San Fernando City and La Union Province [Archive] - Page 24

hugodiekonig

March 4th, 2011, 07:17 PM

Saturday, March 5, 2011

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union -- Governor Manuel Ortega led Wednesday the observance of the 16lst foundation anniversary of La Union, which kicked off with a thanksgiving mass in front of the provincial Capitol and an agro-industrial fair that started a week earlier.

At least 161 balloons, 161 butterflies and two doves symbolizing peace and unity were released during a commemorative program marking the occasion. This year's celebration theme is "Working for Sustainable Peace, Order and Progress for All."

La Union, with an area of 1,504 square kilometers, was founded March 2, 1850. It is bordered by the province of Pangasinan in the south, Ilocos Sur in the north and Benguet in the east and the Lingayen Gulf in the west.

In his speech, Governor Ortega exhorted his province mates to maintain peace and unity to ensure continuous progress and prosperity all over La Union.

The anniversary celebration already started last Feb. 25 with the opening of the One Town One Product (Otop) Agri-Pinoy Trade Fair and Tourism Exposition 2011, participated in by 19 municipalities and a lone city, which displayed their native products.

During the exposition, competitions were held in search for the "Best Otop LGU 2011" - Food and Non-Food Categories, Best Otop Field Demo Dancing, and Pinakalympics and Pet Photo Contest.

An Agri-Pinoy symposium was also held where topics like "Climate Change Mitigation Technologies for the Province of La Union" and the "Use of Urine in Agriculture" were discussed.

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) also conducted a lecture on livelihood opportunities.

An electric float parade was held in Agoo town Tuesday night where representatives of each municipality and the city paraded, along with their respective muses who vied for "Mutya ng La Union."

The search for the "Mutya ng La Union" Wednesday night capped the celebration.

La Union is a province that comprises two congressional district.

The first district includes San Fernando City and the municipalities of Bacnotan, Balaoan, Bangar, Luna, San Gabriel, San Juan, Santol, and Sudipen.

The second district comprises the towns of Agoo, Aringay, Bagulin, Bauang, Burgos, Caba, Naguilian, Pugo, Rosario, Sto. Tomas, and Tubao.

San Fernando City is the regional center of the Ilocos-Pangasinan region. (Leonardo V. Micua)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2011/03/05/la-union-celebrates-161st-founding-anniversary-143116

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

hugodiekonig

March 5th, 2011, 09:45 AM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3414/3299783655_03e7ebd75a_b.jpg

aragon_alvin (http://www.flickr.com/photos/11791008@N08/3299783655/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 5th, 2011, 09:47 AM

Wow! Nice photos, ang gagara ng mga custumes nila sir. Ano ang nahirang na best OTOP LGU 2011? At ano ang products nila?:)

Congratz Launion province for a successful celebration!:)

hugodiekonig

March 5th, 2011, 09:48 AM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3408496974_2d7902f030_b.jpg

guirmashots (http://www.flickr.com/photos/guirshots/3408496974/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 5th, 2011, 09:53 AM

Wow! Nice photos, ang gagara ng mga custumes nila sir. Ano ang nahirang na best OTOP LGU 2011? At ano ang products nila?:)

Congratz Launion province for a successful celebration!:)

Wow salamat! Napakagaganda ng mga native costumes ng mga kandidata ng Mutya ng La Union, galing sa mga produkto ng La Union. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang nanalong LGU ngayon sa OTOP. Bale heto ang mga products ng mga towns ng La Union

Agoo - mga rice products (kakanin)
Aringay - bangus
Bacnotan - honeybee
Bagulin - soft brooms
Bangar - abel
Balaoan - sea urchin
Bauang - guapple
Burgos - soft brooms
Caba - mais ata
Luna - pebbles
Naguilian - basi
Pugo - wooden furniture
Rosario - wooden furniture
San Gabriel - mga gulay
San Juan - mais
Santo Tomas- dried fish
Santol - prutas
Sudipen - bamboo crafts
Tubao - mais, tabako
San Fernando City - bamboo handicrafts

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 5th, 2011, 10:02 AM

hugodiekonig

March 5th, 2011, 11:32 AM

Kakaiba yung San Juan Municipal hall design. Ang ganda.:)

Baka galing sa inyo yung mga chichacorn na benibenta dito sa Manila saka mga dried fish. Galing naman, daming products. Tagal ko ng di nakatikim ng basi he he.

malamang may galing din ng La Union, usually siguro ng mga binebentang chichacorn diyan galing ng Vigan or Laoag. Sana may galing din ng La Union hehehe. Kapag mag-visit ka dito sa Naguilian tikim ka ng basi:cheers:

helorider14

March 5th, 2011, 12:25 PM

Kakaiba yung San Juan Municipal hall design. Ang ganda.:)

dalawa pala ang Presidencia sa La Union, San Juan and Agoo. The Old Presidencia in AGOO is now the Museo Iloko.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/DSC02377.jpg

hugodiekonig

March 5th, 2011, 05:42 PM

dalawa pala ang Presidencia sa La Union, San Juan and Agoo. The Old Presidencia in AGOO is now the Museo Iloko.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/DSC02377.jpg

Ngayon ko lang napansin, they have the similar architecture/facade

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 12:14 AM

By Tarra Quismundo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:09:00 03/06/2011

Filed Under: Human Interest, Family, Philippines - Regions, Americas - United States, Foreign affairs & international relations, Charity, Education

MANILA, Philippines—There’s nothing like Filipino ways to make this American couple feel right at home.

He was teased mercilessly whenever he did the laundry. She was always urged to eat the “double banana” so she would bear twins when the time comes.

In a home they shared with a family of 10, Scott Kumis and Jessica Folk experienced the Filipino sense of family—loving and enduring beyond age, laid-back and playful despite meager means.

“I think I smile more here,” said Jessica, 31, a teacher.

“I think the strong family culture of the Philippines is so important, and it’s such a beautiful thing. It’s what welcomed us into this country and [it’s important] to be able to go back [to the United States] and share that,” said Scott, 32, a lawyer.

Scott and Jessica are among 204 US Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) now serving in the Philippines, one couple among eight. They had only been married nine months when they, sweethearts since their late teens, arrived in August 2009 to begin their two-year service.

They spoke with the Inquirer at a reception on March 1 at the residence of US Ambassador Harry Thomas in North Forbes, Makati City, to celebrate the corps’ 50th anniversary.

Open doors, homes

Some 8,300 American volunteers have served in the Philippine Peace Corps Program—the second oldest among the US Peace Corps programs—since 1961, pursuing projects involving education, coastal resource management, and child, youth and family concerns.

“I don’t think we could ask for a better host. Homes, doors are opened wide for volunteers to come in. They become a member of the family,” said Sonia Derenoncourt, US PCV country director.

The same level of support has been constant from both local and national governments, Derenoncourt said, noting how Philippine officials had continued to request volunteers to serve in their respective towns or agencies.

“I think what is most striking to them is exactly the hospitality of the people, their joy of living,” she said.

Scott Kumis and Jessica Folk experienced this firsthand when they stayed with an extended family in the fourth-class municipality of Caba, La Union, located midway to their workplaces: he at a rehabilitation center for children in conflict with the law in Bauang, and she at the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University in Agoo.

Scott, an avid drummer, teaches music to out-of-school boys at the center as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program. He hopes to raise funds to purchase new musical instruments that the center can use after he leaves.

Jessica, who trains local teachers in educating special-needs children, aims to establish a resource center where teachers, students and community members may learn about effective methodologies in special education teaching.

Family life

Scott noted a difference in the way Americans and Filipinos cared for elderly family members.

“There’s certainly a good family culture in the US as well, but I don’t see people going to nursing homes in the Philippines,” he said. “People live with their family and [they are cared for] until they die, and it’s so beautiful. It’s nice to bring that back to the US, to remind people of that.”

Far from living the independent life they led in their native Chicago, the couple found, lived and shared a lesson that may well cultivate a long and lasting marriage.

“We lived with our host family for almost a year. We still live near them. That is quite a change from being extremely independent adults to becoming a part of a family, and how you work well within an established family,” Jessica said.

The stay came with a generous sprinkling of Filipino humor.

“I got laughed at every day that I was doing the laundry. The lolo (grandfather) in our house would come out, he’d see me, and he’d be like, ‘Oh, Scott’s doing the washing,’” Scott recalled, chuckling.

Added Jessica: “We were always given double bananas, because if you eat a double banana, it means that you’re going to have twins. And everyone wants us to have twins, so we’ll take one back with us and leave one with them here.”

(US PCV couples are not allowed to bear children during their stay in the Philippines.)

Shared experience

The shared experience of being adopted by a Filipino family is one souvenir that the couple will take with them when they leave before the end of the year.

“It’s interesting that as we move on with our careers after this, we have a common experience to draw from. Not many married couples do that ... And by sharing this experience, we have this common starting point for the rest of our lives,” Scott said.

“You know, in the US, sometimes when your parents get older, you put them in a nursing home. That will never happen here. You take care of your family. That’s something I definitely learned and will take back home with me,” he said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20110306-323729/Peace-Corps-newlyweds-at-home-with-Filipino-family-of-10

:cheers::cheers:

helorider14

March 6th, 2011, 12:18 AM

^^wow!

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 01:31 AM

^^
^^
Very heart warming! This is a very good trait for us Filipinos that we take care of our elders:banana:

ergit222

March 6th, 2011, 02:47 AM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00170-20110305-1222.jpg

ergit222

March 6th, 2011, 02:51 AM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00169-20110305-1142.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00168-20110305-1142.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00166-20110305-1141.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00165-20110305-1141.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00164-20110305-1141.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00163-20110305-1141.jpg

"Sunset Bay Beach Resort is situated in the northern province of La Union - close to San Fernando City and Bauang, overlooking the Luzon Sea. The Resort is well within reach of San Juan for surfing, Baguio, Vigan and Laoag as well as the mountain provinces. In its own well established tropical gardens, this small secluded resort fronts onto a safe white sandy beach, which is for the most part deserted. The sea is crystal clear, ideal for snorkelling.

A coral reef extends about 100 yards from the shore, an ideal place for both young and old to explore the wonders of nature, particularly at low tide. Boat trips can be arranged for visiting nearby beaches or fishing. For those who prefer it, an infinity pool provides cool relaxation with its jacuzzi and waterfall. We pride ourselves on our friendly personal service and tranquil relaxing surroundings" - http://sunsetbayphilippines.com/

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 03:09 AM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00170-20110305-1222.jpg

I saw this big plane one time when I was in my classmate's house at Canaoay. Are there still plans to expand the airport, especially in extending the runway?

ergit222

March 6th, 2011, 03:55 AM

I saw this big plane one time when I was in my classmate's house at Canaoay. Are there still plans to expand the airport, especially in extending the runway?

The runway’s improvements include runway extension and widening to 2,120 from 1,320 meters and to 45 from 36 meters respectively. It can accommodate Boeing 737s and the Airbus 320s. That is what La Union and the region need for now and extending the runway will require costly reclamation and expropriation on the part of the government. :)

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 04:26 AM

The runway’s improvements include runway extension and widening to 2,120 from 1,320 meters and to 45 from 36 meters respectively. It can accommodate Boeing 737s and the Airbus 320s. That is what La Union and the region need for now and extending the runway will require costly reclamation and expropriation on the part of the government. :)

I hope the government would strive further in promoting tourism in San Fernando and the whole La Union as well to attract more airline companies to open their flights here. If demand rises and the and the return on investment on the development of the airport satisfies the investor, then maybe the airport will expand. :banana::cheers:

ergit222

March 6th, 2011, 04:51 AM

I hope the government would strive further in promoting tourism in San Fernando and the whole La Union as well to attract more airline companies to open their flights here. If demand rises and the and the return on investment on the development of the airport satisfies the investor, then maybe the airport will expand. :banana::cheers:
that's true...tourism is a multibillion-dollar industry. it is an inter-connection of businesses such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, transportation, entertainment, shopping malls, theaters, concerts, bars, souvenir shops etc. Also, ship chandlng and other services that will serve and supply these interconnected businesses mentioned.
our government should help strengthen a vibrant business atmosphere in La Union in order to achieve what you have in mind...:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 04:57 AM

that's true...tourism is a multibillion-dollar industry. it is an inter-connection of businesses such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, transportation, entertainment, shopping malls, theaters, concerts, bars, souvenir shops etc. Also, ship chandlng and other services that will serve and supply these interconnected businesses mentioned.
our government should help strengthen a vibrant business atmosphere in La Union in order to achieve what you have in mind...:cheers:

Certainly! An ambitious vision that the government must also have for our province:cheers::banana:

hugodiekonig

March 6th, 2011, 01:39 PM

By Freddie Lazo
March 6, 2011, 6:55pm

SINAIT, Ilocos Sur, Philippines — Two pre-dawn tectonic mild quakes hit Luzon areas today (Sunday) while three other mild tremors shook Babuyan Island and Southern Leyte province on late afternoon and evening last Saturday but no reported damage and no expected aftershock, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) satellite based here.

Local Phivolcs Researcher Julius Galdiano said the first pre-dawn quake today (Sunday) happened at 2:44 a.m. with magnitude 2.9 and its epicenter was traced at 19 kilometers northwest of San Fernando City, La Union with a depth of 79 kilometers but no intensity recorded.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/307823/2-quakes-hit-luzon

:nuts::nuts:

william :D

March 7th, 2011, 11:29 AM

Wow salamat! Napakagaganda ng mga native costumes ng mga kandidata ng Mutya ng La Union, galing sa mga produkto ng La Union. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang nanalong LGU ngayon sa OTOP. Bale heto ang mga products ng mga towns ng La Union

Agoo - mga rice products (kakanin)
Aringay - bangus
Bacnotan - honeybee
Bagulin - soft brooms
Bangar - abel
Balaoan - sea urchin
Bauang - guapple
Burgos - soft brooms
Caba - mais ata
Luna - pebbles
Naguilian - basi
Pugo - wooden furniture
Rosario - wooden furniture
San Gabriel - mga gulay
San Juan - mais
Santo Tomas- dried fish
Santol - prutas
Sudipen - bamboo crafts
Tubao - mais, tabako
San Fernando City - bamboo handicrafts

wow iba-iba ang mga products! gusto ko makatikim ng sea urchin, hehe.

Perseus II

March 7th, 2011, 03:47 PM

hugodiekonig

March 7th, 2011, 08:17 PM

@hugo, nagtanong ako sa Genesis kung ano ang last trip nila sa San Fernando pabalik ng Maynila, ang sabi ng konduktor, 5pm daw. As in ganun kaaga :ohno: parang ang aga naman masyado kung alas 5 pa lang eh uuwi na.

Wala ka bang alam dyan na pwedeng sakyan pabalik kung sakaling pumunta sa San Fernando? :)

5pm? Depende siguro sa araw at sa season. Ang first trip nila sa araw ay every 2am

Ang Partas naman ang maraming biyahe, every 30 minutes ang biyahe hanggang 12, tapos marami ring dumadaan na ibang aircon buses like florida, Fariñas, etc.

hugodiekonig

March 7th, 2011, 08:20 PM

wow iba-iba ang mga products! gusto ko makatikim ng sea urchin, hehe.

Sana makapasyal kana rin dito sa San Fernando:banana::banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

March 7th, 2011, 08:22 PM

bs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 03/07/2011 5:32 PM | Updated as of 03/07/2011 5:32 PM

MANILA, Philippines - This summer, people have more time to try new things, such as surfing, yoga and samba.

Here's something, however, that lets you try all 3 activities at once.

"FLOW: SurfYogaSamba", a weekend retreat in La Union to be held from April 9 to 11, aims to "unify the body, mind and soul" by practicing yoga, surfing, dancing and creating music, and eating healthy food.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sites/default/files/a_images/topics/lifestyle/flowsurfyogasamba.jpg

"A lot of people want to try surfing, yoga and samba. And they can try it all here at once," Denise Gonzales, a partner at FLOW: SurfYogaSamba, said in an interview on ANC's Shop Talk aired last week.

She continued, "Healthy meals are included throughout the weekend as part of the package. Everything is covered for that whole weekend."

The weekend retreat, which costs P7,500, includes 2 Vinyasa yoga sessions with Monica Eleazar-Manzano, 2 surfing lessons with Luke Landrigan of the Billabong San Juan Surf School, 2 samba lessons, and Brazilian batucada samba drumming led by Escola de Samba de Manila.

The fee also covers round-trip transfers from Manila to La Union, a 2-night accommodation at San Juan Surf Resort, meals and snacks, T-shirts and other freebies.

Gonzales claimed that the retreat has also helped participants cope with breakups and other problems in their lives.

"We get to make deeper relationships. Some people do this (FLOW) when they want something to do, like they just had a breakup and they do this instead of sulking," she said.

She ended, "A lot of people think that FLOW is for girls only, but we actually want more men to join us."

For more information about FLOW: SurfYogaSamba, visit their multiply site or contact Monica at (63917) 294-3441.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/03/07/11/surf-yoga-or-samba-weekend-retreat-offers-all-3

:banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 7th, 2011, 08:23 PM

By: Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 7 (PIA) -- Under-declaration of sales which resulted in tax deficiency of more or less Php2,000,000.00 and non-issuance of receipts to customers led to the temporary closure of the Consumer-Friendly Trading along Poblacion East, Rosario, this province.

The Consumer-Friendly Trading, a grocery store owned by a certain Shirley D. Chu, was visited and given the order of its temporary closure by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) executives of the regional office and the revenue district office-3 (RDO-3) last Friday, March 4.

The temporary closure and padlocking of the said establishment was conducted by the “Oplan Kandado” operation team of the BIR-RDO3 headed by revenue district officer (RDO) Erlinda Victorino and Assistant RDO Ernesto Mangabat, with BIR regional director attorney Arnel S.D. Guballa and assistant regional director Attorney Ernesto D. De Vota.

In an interview during the operation, Victorino said that after two weeks of surveillance, tax mapping and validation, the owner continuously committed the same violation which is against Section 115 of the Tax Code of 1997 or Republic Act 8424.

“For the meantime, since we have received the closure order from the commissioner, yun na muna ang gagawin natin at kapag nakita nila ito at gusto nilang mabuksan uli, they have to write a letter to the regional director for the lifting of the closure order,” Victorino said

She added that for this year, this was the first case of temporary closure order given in the province.

Meanwhile, Director Guballa appealed to all taxpayers in the province to pay their correct/right taxes.

“Nalulungkot din kami that we have to undergo the process of closure but since they are not complying, we have no recourse but to implement the order,” Guballa added.

Director Guballa added that they also conducted the same padlocking/closure of an establishment in Vigan, Ilocos Sur a day earlier.

“Kagagaling ko lang kahapon sa Ilocos Sur at ngayon nga ay nandito kami sa La Union to implement the closure order kaya this is our second for the year 2011,” Guballa said (JCR/MPA/PIA1-La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=20751

hugodiekonig

March 7th, 2011, 08:24 PM

By: Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 7 (PIA) – Repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Libya can now file for financial assistance worth ten (10) thousand pesos from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – Regional Office 1 (OWWA-RO1), officer-in charge Esperanza Cubarrubias said.

In an interview, Cubarrubias said that OFW returnees from Libya have started filing their application for financial assistance with their office. “Hindi na sila mahihirapan dahil pagkatapos ma-verify na hindi pa sila nakapag-file sa Manila ay agaran na nilang makukuha ang kanilang tseke dito sa opisina”, she said.

