activities while the cottages, function hall and main building are still under construction.

To assist guests in the different facilities and to ensure an enjoyable and safe adventure, PUGAD maintains a pool of well-trained personnel and state-of-the-art equipment .

PUGAD is 300 meters away from the Marcos Highway Pugo La Union after a 30 minute drive from Baguio and about an 1 hour ride from San Fernando City La Union. For those coming from Manila, travel by land can take around 4-5 hours.

http://www.tarabitab.com/feature/2010/10/02/pugad-a-nest-of-recreation-and-adventure-in-pugo-la-union/

To Know more about PUGAD, visit this site: http://pugoadventure.multiply.com/

fall_17

January 6th, 2011, 05:32 PM

yup, buo pa. Malawak ang lote sa paligid nito. Sa Kasalukuyan, nagiging venue dito ng peryahan kapag fiesta ng San Fernando (malapit na pala, sa Feb 9)

May plano noon ang San Fernando (puro nalang plano na napako) na gawing terminal ng jeepney itong naabandona na PNR station.

Yung rail tracks, unti unting ninanakaw ang mga bakal nito. pinamayahan narin ang gilid ng riles, kadalasan puro mga iskwater. bahala sila kung sakaling palayasin sila ng gobyerno once maconstruct ang phase 4 ng PNR.

Kung ano man ang balak nila gawin diyan ay huwag ng ituloy, itong nalalabing istasyon ay hindi dapat masira, dahil maaari pang ibalik ang NR or La Union Service ng PNR... nagagandahan ako sa istasyon na ito,..:cheers:

May bakuran ba itong stasyon? Buwisit talaga ang mga IS na iyan, wag sana sila pabayaan na mamahay s ROW na iyan.:bash:

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 06:32 AM

Kung ano man ang balak nila gawin diyan ay huwag ng ituloy, itong nalalabing istasyon ay hindi dapat masira, dahil maaari pang ibalik ang NR or La Union Service ng PNR... nagagandahan ako sa istasyon na ito,..:cheers:

May bakuran ba itong stasyon? Buwisit talaga ang mga IS na iyan, wag sana sila pabayaan na mamahay s ROW na iyan.:bash:

kulang kasi sa zoning ang San Fernando. Marami nang nakatira malapit doon. mahirap nang i-relocate lalo na ang mga transient settlers sa ibang lugar kapag idedevelop muli ang PNR station dito

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 06:47 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs014.snc6/166450_1493765316757_1612790914_31002806_1892557_n.jpg
Coca-cola is undergoing expansion in its buildings

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs757.ash1/164893_1493765436760_1612790914_31002807_6603266_n.jpg
The old house beside this building was demolished. I think a commercial building will soon rise here.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs778.ash1/166837_1493765556763_1612790914_31002808_5447579_n.jpg
Max's Restaurant - With it's good marketing strategy and good management of the restaurant, Max's La Union continues to attract diners from the city. Almost every hour, the seats of the restaurants are all occupied

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs054.snc6/168436_1493765796769_1612790914_31002809_5686986_n.jpg
Metrobank La Union Main. Other Metrobank Branches in the Province are Metrobank San Fernando and Metrobank Agoo

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs053.snc6/168387_1493765996774_1612790914_31002810_6769080_n.jpg
Greenwich La Union - have a bite of their delicious Pizza!

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 06:56 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs023.snc6/165304_1493766156778_1612790914_31002811_6010480_n.jpg
Midtown - one of the finest restaurants in the city.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs787.ash1/167700_1493766396784_1612790914_31002812_2724763_n.jpg
La Union Trade Center - This was renovated last late 2009. Showcased here are products made by the people of La Union

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs798.ash1/168874_1493766516787_1612790914_31002813_7622020_n.jpg
City Fire Station

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs076.snc6/168657_1493766636790_1612790914_31002814_4212816_n.jpg
Afternoon Traffic. San Fernando is one of the busiest cities in the nNorth Luzon at Daytime. Everyday, around 50-80k vehicles pass through the city's main intersection. Traffic volume is at its peak every 8am, 12pm, 4-7pm.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs077.snc6/168737_1493766916797_1612790914_31002816_7788968_n.jpg
Cosmos - local bakery
Mandarin Chinese Restaurant is undergoing renovation. It is one of the oldest restaurants in the city
Banco Filipino and Asiatic Lumber Building

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs006.snc6/165669_1493767756818_1612790914_31002821_1137113_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs053.snc6/168365_1493767956823_1612790914_31002822_4048669_n.jpg
San Fernando City is Gearing up for its fiesta starting this coming Last week of January. Come and join me in the celebration of the city's fiesta!:banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 07:01 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs739.ash1/163164_1493768196829_1612790914_31002824_207456_n.jpg
San Fernando Town Plaza - One of the most iconic spots here in San Fernando

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs052.snc6/168262_1493768356833_1612790914_31002825_1469026_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs789.ash1/167898_1493768476836_1612790914_31002826_3518643_n.jpg
Plaza Hotel

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1371.snc4/164300_1493768596839_1612790914_31002827_1564888_n.jpg
in 1998, a fire struck the former building originally located where this building stands right now. In only just a year after the fire, this building was erected. This building is a symbol of the resilience of the people of La Union. This building presently houses the Provincial Library, AIE College, Video City, Globe and SiTel Academy

296619

January 7th, 2011, 07:05 AM

WOW!....

