San Fernando City and La Union Province [Archive] - Page 30

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 02:18 PM

THE 2011 World Slasher Cup-2 8-Cock Invitational Derby kicks off today at the Araneta Coliseum with more than 180 entries vying for the crown.

Hosted by the Pintakasi of Champions and presented by Bmeg Derby Ace with Thunderbird Enertone as major sponsor, the event will feature, among others, the solo champions of the last four World Slasher Cups.

They are Patrick Antonio who won last 2011, June 2010 winner Atty. Art de Castro and Eddie Aparri; January 2010 victor Engr. Sonnie Magtibay who bagged the title just 52 days after he won the 2009 Bakbakan 10-Stag National Derby and May 2009 top bet Marcel Julao.

Locking horns today starting at 10 a.m. are some 100 competitors belonging to the first batch of entries for the 2-cock eliminations while the second set of participants plunges into action tomorrow.

The 2-cock semis for Group A is on June 8, while the semis in Group B meet is set the next day. The 4-cock finals for Group A is on June 11 and the ultimate event is on June 12 for the Group B finalists.

Among the confirmed foreign participants are Roger Roberts (Georgia) with Nene Araneta , Ray Alexander (Alabama), Kali Casco (Hawaii), Sedfrey Linsangan (Guam), Jorge "Goy" Goitia (California) with Biboy Enriquez, Zosimo Antivo (Las Vegas), Clarence Perkins (Kentucky) with Mayor Jesry Palamares, Carol Nestmith (Oklahoma) with Francis Lumunsad, Jorge Torres (Califorina), Zaldy Sandoval (California), Tony Ang (Taiwan), Jason Campbell, Bill McNatt, Chris Casilan (Hawaii), Jeff Hudspeth (California), Randy Hall (Texas), Tyrone Kennedy (Alabama), Mike Formosa (Hawaii) with Rey Flores and Gerard Inman with Jimmy Mariquit.

The home team boasts of June 2010 Slasher champ Rey Briones of Masbate, Boy Marzo of La Union, Gerry Ramos, Engr. Sonny Lagon of Cebu, Honey Yu of Quezon, Mayor Cito Alberto of Catanduanes, Pol Estrellado of San Pablo City, Engr. Sonnie Magtibay of Palawan, Nene Abello & Raffy Yulo of Bacolod, Benigno "Boy Lechon" de Roca, Cavite Int’l Derby champion Boy Gegato, Mike & Tonton Romulo, Felix Trebol. Dr. Boy Tuazon, Congressman Rudy Albano, Joey Salangsang and Otec Geroso, among others.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/june06/sports7.html

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 02:19 PM

By LIEZLE BASA INIGO
June 6, 2011, 12:09am

CAMP FLORENDO, La Union, Philippines — The full force of the Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) has been activated for specific functions in ensuring the safety and security of students and school zones throughout the region as classes for school year 2011-2012 opens today.

For an effective conduct of the back-to-school mission, the PRO1 will employ the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS) or fielding of foot and mobile patrol personnel near schools and other areas of convergence, said Chief Superintendent Franklin J.B. Bucayu.

The PRO1 Director said he also ordered all police units under his jurisdiction – including the Police Provincial Offices (PPOs) of Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur – to be on full alert and be ready for the opening of classes.

“We are now on full alert in preparation for Balik-Eskwela 2011 when more than a million students in Region 1 troop back to schools,” said Bucayu.

“We have increased police visibility to keep students safe from criminal elements such as pickpockets, snatchers, swindlers, drug pushers and even reckless motorists,” he added.

Earlier, the PRO1 had drawn up its security and public safety plans relative to the school opening and instructed its subordinate units to prepare their respective implementing plans. (With a report by Freddie G. Lazaro)

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/321403/pro1-school-opening-alert

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 02:40 PM

Government Hospital
5. Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center – Region 1

CERTIFICATE OF PARTICIPATION
1. San Fernando, La Union – Region 1

http://www.gothub.com/doh-red-orchid-awards-2011-complete-list-of-winners-and-finalists/

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 02:42 PM

Written By: editors on June 5, 2011 No Comment

www.nordis.net

By REDJIE CAWIS / RC- PIA CAR

PUGO, La Union — A couple of nine years made mark by renewing their vows in a more adventurous way.

http://www.nordis.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011_0605ziplinewedding_redjie-200x300.jpg
ADVENTUROUS. Couples Joel Caronongan and Girlie Mendoza- Caronongan together took a 250 meter long ride along the 60 feet high zip line of Pugo Adventure to seal their wedding last week. Photo courtesy of Redjie Melvic Cawis/PIA

In a rainy Monday afternoon, on May 30, couple Joel Caronongan and Girlie Mendoza- Caronongan together took a 250 meter ride along the 60 feet high zip line of Pugo Adventure also known as Pugad, while their sponsors, family, friends and guests are at the other side for their reception.

The zip line ride in Palina, Pugo, La Union came after their renewal of vows at the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity in Agoo, La Union.

Having tried several rides in Pugad, the couple, who live in Baguio City, decided to have an adventurous way of celebrating their ninth year anniversary by zip lining their way to their reception while their guests and sponsors in their gowns and barongs have to cross a hanging bridge.

Pugad Operations Manager Kathleen Martin said she was surprised and at the same time excited when the couple approached her and said that they wanted to zip line to their reception. Since Pugad started operation in September last year, the Caronongan couple was the first to broach the idea of an adventure wedding therein.

The couple actually wanted to have an all terrain-vehicle drive before the zip line ride but the afternoon rains made the track muddy.

Joel and Girlie describe their zip line ride as just part of their adventurous life as couple.