Aside from the financial assistance, OWWA offers scholarship grants worth P14, 500.00 for technical-vocational courses and active membership in any Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) accredited schools of their choice, provided they submit the required documents such as passport, travel documents and 2 pieces 2x2 picture.

“We have also coordinated with the different school councilors with the help of Sister Edith Pamparo from the Diocese of San Fernando, this province, for the stress-debriefing to be conducted for OFWs in distress”, Cubarrubias added.

With the activation of OWWA’s “Libreng Tawag”, a free three to five minutes call, relatives of OFWs in Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and New Zealand who want to get in touch with their OFW relative can go to their office located at the Grand floor, Zambrano Bldg. Quezon Ave. San Fernando City.

For returnees who are seeking employment abroad, OWWA can refer them to the Philippine Overseas Employment Office and to the Department of Labor and Employment.

Cubarrubias also said they are on 24/7 operations and plan to establish an OFW desk in Pangasinan to cater to more OFW returnees. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=20810

ergit222

March 8th, 2011, 11:51 AM

hugodiekonig

March 8th, 2011, 12:02 PM

hehehe. grabe...P7,500 sa tatlong activities lang...anyway this will be great for La Union tourism. this "surfyogasamba" must be catered to deep pocketed and greatly stressed out clients especially in metro manila.

This is good in La Union tourism, especially that summer is fast approaching:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 8th, 2011, 07:25 PM

By: Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 8 (PIA) --- Stakeholders in the region celebrates today International Women’s Day as part of the month-long celebration of Women’s Month this March.

A fun walk at 7:00 in the morning around the city kicked-off the day’s activities participated in by representatives from the regional line agencies, local government units and non-government organizations.

Streamers and tarpaulins containing the celebration and this year’s theme, “Magna Carta of Women, Philippine CEDAW: In Support of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)” were displayed during the fun walk informing the public on the celebration and its importance in people’s lives, particularly MDG Goal 3's vision of‘promoting gender equality and empowering women’.

An ecumenical service followed at the Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol, this city, after the fun walk followed by a short program.

In the program, Governor Manuel Ortega of the province of La Union is expected to give his welcome message with his wife, Geraldine Ortega, the Chairperson of the Board of the La Union Vibrant Women, Inc. as the guest of honor and speaker.

Other activities scheduled for the month include forum on environmental issues and concerns focusing on climate change and waste management, skills training on body massage theraphy with men and women as recipients, tree planting and other individual agency's activities to highlight MDG-3 goal.

Heigthened advocacy is being undertaken by the Philippine Information Agency in the region using its various in-house radio progams with a kick-off live program dubbed as "Ammuentayo" over DZNL Aksyon Radyo, this city, was held last March 3 witrh the Region 1 Advocates for Gender Equality (RAGE-1) as guest.

Today’s celebration, including the scheduled month-long activities is spearheaded by the RAGE-1 with the elected president from the National Police Commission – Region I Assistant Regional Director Angelita Concepcion leading the activities. (PIA1-La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=20926

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 12:50 PM

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 9 (PNA) -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) District Office No. 3 closed down a grocery store in Poblacion East, Rosario, La Union last week under its "Operation Kandado."

The Consumer-Friendly Trading, a grocery-store owned by Shirley Chu, was found under-declaring its gross sales that resulted in tax deficiency of about P2 million.

The BIR found the grocery store violation after two weeks of surveillance for non-issuance of official receipts to its customers.

The establishment was slapped with the temporarily closure order last March 4 during a visit by officials of the BIR regional office and Revenue District Office-3 (RDO-3).

The closure order was served by a BIR team headed by Revenue District Officer (RDO) Erlinda Victorino and Assistant RDO Ernesto Mangabat, along with BIR Regional Director Arnel S.D. Guballa and Assistant Regional Director Ernesto D. De Vota.

After two weeks of surveillance, tax mapping and validation, the owner continuously committed the same violation which is against Section 115 of the Tax Code of 1997 or Republic Act No. 8424, Victorino said.

If the owner of the establishment wants her store to be reopened, she has to write a letter to the BIR Regional Director and pay her tax deficiencies, Victorino added.

On the other hand, Director Guballa appealed to all taxpayers in the province to pay their correct/right taxes.

He said the subject of "Operation Kandado" are delinquent taxpayers who, after giving them enough due process and notices, still commit the violations and failed to comply with their tax obligations due the government.

Under the "Operation Kandado," the BIR earlier padlocked one establishment in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. (PNA)
scs/FFC/LVM/rma

http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Cities_And_Towns_23/BIR_closes_down_establishment_in_La_Union_for_under-declaring_sales.shtml

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 01:25 PM

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/172341_1567497920026_1612790914_31113983_1397986_o.jpg

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
13th FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY

March 18 (Friday),

8:00 a.m.
Flag Raising and Wreath Laying Rites (Don Pacoy Monument) Infront of City Hall

9:00 a.m.
Mass Wedding and Baptismal
St. William Cathedral

7:00 p.m.
Graduation Ball
Diego Silang Hall

March 19 (Saturday)

7:00 a.m.
Street Dancing
To end up at City Plaza Glorietta

4:00 p.m.
Commemorative Mass
Bacsil Ridge

5:00 p.m.
Commemorative Program of the Victory of Bacsil Ridge and Awarding Rites
Awarding of Veterans

March 20
(Sunday)

7:00 a.m.
Bike Race

2:00 p.m.
Blessing of the Legislative Building
Provincial Capitol

4:00 p.m.
Rabii ti Pammadayaw
Diego Silang Hall
* City Service Awards
* Pagwadan Awards

7:00 p.m.
San Fernando Got Talent
City Plaza

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 01:40 PM

New Schedule of Zest Air Flights to San Fernando, La Union

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6z4iLKxxfYs/TXSfGePXyeI/AAAAAAAACA4/ucq0aC2rZsQ/s400/zest-air_flyer-rev_poro-for-web400.jpg

New ZEST AIR Flight Schedule to San Fernando, La Union:

From March 7 to April 16, 2011

Manila/San Fernando 1430/1530

San Fernando/Manila 1600/1700

From April 17 until further notice

Manila/San Fernando 1310/1425

San Fernando/Manila 1505/1620

The changes in the flight schedule are due to the ongoing Zestair C check (aircraft maintenance procedure). Please be reminded that all passengers should check in 1 hour prior to flight schedule.

Book your flights to San Fernando, La Union through Thunderbird Resorts and get the lowest airfare deals! Call 886.5555 to inquire about flight bookings.

www.thunderbird-asia.com

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 01:45 PM

http://www.thunderbird-asia.com/images/promotions.gif
http://www.thunderbird-asia.com/

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 02:40 PM

http://multiply.com/mu/mgss98/image/2/photos/24/600x600/2/0.JPG?et=qcY8DLxGUCZIm8RCU8SaJg&nmid=95779708

http://multiply.com/mu/mgss98/image/2/photos/24/600x600/5/3.JPG?et=xqXnQAUYcAuYfasHv%2Birhw&nmid=95779708

http://multiply.com/mu/mgss98/image/2/photos/24/500x500/7/5.JPG?et=sTdHqlF2JzOthPCgEpXt1w&nmid=95779708

http://multiply.com/mu/mgss98/image/2/photos/24/600x600/9/7.JPG?et=A2kDrH2Ko1CxtRVYDyEEDw&nmid=95779708

http://mgss98.multiply.com/photos/album/24/Whats_in_Poro_Point_La_Union#photo=9

296619

March 9th, 2011, 03:55 PM

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/308383/cityhood-fight-back-sc

LCP fights back!

hugodiekonig

March 9th, 2011, 11:33 PM

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/308383/cityhood-fight-back-sc

LCP fights back!

Kailangan ng review ng mga qualifications for citihood. pero kung iyan ang desossyon ng supreme court, iyon ang executory, pero kung hindi man talaga qualified na cities ang mga 16 municipalities na ito ay kailangan talaga ng protest.

Ang effect nito sa San Fernando, La Union ay decrease sa IRA ng P23 million. malaki iyon:ohno::ohno::ohno:

hugodiekonig

March 10th, 2011, 04:23 PM

By U.S. News Agency / Asian

At least 593 workers benefited from the resolved 134 labor disputes in January 2011.

The workers received a total of P36.7 million in restitution, separation pay, and other monetary awards.

Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz attributed the amicable settlement of the labor disputes to the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism.

“Through alternative dispute resolution, DOLE is setting its best foot forward this year in delivering speedy labor justice to our workers with impartiality and transparency, which are essential in fostering labor and management harmony and creating conditions favorable to business growth, employment, and competitiveness of workers and enterprises,” Baldoz said.

Baldoz lauded the prompt action of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board’s corps of conciliator-mediators in settling the disputes through peaceful means.

She also noted the establishment of three new Labor Management Cooperation (LMC) councils in Amianan Motors, Inc in San Fernando, La Union (Region 1); Saint Claire College in Cauayan, Isabela (Region 2); and Hotel La Rica in Tacloban, Leyte (Region 8), which has brought the number of existing LMCs nationwide to 1, 635.

Baldoz added the DOLE will pursue promoting workers’ welfare.

http://www.usnewslasvegas.com/national/%EF%BB%BFncmb-resolves-134-labor-disputes/

hugodiekonig

March 10th, 2011, 04:28 PM

By: Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 10 (PIA) – “Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta for Women is a milestone and blessing to all women as it provides much priority on women’s rights, protection and opportunity”.

This is La Union Vibrant Women Incorporated (LUVWI) President and provincial first lady Geraldine R. Ortega’s message as delivered by her daughter, Geraldine Joy O. Gidaya during the International Woman’s Day kick-off program, to which she is the guest of honor and speaker, at the Diego Silang Hall, provincial capitol.

Ortega emphasized on the heroic and significant acts performed by women to which the government fully embraced and recognized.

With this, she quoted that the “place where women play a major/vital role is where the light shines the brightest.”

On this same activity, LU Board Member Francisco “Kit” Ortega said that the Provincial Government of La Union is in full support to women empowerment and cited the lady heads of the different departments/division in the province.

For his final speech, he mentioned that he, being the Finance Committee Chairman in the province shall push for the approval of all the programs and projects intended for gender equality and women empowerment.

The event, which was participated by different line-agencies started with a fun walk from the city plaza up to the provincial capitol where an ecumenical service was held before the program proper. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=21525

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 02:48 PM

La Union cleanest province

March 11, 2011, 8:21pm

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines — The province of La Union was adjudged anew as the cleanest, safest and greenest place of Region 1 defeating for the third time the provinces of Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte.

“With exceptional programs and projects on cleanliness, waste management, sanitation and peace and order, the award qualifies the province for the national search,” according to Dr. Leonardo Quitos, director of the National Economic and Development Authority, and chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC).

Governor Manuel Ortega personally received the award during the State of the Regional Development Conference and RDC Awarding Ceremonies held at Hotel Ariana in Bauang, La Union.

Ortega said La Union is already a “Hall of Famer” of the much-coveted award regionwide and will once again competing with other champion provinces from the other regions in the country. (Dexter A. See)

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/308848/la-union-cleanest-province

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 02:58 PM

http://kitakyushu.iges.or.jp/docs/network_meetings/kin4/ppt/10.Ortega.pdf

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:20 PM

Photos by Me, Hugo Le Roi

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/183670_1570554676443_1612790914_31117270_611744_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/198325_1570554916449_1612790914_31117271_3337379_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196187_1570555156455_1612790914_31117272_7518486_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197321_1570555676468_1612790914_31117273_8249650_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:22 PM

Photos by me, Hugo Le Roi

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/189661_1570558556540_1612790914_31117284_3784256_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/189841_1570558796546_1612790914_31117285_5595832_n.jpg?dl=1
The city hall is undergoing renovation

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/188505_1570559076553_1612790914_31117286_4537877_n.jpg?dl=1
Busy, bustling City - daily traffic Jam

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:24 PM

Hugo Le Roi Photos

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185985_1570559356560_1612790914_31117287_6564696_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/198615_1570559956575_1612790914_31117292_2252488_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:29 PM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/199919_1570560396586_1612790914_31117293_1928590_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/190073_1570560636592_1612790914_31117294_775506_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196843_1570560796596_1612790914_31117295_4593740_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:32 PM

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:34 PM

Hugo Le Roi Photos

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/190425_1570576356985_1612790914_31117350_4430989_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183472_1570576716994_1612790914_31117351_6386296_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:35 PM

Hugo Le Roi photos

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184837_1570577037002_1612790914_31117352_203106_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/189905_1570577237007_1612790914_31117353_5230829_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185627_1570577637017_1612790914_31117355_2294700_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 04:38 PM

Hugo Le Roi photos

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197852_1570580717094_1612790914_31117371_553622_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/190234_1570580957100_1612790914_31117372_7538051_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/188461_1570581277108_1612790914_31117373_2703952_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 05:02 PM

Hugo Le Roi Photo

http://hphotos-ash1.fbcdn.net/172861_1570657079003_1612790914_31117411_2637558_o.jpg

helorider14

March 11th, 2011, 11:15 PM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197321_1570555676468_1612790914_31117273_8249650_n.jpg?dl=1

an eyesore:bash:

hugodiekonig

March 11th, 2011, 11:20 PM

an eyesore:bash:

What I know about this building is that there is a court battle between the owner of this building and a former customer. To cut the whole story into a sentence, the former customer failed to pay billboard fees to the owner (there was a billboard in this building) amounting to around P300,000 that time (I don't know when). I think those working at the Fujifilm know the whole story behind this, that's why plans for demolishing it never pushes through. An eyesore indeed, lalo na kapag gabi

BTW, how are you? How is Japan recovering now from the quake?

ergit222

March 12th, 2011, 02:36 AM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00172-20110310-0619.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00171-20110310-0619.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00173-20110310-0623.jpg

ergit222

March 12th, 2011, 09:05 AM

ergit222

March 12th, 2011, 09:51 AM

What I know about this building is that there is a court battle between the owner of this building and a former customer. To cut the whole story into a sentence, the former customer failed to pay billboard fees to the owner (there was a billboard in this building) amounting to around P300,000 that time (I don't know when). I think those working at the Fujifilm know the whole story behind this, that's why plans for demolishing it never pushes through. An eyesore indeed, lalo na kapag gabi

BTW, how are you? How is Japan recovering now from the quake?

Hugo, below is the story behind the "Regent" Building. There was a court battle alright but it's all about money matters between the Bengson family and GSIS. The story started back in the 1960's and because of a very long court battle, this "eyesore" is still standing right in the center of the city...I hope our readers will be enlightened the reason behind this "eyesore". :)
BENGSON COMMERCIAL BUILDING, INC. (http://www.lawphil.net/judjuris/juri1993/mar1993/gr_85273_1993.html)

296619

March 12th, 2011, 09:58 AM

Congrats La Union... Cleanest province in R1:)..^^

ergit222

March 12th, 2011, 09:59 AM

Hugo Le Roi Photo

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/188914_1570572076878_1612790914_31117332_3693187_n.jpg?dl=1

I just wonder why all Caltex gasoline stations in the city are all shut. I heard that a former politician owns all the 3 gasoline stations in the city. I hope they could sell the area for commercial buildings. These can be potential locations for the another McDo store in the city
This gas station was formerly operated by the Añes family and I heard the son-manager of this station is now living abroad but I don't have any idea why it was closed down...

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 10:11 AM

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines — The province of La Union was adjudged anew as the cleanest, safest and greenest place of Region 1 defeating for the third time the provinces of Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte.

“With exceptional programs and projects on cleanliness, waste management, sanitation and peace and order, the award qualifies the province for the national search,” according to Dr. Leonardo Quitos, director of the National Economic and Development Authority, and chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC).

Governor Manuel Ortega personally received the award during the State of the Regional Development Conference and RDC Awarding Ceremonies held at Hotel Ariana in Bauang, La Union.

Ortega said La Union is already a “Hall of Famer” of the much-coveted award regionwide and will once again competing with other champion provinces from the other regions in the country. (Dexter A. See)

source (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/308848/la-union-cleanest-province)

MABUHAY ANG LA UNION!! :banana::cheers:

We have San Fernando City as an example of sustainable, livable city. Despite its rapid development, still, environment is not neglected. The presence of an engineered sanitary landfill is the best concrete example, aside from the solid waste management programs of its different barangays. La Union government, on the other hand, has implemented the use of Ecosan toilets to rural areas in the province. the city and La Union's programs on environment are truly effective and now on its fruition as recognized in the region the cleanest and greenest:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 10:25 AM

Hugo, below is the story behind the "Regent" Building. There was a court battle alright but it's all about money matters between the Bengson family and GSIS. The story started back in the 1960's and because of a very long court battle, this "eyesore" is still standing right in the center of the city...I hope our readers will be enlightened the reason behind this "eyesore". :)
BENGSON COMMERCIAL BUILDING, INC. (http://www.lawphil.net/judjuris/juri1993/mar1993/gr_85273_1993.html)

This is indeed a very long court battle. I will try to read this several times to understand those several motion for reconsiderations

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 10:28 AM

This gas station was formerly operated by the Añes family and I heard the son-manager of this station is now living abroad but I don't have any idea why it was closed down...

Until it is for sale, I hope somebody would buy this property and replace it with fast-food store:)

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 10:30 AM

Congrats La Union... Cleanest province in R1:)..^^

Thanks po! Truly, Our province has its intensified efforts to sustainable development in environment despite the rapid urbanization of our province:banana:

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 10:31 AM

March 12, 2011 by ABS-CBN

http://www.starmometer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/John-dances-with-wife-to-be-Priscilla-Mereilles-Photo-by-Allan-Sancon-2.jpg

Newlywed John Estrada touched by the support of his co-hosts in ‘Happy Yipee Yehey!’

It was a star-studded wedding for Happy Yipee Yehey! host John Estrada and Brazilian beauty queen Priscilla Mereilles at the Thunderbird Resort in San Fernando, La Union recently, with more than 200 family and friends in attendance. The romantic union of the two will be aired in a special entiled Te Amo, Mahal: The John Estrada Wedding this March 13, 10p.m. on Sunday’s Best after Pilipinas Got Talent on ABS-CBN.

It was an elegant and romantic experience for the couple and their guests who were at a venue overlooking the South China Sea. Everyone felt the genuine love between the two when they exchanged vows “Cheesy but sincere,” said the two. After the ceremony, the newlyweds thanked their friends and loved ones who remain supportive of them at all times.

More (http://www.starmometer.com/2011/03/12/te-amo-mahal-the-john-estrada-wedding-airs-on-march-13-on-abs-cbn/)

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 11:20 PM

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 11:21 PM

By Ivan Man Dy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 16:25:00 03/12/2011

Filed Under: Travel & Commuting, Tourism, history

A CURSORY look at tourism posters of the Philippines immediately unlocks a slideshow of seemingly endless white sand beaches, the shimmering blue sea, swaying palm fronds and the occasional nipa-hut. These are iconic images of our tropical isles, but most of them are located in the southern part of our archipelago.

No wonder a lot of tourists immediately head off to Boracay for a holiday.

But of course there is more to our country than beaches. Spread across 7,107 islands and a geography as diverse as our languages (110 of them!), there’s bound to be something for everyone. And certain regions in the country are trying to increase their share of the tourist peso by coming up with new activities or reinventing old attractions.

This writer recently got invited to “Lakbay Norte 2,” the second-year run of a whirlwind tour to select provinces around Northern Luzon, organized by the North Philippines Visitors Bureau (NPVB), a network of ten local conventions and tourism bureaus composed of Baguio, Cagayan Norte, Greater Clark, Ilocos Norte, La Union, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Greater Subic, Tarlac and Bulacan. The NPVB aims to promote tourism in North Luzon through events, conventions and information dissemination.