Advance Happy FIESTA

San Fernando City!:cheers::cheers::cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 07:06 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1371.snc4/164335_1493768716842_1612790914_31002828_6439226_n.jpg
This is One Nisce Plaza currently undergoing some final finishes. In a month or two, the city's second 7-Eleven Store, 24-hour Chowking and Tokyo Tokyo restaurants and the National Bookstore will soon be occupied in this Building.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs792.ash1/168283_1493768916847_1612790914_31002829_3739647_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs063.snc6/167341_1493769076851_1612790914_31002830_3120511_n.jpg
This is the Landbank Building. This was an old building, now renovated to attract offices to occupy the building

http://l19.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc6/hs043.snc6/167379_1493769196854_1612790914_31002831_2149478_n.jpg
Shania Tower (A tower of just 6 stories high, hahaha) It houses the Union Bank of The Philippines - La Union Branch

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 07:09 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1364.snc4/163610_1493769356858_1612790914_31002832_1526078_n.jpg
Heroes Hill (photo taken from a bad spot)

http://l31.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc4/hs1359.snc4/163104_1493769516862_1612790914_31002833_2010385_n.jpg
This is a Japanese Building just beside the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas La Union Regional Office.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1358.snc4/163061_1493769676866_1612790914_31002834_7035359_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1386.snc4/163851_1493769796869_1612790914_31002835_6426624_n.jpg
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas La Union Regional Office.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs785.ash1/167499_1493769996874_1612790914_31002836_5412392_n.jpg
Commercial establishments along Christ the King Area

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs744.ash1/163610_1493770236880_1612790914_31002837_4037363_n.jpg
Martinez Building

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 07:14 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1396.snc4/164828_1493770356883_1612790914_31002838_6565552_n.jpg
Tam Building

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs044.snc6/167470_1493770516887_1612790914_31002839_2198429_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs781.ash1/167163_1493770756893_1612790914_31002840_1379663_n.jpg
Jollibee Sevilla - the City's third Jollibee store. It is a 24-hour fastfood strategically located beside the Petron Gasoline Stations, where travelers during nighttime usually have a stop here. Jollibee Sevilla was built in 2010, Jollibee Plaza in 1992 and Jollibee 2 in 1998

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1388.snc4/163997_1493770956898_1612790914_31002841_2391695_n.jpg
A commercial and Office Building near completion located in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers Monument

296619

January 7th, 2011, 07:15 AM

Wow! ganda ng design ng mga buildings! :)

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 07:18 AM

Wow! ganda ng design ng mga buildings! :)

Malapit na fiesta ng San Fernando! sa ngayon inihahanda na yung mga stalls para sa trade fair na magaganap pati narin yung mga dekorasyon sa plaza

Dapat lang na patayuan ng mga magaganda at makukulay na buildings dito sa San Fernando. nakakahiya naman kay Thunderbird Resort hehehe. Pinapaganda rin ngayon ng mga ibang owners yung lumang buildings nila dito para magamit for rent

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 12:56 PM

by Eileen A. Mencias

SENATOR Ralph Recto, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, wants to earmark five percent of the government’s value added tax collections to reconstruct and rehabilitate the existing 479-kilometer Philippine National Railway line from San Fernando, La Union to Legazpi City, Albay.

The government expects to collect some P241 billion in VAT this year, higher than the P211 billion it projects to earn in 2010.

Recto said the interconnection of the country’s regions through good transport and communication networks opens up new economic opportunities and reduces transportation and transaction costs of businesses.

He said the National Economic Development Authority’s comprehensive integrated infrastructure projects for 2009 to 2013 only allocate P1.5 billion for the reopening of the PNR line to Bicol.

This year, the government’s subsidy for PNR amounts to only P131 million.

“The interconnection of regions in Luzon which accounts for the largest GDP share of more than 30 percent through a railway network from San Fernando, La Union to Legazpi City will decentralize progress and bring development to the countryside,” Recto said.

The senator filed Senate Bill 155 which allocates five percent of the VAT collections for the capital outlay of PNR.

“A train moving passengers and goods from La Union to Bicol will accelerate trade and encourage migration in those areas. It will also meet one of our toughest development challenges and that is the decentralization of progress by decongesting our crowded cities and urban areas to provide our people in the frontiers better access to social services,” Recto said.

“The reconstruction and rehabilitation of this railway network will provide thousands of jobs to Filipinos who can perform hard labor to build, restore and rehabilitate roads, bridges and other structures,” Recto added.

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideMetro.htm?f=2011/january/7/metro3.isx&d=2011/january/7

I hope the government would start this project as soon as possible. other countries are more into constructing railroads than constructing airports since the former would consume lesser fuel than the latter. It is badly needed for our country to have such infrastructure in order to be globally competitive in comparison to other developing countries^^^^:cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 12:59 PM

by Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Jan.6 (PIA) --- The clamor of private workers for increased wages had been answered and there is now an increased adjustment from P5 to P8 in daily wage effective January 20.

“Lubos kaming nagpapasalamat sa gobierno dahil pinagtutuunan ng pansin nito ang mga maliliit na manggagawa o working student na kagaya ko. Sana lang ipatupad talaga ng mga establisemento ang bagong order,” Jun Carreon, working student of Saint Louis College said in an interview.

Carreon added that concerned agency/ies should monitor strict implementation of the order to ensure that private companies are really complying with the Wage Order No. RB1-14.

Joy Labsan, cashier of a grocery store here said that the additional P5.00 or P8.00 increase in their daily wage is very minimal, but can somehow cover her one-way tricycle fare going to her work.

On the other hand, Gary Pineda, a gasoline boy, said that the increase is so little to cope up with the recent price increase of basic commodities.

“Ganunpaman, salamat na din kesa saw wala,” Pineda added.

The increase covers all workers and employees in the private sector who are receiving the minimum wage in the region regardless of their position, designation or status of employment and irrespective of the method their wages are paid, Director Henry John S. Jalbuena, chairman of the Board and Regional Director of the Department of Labor and Employment said.