On board our specially-chartered Victory Liner bus, we stopped for breakfast at the charming Soul Cafe in Rosario, La Union, where everyone had their first taste of Kapeng Alamid. A regional specialty, the brew is named after the local alamid (civet cat) which feeds on coffee beans and then naturally excretes the seeds. These are then harvested, washed, roasted by farmers and turned into one of the most coveted types of coffee among connoisseurs.

Not being one, my impression of this drink was that it had a strong, full-bodied taste and certainly didn’t have any hint of cat poop. It was a surefire way to keep our senses going as we drove uphill and enjoyed the scenic mountain road going up to Baguio.

So this was how our northern exposure played out:

Day 1: Breezing through Baguio. Upland weather and highland art. A quick stop at the City of Pines centered around this theme as we made our way to Tam-Awan Village. Taking inspiration from Baguio’s highland roots, Tam-Awan replicates a typical Cordilleran village and showcases the domestic architecture and lifestyle of the Ifugao and Kalinga ethnic groups. More than just a fascinating outdoor anthropological museum, Tam-Awan also functions as an art space for Baguio’s homegrown artists, complete with a gallery and a small cafe serving traditional highland fare (try their tasty pinikpikan tinola).

Still on the artist theme, we proceeded to Baguio’s latest star attraction - the BenCab Museum. We were welcomed by no less than founder and National Artist Ben Cabrera, who shared with us his artistic insights about this mountain city and the culture which has captivated and inspired him to create the masterpieces displayed in the museum’s minimalist galleries.

Even more fascinating is the Cordillera Gallery which holds Cabrera’s collection of highland material culture such as the iconic bulol (rice granary guardians) as well as everyday objects like baskets, spoons, furniture and the occasional head-hunting weapon. The museum sits on a promontory and offers a refreshing view of the terraced garden with a small mountain looming over the landscape.

Day 2: Plunging into Pugo. From Baguio, it’s a short drive down to Pugo in La Union. This small, sleepy town at the foot of Marcos Highway wasn’t really in the tourist radar, until somebody decided to build PUGAD. Pugo Adventure (or PUGAD) is the latest facility that’s making tourists stop, look and catch their breaths as they glide through what is possibly the longest zip line (at 400 meters) in the country! For P400, you can live out your Superman fantasies for a few seconds as you soar 250 feet above the ground and catch the thrill while enjoying verdant views of rivers, hills and rice terraces. PUGAD also offers several less jaw-dropping thrills such as wall climbing, rappelling and ATV rides.

Our introduction to La Union also included a visit to a traditional patupat-making factory to sample this sweetest of Ilokano delicacies— sticky rice cake cooked in sugar cane juice—a much-needed sugar rush after all that adrenaline-pumping adventure and definitely a unique pasalubong.

Finally, we had a quick stop at the town of Manaoag in Pangasinan to pay homage to the province’s most revered Marian icon, the miraculous four-century-old image of Our Lady of Manaoag. Then it was off to a well-deserved rest in Tarlac.

More (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/sim/sim/view/20110312-325020/Northern-Exposure)

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 11:44 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/23942_108449265838165_100000192752238_215947_662270_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184995_203179956365095_100000192752238_864919_2194535_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/66992_167056469977444_100000192752238_580823_3945168_n.jpg?dl=1
Pasayan

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/47813_157477857601972_100000192752238_514308_2005793_n.jpg?dl=1
Pinapaitan

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/40124_164888250194266_100000192752238_564555_1364757_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/7721_101633223186436_100000192752238_44096_2573647_n.jpg?dl=1

Halo Halo de Iloko Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000192752238#!/photo.php?fbid=203179956365095&set=a.153756061307485.30384.100000192752238&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 11:49 PM

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=129192360475008&set=a.106154749445436.8983.100001527352978

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/176112_1866316134901_1150956084_2161209_2682187_o.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180954_1781627174737_1061188694_2122766_5503101_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/167208_1767536702709_1067921276_1957893_607455_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/167845_1767422459853_1067921276_1957477_1677782_n.jpg?dl=1

PUGAD Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photos.php?id=100001527352978#!/photo.php?fbid=1767422459853&set=t.100001527352978&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 12th, 2011, 11:59 PM

"GUAPPLE MAKES US RICH"

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/6110019.jpg

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/3617734.jpg?448

Guapple, a variety of guava (Psidium guajava) is a tropical evergreen shrub to a small tree reaching from 10-15 feet high. This is a supreme variety originated in Florida and has been widely grown in America and some parts of Asia. It was introduced in the Philippines in 1984 from Thailand.

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/index.html

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 12:16 AM

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/7203608.jpg?197
Guapple Bars

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/2406570.jpg?213
Guapple Bread

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/3816854.jpg?194
Guapple Empanaditas

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/1188062.jpg?191
Guapple Espasol

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/867565.jpg?106
Guapple Oatmeal macaroons

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/1817300.jpg?198
Guapple Puto

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/9982616.jpg?118
Guapple Tarts

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/uploads/6/6/4/2/6642595/2899625.jpg?154
Guapple Tortillas

http://guappleproduction.weebly.com/guapple-and-by-products.html

ergit222

March 13th, 2011, 07:05 AM

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 02:29 PM

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Tng3_5tMxHY/TLnRMGWX2mI/AAAAAAAAHWU/3kaMar_t7ik/s400/mang-inasal-delivery.jpg

Ground Floor of Mercury Drug Bldg. (formerly Nancy Theater) and One Nisce Place

:banana::cheers:

2 at a time! Boooommmm!!!! Akala ko isa lang, sa Mar cinema lang :shocked::shocked::shocked:

Mang Inasal is a must here in San fernando. Look at Agoo. May Jollibee, Red Ribbon and Mang Inasal, so I am so certain na magkakaroon rin ng mang Inasal dito

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 02:46 PM

Photo by me

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197025_1573401627615_1612790914_31120286_6525613_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 03:05 PM

Photos du Moi

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1573398387534&set=a.1556286399745.2065717.1612790914&makeprofile=1

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/199001_1573398787544_1612790914_31120274_6057667_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/198083_1573399107552_1612790914_31120275_6524261_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/200268_1573399387559_1612790914_31120276_1344775_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 03:10 PM

Photos by Me

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184648_1573399827570_1612790914_31120278_6273526_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/200296_1573400067576_1612790914_31120279_843332_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/188943_1573400387584_1612790914_31120280_7576680_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/188767_1573400587589_1612790914_31120281_4628033_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/196048_1573401427610_1612790914_31120285_5543498_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 03:25 PM

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 13th, 2011, 04:07 PM

Congrats La Union... Cleanest province in R1:)..^^

Congratz din sa Launion, he he. May post na pala si sir.:)

Gusto kong matikman yung papaitan ng Launion saka yung Halo-halo de Iloco.:):cheers::cheers::cheers:

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 13th, 2011, 04:10 PM

So far to date we have a booming number of branches of known fastfoods, restaurants and convenience stores in La Union.

Jollibee - 4
Red Ribbon - 2
Mang Inasal - 1 (Soon to be 3)
Mc Donalds - 2 (Soon to be 4)
Chowking - 2 (Soon to be 3)
Greenwich - 1
Pizza Hut - 1
Shakeys - 1
Godilocks - 1
Max's - 1
KFC - 1
Illonggo Grill - 1
7 - Eleven - 4

:banana::banana::cheers: Looking forward to more stores at Agoo, Bauang and Rosario

Wow, ang dami nyo nang Mang Inasal, Jollibee at Mcdo, ang Kenny Rogers ilan na kaya ang branches nila sa North and Central Luzon? Parang wala din sa amin eto.:)

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 04:16 PM

Congratz din sa Launion, he he. May post na pala si sir.:)

Gusto kong matikman yung papaitan ng Launion saka yung Halo-halo de Iloco.:):cheers::cheers::cheers:

Papaitan? kahit saang kainderia meron nito

Halo Halo de Iloko is a must-go restaurant dito sa San Fernando :cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 04:17 PM

Wow, ang dami nyo nang Mang Inasal, Jollibee at Mcdo, ang Kenny Rogers ilan na kaya ang branches nila sa North and Central Luzon? Parang wala din sa amin eto.:)

wala pa atang Kenny Rogers dito pati sa ibang parts ng North Luzon, though sana magkaroon din rito:)

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 13th, 2011, 04:25 PM

wala pa atang Kenny Rogers dito pati sa ibang parts ng North Luzon, though sana magkaroon din rito:)

Yes sana magkaroon din, saka Tokyo Tokyo.

Nagimas ti pasayan, makapabisin ti picture na.:):)

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 04:33 PM

Yes sana magkaroon din, saka Tokyo Tokyo.

Nagimas ti pasayan, makapabisin ti picture na.:):)

:eat::eat::eat::eat:

hugodiekonig

March 13th, 2011, 04:56 PM

Sunday, March 13, 2011

LINGAYEN -- A 5,000-member delegation from the 14 schools divisions in Ilocos Region will participate in this year's Region 1 Athletic Association (R1-AA) Meet scheduled March 14-19.

The biggest regional sporting event, sanctioned by the Department of Education (DepEd), will formally open Monday afternoon at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center (NRSCC).

This year's host division is Pangasinan Division II and the Provincial Government of Pangasinan.

The opening ceremonies will start with a parade of colors at 1 p.m. while the program will start at 2 p.m.

Pangasinan II Schools Division Superintendent Viraluz Raquindin and Governor Amado Espino Jr. will give the welcome remarks, to be followed by the ceremonial turnover of the R1-AA banner to Pangasinan to be led by Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos. Espino will receive the R1-AA banner.

The athletic meet was hosted last year by Ilocos Norte province.

In this year's event, guest of honor is lawyer Alberto Muyot, DepEd undersecretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs.

The lighting of the Friendship urn will be done by Stephanie Cimatu, 2010 Palarong Pambansa gold medalist, while the Athlete's Oath of Amateurism will be led by chess wiz Samantha Glo Revita, gold and silver medalist in the 11th Asean Age Group Chess Championship held last June 2010 in Olongapo City.

The Officiating Officials' Oath of Conduct will be led by Virgilio Padilla, coach of the Pangasinan II Schools Division.

Pangasinan II Division Sports Coordinator Enrique Mancayan said the sporting events include archery, arnis, athletics, badminton, basketball, baseball, chess, football, lawn tennis, gymnastics, softball, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, sipa/sepak takraw and swimming.

Main venue is the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center, but other events will be held at the Capitol Resort Hotel ground (archery), Dagupan City Astrodome (badminton), Pangasinan Police Provincial headquarter (basketball and football), Pangasinan State University-Lingayen (softball), PSU-Binmaley School of Fisheries (table tennis), Lingayen I Social Hall (taekwondo), and Lingayen-Pangapisan Elementary School (volleyball).

The billeting schools are all in Lingayen and Binmaley towns.

The participating schools divisions are Alaminos City, Batac City, Candon City, Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Laoag City, La Union, Pangasinan 1, Pangasinan II, San Carlos City, San Fernando City, Urdaneta City, and Vigan City.

The overall champion for several years now is Ilocos Norte Schools Division. First runner-up last year was Pangasinan II.

Macayan said they are fielding athletes in all the sporting events to increase their chance of getting medals. (Liway C. Manantan-Yparraguirre/Sunnex)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pangasinan/sports/2011/03/13/ilocos-athletic-meet-opens-144629

Go La Union! Go San Fernando City!:banana::banana:

helorider14

March 14th, 2011, 12:03 AM

wala pa atang Kenny Rogers dito pati sa ibang parts ng North Luzon, though sana magkaroon din rito:)

When I was in college at SF, naalala ko may mga from KR na nagtitinda ng muffins sa market. Sinubukan nila kung mabenta ang KR sa SF. That was 7 yrs ago! Hindi maganda ang feedback kaya di tinuloy.

ergit222

March 14th, 2011, 01:20 AM

So far to date we have a booming number of branches of known fastfoods, restaurants and convenience stores in La Union.

Jollibee - 4
Red Ribbon - 2
Mang Inasal - 1 (Soon to be 3)
Mc Donalds - 2 (Soon to be 4)
Chowking - 2 (Soon to be 3)
Greenwich - 1
Pizza Hut - 1
Shakeys - 1
Godilocks - 1
Max's - 1
KFC - 1
Illonggo Grill - 1
7 - Eleven - 4

:banana::banana::cheers: Looking forward to more stores at Agoo, Bauang and Rosario
magkakaroon ng Tokyo Tokyo pala sa one nisce place...
DIY store is now under construction... saan pala yung chowking na isa, alam ko iisa lang, diba? (sori, sa rosario pala yung isa...just remembered it)

Perseus II

March 14th, 2011, 10:25 AM

william :D

March 14th, 2011, 10:27 AM

that is one of my favorite fruits. Lagi akong bumibili nyan sa SM Clark at sa palengke kung may matyempuhan ako :)

haha.ako man francis gusto ko niyan!! saka may isa pa kong gustong prutas na may tanim sa La Union, grapes. :)

Perseus II

March 14th, 2011, 10:29 AM

haha.ako man francis gusto ko niyan!! saka may isa pa kong gustong prutas na may tanim sa La Union, grapes. :)

yung grapes na kulay green na maliliit??

william :D

March 14th, 2011, 10:31 AM

yung grapes na kulay green na maliliit??

exactly!! :cheers:

Perseus II

March 14th, 2011, 10:37 AM

exactly!! :cheers:

bumibili ako nun sa Baguio, dun ko kasi sila nakikita :)

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 02:59 PM

When I was in college at SF, naalala ko may mga from KR na nagtitinda ng muffins sa market. Sinubukan nila kung mabenta ang KR sa SF. That was 7 yrs ago! Hindi maganda ang feedback kaya di tinuloy.

maybe their marketing strategy was not good. I hope na bumalik sila uli sa San Fernando. Shakeys for example, dati na sila sa SF noong 1997 pero nalugi noong around 2000, and bumalik uli sila nang magka-CSI noong 2004.

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 03:10 PM

magkakaroon ng Tokyo Tokyo pala sa one nisce place...
DIY store is now under construction... saan pala yung chowking na isa, alam ko iisa lang, diba? (sori, sa rosario pala yung isa...just remembered it)

I am seeing a greater spending power of the La Union people, especially at San Fernando. Kulang nalang ang Robinsons. Food business is getting stronger in the city, especially for known restaurants and fastfood chains in the country. San fernando and La Union people can also then have a more beautiful house interior through DIY :banana:

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 03:11 PM

that is one of my favorite fruits. Lagi akong bumibili nyan sa SM Clark at sa palengke kung may matyempuhan ako :)

the fruit with the richest Vitamin C content!:cheers::cheers::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 03:14 PM

haha.ako man francis gusto ko niyan!! saka may isa pa kong gustong prutas na may tanim sa La Union, grapes. :)

May nagtatanim parin ng grapes sa may Caba-Bauang area. Mas priority lang kasi ngayon ng bauang ang Guapple, kaya usally Caba na ang nagtatanim ng grapes:cheers:

ergit222

March 14th, 2011, 03:33 PM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00178-20110314-1741.jpg

Max's Restaurant La Union

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00179-20110314-1743.jpg

Mocha Blends La Union

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00180-20110314-1744.jpg

Citigate Hotel located at the San Fernando-Bauang boundary...

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00182-20110314-1750.jpg

San Fernando Airport Main Entrance

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00181-20110314-1750.jpg

San Fernando Airport Control Tower

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 03:53 PM

Photos by Me

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/188813_1574858584038_1612790914_31122023_329518_n.jpg?dl=1

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1574858784043&set=a.1574853743917.2067079.1612790914&makeprofile=1

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1574858984048&set=a.1574853743917.2067079.1612790914&makeprofile=1

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/190722_1574859144052_1612790914_31122026_6017380_n.jpg?dl=1
Hawaiian Crust

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/199314_1574859464060_1612790914_31122028_6563654_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197442_1574859624064_1612790914_31122029_5661951_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 04:47 PM

BY RUELLE ALBERT D. CASTRO

San Miguel Corp. (San Miguel) has reported that profit reached P20.1 billion in 2010, down to just a third of the previous year’s P60.63 billion, in the absence of any income from asset sales last year.

In 2009, San Miguel booked a P50.63 billion one-time gain from the sale of assets, the bulk of which came from the disposal of its 43.25 percent stake in San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMB) to Kirin Holdings Company, Ltd. (Kirin) in May 2009.

Before that, San Miguel sold SMB shares to the public through the Philippine Stock Exchange, earning P25.24 billion.

"Without non-recurring items, net income was 101 percent higher than in 2009," San Miguel said in a statement.

Last year’s profit reflects returns from the group’s businesses that include portions of its new acquisitions, particularly power. San Miguel though has yet to release its official financial statement.

"In a year that saw its core businesses running alongside its new businesses, diversifying conglomerate San Miguel Corporation reported strong 2010 figures on the back of improved volumes in its food, beverage and packaging businesses and robust revenues from its power generation subsidiaries," the company said.

San Miguel said sales revenue reached P246.1 billion, 41 percent higher than 2009’s P174.21 billion.

Revenues from its power generation business contributed P45.7 billion, helping the group to post a consolidated operating income of P34.8 billion, 77 percent higher than last year.

San Miguel’s consolidated recurring EBITDA was P52.5 billion, 75 percent above last year’s levels.

"Our traditional businesses have held their own. Each of our businesses stepped up to the plate and did what was expected of them," said San Miguel chairman Eduardo M. Cojuangco Jr.

"We are still in the very early stages of our diversification strategy, but our energy business is pulling its share of the weight. In a year or so, energy could be a major contributor to San Miguel," Cojuangco added.

Beer unit San Miguel Brewery posted a domestic beer volume sales of 184 million cases, 5 percent better than in 2009, San Miguel said.

This led revenues to increase 9 percent to P55.8 billion and operating income to grow 17 percent to P18.8 billion on higher volumes and favorable raw material prices.

Volumes for San Miguel Brewing International Ltd., under San Miguel Brewery, reached 37 million cases, lower than last year due to difficult market conditions in its largest overseas beer market, China. The unit finished the year with consolidated sales revenue of $270 million.

Liquor unit Ginebra San Miguel Inc. posted a domestic liquor sales volume of 39 million cases, 7 percent higher than the previous year. Sales revenues improved 16 percent to P22.7 billion. With higher revenue and stable costs, operating income stood at P1.5 billion, 40 percent over 2009 levels.

The food group’s consolidated revenues reached P80.4 billion, 4 percent higher than in 2009. Favorable raw material prices in poultry, basic meats, flour and dairy helped bring consolidated operating income to P5.91 billion, a 30 percent improvement, the company said.

Packaging unit San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Group, meanwhile, ended 2010 with consolidated revenues of P23.4 billion, 19 percent higher than the previous year, on the back of improved volumes and contributions from Cospak, its Australian packaging firm. Consolidated operating income totaled P2 billion, up 26 percent.

San Miguel’s four power plants --- the Limay combined-cycle power plant, the Ilijan natural gas-fired power plant, the Sual coal-fired plant, and the San Roque hydroelectric power plant --- generated an estimated 11.1 million megawatt hours in 2010. As a result, revenue totaled P66.1 billion and operating income was 16.2 billion.

The power companies now under the holding firm San Miguel Global Power Holdings were consolidated into San Miguel’s books during the third quarter of 2010. San Miguel Global Power is now the largest power producer in Luzon in terms of installed capacity, accounting for 29.2 percent of the Luzon grid and 21.7 percent of the national grid.