“The increase will take effect on January 20, 2011 after its complete publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the region,” Jalbuena added. (PIA1/La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=10541

:banana::banana::banana:^^ It is good that the government has convinced the owners of private-owned businesses to consider the latter's employees/worker's plea for such increase in their wage. It is quite a relief to most workers somehow.:banana::banana::banana:^^

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 01:16 PM

Written by Meghan at the http://sfluseptage.blogspot.com/

We are happy to report that there is lots of new news to share concerning progress on the Sewerage and Septage Program here in San Fernando!

First of all, the eco-tanks have finally arrived in Manila and will soon be transported to San Fernando! The three Eco-Tank units were kindly donated by CityNet and the Rotary Club of San Fernando. As previously mentioned the EcoTanks will be utilized in Barangays Catbagnan, Poro and San Francisco. The EcoTank is an anaerobic treatment tank combined with an anaerobic filter that will produce an effluent of 50 mg/l BOD and TSS, which will meet the Class C requirements of the Department of Environment and Natural Resource and greatly improve the surface water quality in these areas.

While bids for the new Septage Treatment Facility (STF) are still being reviewed by the Technical Working Group for the Sewerage and Septage Program, progress is ongoing and we can expect the contract to be awarded before Christmas, with construction beginning soon after that!

Finally, in preparation for the forthcoming implementation of these new Sanitation initiatives, the first instalment of the Barangay Health Worker Training Program is set to begin on October 21st, with a Training of Trainers Session to take place at The ABC Barangay Hall. The purpose of this Session will be to train Sanitary Inspectors, Midwives, and Barangay Health Workers about septage management fundamentals and the City’s promotion plan for sanitation. Various role-playing techniques will be used to prepare the trainees for a variety of scenarios that they may encounter while delivering promotions and disseminating information throughout the Barangays. It is expected that this initial training session will also prepare the trainees to train BHWs throughout the city who will also deliver septage management information to their Barangays.

Tarlaqueno-ako

January 7th, 2011, 04:14 PM

Tarlaqueno-ako

January 7th, 2011, 04:16 PM

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 04:21 PM

Ang dami talagang building sa San Fernando City.:):cheers::banana:

Ang ganda rin ng building ng pinakabagong Jollibee at open 24 hours pa.

Picturan ko yung mga building pag open na. Dapat lang na magaganda ang mga buildings na ipatayo rito sa San fernando hehehe.
Buti at nagkaroon din ang San fernando ng 24-hour na Jollibee. wala na kasing nakabukas na kainan sa San Fernando pag alas onse na ng gabi. Susunod naring open ng 24 hours ang Tokyo Tokyo at Chowking, hopefully magbukas na this month. Haaay

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 04:23 PM

Gusto ko yung design ng mga bahay. Maganda pa sa low cost housing sa Imus Cavite, pero di hamak na mas mahal ang mga eto kung nasa 900k ang pinakamababa.:)

sa commercial lot kasi ipinatayo, kaya mahal yung lupa, mahal rin ang mga bahay para mabawi ng investor yung ininvest nito. Sana sa susunod high-rise condo narin ang ipatayo sa San Fernando. Nagiging congested na ang city proper. tipid rin sa presyo ng Lupa hehehe

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 04:32 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1362.snc4/163437_1494140046125_1612790914_31003588_871655_n.jpg
From Left to Right: CSI The City Mall, Lorma Hospital, Coca-Cola, Mommy Lu's

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 04:33 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs754.ash1/164496_1494138766093_1612790914_31003581_5403131_n.jpg

Tarlaqueno-ako

January 7th, 2011, 04:58 PM

sa commercial lot kasi ipinatayo, kaya mahal yung lupa, mahal rin ang mga bahay para mabawi ng investor yung ininvest nito. Sana sa susunod high-rise condo narin ang ipatayo sa San Fernando. Nagiging congested na ang city proper. tipid rin sa presyo ng Lupa hehehe

Yes, tama ka. Kailangan bumawi yung investor. Naku, kung commercial iyan, yung mga townhouse na iyan baka di lang 900k. Condo ang bagay sa commercial lot para sulit sa investor, kung allowed na rin lang sa city proper ninyo ang condominium development.:)

hugodiekonig

January 7th, 2011, 05:02 PM

Yes, tama ka. Kailangan bumawi yung investor. Naku, kung commercial iyan, yung mga townhouse na iyan baka di lang 900k. Condo ang bagay sa commercial lot para sulit sa investor, kung allowed na rin lang sa city proper ninyo ang condominium development.:)

allowed naman siguro. wala namang ordinansa dito na nagpapatupad ng building-height restriction. Zoning muna ang dapat i-improve ng San Fernando. Ang pangit lang kasi dito, ang mga katabi ng ibang commercial establishments ay mga bahay bahay na kalat kalat naman at hindi maganda.

Tarlaqueno-ako

January 7th, 2011, 05:17 PM

http://www.thepoint.com.ph/images/hires/main_imageexplore.jpg

http://www.thepoint.com.ph/explore-la-union.html

Tarlaqueno-ako

January 7th, 2011, 05:27 PM

http://www.thunderbirdresorts.com/ThunderbirdSiteAssets/philippines/images/main-en/facade.jpg

http://www.thunderbirdresorts.com/info/philippines/en/resorts.poropoint.aspx

balcita_RN

January 8th, 2011, 05:20 AM

Pagadianongyud

January 8th, 2011, 05:30 AM

@hugo, ang ganda talga nang san fernando... i would love to visit your city soon... :)

arriba san fernando ^^^^^^^^^^

Pagadianongyud

January 8th, 2011, 05:31 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs754.ash1/164496_1494138766093_1612790914_31003581_5403131_n.jpg

nice....

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 10:58 AM

ang gusto ko sna na ma-improve sa San Fernando eh yung drainage system...dahil nababaha pag tag-ulan... syempre if iisipin, ngayon pa lang hindi pa sya gaanong kalaki as compared to New York, but di ba if papalitan ang mga zoning, at magpapatayuan na sila ng mga hi-rise, mas madali na ma-lay out ang drainage system ngayon...

or ewan..hahaha wla lng naisip ko lng

Magiging love na love ko ang San Fernando pag inayos nila ang problema sa drainage system. Super tagal na na problema ito dito. Basta malakas ang ulan, baha agad. Sa ngayon, hinuhukay lang ang mga bara sa kanal, tapos pinapaganda rin yung ibang mga kanal, pero temporary solutions lang ang mga ito sa baha. kung mas lalakihan sana nila ang cross section ng kanal, edi mas ok.

Mahina sa zoning ang San Fernando. kailangang kailangan nito ng zoning, para hindi lang basta basta kung saan saan ipinapatayo ang mga bahay at mga commercial buildings

Dahil congested na ang city proper, ang bagay dito ay mga medium-rise buildings (mga 10-15 stories high) hindi parin masisira ang view ng San Fernando Bay from Capitol.

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 11:00 AM

@hugo, ang ganda talga nang san fernando... i would love to visit your city soon... :)

arriba san fernando ^^^^^^^^^^

Hello po! Yup, maganda ang city namin. Marami ring mga mapapasyalan dito na mga magagandang tanawin. Welcome na welcome ka rito! :banana::banana::banana::):cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 11:03 AM

nice....

kakatapos lang ng renovation nito. Hyundai San Fernando La Union is growing na dito to supplement Hyundai La Union sa ibang town. Sana sumunod rin ang Toyota na mag-open ng branch nila rito. haaay wish ko lang:lol::lol::lol::lol:

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 11:12 AM

Saturday, January 8, 2011

NEWS about the dipping temperature in Baguio City continues to attract tourists even after the holidays, said a tourism official.

Tourism Regional Director Purificacion Molintas said the tourists stay for a day "just to experience" the cool mountain breeze.

The coldest so far recorded in Baguio was 9.6 degrees centigrade. This is almost six degrees cooler than the lowest so far recorded in Metro Manila of 15 degrees centigrade.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration predicted the mercury to dip further until the second week of February.

Molintas said that unlike the Baguio folk who wear thick jackets, tourists wear shorts and sleeveless shirts to actually experience how it feels when the temperature is at an average of 9.6 to 12 degrees centigrade.

With the tourist arrivals, she said hotels in the city have been enjoying an 88 percent occupancy rate lately.

Molintas said her office still has to receive data on the occupancy rate of transient houses, and even households that accommodate guests not from Baguio.

She said partnership with other tourist destinations could further boost tourism. She added the Department of Tourism (DOT) is pushing for sisterhood ties with La Union to strengthen the tourism industry of both areas.

This partnership, she said, could also help sustain the number of passengers flying to La Union and possibly come up to Baguio.

Molintas reiterated that having an airport and an airline regularly ferrying passengers will sustain the number of passengers visiting the north.

Zest Air flies the Manila-La Union route three times a week. Its passengers are mostly overseas contract workers and Koreans.

Molintas said tourism in the north is expected to get another boost when the Lallo airport in Cagayan Valley is completed. (Rimaliza Opiña)

Published in the Sun.Star Baguio newspaper on January 08, 2011.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/9-degree-chill-lures-tourists-baguio

:chill::chill::chill::chill::chill::chill::chill:

Magkapatid na talaga ang La Union at Baguio. Karamihan ng mga pumupunta ng Baguio from other provinces ay from La union. Kapag summer rin, umaakyat pa-Baguio ang mga taga La-Union, at the same time, bumababa naman ang mga taga-Baguio sa La Union para mag-beach.

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 11:17 AM

By Juan Mercado
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:28:00 01/08/2011

Filed Under: Economic Indicators, Schools, Youth, Education

“DOES CONVENTIONAL economics ask the right questions?” two brilliant students asked on a chilly 1953 autumn evening at Cambridge University. “Can it offer something for poor countries, like Pakistan or India?” (Or the Philippines?)

In 2011, this Cambridge chat led to crafting of the Human Development Index. Today, HDI tracks human development across 169 countries. This gauge underpins the United Nations Development Program’s annual Human Development Report.

HDIs go beyond the old, one-dimensional economic measure, the Gross National Product. GNPs divide national wealth by population. This crude yardstick was useful. But it also smudged stark disparities. GNP bracketed Imelda Marcos with her diamond tiara with the beggar in rubber flip-flops.

GNP doesn’t capture human options or freedoms either. “Learn conventional economics but don’t use it much,” the young Pakistani student Mahbub ul Haq said. “Who wants to know what sets the price of toothpaste? But it helps answer the right questions.”

Right questions were on education, health, security, aspirations even, agreed the equally young Indian student Amartya Sen. “We need a measure that is not as blind to social aspects as GNP is.”

There was something of the Human Development Report already then, Sen recalled at the New York 1998 memorial rites for Haq. Sen won the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences that year. After leaving Yale University, Haq amplified his “human development theory” at the World Bank and UN.

Sen and Haq, at the UNDP, led a team of scientists to produce the maiden Human Development Report in 1990. “People are the real wealth of a nation,” their lead sentence read. Today’s 20th anniversary issue of HDR reiterates that theme.

Annual reports now factor into HDI tables life expectancy, literacy and incomes. This measurement innovation continues. Three new gauges—extreme deprivation, gender disparities and inequalities—are tacked into this year’s edition.

Tables have been buttressed. Aside from standard demographic statistics, one finds in this new report yardsticks on: sustainability and vulnerability; access to information technology; human security, civic and community well-being, even perceptions on individual well-being.

Each report continues to marshal data on key issues. HDR in 1998 analyzed “Globalization With A Human Face.” In 2002, the focus was on “Deepening Democracy in a Fragmented World.” A year later, Millennium Development Goals were the centerpiece in “A Compact Among Nations to End Human Poverty.” The global water crisis and international migration came under scrutiny in 2008 and 2009.