San Miguel president Ramon S. Ang earlier said the group expects better numbers this year, as another acquisition is reflected on the company’s financial report -- Petron Corp. – in which it acquired a more than 90 percent stake late last year.

San Miguel also noted that with its infrastructure projects, the Caticlan Airport, the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, and the MRT-7 Railway, in various stages of development, it expects these businesses to be "major contributors in the future."

San Miguel also has interests in three mines in South Cotabato.

"Our portfolio is obviously more diversified, but the priorities are the same. We’re focused on growth; growing our business as best we can," Cojuangco also said.

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 09:35 PM

By: Jonah Avegail C. Gaerlan, PITO-LU

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-09-2011_KohaTurnOver.jpg

Gov. Manuel C. Ortega lauded the National Library of the Philippines for its assistance in making knowledge more accessible to the public. This was expressed during the distribution of brand new computers with Koha software to local libraries on March 4, 2011 at the Provincial Library, LUPAC Building, San Fernando City, La Union.

Speaking in behalf of Gov. Ortega, Provincial Administrator Geoffrey S. Tilan affirmed the governor’s commitment to improve La Union’s educational system and also arm future generations with tools to succeed. Also representing the governor, Board Member Francisco “Kit” C. Ortega expressed PGLU’s intention to continuously develop and modernize its facilities so as to provide competitive service to its people.

The turn over ceremony was attended by Mr. Ryan Terrenal and three other National Library delegates who awarded the Provincial Library with computers worth P 52, 400 and eight more recipients, including the City Library of San Fernando and Municipal Libraries of Agoo, Bacnotan, Bauang, Naguilian, Rosario, San Juan and Santol, with computers worth P 17, 900. All computers are installed with the Koha Integrated Library System (ILS) which is used in contemporary libraries worldwide. The National Library is also offering technical assistance/training to La Union Public Librarians to be able to maximize the Koha system.

Derived from a Maori word meaning “offering”, Koha befittingly embodies the gift of helpful and up-to-date knowledge given within reach of La Union’s people. The system offers user-friendly tools to access library files in just a click.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.213.2

hugodiekonig

March 14th, 2011, 09:37 PM

By: Jonah Avegail C. Gaerlan, PITO-LU

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-14-2011_peace_advocates.jpg

Gov. Manuel C. Ortega challenged the leaders of various sectors to make La Union a model of peace and order not only in Region I but in the entire Philippines as well, after being recently proclaimed as the “Cleanest, Greenest and Safest Municipality in Region I”.

This resounded in his opening speech at the Joint Conference of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), La Union Anti-Drug Abuse Council (LUADAC), and La Union Council of Five Pillars of Criminal Justice System on March 10, 2011 at the Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union.

Meanwhile, PNP La Union Provincial Director PSSupt. Ramon O. Purugganan stressed in his presentation that the crime situation in La Union is manageable, with significantly lesser crime rates on thirteen municipalities compared from last year. He recommended stronger police visibility on the municipalities which incurred higher crime rates but assured that mitigation measures are currently laid. Purugganan also reiterated that, “La Union is free from the threat of insurgency.”

This trend for dropping crime rates was further reinforced by Mr. Melvin S. Estoque of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Hon. Victor M. Viloria of the Regional Trial Court, Prosecutor Danilo C. Bumacod of the Department of Justice and Provincial Jail Warden Albert C. Palomique also gave updates and recommendations in their respective fields.

For his synthesis, Provincial Administrator Geoffrey S. Tilan praised LGU leaders for their efforts and enjoined participation of all agencies comprising the PPOC, LUADAC and the Five Pillars to continuously do their part to sustain peace and order in the province.

Also present in the conference were La Union 2nd District Representative Eufranio C. Eriguel, Municipal Mayors, Heads of Line Agencies and NGO representatives.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.214.2

ergit222

March 15th, 2011, 03:35 AM

Wow, ang dami nyo nang Mang Inasal, Jollibee at Mcdo, ang Kenny Rogers ilan na kaya ang branches nila sa North and Central Luzon? Parang wala din sa amin eto.:)
Actually meron nang Kenny Rogers Roasters sa Nepo Mall Dagupan, Session Road Baguio at SM City Baguio.

ergit222

March 15th, 2011, 03:44 AM

I am seeing a greater spending power of the La Union people, especially at San Fernando. Kulang nalang ang Robinsons. Food business is getting stronger in the city, especially for known restaurants and fastfood chains in the country. San fernando and La Union people can also then have a more beautiful house interior through DIY :banana:
Don't worry, there will be more fast food chains to come when Robinsons will finally build their mall in SFC.

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 05:04 AM

Where are the other 2 McDonalds in La Union?

ergit222

March 15th, 2011, 07:21 AM

Where are the other 2 McDonalds in La Union?
as mentioned on the previous posts by Henz, the 2 new McDos (stand alone) will be put up in San Fernando City and Agoo however, he didn't mentioned where in particular. :)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 11:45 AM

as mentioned on the previous posts by Henz, the 2 new McDos (stand alone) will be put up in San Fernando City and Agoo however, he didn't mentioned where in particular. :)

maybe negotiations regarding Mc Donalds Agoo is on going. Mc Donalds in San Fernando will still be in search for the prospect location. I hope they would be able to get a nice location for the new Mcdo to equally compete with Jollibee 24/7

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 11:48 AM

Don't worry, there will be more fast food chains to come when Robinsons will finally build their mall in SFC.

Great! and by then, countless investments will be pouring in to the city to benefit itself and the whole province as well!:banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 11:57 AM

La Union is Cleanest, Safest & Greenest in Ilocandia

Israel O. Rudio PITO - LU

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-15-2011_cleanest.jpg

Speaking before Local Government Unit Officials and employees of the Provincial Government after the Thanksgiving Mass as part of the activities in Celebration of La Union’s 161st Foundation Anniversary, Gov. Manuel C. Ortega announced that the province has been adjudged as this year’s Cleanest, Safest & Greenest Province in Region I.:bow:

Governor Ortega personally received the award together with Board Members Francisco “Kit” C. Ortega and Jose Ma. “Pepe” C. Ortega and Provincial Administrator Geoffrey S. Tilan last February 21 during the State of the Regional Development Conference and RDC Awarding Ceremonies held at Hotel Ariana in Bauang, La Union. Annually given by the Regional Development Council to LGUs with exceptional programs and projects on cleanliness, waste management, sanitation and peace and order, the award qualifies the province for the national search. Already a “Hall of Famer,” of the much-coveted award, the province will once again be competing with other champion provinces from the other regions in the country.

During the same occasion, the Province of La Union under the leadership of Governor Manoling was awarded with a trophy for bagging the Third Place for the search for Best Poverty-Reduction Implementer in the region. The award is in recognition of La Union’s effective and successful implementation of its Poverty-Reduction Program under the Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES).

http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.217.2

Way to La Union! :runaway:

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 12:12 PM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/156735_466257012665_130871667665_5827185_3596333_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/155364_466256997665_130871667665_5827184_157837_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/67113_466256977665_130871667665_5827183_3337303_n.jpg?dl=1

WE ARE BALAOANIANS facebook (http://www.facebook.com/Daddy4Me#!/photo.php?fbid=384035862665&set=pu.130871667665&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 12:18 PM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/24945_105724756119554_100000460892477_150482_5713715_n.jpg?dl=1

Leciram galvez (http://www.facebook.com/Daddy4Me#!/photo.php?fbid=105724756119554&set=o.277208368666&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 12:20 PM

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/19444_1223512392912_1382050413_2261644_7740230_n.jpg?dl=1

Meo A Costales
(http://www.facebook.com/Daddy4Me#!/photo.php?fbid=1223512392912&set=o.277208368666&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 12:36 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/198456_10150111006888412_161064168411_6619024_6995377_n.jpg?dl=1

http://www.facebook.com/Daddy4Me#!/photo.php?fbid=10150111006888412&set=a.183858778411.125848.161064168411&theater

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 12:37 PM

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/30098_389136218411_161064168411_4166401_4821928_n.jpg?dl=1

The rare Common Kestrel, first sighted in Thunderbird Resort, Poro Point.
Photograph by Ely Teehankee 2010
(http://www.facebook.com/Daddy4Me#!/photo.php?fbid=389136218411&set=a.183858778411.125848.161064168411&theater)

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 02:46 PM

di ko sinagot kasi kala ko bauang.

As far as i have done my research, mas malaki pa rin ang IRA ng Bauang compared to Agoo.

And the safest way to Baguio is still Naguilian. Ever heard of Naguilian Rd. closing due to landslides?

Anyway, still wanna see all towns of La Union be progressive. :)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 02:56 PM

As far as i have done my research, mas malaki pa rin ang IRA ng Bauang compared to Agoo.

And the safest way to Baguio is still Naguilian. Ever heard of Naguilian Rd. closing due to landslides?

Anyway, still wanna see all towns of La Union be progressive. :)

Hello whofeih! Welcome to SSC! From what town of La Union are you?

When great typhoons bash the north, I guess the last road to close is the Marcos Highway

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 03:00 PM

Hello whofeih! Welcome to SSC! From what town of La Union are you?

When great typhoons bash the north, I guess the last road to close is the Marcos Highway

that was my first post. hehe. I am not being biase here. I'm from Bauang. :P

my bad about Bauang and Agoo. By 2010, Agoo already surpassed Bauang. :D

http://www.dbm.gov.ph/CY2010_IRA/ro1/ro1_brgy_launion.pdf

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:07 PM

that was my first post. hehe. I am not being biase here. I'm from Bauang. :P

my bad about Bauang and Agoo. By 2010, Agoo already surpassed Bauang. :D

http://www.dbm.gov.ph/CY2010_IRA/ro1/ro1_brgy_launion.pdf

Whew, I am from Bauang too

Bauang is just bigger and has more population than Agoo, but the latter has greater commercial activity than the former. Agoo indeed is progressive. It has a mall, Jollibee, Mang Inasal, Red Ribbon, 7-Eleven, and numerous banks and other offices.

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:09 PM

http://www.dbm.gov.ph/CY2010_IRA/ro1/ro1_brgy_launion.pdf

This is just the Internal Revenue Allotment for Barangays. There is also another internal revenue allotment for provinces, cities and municipalities, and I think Bauang is still richer than Agoo

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 03:12 PM

Whew, I am from Bauang too

Bauang is just bigger and has more population than Agoo, but the latter has greater commercial activity than the former. Agoo indeed is progressive. It has a mall, Jollibee, Mang Inasal, Red Ribbon, 7-Eleven, and numerous banks and other offices.

San located ung Red Ribbon dun?

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:13 PM

San located ung Red Ribbon dun?

I think na-relocate siya. baka nasa magic Mall na ngayon. dati nasa tabi lang ng Jollibee

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 03:16 PM

I think na-relocate siya. baka nasa magic Mall na ngayon. dati nasa tabi lang ng Jollibee

ah... di pa rin ba bukas ung 7-11 diyan sa Bauang? Tsaka ano pala ung ginagawang building sa tabi ng Blueway? Diyan sa tapat ng waiting shed na paradahan ng jeep papuntang San Fdo.? Tsaka, any progress dun sa Juanita Resort?

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:20 PM

ah... di pa rin ba bukas ung 7-11 diyan sa Bauang? Tsaka ano pala ung ginagawang building sa tabi ng Blueway? Diyan sa tapat ng waiting shed na paradahan ng jeep papuntang San Fdo.? Tsaka, any progress dun sa Juanita Resort?

hindi pa bukas ang 7-Eleven sa bauang. I think ikakabit na ang transformer nito or naikabit na. It will open shortly after the transformer is installed

Where is Blueway? Or maybe I have heard it already. help me remember

Juanita Resort project has not yet started. Maybe in due time the resort will soon rise there.

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 03:24 PM

hindi pa bukas ang 7-Eleven sa bauang. I think ikakabit na ang transformer nito or naikabit na. It will open shortly after the transformer is installed

Where is Blueway? Or maybe I have heard it already. help me remember

Juanita Resort project has not yet started. Maybe in due time the resort will soon rise there.

Blueway ung tailoring shop sa tapat ng Cebuana Lhuillier 1. Basta ung Building na ginagawa sa tabi ng sampaloc tree sa kurbahan malapit sa palengke.

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:33 PM

Blueway ung tailoring shop sa tapat ng Cebuana Lhuillier 1. Basta ung Building na ginagawa sa tabi ng sampaloc tree sa kurbahan malapit sa palengke.

Ay yup, gets ko na. The construction was fast nowadays, it may open this summer

This is my photo taken 2 weeks ago

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/181966_1551894089940_1612790914_31090641_7352011_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/182626_1551894249944_1612790914_31090642_6813939_n.jpg?dl=1

whofeih

March 15th, 2011, 03:37 PM

Ay yup, gets ko na. The construction was fast nowadays, it may open this summer

This is my photo taken 2 weeks ago

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/181966_1551894089940_1612790914_31090641_7352011_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/182626_1551894249944_1612790914_31090642_6813939_n.jpg?dl=1

uu yan nga. hehe. ano ano mga businesses diyan?

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 03:40 PM

uu yan nga. hehe. ano ano mga businesses diyan?

According to the rendering of the building project, ACE hardware, Globe and a mini mall will soon occupy the building, pero sa tarp lang yun. I don't have any news or idea yet of the possible occupants of the building/on what the building will soon house.

ergit222

March 15th, 2011, 04:19 PM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/39022_134073046633772_133589443348799_150526_2325071_n.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/38603_133590890015321_133589443348799_148450_3740790_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 11:21 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4591719127_816b80c666_z.jpg

Ryan C. Suarez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryansuarez/4591719127/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 15th, 2011, 11:28 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1028/4611210870_e2d775ac28_z.jpg

Ryan C. Suarez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryansuarez/4611210870/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

ergit222

March 16th, 2011, 01:13 AM

iHLB82b_7VI

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 02:24 AM

^^^^^^^^^^

:bow::bow: God, I like that video! I am amazed by how the shots were made! Beautiful Couple! Beautiful Thunderbird! Successful Wedding! J'adore!:banana::banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 02:40 AM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3368/4594355731_17d3acbc9e_z.jpg

Ryan. C. Suarez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryansuarez/4594355731/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

ergit222

March 16th, 2011, 07:05 AM

Manila surfers scored sweet 3-4 foot peeling pointbreak swells at the Stoked Inc & Kahuna Resort & Spa's Manila Surfers Cup in La Union. Now on its 6th year, the Manila Surfers Association together with Stoked Inc (the Philippines' pioneer action sports retailer) and La Union's first premium resort, the Kahuna Resort and Spa, brought together the Philippine capital's finest weekend warriors in a Saturday and Sunday of surf, sun, and beach partying at the idyllic beach-side town of San Juan. With an amusement park selection of beach breaks and friendly point breaks, La Union (250 kilometres north of Manila) has emerged as the epicenter of surfing for Manila's rapidly-growing contingent of surf enthusiasts.

http://www.sanjuansurfresort.com/manage/upload_pics/b.jpg

Hundreds of spectators along the beach cheered on, as the 2-day event saw intermediate and beginner surfers take to the waves in both longboard and shortboard divisions. Philippine surfing's acknowledged golden girl Nikki Dela Paz emerged champion in the women's shortboard division displaying a fine selection of smooth rail-to-rail riding and cutbacks on consistent head-high sets. Young college girl Carla Sebastian was the surprise winner in the women's longboard event bravely taking off on overhead dumpers in a...(read more (http://www.surfline.com/surf-news/contest-news/manila-surfers-score-epic-waves-at-stoked-inc-kahuna-resort-surf-cup_53404/))

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 02:01 PM

CANDICE MONTENEGRO, GMA News
03/16/2011 | 05:57 PM

To address the measles outbreak reported in several parts of the country, the Department of Health (DOH) will conduct a door-to-door immunization program against measles and German measles beginning April.

The DOH aims to vaccinate over 18 million Filipino children, aged 9 months to 8 years old, against measles and German measles. Local health workers will visit houses from April 4 to May 4 to immunize eligible children.

In 2010, measles outbreaks had been reported in Nueva Ecija, Bulacan and Zamboanga del Norte.

Data from January-February 2011 also show that over 1,000 cases of measles were reported in 20 provinces, including:

LUZON

# Ilocos Norte
# La Union
# Pangasinan
# Nueva Ecija
# Zambales
# Batangas
# Quezon
# Camarines Sur; and
# Metro Manila

VISAYAS

# Capiz
# Iloilo
# Southern Leyte; and
# Samar

MINDANAO

# Zamboanga Sibugay
# Zamboanga del Norte
# Misamis Occidental
# Davao Sur
# Davao del Norte
# Davao Oriental
# South Cotabato; and
# Agusan Norte.

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/215414/nation/doh-to-conduct-immunization-program-vs-measles

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 02:03 PM

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bw8s48xmufY/TYAU2ZDc5_I/AAAAAAAACCQ/5lt405iYZJA/s400/turista1116.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSvsbJO8_J0/TYAU2gi8e7I/AAAAAAAACCY/LKijCUhpZN8/s400/turista1117.jpg

Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point is featured in the March-April 2011 Issue of Turista Magazine. Be sure to grab a copy!

http://enjoythunderbirdresorts.blogspot.com/2011/03/turista-magazine-santorini-dreams.html

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 02:05 PM

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/172391_10150107245203557_754823556_6466048_5218528_o.jpg

John Etsrada & Priscilla Meirelles' Wedding Thunderbird Resorts PoroPoint with the resort's management :)

Thunderbird Resorts Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/photo.php?fbid=10150107245203557&set=o.161064168411&theater)

william :D

March 16th, 2011, 02:35 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4591719127_816b80c666_z.jpg

Ryan C. Suarez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryansuarez/4591719127/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

:eek: wow ang ganda ng kuha nato ah! ang ganda talaga ng Thunderbird! :cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 03:53 PM

:eek: wow ang ganda ng kuha nato ah! ang ganda talaga ng Thunderbird! :cheers:

nahanap ko uli iyan na photo ng Thunderbird:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 16th, 2011, 04:04 PM

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196250_1577896739990_1612790914_31125137_1519565_n.jpg?dl=1

[SNIPER]A|M|A|T|Z|™ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9661994@N03/3462239362/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 12:06 AM

Mar 16, 2011

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) invites overseas Filipino families to join a day of fun-filled learning celebration on March 19 at the Robinsons Starmills Pampanga as BPI continues this year’s leg of “BPInoy Fiesta: Pamilyang OFW Learning Series”.

In a bid to promote financial wellness and value formation among OF families, BPI will be bringing the BPInoy Fiesta to towns and provinces across the country throughout the year. Conquering Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao through BPInoy Fiesta, BPI is set to visit Pampanga, Bicol, Dumaguete, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, La Union, Malolos, Zambales and more.

“At BPI, we bring more value and opportunities for every hard-earned remittance of our overseas Filipinos,” says Teresita Tan, executive vice president and head of overseas banking and channel services group of BPI.

“Through the BPInoy Fiesta, we will not just conquer the distance between overseas Filipinos and their families but we will also strengthen their ties and enable them to see fruits of their hard work and perseverance in providing the financial needs of their loved ones,” she says.

BPInoy Fiesta introduces a fiesta-like classroom experience wherein families are able to appreciate the value of learning while sharing their time together. Addressing the basic financial literacy needs of OF families, BPInoy Fiesta brings topics such as basic financial planning and communication management.