The in-between years also spun off more than 600 national HDRs. All were researched, written and published in individual countries. A biennial publication, Philippine Human Development Report first came off the press in 1994.

Spearheaded by economists like Solita Monsod and Arsenio Balisacan, Filipino scientists have churned out seven biennial HDRs since. At a Rio de Janeiro conference, Philippine HDRs were cited for excellence in design, innovative use of human development measurement tools, as well as participation and policy impact.

From its initial computation of HDIs for each of the Philippine regions, PHDRs have covered festering national concerns.

The 1997 report on gender documented significant gains by women in education, jobs and elections. At century’s turn, the report zeroed in on the sharp decline in quality of Philippine education and outlined reforms. “Work and Well-Being” and “Human Security” were themes for 2002 and 2005.

The report before 2010’s “In Search for a Human Face” concentrated on how institutions and politics impact on human development. “The Ombudsman’s record in disposition of cases and conviction is far from sterling,” the 2009 study said. “[It] has been described as an agency where cases ‘just lie there and they die there.’ . . . Its credibility dropped to a low level.”

PHDR breaks down lumps of data. Analysis by provinces revealed, for example, that La Union now has the longest life expectancy at 74.6 years. Life is “nasty, brutish and short” in Tawi-Tawi at 53.4 years.

They also compare HDIs between countries and provinces. Azerbaijan on one end and Paraguay on the other, for instance, sandwich Batanes, Laguna, Bataan, Batangas, La Union and Pampanga.

Despite modest incomes, some countries made great gains in health, life expectancy, education and overall living standards, writes UNDP administrator Helen Clark. In sharp contrast, some countries with strong economic performance lagged.

Always wedged into less-than-vigorous performance, the Philippines slumped from its No. 99 slot in overall HDI in 2005 to No. 97 today. Almost a quarter of Filipinos (24 percent) lack access to improved sanitation. Many feel severe deprivation in schooling (13 percent), health (14 percent) and living standards. We’re better off than Cambodians, but lag behind Malaysians.

“On one crucial point the evidence is compelling,” Clark says. “Improvements are never automatic. [They] require political will, courageous leadership and continuing commitment of the international community.”

If the past offers any lesson, it is to put people at the center of development, the new HDR says. “Well-being is about much more than money... It is about enabling people to be active participants in change and ensuring that current achievements are not made at the expense of future generations.”

http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20110108-313198/The-right-questions

296619

January 8th, 2011, 11:21 AM

@hugo, ang ganda talga nang san fernando... i would love to visit your city soon... :)

arriba san fernando ^^^^^^^^^^

Yep.. super ganda po ng lugar nila... Ganda ng location at maganda ang dagat nila.. Lalo na sa Poro point... :)

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 12:41 PM

Hotel Ariana in La Union opens doors on May 15
Monday, 12 May 2008

Hotel Ariana, a Business Hotel and Convention Center, located in Bauang, La Union opens its door to the public with a grand opening on May 15, 2008. Designed by Architect Daniel C. Go and Associates, phase 1 of the new hotel boasts of a distinctly modern aesthetics with a contemporary minimalist twist. The architectural firm, which is known for their innovative designs and service excellence, envisioned the facade of the new hotel to possess a dignified and imposing character while the interior gives an impression of calm and serenity. With its subtle tropical colors and geometric composition, the hotel stands out as a new landmark in La Union. Situated a few meters away from the beach, large windows not only allow natural light and ventilation, it gives an excellent view of the dramatic sunset. The hotel is designed to accommodate and provide everything that a convention delegates or weary travelers would need. Areas for social functions as well as places for relaxation are well integrated into the layout.

The developer insisted that the hotel should be “a cut above the rest” in comfort and service. Every detail to achieve that was considered and taken into account during the planning and design stage. The interiors are well furnished and the lobby has a cozy ambience perfect for gatherings and meetings. The hotel’s coffee shop, MKA Cafe, boasts of a sumptuous menu and a serene venue for any activity that requires a private and intimate atmosphere.

The Ballroom on the third floor provides for a perfect venue for conventions and seminars as well as weddings and parties. It was designed to accommodate a large number of guests at any time and can be subdivided into smaller function rooms for multiple activities when needed.

Hotel Ariana is located 257 kilometers North of Manila and only 12 kilometers away from San Fernando, the capital of La Union. It is the only Business Hotel and Convention Center in the area that can provide an exceptional level of service and comfort

from: http://blogs.philippine-builder.com/news/real-estate/367-hotel-ariana-in-la-union-opens-doors-on-may-15.html

The hotel is currently having its expansion. The Phase 2 is now under construction, just behind the existing building. I think the Hotel is a hit to vacationers, offices, agencies, organizations, and guests to conduct their seminars and meetings here. The interior of the hotel, as seen from the highway, is magnificent, parang 3-star hotel. :banana::banana::banana:^^

Pagadianongyud

January 8th, 2011, 01:47 PM

kakatapos lang ng renovation nito. Hyundai San Fernando La Union is growing na dito to supplement Hyundai La Union sa ibang town. Sana sumunod rin ang Toyota na mag-open ng branch nila rito. haaay wish ko lang:lol::lol::lol::lol:

its not a mistake to dream.. my city (Pagadian) and cagayan de oro has been dreaming about those projects.. and now here they comes.. and they are expanding pa... so its not a mistake... keep dreaming.. san fernando is not away from development.. it will prosper.. i stand for it..:)

hugodiekonig

January 8th, 2011, 02:15 PM

its not a mistake to dream.. my city (Pagadian) and cagayan de oro has been dreaming about those projects.. and now here they comes.. and they are expanding pa... so its not a mistake... keep dreaming.. san fernando is not away from development.. it will prosper.. i stand for it..:)

Yeah, it will!:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 02:21 AM

By Jerome Aning
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:05:00 01/09/2011

Filed Under: Tourism, Philippines - Metro, Waterway & Maritime Transport, history, Culture (general), Government Aid

MANILA, Philippines—The future of the “lonely sentinels of the sea”—as architectural historian Manuel Maximo Noche Lopez del Castillo calls the network of 19th-century lighthouses in the Philippines—is looking brighter with the much-improved finances of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

With an increased budget this year, the PCG said it can now intensify its lighthouse repair program and thereby promote the safe navigation of ships and fishing boats in the country’s numerous waterways.

This year, the agency will be upgrading the country’s 513 operating lighthouses and reviving about 43 others that are not operational, said Adm. Wilfredo Tamayo, the PCG commandant.

For years, because of the Coast Guard’s perennial lack of funds and personnel, the lighthouses have rapidly deteriorated.

In a report, Tamayo said that with the repairs and upgrades last year, the overall operational efficiency of lighthouses improved—from 85 percent during the first half of the year to 92 percent in the second semester.

This year, he said the Coast Guard aims to improve the overall lighthouse operational efficiency to at least 95 percent and with the agency’s increased 2011 budget, it has every chance of achieving this.

The Coast Guard’s budget was increased from P2 billion in 2010 to P3 billion this year. The agency, however, has many other priorities such as the acquisition of new vessels and aircraft for patrol and rescue missions and the recruitment of 1,000 new personnel in the next two years.

Most of the lighthouses, usually charged by solar power, are not manned 24/7. While many have timers and automatically turn on at night or when the skies turn dark, others have to be manually turned on by a PCG civilian employee.

Tourism potential

These days, the Coast Guard has hit upon another way to keep the lighthouses burning brightly for years to come.

With the increasing recognition of heritage as a solid basis for a tourism industry, a network of restored and preserved historic lighthouses would be sure to bring in the tourists, the PCG argues.

“Several of our lighthouses are centuries-old, dating from the Spanish and American times, and they continue to attract local and foreign tourists. They are considered a national treasure and part of our heritage,” said Lt. Cmdr. Armand Balilo, the PCG spokesperson and deputy chief of staff for community relations.

“Many lighthouses are located in scenic spots. Most are on top of hills and along beaches. They give beautiful views,” Balilo said.

The major ones

One of Balilo’s favorite lighthouses is the Capones Island Lighthouse on Capones Grande Island off the coast of San Antonio, Zambales. The lighthouse, which serves as a beacon to ships entering Subic Bay, was first lit in 1890. The tower has been renovated through the years but the keeper’s house and other buildings in the station have severely deteriorated.

Among the most beautiful lighthouses in northern Luzon are the ones at Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte and Cape Engaño in Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

The lighthouse on Batanes’ Sabtang Island is a popular tourist attraction in a province that has become the latest must-see destination.

The Coast Guard proposes to turn over the administration of lighthouses to local government units and public and private partners, hoping to generate income from tours, film shoots or advertisements featuring the most picturesque of the country’s lighthouses.

“We will still be in charge of the operation of the lighthouse. But we can have an agreement whereby the LGUs and public or private partners may collect fees, part of which will be used in the maintenance and preservation of the lighthouse or even the hiring of a civilian employee to look after it,” Balilo said in an interview.

Stone and brick structures

A typical lighthouse, or light station, in the Philippines is composed of an elevated cylindrical structure, usually made of metal, with a bright lamp on top with mirrors and lenses to magnify illumination.

The older lighthouses are constructed of stone or brick. They usually retain the Spanish word for lighthouse (faro) in their names. An example of this is the Faro de Punta Malabrigo in Lobo, Batangas.

The Malabrigo lighthouse, constructed during the late 1890s in the twilight of the Spanish colonial regime, was used as the locale for an indie film in 2007. Unfortunately, the film crew, who were largely unsupervised, caused some structural damage to the place. The PCG has now cordoned off the lighthouse and visitors are not allowed to see it unless they have prior permits.

Balilo said the location of the lighthouses inadvertently contributes to the destruction, deliberate or otherwise, of the structures.

“Most lighthouses are located along distant shores, on points and capes, and at harbor entrances, far away from communities. They are subject to wear and tear from the elements such as the wind, salt spray and erosion. Their isolated location also makes them vulnerable to vandalism,” he said.

Many of the 43 nonoperational lighthouses have had their equipment stolen, while some have been damaged by natural disasters, according to Balilo.

Inspection teams

The PCG’s Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) periodically deploys field maintenance and inspection teams around the country to undertake repairs to the system of lighthouses.

The MSSC itself is a busy Coast Guard division involved in maritime safety and environment regulation enforcement, interisland communications as well as salvage operations, management of buoys, and antioil spill operations.

According to PCG statistics, Central and Eastern Visayas have the most number of lighthouses, with 127, followed by Southern Tagalog, 101; and Northern Mindanao, 56. Western Visayas has the most number of nonoperating lighthouses, with nine, followed by northern Luzon and Palawan, with eight and seven, respectively.

Victorian design

Apart from serving as signal stations and beacons for oceangoing ships through the centuries, a few lighthouses of the Spanish period, particularly those in the Visayas and Mindanao, served as watchtowers against pirates and slave traders.

The Paris-based International Council on Monument and Sites (Icomos) recognizes the heritage value of the Philippines’ Spanish-era lighthouses, which are mainly of Victorian design.

Constructed by Spain’s renowned Inteligencia del Cuerpo de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos (or the Corps of Engineers for Roads, Canals and Ports), the lighthouses were built to protect burgeoning maritime trade in late 19th-century Philippines.