In its sixth year, the BPInoy Learning program series will go around the country to reach out to more and more Overseas Filipino families and provide them with the knowledge they need to take charge of their finances for their future.

Registration for the BPInoy Fiesta is free. Attendees will also meet up close and personal, Star-in-a-Million Singing Champion and Prince of Pop, Mr. Erik Santos, in a mini-concert. Register online through www.bpiexpressonline.com or text BPINOY(space)NAME(space) VENUE YOU WANT TO ATTEND and send to 0917-8910000 for Globe subscribers or to 0918-8910000 for Smart subscribers.

http://punto.com.ph/News/Article/10600/Volume-4-No-116/Headlines/i-BPInoy-i-invades-Pampanga-with-Fiesta-themed-financial-wellness-for-OFW-families

ergit222

March 17th, 2011, 01:58 AM

74ZoNEEX4mw
The Point Residences is the flagship project currently underway in San Fernando City, La Union in the northern Philippine island of Luzon. It has been cited by the Philippine government as a catalyst for the development of the Poro Point Special Economic and Freeport Zone into a major tourism attraction that can compete with Phuket and Bali.

The Point’s close proximity to other Asian countries and territories makes it an ideal destination for commercial service to the Asian market.

Getting there
From Manila you can either take the plane or drive by land. Take the North Luzon Express way and pass by SCTEX and take Tarlac exit. Drive straight ahead Pangasinan until you reach Urdaneta and Pozzorubio. Take the bridge to La Union and drive pass towns of Aringay, Caba and Bauang. Take a left turn upon reaching Pennsylvania Road after passing Oasis Hotel. This road leads to The Point Residences.

World renowned Spanish Architect Angel Sueiro heads the design and construction team of the Point, La Union. Architect Sueiro independently designed numerous casino projects, including the Gran Casino PLC in Margarita Island, Venezuela, the Jump Up Casino in Saint Maarten and the Gran Casino Aranjuez in Madrid.

A former partner and art director of Nova, a graphic design and corporate firm in the Dominican Republic, Sueiro has worked on numerous top hotels, restaurants, bars, casinos, real estate properties and over 60 hospitality projects in fifteen different countries. In the last seven years he has been managing Impacto Concepts & Solutions, a subsidiary company of Thunderbird Resorts, with more than 140 architects and designers in nine countries.

Thunderbird Resorts has commissioned Mr Paulo Alcazaren of PGAA Creative Design as the Landscape Architect for the Point. Mr. Alcazaren, the principal of the firm has over 25 years of experience in design profession and was awarded by the Professional Regulation Commission as Professional of the Year in the field of Landscape Architecture in 2002.

He also set up his affiliate offices, PDAA Design Pte Ltd in Singapore, Malaysia and India.

With Mr. Angel Sueiro and Mr. Paulo Alcazaren, let their masterpiece unfold at the Point, La Union.

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 02:48 PM

Province of La Union financial statement for February 2011

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_files/downloads/FINANCIAL%20STATEMENT%20AS%20OF%20FEBUARY%202011.pdf

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 02:57 PM

From http://www.ironwulf.net/2011/02/03/lakbay-norte-2-pugads-extreme-adventure-at-pugo-la-union/

http://www.ironwulf.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/lakbaynorte2-d2-55.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5403787048_f2a65ab605_z.jpg
Shuttle Bus

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5292/5403187293_1c3fffc7a2_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5137/5403187693_8e91d11002_z.jpg
Zipline

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 03:00 PM

from: http://www.ironwulf.net/2011/02/03/lakbay-norte-2-pugads-extreme-adventure-at-pugo-la-union/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5403188771_b8e1dab72a_z.jpg
ATV

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5259/5403789484_d622fab863_z.jpg
Wall Climbing

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 03:09 PM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/198019_1579290974845_1612790914_31126641_6595420_n.jpg?dl=1

zoan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/zoantharia/3305327938/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

296619

March 17th, 2011, 03:43 PM

Ganda ng activities dyan sa La Union at nung Macho temple... ^^ :)

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 04:14 PM

Ganda ng activities dyan sa La Union at nung Macho temple... ^^ :)

:okay: Bagong mapapasyalan sa La Union ang PUGAD:banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 17th, 2011, 04:28 PM

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/198071_1579382417131_1612790914_31126806_7052253_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/199019_1579377737014_1612790914_31126791_7973600_n.jpg?dl=1

Mondynet (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mondynet/3715634656/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 18th, 2011, 01:32 AM

LEADING independent oil retailer SEAOIL Philippines is backing the private school division of the National Basketball Training Center Elite League that has drawn 168 teams made up of 3,024 players and 336 coaches from all over the country.

Elite League Executive Director Eric Altamirano has welcomed the
three-year sponsorship commitment of SEAOIL, saying: "We have found the perfect partner. The NBTC Elite League and SEAOIL are both very young and very aggressive in building a stronger base around the country. We are both open to new ideas and this partnership is a very welcome development."

"The NBTC Elite League has our full support because it shares our thrust of fueling a better future for our youth by developing their leadership potentials," SEAOIL Philippines president and chief executive officer Glenn Yu said.

"We are not only for basketball but for instilling values and making these players future leaders," said Altamirano, adding the objective of the program is also to identify, prepare and develop young players for youth national teams.

Like the previous editions of the NBTC D-League, the competing team will be trained under a module focusing on fundamentals. The coaches will also benefit from regular coaching seminars to be held at the competition areas in the league also backed by B-Meg, Magnolia Inc., Magnolia Ice Cream, Purefoods Hormel, San Miguel Foods Inc., (Monterey), San Mig Coffee and Molten.

Participating areas are San Fernando (La Union), Pampanga, Olongapo City, Tarlac City, Bulacan and Baguio in North Luzon and for South Luzon, the areas are Palawan, Cavite, Los Banos (Laguna), Lucena City and Camarines Sur.

For Visayas, the areas are Cebu City, Dumaguete City, Iloilo City, Ormoc City, Bacolod City and for Mindanao, participating teams will come from the areas of Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, Iligan City, Zamboanga City and Socsargen.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/mar18/sports8.html

hugodiekonig

March 18th, 2011, 05:17 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/2981293216_40cf6968f7_z.jpg?zz=1

Toto Gamboa (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ggsubscribe/2981293216/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 18th, 2011, 05:24 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2167/4513255441_9ff4f92143_z.jpg

jessybalanag (http://www.flickr.com/photos/41692221@N05/4513255441/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 18th, 2011, 05:26 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2070/2143714320_8be9f2e2a5_z.jpg

kampuger (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kampuger/2143714320/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

Edmundtanso

March 18th, 2011, 06:34 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2070/2143714320_8be9f2e2a5_z.jpg

kampuger (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kampuger/2143714320/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

Yummm! =)

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 12:30 PM

Yummm! =)

Masarap isawsaw sa suka with tomatoes :okay:

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 12:35 PM

Banco Filipino deposits dropped to P15 billion from P17 billion in over 2 months

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) yesterday revealed that about 60% of the total deposits in the closed Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank are covered by the mandatory insurance of P500,000 per depositor.

PDIC executive vice president Cristina Orbeta said in a press conference that the government-owned insurer would pay P9.4 billion worth of deposit claims of Banco Filipino out of its Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) amounting to P64.6 billion.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said the deposit base of Banco Filipino dropped to P15 billion as of March 15 from about P17 billion as of end-December. This means that the PDIC would pay P9.4 billion or 62% of the total deposits.

Orbeta told reporters that PDIC personnel have been deployed to the 62 banking units of Banco Filipino nationwide to gather and preserve the bank’s records and assets, preparatory to examination so that the claims servicing process may start.

“We shall give updates as soon as the examination of bank records is complete. The entire organization has been mobilized to fast-track payment of deposit insurance,” she explained.

“Again, we assure depositors that PDIC will pay deposit insurance for all valid accounts,” Orbeta said.

Depositors swarm BF branches

Angry depositors assembled at the closed Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank branches in San Fernando, La Union and other areas in the region yesterday as they demanded to withdraw their money after the BSP ordered the bank’s closure last Thursday.

Depositors from various parts of La Union trooped to the closed bank’s branch along Quezon Ave. and other bank branches in the Ilocos region to withdraw their money.

Several branches of Banco Filipino in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon did not open their offices starting last Tuesday.

The BSP ordered last Thursday the closure of Banco Filipino for insolvency after its liabilities overwhelmed its assets by P8.4 billion, prompting monetary authorities to prepare charges against the board of directors and officials of the bank.

BSP Deputy Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. said the central bank’s 7-member Monetary Board decided yesterday to place Banco Filipino under the receivership of the PDIC.

More (http://interceder.net/list/la-union)

:bash::bash:So sad

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 01:03 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/4837163430_9eb3aabf2d_z.jpg

Mico Salamanca (http://www.flickr.com/photos/micosalamanca/4837163430/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 01:08 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4310953212_927db4a85c_z.jpg

SaintChristopher-FOR THE WOUNDS THAT NEVER HEALED (http://www.flickr.com/photos/saintchristopherlucky/4310953212/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 01:13 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2479/3623706137_b6201ac4fc_z.jpg?zz=1

aporamon (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aporamon/3623706137/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 01:29 PM

By: Abigail Ancheta – Cabilin, PITO-LU

As part of its 161st Foundation Anniversary, the Provincial Government of La Union headed by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega inaugurated and blessed 21 infra projects in various municipalities and started three other major projects.

On February 24, 2011, provincial officials and municipal officials of Bacnotan, La Union led the inauguration of the concreted Paagan Road which was initially started last January 29, 2010 and was officially finished on March 4, 2010. Residents from this barangay were very thankful for the project considering that commercial transport services would already be faster and accessible

The province’s basic infrastructure programs include the maintenance of existing Provincial and Barangay Road Networks to accelerate rural development, thus leading the province for the continued improvement of the people’s social well-being.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-17-2011_paagan.jpg

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-17-2011_osias.jpg

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-17-2011_buselbusel.jpg

Official Web Site of the Province of La Union (http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?extend.219)

hugodiekonig

March 19th, 2011, 01:39 PM

Administrator

By: Abigail D. Ancheta – Cabilin, PITO-LU

As a kick-off to the 2011 International Women’s Month Celebration, the Provincial Government of La Union headed by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega together with the Regional Line Agencies assembled early at the City of San Fernando Plaza on March 8, 2011 to participate in the Fun Walk For a Cause. It was followed by a short program of the Provincial Capitol.

Senior Board Member Francisco “Kit” Ortega welcomed the participants during the program sponsored by the La Union Vibrant Women Incorporated (LUVWI) chaired by Madame Geraldine R. Ortega and the Regional Association of Gender and Equality (RAGE) Region I headed by Asst. Dir. Angelita B. Concepcion of NAPOLCOM Region I held at Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol Building, San Fernando, La Union. BM Kit emphasized the importance of Gender Equality and assured that Gov. Manoling together with the provincial officials will always be in support of the programs and projects for women empowerment.

Ms. Geraldine Joy Ortega-Gidaya, Executive Assistant IV, read the message of LUVWI Chairperson Madame Deny Ortega for the Women’s Month Celebration. In her message, she stressed on the United Nation’s Theme for this year, “Equal Access to Education, Training, Science and Technology – Pathway to Decent Work For Women”, that there should be equality of men and women as stated in Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710). She also commended all the perseverance of women in performing well on their role to the development of the community. Madame Deny also challenged all women to be God loving and morally upright in all ways.

A thanksgiving mass was officiated earlier by Rev. Fr, Samuel F. Banayat for the International Women’s Month Celebration with the theme, “Magna Carta of Women, Philippine Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW): In Support of the Millenium Development Goals”.

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-17-2011_mamjoy.jpg

http://www.launion.gov.ph/e107_images/newspost_images/03-17-2011_funwalk.jpg

Provincial Government of La Union (http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.220.2)

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 01:42 AM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5004/5202338203_023955fc17_z.jpg

ehloysah (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ehloysah/5202338203/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

ergit222

March 20th, 2011, 04:24 AM

http://www.sanfernandocity.gov.ph/img/logo.jpg

HAPPY 13TH CITY FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY, SAN FERNANDO CITY! MARCH 20, 2011
MABUHAY
:banana::banana::banana::cheers::cheers::cheers:

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/188224_207779892565859_100000015483097_851133_17342_n.jpg

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 04:29 AM

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8509

An Act converting the Municipality of San Fernando, La Union, into a Component City to be known as the City of San Fernando.

* February 13, 1998 – Signed by His Excellency President Fidel V. Ramos
* March 20, 1998 – Plebiscite Ratifying the Conversion of the Municipality into a City

Republic Act No. 8509 originated in the House of Representatives as House Bill No. 75 94 sponsored by Cong. Victor F. Ortega of the First District of La Union

:cheers::cheers::cheers::banana:
MABUHAY SAN FERNANDO CITY!!

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 04:42 AM

OLD SAN FERNANDO

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/46258_1383784351719_1145294248_30907543_7181963_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/44714_1383782871682_1145294248_30907529_1382517_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/46259_1383773191440_1145294248_30907474_1272677_n.jpg?dl=1

NEW, MODERN, PRESENT DAY SAN FERNANDO CITY

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/175334_1544255978992_1612790914_31079294_7441789_o.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/168737_1493766916797_1612790914_31002816_7788968_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/183670_1570554676443_1612790914_31117270_611744_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184837_1570577037002_1612790914_31117352_203106_n.jpg?dl=1

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/190425_1570576356985_1612790914_31117350_4430989_n.jpg?dl=1

photos sourced from / by: Natives of La Union, Hugo Le Roi

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 07:56 AM

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/199948_1583474319426_1612790914_31132118_1286418_n.jpg?dl=1

Hugo Le Roi

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 07:09 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3511/3300145418_8d8a57f39f_z.jpg?zz=1

rhilton4u (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hilton_photos/3300145418/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 07:29 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5187074540_8c5dbb850c_z.jpg

viviandazon (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53649547@N07/5187074540/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 07:35 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196501_1584139976067_1612790914_31133000_242416_n.jpg?dl=1

REM (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rembcc/5421007322/in/set-72157601101119591/)

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 07:48 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3611/3424491064_43978c3f55_z.jpg

sonnydevilla (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sonnydevilla/3424491064/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

fall_17

March 20th, 2011, 08:00 PM

Good Morning La Union Province and long time no post.:)

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196501_1584139976067_1612790914_31133000_242416_n.jpg?dl=1

REM (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rembcc/5421007322/in/set-72157601101119591/)

I like this, parang long way yata nilakad mu .:lol:

hugodiekonig

March 20th, 2011, 08:17 PM

Good Morning La Union Province and long time no post.:)

I like this, parang long way yata nilakad mu .:lol:

Hindi ko photo iyan :lol: Ilang kilometers naman kayo mula Rizal Park, Manila?

fall_17

March 20th, 2011, 08:32 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196501_1584139976067_1612790914_31133000_242416_n.jpg?dl=1

REM (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rembcc/5421007322/in/set-72157601101119591/)

Hindi ko photo iyan :lol: Ilang kilometers naman kayo mula Rizal Park, Manila?

Approximate 36 KM , hehehe, malapit lang..

Tama ba nakikita ko sa KM slot na iyan, bakit kulang yata ang Kulay.:nuts:

hugodiekonig

March 21st, 2011, 11:14 AM

Approximate 36 KM , hehehe, malapit lang..

Tama ba nakikita ko sa KM slot na iyan, bakit kulang yata ang Kulay.:nuts:

kulang yung kulay? maybe simpleng marker lang ito

hugodiekonig

March 21st, 2011, 12:03 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2468/3736985777_fa97221e3b.jpg

Faircandy

Rodel

March 21st, 2011, 01:34 PM

ano po hitsura ng cityseal ng san fernando, la union?
i have seen an ambulance this morning, with a seal "city of san fernando"
i was curious if this is la union or pampanga.

hugodiekonig

March 21st, 2011, 01:54 PM

ano po hitsura ng cityseal ng san fernando, la union?
i have seen an ambulance this morning, with a seal "city of san fernando"
i was curious if this is la union or pampanga.

Hello! Welcome to the thread!

This is the City of San Fernando, La Union seal

http://www.sanfernandocity.gov.ph/img/logo.jpg

Rodel

March 21st, 2011, 02:34 PM

Hello! Welcome to the thread!

This is the City of San Fernando, La Union seal

http://www.sanfernandocity.gov.ph/img/logo.jpg

hello... thank you :)
that means yung nakita is from pampanga (the seal has a star)

Rodel

March 21st, 2011, 02:36 PM

hugodiekonig

March 21st, 2011, 02:53 PM

i like this photo :banana:

The photographer was very creative in bringing the message of this photo of the marker to viewers:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 12:30 AM

MB – Mon, Mar 21, 2011 3:54 PM PHT

SAN JUAN, La Union, Philippines - Representatives from the regional line agencies and private sector involved in the promotion of nutrition joined the recently successful launch of the Iron Fortified Rice (I - Rice) at the Public Market in San Fernando City, La Union, it was reported here Monday.

National Food Authority (NFA) Region I Director Danilo I. Pastrana told Monday that the i-rice program was simultaneously launched nationwide last March 15, 2011 aimed to help lessen if not totally eliminate malnutrition in the country, specifically iron-deficiency anemia.

According to Pastrana, the i-rice program is being implemented in compliance to Republic Act (RA) 8976 or the Food Fortification Law. (Freddie G. Lazaro)

http://ph.news.yahoo.com/fortified-rice-launched-20110321-005451-531.html

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

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 12:33 AM

hello... thank you :)
that means yung nakita is from pampanga (the seal has a star)

:lol: confusing, right? What's amazing also is that both San Fernando Cities are provincial and regional capitals of their respective regions:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 01:20 PM

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rZS7teEA3jY/TYh3f8-wRpI/AAAAAAAAF7k/IuzmLur4xMI/s1600/ZestAir%2BSeat%2BSale.jpg

http://everythinginbudget.blogspot.com/2011/03/zest-air-domestic-wednesday-seat-sale.html

Rodel

March 22nd, 2011, 02:23 PM

:lol: confusing, right? What's amazing also is that both San Fernando Cities are provincial and regional capitals of their respective regions:cheers:

yeah..oo nga po, :)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 02:42 PM

By: Abigail D. Ancheta-Cabilin, PITO-LU

The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) headed by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega in cooperation with the Division Federation of Supreme Student Government of La Union, Department of Education (DEPed), Committee on Justice and Human Rights – Provincial Board of La Union, Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and Amnesty International conducted the Women’s Rights Awareness Quiz Contest on March 4, 2011 at the Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol Building, San Fernando City, La Union.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan Vice Chairman on Justice and Human Rights Reynaldo M. Mosuela in behalf of the Governor welcomed the delegates and 49 contestants from different highschools of the First and Second District of La Union. The whole day affair started with a presentation/discussion of the Magna Carta for Women (RA 9710) by Atty. Verselie E. Limos, City of San Fernando Legal Officer. This was followed immediately by an open forum.

The quiz proper was both fun and challenging with Mary Grace L. Dacanay of Don Eufemio F. Eriguel Memorial National Highschool in Agoo, La Union emerged as Champion. Alex Enrico P. Viloria of Tubao National High School was the First Runner up followed by Donalyn B. Cabico of Damortis National High School of Sto. Tomas, La Union, 2nd Runner Up and Maicah Gagucas of Agoo Kiddie Special School, Agoo, La Union, 3rd Runner Up.

Afternoon activities was highlighted by the Call for Continuing Human Rights Action by SP Chairman on Justice and Human Rights BM Henry A. Bacurnay, Jr. and the delivery of message of Activism against HR Violations by Atty. Romel P. Daguimol, OIC-Commission on Human Rights –R1.

Provincial Government of La Union website (http://www.launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.221.2)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 02:55 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4933562792_46c86c6e44_b.jpg

hpesojames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/4933562792/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 03:01 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5050/5228585335_f585d6720d_z.jpg

hpesoJames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/5228585335/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 03:03 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5202/5229118336_01232af9cb_z.jpg

hpesoJames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/5229118336/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 03:08 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5168/5228497622_fff98e66e3_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5227838589_9c06335e4a_z.jpg

hpesoJames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/5228497622/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 22nd, 2011, 03:17 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5005/5227655591_05b47e782a_z.jpg

hpesoJames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/5227655591/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 01:11 AM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1222/1488176142_62e311a961_z.jpg

andy_atsaka (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gabriel93/1488176142/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 02:21 AM

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/193198_10150110798723204_336893718203_6307931_5816486_o.jpg

BAUANG Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/login/setashome.php?ref=genlogin#!/photo.php?fbid=10150110798723204&set=a.365147188203.146283.336893718203&theater)

Perseus II

March 23rd, 2011, 03:22 AM

ang ganda talaga ng La Union :)

Nice pic above :)

The church is grand :)

Perfect setting sa isang romance-comedy movie :)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 03:41 AM

ang ganda talaga ng La Union :)

Nice pic above :)

The church is grand :)

Perfect setting sa isang romance-comedy movie :)

Ang ganda ng pagkakakuha ng litrato. Finally nirerenovate narin ang Bauang Plaza. Ang ganda ngayon ng Plaza ng Bauang. Ang ganda rin ng facade ng Bauang Church

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 03:44 AM

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/194157_10150112930599748_30433734747_6479760_7778314_o.jpg

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/194098_10150112930674748_30433734747_6479762_1259106_o.jpg

http://hphotos-ash4.fbcdn.net/191882_10150112930729748_30433734747_6479763_2572048_o.jpg

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/191933_10150112931034748_30433734747_6479767_4563553_o.jpg

http://hphotos-ash4.fbcdn.net/192195_10150112931094748_30433734747_6479768_7234675_o.jpg

http://hphotos-ash4.fbcdn.net/191647_10150112931144748_30433734747_6479769_1742620_o.jpg

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/193508_10150112931249748_30433734747_6479770_420617_o.jpg

http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=10150112931299748&set=a.10150112930549748.284884.30433734747&theater

Tarlaqueno-ako

March 23rd, 2011, 06:39 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4933562792_46c86c6e44_b.jpg

hpesojames (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hpesojames/4933562792/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Ang ganda.:):banana::cheers:

whofeih

March 23rd, 2011, 07:37 AM

wazzup guys? any updates?

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 01:56 PM

wazzup guys? any updates?

There are so many updates here in our publish that are not written or published in the net.

So far, progress in now on La Union, as influx of investments are coming especially at Bauang and San Fernando

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 01:59 PM

By: Alice N. Rioteta

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 23 (PIA) – The Philippine Information Agency – Regional Office 1 (PIA-RO1) conducted a press conference yesterday in support to the celebration of the Women’s Month this March, with the theme: “Magna Carta of Women, Philippine CEDAW: In Support of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)”.

In the opening statement of Deputy Regional Director Jennilyne C. Role of PIA, she emphasized the importance of the celebration and the role of the participants as private and government advocates and partner in information dissemination.

“We conceptualized this press conferences intended not only for the local media in the area, but also tapping the regional and provincial association of government information officers, in order for you to disseminate whatever sharings/learnings our speakers will be sharing to all of us in your respective areas,” Role said.

PIA-RO1 invited resource persons from the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the person of Regional Information Officer Iryn Q. De Los Reyes, Social Welfare Officer IV and Head of the Retained Community-Based Services Mary Grace A. Rendon, and Social Welfare Officer II and Focal Person on Women and Youth Clarivel Banzuela.

They talked about existing issues on women in the region, hand in hand with the measures to protect the rights of women as embedded in Republic Act 9262, an Act defining violence against women and children and protective measures for victims.

Likewise, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the region was invited in the person of Attorney Marvin O. Tavares who discussed and entertained querries about PIA and PDEA’s tie-up advocacy activity on the Anti-Drug Courier Program of the government where most of the victims are women.

The said press conference was moderated by Role and participated in by 43 participants from the local media of the province, the members of the Board of the Association of Regional Government Information Officer of Region 1 (ARGIO-R1), and the La Union Association of Government Information Officers (LUAGIO) representing information officers from the agency’s provincial counterparts and local government units. (JCR/ANR/PIA-1 La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=23775

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 02:27 PM

Houses under construction

http://hphotos-ash2.fbcdn.net/134909_173534486021292_100000942267127_344310_5890954_o.jpg

http://hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/135599_173535039354570_100000942267127_344318_461650_o.jpg

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/170335_173534939354580_100000942267127_344317_383958_o.jpg

Manna Residencies facebook (http://www.facebook.com/manna.residences?sk=photos#!/photo.php?fbid=173534939354580&set=a.173534866021254.31223.100000942267127&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 03:23 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3283/3006481249_5789360ec1.jpg

alexlabastida (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexlabastida/3006481249/sizes/m/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 03:49 PM

http://hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/55777_442166742869_653047869_4956100_3707610_o.jpg

Robert Lopez Chan (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/photo.php?fbid=442166742869&set=at.442163537869.238000.653047869.100001519944943&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 23rd, 2011, 04:16 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3295/2439897651_27d8c7af8a_z.jpg?zz=1

lacesdews (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13428049@N00/2439897651/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 24th, 2011, 11:35 AM

By: Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 23 (PIA) --- Aimed at alleviating poverty and reviving dignity to Santolians, Santol municipality in La Union developed a strategy that will serve as a battlecry to uplift the life condition of the vulnerable and the underprivileged.

Used to be the “marijuana” haven in the province, this 5th class municipality with 11 barangays, all situated in the mountainous tri-boundaries of La Union, Benguet, and Ilocos Sur, has attracted big time drug operators that eventually diminished the dignity of the people living therein.

The people engaged themselves in “marijuana” cultivation as their means of livelihood, tapping their children as well, as cultivators and farmers of these illegal activities.

Mayor Daily Sayangda-Olivar, local chief executive of Santol, recalling her childhood days when her town folks were asked where they are from, she noted that they deny they’re from Santol. Instead, they say they come from Balaoan, a nearby town of Santol.

“I am saddened that people were ashamed to be identified as residents of my town. They were ashamed to be part of an area known for its marijuana plantations. They were also ashamed to be members of families who were engaged as “marijuana’ cultivators, an ‘easy-money’ endeavor to lighten their hardships,” Olivar recalled.

Challenged by the existing pressing issues in the town, Mayor Olivar, upon assumption as chief executive in 2007, initiated various changes ranging from administrative concerns, to operations/technical aspects of governance, and down to the values/behavioral formation of the people.

Difficulty, criticisms, and threats were experienced by Olivar in her quest for a better quality of life for her people. Some responded positively but most, especially those who were engaged in drugs, resisted.

“It is very difficult to impose change to those who were used to the old systems, but, I stand firm in my vision, no matter what the consequences be on my part, to make Santol a haven of peace and progress and ultimately revive the long lost dignity of my people because of generational culture and way of life,” Olivar added.

House to house visits and barangay dialogues, even to the mountainous “marijuana” plantations, were initiated by Olivar believing her people will never harm her because she is one with them, an ‘Igorot’ in the mountain. Needs assessments were made, quality programs and projects were started, institutionalized, and are now being sustained.

The “One People, One Town’ concept was the blueprint and unifying factor that bound all Santolians.

As another term unfolds, an urban planning strategy in the rural setting was formulated to serve as the primary tool of the Executive Legislative Agenda for 2011-2013, the “ISEM METRUSantol”.

‘ISEM’ is an Iluko term for ‘smile’, while ‘METRU’ is the new roadmap of Mayor Olivar to achieve her goal to make Santol, the Fruit Basket of the North, with the following specific activities:

M=illennium development goals (MDGs) towards poverty eradication by providing comprehensive and quality basic services

Under this vision, Olivar identified doable services to support the MDG, the country's commitment to the United Nation’s convention participated in by different nations worldwide.

People are continuously molded to be happy individuals, keeping everyone smiling because of the continuing improvement in the quality of life of the people.

Everyone will be given the chance to go to school, old and young alike, regardless of their status in life. Scholarship programs will be continued to include all levels. Existing schools that needs repair will be conducted, basic infrastructures and equipment in all day care centers, pre-elementary, grade schools and high schools will be provided, and the mobile school will reach out to every corner of the town to deliver the needed information and education which the people were deprived off.

Quality health services will be provided and good nutrition will be given to all, hand in hand with the building of nutrition centers.

E=nsuring a peaceful and healthy environment

Santol will be made safe and a peaceful town where the children, women, elderly, and persons with disabilities are given extra care and protection.

The ‘Oplan Pagbabago’ will be continued to its second level to further give protection to the people especially in the barangay. It will be sustained to continuously eradicate marijuana in the town and continue radiating the advocacy in the neighboring territories.

The Municipal/Barangay Anti-Drug Action Council (MADAC/BADAC) will be strengthened to ensure delivery of quality community judicial services to the people.

The LGU will ensure protection and protection of the forests, watershed areas, bodies of water and the community, with an end in view of developing the rich natural resources of the area into tourism and recreational spots.

The ‘Isem Santol’ infrastructure and zoning plans will be continued, hand in hand with a stricter implementation of the sanitary code and concentrate on environmentally critical projects. If needed for purposes of development, the sanitary and zoning code will be amended.

T=argetting vulnerable/underprivileged

Based on needs assessment conducted by the LGU and divert the focus of all marijuana cultivators, comprehensive services are at hand, especially for the depressed, disadvantaged and underserved sectors.

Municipal identification system for data base purposes and for provision of vital services is being conceptualized.

R=esource Generation and Optimum Utilization towards Building a Vibrant Economy and Financial Stability

The LGU plans to optimize internal income sources and intensify internal income generation to include real property tax collection thru innovative and people-oriented activities. Tax data base will be strengthened where individuals using the rich natural resources will be taxed.

Programs earlier initiated will be strengthened to include the magsiMULA program, AgNegosyo program and mainstream them under the Santol Development Center.

New enterprises will be put up, while existing ones will be expanded and upgraded. More jobs will also be created.

To add revenues, the LGU will also continue establishing the municipal market, slaughterhouse, employment kiosk and put up their own bank in the area. Handicrafts, agri-ecotourism and food processing sectors will likewise be develop.

U=rban planning and standards in the rural community towards good governance and sustainable alliance

Total change in the bureaucracy was implemented to include its systems and procedures and adding professionalism for quality service delivery with the guiding principle that only the best of the best will serve.

“We are now after quality performance for quality service delivery, no more ‘pwede na yan’ or ‘ok na yan’ ,” Olivar emphasized.

Plans of reviewing existing memorandum of agreements and how to widen the scope of cooperation and strengthening partnership alliance with the different stakeholders of the society are at hand.

“With these, we are looking forward for making the town of Santol a better place to live in and to be proud of by the next generations to come, hence, building greater patriotism and creating a more confident, contented, and empowered citizenry,” Oliver said. (JCR/PIA1-La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=23991

:cheers: Santol must be a model town of governance for other towns in La Union!:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 24th, 2011, 11:36 AM

By: Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 24 (PIA1) – To achieve a common goal of contributing to the improvement of the human rights situation primarily through the enhancement of the relationship between the security forces, the civil society and the local communities, a community-based dialogue sessions project was established in 2008 and launched here in the region on March 23, at the Oasis Resort Hotel, this city.

According to Attorney Marlon J. Manuel, project coordinator from the Alternative Law Groups (ALG), a coalition of non-government organizations with legal program components that adhere to the principles and values of alternative or development law, this community –based human rights dialogue sessions on human rights project was launched in October 2008 with 12 dialogues already done in the different regions, and five more areas remaining – 2 in Luzon (Regions 1 and 2), Regions 12, 13, and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.

Manuel said this project is a partnership between the Philippine National Police Human Rights Affairs Office (HRAO-PNP) being the lead agency, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Human Rights Office (HRAO-AFP), Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations (J7-AFP), Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation (NCAF), Hanns Seidel Foundation of Germany, and the Alternative Law Groups being the project coordinator.

“Maraming klase ng human rights violation ang umiiral sa ating bansa at iba’t-ibang klase sa iba’t-ibang rehiyon. Hindi lang ang pagpatay, nandiyan din ang tortyur, demolisyon, disappearances, at iba pa pero pinaka-marami ang sa resources.”

“Napansin namin na hindi masyadong grabe dito sa La Union maliban na lamang sa mga political killings na gaya ng nalaman namin sa Bacnotan na isang barangay captain at konsehal ang pinatay noong eleksiyon at ang medyo malala ng kaunti ay sa Ilocos”, Manuel said.

“We are here on the objective to educate the people and promote human rights. It requires multi-sectoral effort on educating the people and addressing their complaints, iyan ang rason kung bakit naming isinusulong ang dialogue na ito upang magkaharap-harap ang bawat sector at maiparating kung ano ang kanilang saloobin so that they could come up with a better solution to the problem,” Manuel added.

Now the PNP has established their human rights offices with the designated human rights officer to immediately address any kind of human rights violation committed by the PNP filed in their offices, and so with the AFP.

After the completion of this project, Manuel pointed that they are eyeing on establishing a top-level policy dialogue mechanism involving the security forces, government bodies, agencies of the Executive branch, members of Congress, and the Judiciary with civil society organizations toward a constructive discussion of policy gaps and reforms for implementation.

Part of their plans for 2011 is to conduct trainings on basic concepts and principles of human rights, international agreements and national laws, sharing/planning workshops for Luzon and Mindanao on initiatives resulting from the dialogue sessions, and other future activities. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=24006

ergit222

March 25th, 2011, 04:09 AM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00191-20110322-0649.jpg

Thunderbird Resort commenced the construction of the expansion of the existing casino at Poro Point to create an additional 1,000 square meters of gaming space that will offer 75 new slot positions and 42 new table positions along with expanded food and beverage operations.

ergit222

March 25th, 2011, 04:13 AM

ergit222

March 25th, 2011, 04:52 AM

http://www.littlesurfmaidresort.com/images/resort_09a.jpg

The Little Surfmaid Resort,one of the premier surfing resorts in La Union, offers a beautiful bar and restaurant fronting the surfing beach, luxurious air-conditioned rooms and suites with in-room safes, broadband internet, mini bars, and cable TV. The resort offers surfing equipment for hire and surfing clinics.

ergit222

March 25th, 2011, 04:59 AM

http://www.sanjuansurfresort.com/manage/upload_pics/_MG_1515.jpg

Popular amongst the international surfing set for its proximity to the big waves at La Union, the San Juan Surf Resort even has an on-site Billabong Surf School headed by expert surfer Luke Landrigan. To go with the school is the on-site Surf Shop which can get you suited up to take on the ocean. The hotel's outdoor bar and restaurant is a hot spot amongst the guests who enjoy discussing their surfing adventures or just meeting people. The basic rooms come in several varieties including bungalows and standard rooms with air-conditioning, fan rooms, deluxe rooms and villas.

climax29

March 25th, 2011, 07:08 AM

i love la union..

hugodiekonig

March 25th, 2011, 07:18 AM

i love la union..

hello po! welcome to the thread! Visit po kayo lagi dito sa thread at pasyal din po kayo dito sa La Union!:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 25th, 2011, 02:49 PM

cajXOZ3Lo18&feature=related

jobytube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cajXOZ3Lo18&feature=related)

hugodiekonig

March 25th, 2011, 02:59 PM

umay kayon! entertainment time!!!!

San Fernando La Union Got Talent Champion!!

RLRLsljn6Z8

tsukishi30 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLRLsljn6Z8)

:dance::dance:

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

March 25th, 2011, 05:12 PM

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h319/ergit222/skyscraper/IMG00188-20110318-1543.jpg

Newly completed Tan Building will house the new La Union branches of Banco de Oro and Metrobank, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Region I Office and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

Another BDO branch in the city? so 3rd BDO branch na? Wow! Marami sigurong clients ang BDO dito sa San Fernando, and they could magnet former depositors of Banco Filipino as their advantage. So sooner, there will be 4 BDO branches all over La Union

It would be better kung ang ibang regional/provincial/other government offices ay mag-occupy narin sa building na ito. pwede ring lumipat dito ang CHR, DTI La Union, Bureau on Penology and Jail Management, etc.

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 02:42 AM

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QgUWEW-Ar8/TYvv7d0cUlI/AAAAAAAACDA/SWoXgKMmids/s1600/earth-hour-2011_email-blast_400.jpg

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 02:54 AM

http://www.philippine-trivia.com/components/com_joomgallery/img_pictures/geography_2/geography_20090810_1095083872.jpg

http://www.philippine-trivia.com/Stamps/Geography/special-stamps-featuring-well-known-colonial-lighthouses-in-the-Philippines-Series-II.-64.html#joomimg

ergit222

March 26th, 2011, 03:12 AM

Another BDO branch in the city? so 3rd BDO branch na? Wow! Marami sigurong clients ang BDO dito sa San Fernando, and they could magnet former depositors of Banco Filipino as their advantage. So sooner, there will be 4 BDO branches all over La Union

It would be better kung ang ibang regional/provincial/other government offices ay mag-occupy narin sa building na ito. pwede ring lumipat dito ang CHR, DTI La Union, Bureau on Penology and Jail Management, etc.

I heard BDO will occupy 3 commercial spaces (ground level). BIR is already occupying the whole 2nd floor.

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 04:48 AM

I heard BDO will occupy 3 commercial spaces (ground level). BIR is already occupying the whole 2nd floor.

I see. the third BDO branch is going to be the widest in the city:cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 01:55 PM

TENSION mounts as the Pharmaton MVP Challenge inches closer to the finish line with challengers Anthony Cuerpo, TJ Isla, Chock Martinez, Popo Remigio and Monica Torres feeling the strain, but remaining firm in pulling off the tasks despite the exhaustion.

“Participating in a month-long endurance challenge is no joke,” said Remigio, one of the two women challengers. “It really is very tiring but we also get to enjoy ourselves because of the different places we visit.”

On its third week, the ultimate endurance race resumed the series of challenges with a mile run in Talisay, Batangas and a bike time trial in scenic Tagaytay.

A trail run served as an opener the next morning followed by a kayak challenge.

From Batangas, the competition trailed to Quezon City where the challengers did mini challenges at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Bureau.

Action surged up north in Subic, Zambales, where they negotiated an uphill and downhill run and road bike challenge. They capped the day at the Pawikan Center, where the challengers released baby turtles out to the sea.

Still in Subic, the challengers spent Day 20 with a road bike challenge towards the Gawad Kalinga center to share gifts with underprivileged locals. Then, the challengers put their brains and brawns to the test via a survival skills challenge at Subic’s Eco Village.

Another Kayak challenge ended the Subic leg of the competition and the challengers moved on to Alaminos, Pangasinan for another round of strength and stamina tests, beginning with a half-hour running challenge.

The Pangasinan leg will never be complete without a swim near the famed Hundred Islands and another running challenge in Lingayen.

Today, Day 23, the San Juan Surf Resort in La Union is the venue for an exciting surfing and arduous paddling competitions before heading to Vigan for more mental and physical challenges.

“We’re down to the last week of the competition and I bet the challenges will only get tougher,” said Martinez. “We’re giving everything that we have as we get closer to the finish.”