“These structures located in the most beautiful and spectacular sites, lonely isolated islets, cliffs, barren rock outcrops, bluffs, capes and points, are testament to the commitment the Spanish colonial government had in the Philippines to modernize it and make it competitive at the dawn of the 20th century,” Noche wrote in an article in the Icomos website.

First lighthouse

According to Noche, the first lighthouse in the country was erected on the mouth of the Pasig River to protect the Mexico-bound galleons.

The Spaniards also made lighthouses of fabricated metal. Called “tourelles,” they were manufactured in France and assembled on site. A few tourelles still stand on the coasts of or isles off Iloilo, Cebu, Sorsogon and La Union.

Major lighthouses have pavilions and verandahs made of wood and metal where lighthouse personnel and visitors can view the surroundings.

It was during the American colonial and Commonwealth periods that permanent quarters for lighthouse personnel were built.

“The Spanish colonial lighthouses built over 100 years ago still serve their master well. Guiding ships to their ports of call, these structures, stripped of their dignity, still stand proud in their lonely windswept locations. Yet even with time and the elements acting against them, the beauty that the Spanish engineers erected on our soil cannot be erased.

Inheritors of patrimony

“It is time that we, the inheritors of this patrimony do what we can to ensure its survival for the next 100 years. For these lights not only lit the souls and imaginations of those who chanced upon them they also guided a nation to progress,” wrote Noche.

Balilo agrees, saying that while the PCG does not have enough funds to convert the country’s lighthouses into sophisticated ones, the lanterns and the towers are still important guideposts for travelers in an archipelago like the Philippines.

In other countries, some lighthouses are virtual robots and have GPS (global positioning satellite), cameras and radio receivers, he noted.

“The lighthouses still serve our local fishermen and boat travelers who do not venture far from the shore. When GPS and radios fail and visibility is poor during storms and rough seas, it is always a comfort to get a view of light coming from a lighthouse, knowing that land and safety are near,” Balilo said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20110109-313339/Sentinels-of-heritage-guide-PHs-progress-light-its-soul

This is the lighthouse in Poro Point:

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_jEIY5jVlKKo/RjXx76P1_FI/AAAAAAAAAb8/xeATs1QxPNw/s640/DSC06646.JPG

photo surce: http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PfkEWBy3DJzjVvG_CBr8tw

saintm

January 9th, 2011, 08:54 AM

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h1SHif66gFk/TQCbsZuhhoI/AAAAAAAAADM/5s7xKgtimTc/s800/SFLU.JPG
SAN FERNANDO LA UNION BRANCH

Pagadianongyud

January 9th, 2011, 09:33 AM

Yeah, it will!:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

thats it... I can see the spirit... :angel1:

william :D

January 9th, 2011, 11:46 AM

Malapit na fiesta ng San Fernando! sa ngayon inihahanda na yung mga stalls para sa trade fair na magaganap pati narin yung mga dekorasyon sa plaza

Dapat lang na patayuan ng mga magaganda at makukulay na buildings dito sa San Fernando. nakakahiya naman kay Thunderbird Resort hehehe. Pinapaganda rin ngayon ng mga ibang owners yung lumang buildings nila dito para magamit for rent

Happy fiesta!!!!!
:eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::eat::eat:
:banana::banana::banana::banana:

oo nga tama si 296619 magaganda buildings ng San Fernando.haha, ano nga pala highest building diyan? ilang storey? :)

Photo by: express000 http://www.flickr.com/photos/25653307@N03/3403781107/sizes/z/in/photostream/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3403781107_fa19325853_z.jpg

tagal pa siguro bago ma-abot ang San Fernando ng Northrail...

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 11:56 AM

Malapit na fiesta namin. wala pang nakapost na schedule. in 2 weeks magsisimula ang Fiesta ng San Fernando

ANg pinakamataas na building sa San Fernando ay ang Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas La Union Regional Office. I think 7 or 8 stories siya na may taas na mga 28 meters. May 8-storey building rin dito kaso mga 24-26 meters lang ang taas, bale iyon ang Marand Tower (Tower na ang liit ??? hehehe:lol::lol::lol:)

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 11:58 AM

william :D

January 9th, 2011, 12:02 PM

Yup, matagal pa dumating ang Northrail dito, pero sana maumpisahan bago man lang matapos ang termino ni P-Noy. Sana ay mapalakas ang Private-Public relationships sa mga proyekto ng gobyerno nang mapondohan ang mga proyektong ito

oo naalala ko nga yung sinabi mo..sana salubong ang ginawa.
Malapit na fiesta namin. wala pang nakapost na schedule. in 2 weeks magsisimula ang Fiesta ng San Fernando

ANg pinakamataas na building sa San Fernando ay ang Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas La Union Regional Office. I think 7 or 8 stories siya na may taas na mga 28 meters. May 8-storey building rin dito kaso mga 24-26 meters lang ang taas, bale iyon ang Marand Tower (Tower na ang liit ??? hehehe:lol::lol::lol:)

samin sa Malolos may ginagawang Tower na 10-storey. di nagkakalayo dyan.hehe :)

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 12:06 PM

oo naalala ko nga yung sinabi mo..sana salubong ang ginawa.

samin sa Malolos may ginagawang Tower na 10-storey. di nagkakalayo dyan.hehe :)

wahaha sinabon pa kami ng instructor namin nun sa OJT kasi bakit daw may "Tower" ang pangalan ng building na pinag-OJThan namin ang sabi nalang namin na iyon lang ang gustong ipangalan ng may-ari sa building niya, kahit kailangan talaga na mataas yung building para matawag na tower iyon:lol::lol::lol::lol:

william :D

January 9th, 2011, 12:08 PM

wahaha sinabon pa kami ng instructor namin nun sa OJT kasi bakit daw may "Tower" ang pangalan ng building na pinag-OJThan namin ang sabi nalang namin na iyon lang ang gustong ipangalan ng may-ari sa building niya, kahit kailangan talaga na mataas yung building para matawag na tower iyon:lol::lol::lol::lol:

haha.di niya siguro nakikita yon, o kaya hindi niya alam ang pangalan kaya sinabon kayo.haha :lol::lol:

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 12:10 PM

haha.di niya siguro nakikita yon, o kaya hindi niya alam ang pangalan kaya sinabon kayo.haha :lol::lol:

nakikita rin niya.:lol::lol::lol: How I wish may makita rin akong high-rise dito sa amin hehehe

william :D

January 9th, 2011, 12:30 PM

^^hugo magkakaroon din yan! malay mo ikaw pa ang engr non! :okay:

EDMARATION

January 9th, 2011, 12:52 PM

^^hugo magkakaroon din yan! malay mo ikaw pa ang engr non! :okay:

------------
oo nga naman hugo, malay mo, ikaw un... Sana magkaroon narin ng high-rise dito sa Vigan, currently kasi isang 9-storey at isang 10-storey lang ang highrise sa Vigan... Ang Ilocos Norte nakaangat na, may highrise condos and hotel na doon... So, kelangan talaga ng political will!!!

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 12:58 PM

------------
oo nga naman hugo, malay mo, ikaw un... Sana magkaroon narin ng high-rise dito sa Vigan, currently kasi isang 9-storey at isang 10-storey lang ang highrise sa Vigan... Ang Ilocos Norte nakaangat na, may highrise condos and hotel na doon... So, kelangan talaga ng political will!!!

SUPER LIKE! :okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay::okay:Political will talaga ang kailangan ng mga opisyal natin, yun bang hindi napupulitika ang mga pagpasok ng investments!

william :D

January 9th, 2011, 02:12 PM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs186.ash2/44893_159575074070991_119418201420012_404381_5590684_n.jpg

Thunderbird Resorts, Poro Point La Union
by Johann Ong

Paradise is nestled on a scenic cliff, overlooking the white sand beach and the edge of a headland that dips into the South China Sea. It’s a place where East meets West, and where nature’s beauty is heightened by a life of luxury. - thunderbirdresorts.com
photo credits to the owner. (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=159575074070991&set=a.133066090055223.18184.119418201420012)

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 02:52 PM

hugodiekonig

January 9th, 2011, 02:54 PM

This Mediterranean-inspired oasis gives La Union tourism a boost, and provides a perfect venue for company seminars, family outings and weekend getaways
By EM P. GUEVARA
August 1, 2010, 10:40am

If your idea of relaxation is golf, beach, great food, five-star accommodations, and casino thrills come nighttime—or any time of the day, for that matter—Thunderbird Resorts has got the goods for you.

Thunderbird Resorts, Inc., an international property developer of dynamic, themed and integrated venues anchored by casinos, has been enjoying operations in the country for the past five years. The Philippines is its first market in Asia and serves as its platform for development in Southeast Asia.

The other countries it operates in are Panama, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Poland and India. Its subsidiaries and affiliated companies currently have 5,700 employees and manage approximately $170 million in entertainment and hospitality revenues.

Thunderbird Resorts in Poro Point, La Union opened in 2006, the property developer’s second hotel and gaming facility in the country. The first is in Binangonan, Rizal, which opened in 2005. The Mediterranean-inspired property in the peninsula of Poro Point in San Fernando, La Union is the only five-star hotel in the North. Nestled on a scenic cliff overlooking the sandy beaches of the South China Sea, it is located in the former Wallace airbase. It comes with a full set of world-class services and amenities, namely Vegas Café, Cabana Bar, Olives Restaurant, Santorini Lounge & Bar, The Pool Bar, The Cliffs Golf & Beach Club, and Fiesta Casino.

Fiesta Casino is said to offer the best gaming experience, with the latest slot machines and table games, and exciting raffle promotions and special events. Other resort amenities are in-house massage service, infinity pool and children’s pool, volleyball and basketball courts, boardwalk and outdoor events center, and complimentary Wi-Fi and Internet hook-up.

CSR Initiatives

Thunderbird Resorts is not all business without a social conscience. It has “TREES”, an ongoing nature preservation and social responsibility program that aims to cultivate a green culture in its employees. It is an acronym for Thunderbird Resorts Efforts on Environment Sustainability.

Among its activities have been the simultaneous tree planting activities held in Rizal and Poro Point In support of the International Day for Climate Change. Medical missions are also regularly conducted to help the resorts’ surrounding communities. Thunderbird Resorts was also one of the first companies to organize relief efforts in Rizal and La Union when these areas were badly hit by typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.

Expansion Plans

Only 45 hectares of the 65-hectare property in Poro Point have been developed, and the company is in the process of adding nine more holes to The Cliffs Golf & Beach Club, which currently offers a par 36 nine-hole golf course. The hotel is also set to expand by 46 more rooms from its current 32, and four luxury suites that overlook the sea and golf course. The company will also launch The Point Residences, an exclusive residential zone, featuring prime cottages and villas.

“Our amenities at Thunderbird Resorts have been attracting foreign and local tourists, and balikbayans,” says Senior Property Director Shaun Thomsen. “The resort has been popular for the casino entertainment, for family outings, and for wedding receptions and other special events; many companies also conduct conferences and team-building seminars here, so we are in the process of building more meeting rooms, which will be ready by September,” he explains.

Speaking of the Philippines as a whole, Country Manager Fabio Moretti says, “I think we’ll have a lot of growth in the Philippines—of all the countries we are in in the world, it’s going to be our highest growth market, so we plan on making significant additional investments here.”

The company is exploring new areas to duplicate the success of the two properties, thus providing more jobs and opportunities for Filipinos in the process. At present, around 1,240 personnel are employed for both properties.

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/270033