P500,000 awaits the winner, while the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th placers will receive P250,000, P150,000, P100,000 and P50,000, respectively.

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideSports.htm?f=2011/march/26/sports3.isx&d=2011/march/26

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 02:24 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3929228636_5baa19a233.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2627/3929228584_15c9100d2a.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3929228586_1b1c66a56c.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2553/3929228634_73f4882d49.jpg

Dong Ho (http://www.escapeislands.com/2009/09/agoo-church-la-union.html)

hugodiekonig

March 26th, 2011, 02:27 PM

LIGHT'S OFF!!! EARTH HOUR 2011

ergit222

March 26th, 2011, 05:15 PM

Ives - La La La (La Union) (http://vimeo.com/21294948)

Sparklights Multimedia
- Joboy Farol
- John Farol
- Angela Ganuelas

Artist: Ives Gimpaya

hugodiekonig

March 27th, 2011, 01:07 AM

A post from previous threads. I cannot find the link

International dev't project to boost La Union tourism

BAUANG, La Union – A world-class development project would soon be implemented in this town, to boost its tourism and economy and outlying provinces of northern Luzon.

A master plan is now being prepared for the Bauang Development Project to lay down the socio-economic, environmental and physical blueprint for the development of around 200 hectares of land along China Sea and Bauang River as an international golf course with hotel resort complex, trade, business and tourism center due to its strategic location near the proposed international airport at nearby San Fernando City, La Union.

A memorandum of agreement was recently signed between the Bauang Paradise International Dev’t. Corp. and DEMCOR Inc. for the latter to start the master plan composed of detailed engineering and architectural designs.

The DEMCOR Inc. would be paid P55 million for consulting services.

The agreement was signed between BPIDC chairman Adrian C. Lee, president Roberto P. Orsolino respectively and DEMCOR Inc. president Manuel R. Contreras.

The BPIDC’s vice chairperson is Eun Kyung Lee while board members include Alfred P. Dizon, publisher of Northern Philippine Times and lawyer Philip Kiat-ong.

Bauang municipal mayor Roberto P. De Guzman and town councilor Gabriel A. Sotto witnessed the signing of the BPIDC-DEMCOR agreement at the mayor’s office.
This, after the BPIDC made a memorandum of agreement with the municipal government of Bauang to undertake the project.

Under the agreement, the BPIDC was established and mandated to act as the implementing agency for all development initiatives and activities within the project area.

The master plan shall consider local, regional and national goals of the government’s Medium Term Development Plan.

Mayor De Guzman told the media the development plan would not only benefit the people of Bauang but also outlying areas of northern Luzon.

Foreign investors are reportedly now interested in joining the project which local officials said, would put Bauang in the world tourism map like the Summer Capital of Baguio, Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao and the mountain hideaway of Sagada town in Mountain Province.

Local government officials said Bauang is an ideal spot for tourism and development projects as it is the “Gateway to Northern Luzon.”

It is adjacent to the China Sea, is only an hour’s ride from Baguio and around three hours away from the industrial zone of Clark in Pampanga, also a former American military camp like Poro Point in La Union.

A lot of foreigners like European, Australian and American expatriates have established their residence in this tropical “paradise” town due to its scenic spots, friendly people, relaxing atmosphere and low crime rate.

Bauang has become bullish with tourists and visitors pouring in due to development initiatives of the local government led by Mayor De Guzman. “I urge everyone to come to our town and enjoy it,” he said.

Bauang recently won as the “cleanest and greenest town” in the province.

De Guzman has come up with “I Love Bauang,” a project to enhance the town. The mayor recently donated some sailboats to barangays so constituents could use these for tourism or economic purposes.

kumusta na kaya ang project na ito? natuloy kaya? I think noong 2009 pa ito

hugodiekonig

March 27th, 2011, 01:11 AM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/195899_10150116390666016_653081015_6954104_6461726_n.jpg?dl=1
Jose D. Aspiras Civic Center

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/196618_10150116390626016_653081015_6954103_5502841_n.jpg?dl=1
Museo de Iloko

airwind (http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=18827&post=168745&uid=336893718203#!/photo.php?fbid=10150116312676016&set=a.10150116312131016.281412.653081015&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 27th, 2011, 02:39 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5217/5401312644_a2623e16c5_z.jpg

ijnek29 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ijnek29/5401312644/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 01:17 AM

AFTER the successful opening of the 2011 National Basketball Training Center (NBTC)-Seaoil Elite League Bacolod leg last March 13, 2011 at the West Negros University (WNU) gym, tournament commissioner Jake Azucena told Sun.Star-Bacolod that scrimmages resume April 2 at the same venue.

The next game schedules will be out this week.

In the opening games, Mansilingan Christian Academy outplayed Christian Academy of Bacolod, 102-60 while St. John’s Institute outscored Tangub Christian Academy in the second game, 107-42, said Azucena.

On the other hand, NBTC Elite League executive director Eric Altamirano welcomed the three-year sponsorship commitment of Seaoil.

According to Altamirano, they found the perfect partner as NBTC Elite League and Seaoil are both young and very aggressive in building a stronger base around the country. “We are both open to new ideas and this partnership is very much anticipated,” he added.

Altamirano further added that they are not only for basketball but also for instilling values and molding young players into future leaders.

Meanwhile, Seaoil Philippines president and chief executive officer Glenn Yu stressed that the NBTC Elite League has their full support because it shares the thrust of fueling a better future for the youth by developing their leadership potentials.

Aside from Bacolod, other participating areas are San Fernando (La Union), Pampanga, Olongapo City, Tarlac City, Bulacan and Baguio for North Luzon and for South Luzon are Palawan, Cavite, Los Baños (Laguna), Lucena City and Camarines Sur.

For the Visayas area, the participants are Cebu City, Dumaguete City, Iloilo City and Ormoc City, Bacolod City and for Mindanao are the areas of Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, Iligan City, Zamboanga City and Socsargen. (Jerome S. Galunan Jr.)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/sports/2011/03/27/nbtc-seaoil-caging-resumes-april-2-147226

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 01:20 AM

Barely three years since the group of juice magnate Alfredo M. Yao took over the former Asian Spirit Airlines, budget carrier Zest Airways (Zest Air) is taking the local airline industry by storm.

While others chose to remain conservative in their strategies amid fuel cost pressures, Zest Air continues to fly above the turbulence with its aggressive re-fleeting and route expansion efforts. This is all part of its long-term plan to take a more major role in the budget airline industry.

"We are committed in serving our passengers the best way we can," said Mr. Yao, who serves as Zest Air’s president and chief executive officer. "We want our passengers to keep flying with zest when they travel on board our planes. We want them to keep coming back.

"We are currently expanding our fleet so we can provide our passengers with more flights going to their favorite destinations. As we do this, rest assured, we will stay focused on our passengers’ needs and comfort."

In a statement, Mr. Yao said Zest Air currently has a fleet of five Airbus A320s, and one Airbus 319, which the airline acquired last October.

"The aircraft has a commodious cargo hold equipped with large doors to assist in expedient loading and unloading of goods. It provides customers with added space and comfort, has reduced noise levels in the community we serve and allows Zest Air to operate a more cost-efficient and reliable fleet," he said.

Mr. Yao added that Zest Air has four Modern Ark 60s, an advanced 56-seat class regional turboprop aircraft developed by Xi’an Aircraft Company of China Aviation Industry Corp.

"Characterized by remarkable passenger comfort, operational adaptability and low operating cost, the MA60 is suitable for frequent short- and medium-haul commuter operations as well as multi-role applications," he said.

"The MA60 can meet the increasingly demanding needs of modern transport and offer operators with the greatest operating benefits," he added.

Mr. Yao said Zest Air plans to acquire two more Airbuses and two B-777s by the second half of the year for its long haul flights to the Middle East by the third or fourth quarter of 2011.

Zest Air flies to 20 Philippine destinations. It flies five times daily to Cebu and twice daily to popular stops such as Bacolod, Davao, Iloilo, Tacloban, Tagbilaran and Puerto Princesa. Zest Air also has regular flights from Manila to Boracay, Legazpi, Busuanga, Calbayog, Catarman, Kalibo, Masbate, Marinduque, La Union and Mindoro.

There are also Zest Air flights going to and from Kalibo, near Boracay Island, home of the famous white sand beaches that draw local and international travelers. Zest Air has international flights to Kalibo that take passengers from Incheon and Pusan in South Korea and from Shanghai, China.

In addition, Zest Air also flies from Cebu to Incheon, South Korea. The province of Cebu is home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks, including the Lapu Lapu Shrine, Magellan’s Cross, and the Cebu Taoist Temple.

Zest Air said in a statement that it will use its newly acquired aircrafts to increase the frequencies of its international routes.

Zest Air’s Cebu-Incheon service, which currently flies twice a week, will become a daily service starting June 20.

The Kalibo-Incheon route will also be daily starting June 20, up from the current four-times-a-week frequency, while the Kalibo-Shanghai route will double to four times a week starting June 25, from the current frequency of twice a week.

Zest Air announced that it will have a new Kalibo-Beijing, China flight starting June 26. The airline is also currently mulling flights from Kalibo to Taipei, Taiwan, and Puerto Princesa to Incheon.

"More international destinations will be opened in the near future. It won’t be long before passengers from such places as Taipei, the Republic of Palau, Singapore, Bahrain and Dammam get their chance to fly direct to many of the Philippines’ best tourist destinations," Zest Air said.

The airline noted that it has taken great pains to focus on customer service.

"[Our] flight attendants are friendly and ready to address the needs of tourists and business travelers," Zest Air said.

"At Zest Air, the staff makes sure that passengers are treated like kings and queens. Overhead compartments afford passengers ample space to stow away their bags. Seats are comfortable and the aisles are very spacious. Even toilets are such that they would probably make passengers feel right at home."

In addition, the airline announced that it recently established a partnership with Ace Insurance Group to provide travel insurance at reasonable rates. Zest Air passengers can now avail themselves of travel insurance from Ace Insurance. Insurance premiums cost P180 (one way) and P245 (round trip) per passenger.

For more information, visit the Zest Air Web site at www.zestair.com.ph or call Zest Air’s customer reservation hotline at 855-3333.

http://www.bworldonline.com/cms_assets/printerfriendly_wkndr.php?id=28596

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 01:23 AM

DIVERSIFIED conglomerate San Miguel Corp. is ready to snap up two operating toll roads -- the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road and the Metro Manila Skyway -- to kickstart its infrastructure businesses, its top executive yesterday said.

The move is expected to stoke anew the rivalry between San Miguel and the group of businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, which is also interested in taking over the Skyway project owned by an Indonesian firm.

"If there is an opportunity, we will buy both. Star Tollway and Skyway was offered to us," San Miguel President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon S. Ang told reporters at the sidelines of the launching of the stock exchange’s renamed electronic trading system.

Mr. Ang said San Miguel would sign agreements in connection with the two toll roads "this week or next week."

The Southern Tagalog Arterial Road, also known as the STAR Tollway or CALABARZON Expressway, is a four-lane, 42-kilometer expressway running from Sto. Tomas town to Batangas City that is operated by Star Infrastructure Development Corp.

The Skyway, the 13-kilometer elevated toll road Skyway that runs from Makati to Sucat, is operated by Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corp.

Mr. Ang did not provide further details on the potential acquisitions. Officials of Star Infrastructure Development and Citra Metro Manila were not immediately available for comment.

The bid for Skyway will pit San Miguel against Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., which has a 1.54% interest in Skyway through a 57% stake in Metro Strategic Infrastructure Holdings, Inc.

"If [San Miguel] is interested, it means it is an open market. We are undertaking the same negotiations," Albert W. L. Pulido, vice-president for investor relations of Metro Pacific Tollways’ parent firm Metro Pacific Investments Corp., said in a phone interview yesterday.

"We are still interested [on the Skyway]," Mr. Pulido added.

In September 2009, San Miguel bought a 35% stake in Private Infrastructure Development Corp., a consortium of construction companies, worth P1.575 billion.

Private Infrastructure Development is building the 88.5-kilometer, four-lane Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway. Consunji-led DMCI Holdings Inc., holds a 32% stake in the consortium.

In another development, Mr. Ang said the conglomerate was expecting P2 billion from the sale of its 45-storey Petron Megaplaza in Makati.

"Publicity is ongoing. It is already in the advertisements and we are hoping to sell it within the year," he said.

The 45-storey Petron Megaplaza along Senator Gil Puyat Ave. in Makati, which houses the headquarters of the now San Miguel-led oil giant Petron Corp., has a floor area of 15,512 square meters.

San Miguel also wants to conduct a secondary share offer of as much as 30% of San Miguel’s common shares to raise more money for additional acquisitions and hike its public float.

The company is looking at prices higher than the previously targeted P150-200 per share.

"I hope so," Mr. Ang said, when asked if the price might reach P250 apiece.

"We hope we can do that in the first quarter," he added.

Shares in San Miguel were unchanged at P160.50 apiece yesterday.

Mediaquest Holdings, Inc., owned by the Beneficial Trust Fund of Pangilinan-led Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co., has a minority interest in BusinessWorld. -- N. J. C. Morales

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?title=San%20Miguel%20looking%20to%20add%20STAR,%20Skyway%20to%20portfolio&id=25254

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 01:25 AM

As a service to depositors of the shuttered Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank (Banco Filipino), the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) has started the conduct of a series of depositors forums nationwide.

During the forums, PDIC explains the procedures and requirements for filing deposit insurance claims. Claim forms are also distributed during said forums.

The PDIC reported that about 30 more Depositors Forums are scheduled to be conducted until next week.

PDIC had earlier announced that depositors with accounts of P5,000 and below, who have no outstanding loans and whose addresses are updated in the Bank’s records, are no longer required to file deposit insurance claims.

Payments in the form of postal money order (PMO) will be mailed directly to these depositors through registered mail.

The PMOs may be encashed in more than 1,400 postal offices and more than 300 Land Bank branches nationwide.

Based on the latest available data on Banco Filipino, 53percent of its total number of accounts are those with balances of P5, 000 and below.

Only depositors with accounts above P5, 000; and depositors with P5,000 and below, who have outstanding loans and whose addresses are not updated in the Bank’s records, are required to file deposit insurance claims.

The March 22 Forums covered depositors who maintained accounts with the Head Office in Makati City, Guadalupe and J.P. Rizal branches also in Makati City; Malabon, Kalookan, Alabang, Paranaque, Sucat, Cebu-Mango Avenue, Cebu-Juan Luna, Mandaue and Cagayan de Oro City branches.

Meantime, nine Depositors Forums will be conducted on March 23 covering 16 branches namely: Makati Avenue and Benavidez in Makati City; Quiapo, Tayuman, Tutuban, Espana, Laong-Laan, and M. Dela Fuente in Manila; Novaliches, Amoranto and Roosevelt in Quezon City; Balanga, Angeles City, Naga City, Iriga and Dumaguete City. PDIC personnel officers are disseminating information on the Forums.

Five Depositors Forums have been arranged involving 10 branches on March 24 namely: Ermita, Quirino, Taft and Intramuros in Manila; Mandaluyong, San Juan, Greenhills, Baliuag, Cabanatuan and Butuan City. On March 25, there will be Forums for depositors of Dagupan, Puerto Princesa and Iloilo branches.

Starting today, Depositors Forums will be conducted for depositors of Pasig, Lucena and La Union branches, Batangas City, Laoag and Davao-San Pedro branches on March 29; San Pablo City, Davao-Gaisano, and General Santos City branches on March 30; and in Santiago branch on March 31.

PDIC said that more Forums are being coordinated with concerned local government units in provinces where Banco Filipino branches are located.

PDIC said that the schedule of the Claims Receiving Operations will be announced as soon as possible.

The state deposit insurer estimated that 97percent of total deposit accounts in Banco Filipino are insured.

It reassured depositors that it will pay deposit insurance for all valid deposits.

Earlier, PDIC president Jose Nograles had mobilized the entire organization to fasttrack the claims processing operations.

He emphasized that the speed of payout also depends on the availability of bank records and the documents submitted by claimants. - Jimmy Calapati

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 01:29 AM

By Jacky Lynne A. Oiga
March 26, 2011, 3:37am
The Manor at Camp John Hay (Photo by Ronald G. Jayme)
The Manor at Camp John Hay (Photo by Ronald G. Jayme)

Summer is just around the corner and while most vacationers are hastily planning their trips to the golden beaches of the south, the more jet set crowd is packing their modish carry-all bags for a quick rendezvous with the north.

Baguio City and La Union have always been the top choices for high-end travel to the northern region. Golfers love to tee off amidst the pine-tree lined fairways of Camp John Hay in Baguio, while more and more high-rollers are playing their chips at the Thunderbird Fiesta Casino in San Fernando, La Union.

These two destinations have consistently enjoyed a significant number of foreign visitors in the past years, putting them in the top destination list alongside Boracay and Cebu. Baguio and La Union are two very different provinces that cater to the niche of high-end travelers without losing their quaint countryside charms.

Baguio mountain getaway

Although hundreds of Filipinos and foreign visitors take their annual summer exodus to the City of Pines, the up market destination that is Camp John Hay (CJH) has maintained its sophisticated exclusivity. Among CJH’s lush features are The Manor, CJH Golf Club, and the Scout Hill Forest Cabins.

A hotel concessionaire of the CJH Development Corporation, The Manor is like a little piece of Aspen in its mountain lodge design. The par-69, 18-hole Golf Club, which was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, is a world class course that regularly hosts international golf tournaments.

The Scout Hill Forest Cabins is the most recent prime residential development of CJH. The forest cabins are meant to capture the beauty of countryside living while enjoying the amenities of modern living within the CJH block.

The lavish 695-hectare country club also offers a range of activities open to walk-in guests like horse-back riding, mountain biking, or simply cantering through the bridle paths of its pine tree forest reserve.

La Union surf and turf

Known as the surfing capital of the North, the once sleepy town of La Union is now one of the most sought after destinations for surf enthusiasts. Modest surf shacks and resorts that dot the shores of La Union’s coastal town are popular with young surfers spending the night. But affluent visitors prefer to come home to the Grecian inspired Thunderbird Resort perched on top of the scenic Poro Point in San Fernando City.

Greatly influenced by the Santorini Islands of Greece, the Thunderbird Resort is a 65-hectare property that features stylish yet cozy suites hovering over the Poro Point cliff. The resort offers a distinct landscape following the natural terrain of the cliff and worked around the natural environment.

Within the sprawling property are: a nine-hole golf course seated at the highest point of the Poro peninsula, a beach club waterfront, and a seaside boardwalk. On the other side of the resort is the round-the-clock international Fiesta Casino, adjacent to the Vegas Café and Cabana Bar.

Inspired by a fusion of classical Spanish and modern Filipino architecture, Fiesta Casino offers a non-stop gaming experience for high-rollers and beginners alike. Most of the gamers come from nearby provinces but since the San Fernando Airport resumed operations, a significant number of gamers from Manila are flying to La Union to try their luck at the 24-hour casino.

No more long drives

After operations resumed at the San Fernando Airport, the skies didn’t only open up for La Union but also for Baguio. Baguio’s Loakan Airport has long been overlooked because of visibility concerns. Now, upscale travelers from Manila can do away with the grueling six-hour drive by car or bus, cutting down more than half the road travel time by way of an hour’s flight via Zest Air.

Zest Air flies three times a week to San Fernando Airport and offers free shuttle service to Baguio and Thunderbird Resort. Travel time via shuttle to Baguio is one and a half hours, while Thunderbird Resort is a mere five minutes away from the airport. The shuttle leaves the airport by the hour, and drops Baguio passengers near Burnham Park. They also pick up passengers from Baguio going to San Fernando Airport.

For information, visit the Zest Air website at www.zestair.com.ph

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/311440/travel-faster-norths-prime-destinations

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 04:52 PM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/188620_10150115381173204_336893718203_6353707_5964899_n.jpg?dl=1

Another Memorandum of Agreement was signed between the LGU represented by Mayor Martin de Guzman and BNS Exec Director Jonas Emmanuel Maronilla for a DEWATS to be constructed at the Public Market and the Slaughterhouse.

BAUANG, LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/login/setashome.php?ref=genlogin#!/photo.php?fbid=10150115381173204&set=a.10150115381108204.269764.336893718203&theater)

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 04:59 PM

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/couple-johnpriscilla1.jpg

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/couple-johnpriscilla4.jpg

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/couple-johnpriscilla7.jpg

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/couple-johnpriscilla3.jpg

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/couple-johnpriscilla6.jpg

http://www.weddingsatwork.com/wawnewsblog/2011/03/23/john-estrada-priscilla-meirelles-wedding-photos-onsite-video/

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 05:56 PM

epmyxcthKS8&feature=player_embedded

tvniives
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epmyxcthKS8&feature=player_embedded)

hugodiekonig

March 28th, 2011, 05:59 PM

fEZ236CaX9o

Hugo Le Roi Du Ottawa (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEZ236CaX9o)

KingDeRozan

March 29th, 2011, 07:33 AM

http://i360.photobucket.com/albums/oo50/goldarmor15/Copyof2a78wee.jpg

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 03:36 PM

http://i360.photobucket.com/albums/oo50/goldarmor15/Copyof2a78wee.jpg

Beautiful photo! Beautiful city! thanks for sharing your photo!

KingDeRozan

March 29th, 2011, 03:45 PM

Beautiful photo! Beautiful city! thanks for sharing your photo!

It's nothin :) People there are very nice and friendly. Gotta love La Union.

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 03:47 PM

It's nothin :) People there are very nice and friendly. Gotta love La Union.

Whew thanks a lot! You are always welcome in our province! Come and visit our province often!:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 03:49 PM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 29 (PIA) – To address the immediate economic concerns and help the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s) from Libya cope with their financial needs, the Home Mutual Development (Pag-ibig) Fund (HDMF) is offering a special assistance package for OFW Pag-ibig members.

Under Republic Act 9679, Pag-ibig membership is mandatory for Filipinos employed by foreign-based employers, whether they are deployed locally or abroad. Under the said law, members may only withdraw their contributions upon maturity after 20 years and after making 240 contributions, or under any of the other valid grounds for withdrawal. These include retirement, separation from service due to health reasons, permanent departure from the country, permanent disability or insanity, and death.

According to Pag-ibig Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Darlene Berbarabe, with this special assistance program, members may also opt to continue their membership with the Fund and may avail of a six-month moratorium on payment of their contributions, short-term loans or housing loan, provided they are updated with their payments.

The Pag-ibig CEO added that for members who avail of the moratorium on loans, their payments will be suspended for six months at no additional cost to the borrower. “No penalty and interest will be charged during the period, instead, the borrower’s loan term will be extended for another six months,” Berbarabe said.

Members with outstanding loans are automatically disallowed to apply for withdrawal of their savings, Berbarabe clarified. (JCR/EMR/PIA-La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=24857

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 04:19 PM

Surfing is not an easy sport. Period.

http://www.mb.com.ph/sites/default/files/surfer.jpg

But not for Ronnie Esquivel who rides the waves as if he was just walking in the park — with just one leg!

Only 25 years old, Esquivel has already ripped, maneuvered, and conquered numerous waves of different sizes, be it in his hometown in San Juan, La Union, or in the famous surf swells in Bali, Indonesia.

Esquivel is the famed one-legged surfer of La Union. A member of the Stoked Inc.-Billabong’s surf team, Esquivel is also considered as one of the best surfers in this surfing capital of Northern Philippines.

“Wala siyang katulad,” describes Luke Landrigan, one of the country’s top surfers and head of the Billabong Surf School in San Juan. “Matagal na kaming magkakilala, nung bata pa kami. Siya lang ang surfer na nakita ko na kakaiba. Kahit isa lang ang leg niya, napakagaling pa rin niya. He is also very competitive.”

RISE OF THE PRO

Esquivel was born with only one complete leg. But growing-up, he never felt different from everybody else, even if he had to use crutches as early as five years old.

“Normal ang pagtrato sa akin kaya’t nakalakihan ko na na normal ang pakiramdam at hindi kakaiba,” Esquivel says.

Esquivel started to learn surfing at age 13 just by watching foreign pro surfers ride the huge of waves in their coastal town. He thought he could do what they do, maybe even better. Armed with planks of plywood and sometimes dead tree trunks, Esquivel started to negotiate the waves with his friends.

When a group of Australian surfers left their used surfboards to him and his friend, Esquivel could not believe his luck. Now owning a real surfboard, he started his long- lasting love affair with the water sport.

In 2000, at 16, he started winning competitions. He was hailed champion in the Billabong Grommet Surfing Competition in La Union, a surfing competition for young surfers. This was the start of his official surfing career.

Because of his incredible surfing skills, people started to notice him and throw their support behind him. Paul Stranner, an Australian surfer, was so impressed with Esquivel’s skills and consistently sponsors his pro surfing activities. StokedInc.-Billabong also gives him the opportunities to surf abroad. In Bali, Indonesia, Esquivel got a lot of media attention not because of disability but because of his amazing surfing skills.

DOING HIS SHARE

Surfing in La Union has become an industry. Once a fishing village, the coast of San Juan has become one of the country’s premier surfing destinations, thus opening jobs to the town folk.

“Parang Boracay na dito sa dami ng tao, lalo na sa weekends,” Esquivel observes.

At present, Esquivel helps at the Billabong Surfing School, teaching young surfers and future enthusiasts. His disability has inspired so many young surfers to excel in the sport.

“Go lang. Habang may buhay, may pag-asa. Basta mahalin mo lang kung anuman ang gagawin mo sa buhay,” he says.

He is proud to be living his dream but he is even prouder to have served as an inspiration to surfers and non-surfers alike.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/257575/surfing-through-life-living-a-dream

:clap::clap:

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 04:21 PM

Just like any coastal province in Northern Luzon, La Union owes its thriving tourism industry to its fine shoreline facing the South China Sea. But what sets this foot shaped province apart from its neighboring provinces is the diversity of attractions found in its pristine beaches and high peaks.

http://www.mb.com.ph/sites/default/files/La-Union.jpg

A place where rolling terrains of lush greens converge with coastal waters teeming with marine life, La Union is a hub for swimming and surfing, diving points, verdant hills, and even a seven-hectare man-made botanical garden. With such a range of activities in sight, tourist can look forward to a different experience in each town.

La Union, which is six hours north of Manila, was formed in 1850 when the Spanish colonial government merged the southern towns of Ilocos Sur, northern towns of Pangasinan, and the western towns of Benguet. The name, La Union, ‘The Union’ or ‘the united’ was derived from the union of towns from these provinces.

During our recent visit to La Union to attend the golden canonical coronation anniversary of Our Lady of Namacpacan, we had the chance to drive around La Union to check out some of the tourist spots the Ilocanos are so proud of.

Surfing Capital of the North

A trip to La Union is never complete without trying the world-class surf waves in the towns of San Fernando, San Juan, and Bacnotan. The crashing waves of Urbiztondo, San Juan are a favorite of professional surfers and a number of local and international surfing competitions are usually held here. As for the amateurs and first timers, calmer waves perfect for surfing tutorials can be found in Cabaroan, Bacnotan.

According to our (nice and patient) surfing instructors, the secret to La Union’s surf breaks are the abundant corals near the shoreline. The best season to enjoy the perfect waves is between November and February or a week after a strong typhoon.

Surfing in La Union started in the early ‘60s when American servicemen from a nearby base station started riding their boards along with the local kids on the shore. Seeing it as a potential source of revenue, local officials soon introduced La Union as the nearest surfing capital from Manila.

Pebble picking in Luna

Famous for its colorful and polished pebble stones of various shapes and sizes, the coastal town of Luna offers a more laid back and serene activity with pebble picking. It is believed that the stones are gifts from the miraculous Lady of Namacpacan to the faithful people of Luna as a source of living and as an alternative to fishing.

What’s more fascinating is that although generations of stone pickers have constantly harvested the shore’s treasures, including the large scale quarrying in the ‘80s, the supply of the stones seems to be endless.

Apart from the pebble beach, Luna is also home to the century-old Watch Tower, a pre-Spanish defense post situated right by its shores.

La Union Botanical Garden

For nature lovers, the seven-hectare La Union Botanical Garden is a must see. Seven kilometers east of the capital city of San Fernando, the facility is situated on a forested mountain 9,000 feet above sea level.

The sprawling garden showcases various pavilions such as the Fernery, Palmery, Fragrance Garden, Sunken Garden, Evergreen Garden, Arid Paradise, and a Shade Garden. The park enclaves and nooks of secluded flora is a perfect place for family picnics and recreational outings.

Ma-cho Temple

This beautiful Taoist Temple is another important tourist attraction in La Union. Located on a hill 70-ft above sea level overlooking San Fernando Bay, the Ma-cho temple was constructed on September 11, 1975 through the efforts of the local Chinese community in La Union.

Ma-Cho, a revered Chinese deity was said to be born in 960 AD during the Sung Dynasty and according to legend, she actively participated in the rescue operations of distressed fishermen, thus earning herself the titles, “Goddess of the Sea” and “Queen of Heaven” among others.

The eight-inch wooden statue has a striking similarity to the “Virgin of Caysasay” who is enshrined at the Basilica of San Martin in Taal, Batangas. Every September 21-26, celebrations are held in honor of the deity and the Virgin which devotees believe are one and the same.

Pindangan Ruins

The Pindangan Ruins is the vestige of the oldest church in La Union that was built in May 6, 1786 that symbolizes the union of two sitios, San Vicente de Balanac, a coastal village, and San Guillermo de Dalangdang, a village at the foothill of mountains. The name Pindangan was derived from the Ilocano word Pindang, a traditional method of drying fish in the locality. The church was damaged due to an earthquake that occurred in the year 1892.

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/232605/from-beach-break

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 04:23 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/articles/270033/luxuriating-thunderbird-resorts-poro-point

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 04:29 PM

Malay
By VIM NADERA
January 9, 2011, 2:35pm

Exactly a month ago last year, we – on behalf of Dr. Milagros Laurel, Dr. Marilu Madrunio, Dr. Coralou Santos, Dr. Sheilee Vega, and Dr. Patrocinio Villafuerte of the Technical Committee on Language and Literature -- attended the Commission on Higher Education’s year-end assessment workshop.

In his capacity as the acting Division for Social Sciences chief, Mr. Buenaventura Macatangay still succeeded in reporting CHEd’s accomplishment while everybody was in the merrymaking mode with our gifts and goodies! He showed how Humanities, where we belong, had a very busy year with other Technical Panels on Business; Criminal Justice; Social Sciences, Communication, and General Education; and Teacher Education.

Policies, Standards and Guidelines (PSGs) for Center of Excellence (COE) were drafted in AB Philosophy, AB English, AB Flipino, AB Literature, AB Philippine Literature, AB World Literature, and AB Creative Writing. Last year, COE was awarded to the following Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): St. Louis College (San Fernando City, La Union); Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (South La Union Campus, Agoo, La Union); University of Luzon (Dagupan City); Angeles University Foundation (Angeles City, Pampanga); Central Luzon State University (Muñoz, Nueva Ecija); De La Salle University (Dasmariñas, Cavite); University of Batangas (Batangas City); Palawan State University (Puerto Princesa City); Universidad de Santa Isabel (Naga City); University of San Jose Recoletos (Cebu City); Mindanao State University (Iligan City); Capitol University (Cagayan de Oro City); University of the Immaculate Conception (Davao City); University of Southeastern Philippines (Davao City); Father Saturnino Urios University (Butuan City) and University of the Cordilleras (Baguio City). On the other hand, Center of Development was given to Colegio de Dagupan (Dagupan City); Pangasinan State University (Bayambang, Pangasinan); Catanduanes State University (Catanduanes, City); Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (Pili, Camarines Sur); University of San Agustin (Iloilo City), Western Mindanao State University (Zamboanga City), and Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (Lucena City) whose vice president for academic affairs is Dr. Benilda Villenas, our former colleague in then independent Technical Panel on Literature.

Twenty seven HEIs and 37 programs in Humanities, for instance, had undergone evaluation for government authority!
Last 13 December, during the CHEd planning workshop for Humanities cluster, Dr. Co, aside from reminding all that CHEd provides the minimum standards for HEIs offering or intending to offer quality degree programs, reiterated that the existing HEIs shall be given three years to comply. We learned that there had been a national public hearing on the PSGs for the BA Philosophy degree program was held last 2 December at the same venue where Dr. Alfredo Co, the Technical Panel for Philosophy chair, presented the proposed PSG to the 51 participants composed of deans and senior faculty from public and private HEIs all over the country. With him were Dr. Manuel Dy, Dr. Zosimo Lee, and Dr. Jesus Rodrigo Torres, the new president of the Rizal Technological University (RTU), all members of the same technical panel, in that event organized by CHEd officials and staff led by Ms. Eleanor BA Fernandez, OIC-Director, Office of Programs and Standards (OPS). Dr. Co, over lunch, extended his invitation to us to one of the main events for the University of Santo Tomas’ quadricentennial celebration for 2011 by way of an international conference -- Thomism and Asian Cultures: Celebrating 400 Years of Dialogue Across Civilizations -- on 23-26 May.

More (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/297482/the-year-was-year-will-be)

hugodiekonig

March 29th, 2011, 04:37 PM

http://www.surfersvillage.com/img/news/50971.jpg
Costume event © Tons Gozun

Stoked Inc & Kahuna Resort & Spa’s Manila Surfers Cup

Manilla Surfers Association
La Union, San Juan Philippines
5 March 2011

Manila Surfers score epic waves at Stoked Inc/Kahuna Resort Surf Cup

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 15 March, 2011 : - - Manila surfers scored sweet 3-4 foot peeling pointbreak swells at the Stoked Inc & Kahuna Resort & Spa’s Manila Surfers Cup in La Union. Now on its 6th year, the Manila Surfers Association together with Stoked Inc (the Philippines’ pioneer action sports retailer) and La Union’s first premium resort, the Kahuna Resort and Spa, brought together the Philippine capital’s finest weekend warriors in a Saturday and Sunday of surf, sun, and beach partying at the idyllic beach-side town of San Juan.

With an amusement park selection of beach breaks and friendly point breaks, La Union (250 kilometres north of Manila) has emerged as the epicenter of surfing for Manila’s rapidly-growing contingent of surf enthusiasts.

Hundreds of spectators along the beach cheered on, as the 2-day event saw intermediate and beginner surfers take to the waves in both longboard and shortboard divisions. Philippine surfing’s acknowledged golden girl Nikki Dela Paz emerged champion in the women’s shortboard division displaying a fine selection of smooth rail-to-rail riding and cutbacks on consistent head-high sets. Young college girl Carla Sebastian was the surprise winner in the women’s longboard event bravely taking off on overhead dumpers in a roaring final heat.

In the men’s competition, JP Sarmiento continued his dominance of the men’s shortboard division as his impressive combination of floaters and backside hacks earned him the champs trophy for the second year running. Fil-Hawaiian and North Shore surfer Chris Watkins, in a just-for-fun moment, joined the longboard division only to win it, as the judges from The La Union Surf Club were awed by his migration of aggressive shortboard manoeuvres into longboarding.

Longtime Manila surfer and 3rd-placer, Philip Santiago also wowed many as he threw spray and carved roundhouse cutbacks, showing off some respectable new-school longboarding skills. For the beginner’s division, Paraiso Bautista was all smiles as he accepted this year’s novice trophy. But the crowd reserved its biggest cheers for British School Manila's 6-year old grommet Paco Borromeo, who surfed his heart out in the finals garnering a commendable 3rd runner-up finish.

La Union surf © Tim Hain

“We’re super-stoked for the epic surf all weekend,” says event director Mia Sebastian. “This year unquestionably delivered the best waves ever in this competition’s 6 year history. The Manila surfers really stepped-up their game, and it was great to see some new names come out with solid finishes.”

JV Borromeo, Managing Director of the Philippines’ pioneer action sports retailer, Stoked Inc., was also impressed with the surfing and the turnout, “We’re celebrating our 10th year in the action sports business this year, so I can still recall when La Union was a quiet sleepy beach back in the day,” says JV.

“Today, it’s terrific seeing how far its come and in positive ways. Surfing’s really helped the community’s economy what with all the surf cafes, surf resorts, surf schools, and restaurants all-around. Add to that Green Zinc, a local environmental initiative, which is composed of this beach’s surfers who take it upon themselves to keep the shoreline clean. In our decade of working alongside everyone here, Stoked Inc. is honoured to be part of this wonderful community.”

The popular costume competition, basically a Halloween-party with surfing thrown in, drew perplexed looks, unrestrained giggles, and outright laughs in the beach. Fruits in Ice Cream promised a year’s supply of their product for the winner. It was no surprise this year’s costume competition drew the most participants and the most ridiculous outfits. Good vibes rolled as much as the surf all around the beach.

With the swells ablazing and the competitors charging, there were definitely some nail-biting heats and triumphant finishes. The crowd cheered as favourites and newcomers alike dug deep into their repertoire of manoeuvers. While it can't be said that the waves were forgiving, they definitely rewarded those that dared challenge their capricious faces and punishing curls. Above all that, the surfing was awesome, the beach party was magnificent, people sang and danced, laughs were shared by many, and all was grand as usual in La Union.

The Manila Surfers Association thanks all who helped along the way: Stoked Inc., Kahuna Resort & Spa, Fruits in Ice Cream, The La Union Surf Club, Fox Clothing, Winternitz Insurance, Armada Sunblock by VMV Hypoallergenics, Vibram Footwear, Juice.ph, Total Fitness and OneSport Magazines, GoPro HD Cam, lokalsoul.com, Brown Belly Beachwear, Brownman Outfitters, Little Surfmaid Resort, San Juan Surf Resort, Hacienda Peters, Lola Nanny Surfers Retreat, and Kapuluan Vista Resort

Men's Shortboard Division
Winner: JP Sarmiento
1st Runner-up: Buji Libarnes
2nd Runner-up: Bjorn Pabon
3th Runner-up E.J Ventura

Women's Shortboard Division
Winner: Nikki Dela Paz
1st Runner-up: Lalai Lopez
2nd Runner-up: Lorraine Lapus
3rd Runner-up: Tin Terrible

Men's Longboard Division
Winner: Chris Watkins
1st Runner-up: Buji Libarnes
2nd Runner-up: Philip Santiago
3rd Runner-up: Turtle Medel

Women's Longboard Division
Winner: Carla Sebastian
1st Runner-up: Lorraine Lapus
2nd Runner-up: Nikki Dela Paz
3rd Runner-up: Nicola Sebastian

Beginner's Division
CHAMPION: Paraiso Bautista
1st Runner-up: Kevin Sawit
2nd Runner-up: Matatag Bautista
3rd Runner-up: Paco Borromeo

http://www.surfersvillage.com/feed/iphone.asp?Id_news=50971