Pugad is known for its three zip lines, said to be longest in Luzon - a 400 meter long and 250 feet high zip ride that can make your childhood dream of becoming superman or trying to fly like a bird come true. The other lines include a 250 meter long and 160 feet high and a 250 meter long 60 feet high.

One could enjoy the zip rides above verdant rice fields, trees, pools and a clean river that flows right at the heart of sitio Kagaling.

The mountain resort also offers five swimming pools and shower rooms for children and adults alike and a cool flowing river where guests could enjoy the fresh waters of Pugo.

Guests could also try ATVs and buggy rides for them to tour the premises of resort which is nestled in a three-hectare land.

Other facilities include various nipa huts, cottages, picnic grounds, function halls, souvenir shops and a restaurant.

Pugad also caters to team-building and to group activities for companies and other groups.

Pugad is located at sitio Kagaling in Palina. It is 300 meters from the Marcos Highway approximately a 30-minute drive from Baguio City or more than an hour-drive from San Fernando City, La Union. Coming from Manila, the place can be reached in four hours.

Martin said they are now planning on having adventure wedding packages to boost the resort not just as a place for extreme sports and eco-adventures but also an alternative wedding venue for

http://www.nordis.net/?p=9739

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 02:44 PM

hmmm kumusta na kaya ang ONP?

kailan magbubukas ang Pancake House

May iba narin pang popular store ang mag-ooccupy sa ibang stalls ng ONP?

ANong bago sa San Fernando ngayon? :)

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 03:04 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/248223_221406327877973_204145946270678_861651_2427142_n.jpg

1st Summer Eco-Youth Camp
May 20-22, 2011
Rosario Nature Park

From: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=221406327877973&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 6th, 2011, 03:16 PM

any update na pala sa Toyota La Union? kailan kaya magbubukas ito?

ergit222

June 7th, 2011, 04:23 AM

hmmm kumusta na kaya ang ONP?

kailan magbubukas ang Pancake House
May iba narin pang popular store ang mag-ooccupy sa ibang stalls ng ONP?
ANong bago sa San Fernando ngayon? :)
no idea. will update this thread if something is cooking up.

hugodiekonig

June 7th, 2011, 12:09 PM

no idea. will update this thread if something is cooking up.

salamat! :cheers::)

hugodiekonig

June 7th, 2011, 12:13 PM

by La Union Information and Tourism on Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 10:11am

Sanitation Systems Wow Foreign Guests

By: Charlie O. Balanon

Governor’s Press Corps-La Union

With the successful partnership and cooperation for the implementation of the United Nations Environmental Program-International Environmental Technology Center (UNEP-IETC) Project between the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) and the Municipal Government of Bauang, the Province of La Union is again in the international limelight.

In a simple program at the Farmers’ Hall, Bauang Mayor Euloguio Clarence Martin P. De Guzman III led Municipal and Barangay officials in welcoming the delegation. Foreign experts on sanitation and waste management attending a conference titled “Demonstration of Ecological Sanitation and other Decentralized Sanitation Systems in the Philippines” visited Baung, La Union on June 1, 2011 to validate government and NGO partnership projects on sanitation. In behalf of Gov. Manuel C. Ortega, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member and Committee Chair on Environmental Protection, Human Ecology and Security Francisco “Kit” C. Ortega, Jr., gave a warm reception to the foreign delegation. Also present to grace the occasion were Provincial Agriculturist Imelda J. Sannadan and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Hector T. Benas, who actively coordinated and monitored the programme in behalf of the province.

After the program, the group visited the first Community-Based Sanitation (CBS)-Decentralized Waste Water Treatment System (DEWATS) at the Baladad Compund in Barangay Central West; the on-going construction of DEWATS facility at the southern side of the Public Market; the almost-finished DEWATS at the Slaughterhoue; the Ecological Sanitation (Ecosan) Toilets in Brgys. Puraw Kadaratan and Parian Oeste; and the Guapple Farm treated with urine and the Lomboy Farms Brgy. in Bagbag.

CBS approach is a demand-responsive and participative set of strategies, technologies and organizing-mobilizing tools for improving health and the environment of low income urban communities through the provision of sanitation and waste water treatment. It also encourages communities to undertake operation and maintenance of the chosen systems and it is proven to be more sustainable, better maintained and functions more efficiently for and by the community. The projects were brought about by a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by PGLU, Municipal Government of Bauang, Center for Advanced Philippine Studies (CAPS) and the Breman Overseas Research and Development Agency (BORDA) represented here in the Philippines by Basic Need Services (BNS). Under the MOA, parties have agreed to collaborate in the demonstration of ecological sanitation and other de-centralized wastewater management technologies for sanitation, environmental and local benefits in the Municipality of Bauang and to provide the support and avenue in discussing through consultation the feasibility of a rural-urban linkage of sanitation and agriculture in Bauang and if possible, the neighbouring municipalities in La Union.

Executive Director Danilo Lapid and Programme Manager Leo De Castro of CAPS accompanied the guests which included Ryuichi Fukuhara, a Programme Officer at the International Environmental Technology Center (IETC) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) based in Osaka, Japan. He is in charge of the water and sanitation programme pillar as well as Ecosystem Management Programme at IETC; Dr. Mark Woodward, from World Bank, Philippines; Mr. Francis Afable, Programme Manager of the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in the Philippines; Dr. Thammarat Kottatep, a Researcher from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Bangkok, Thailand and specializes in environmental engineering, waste water treatment and decentralized sanitation technologies and planning; Mr. Bounchan Khamphilayvong, a DEWATS Design Engineer at the Lao Institute of Renewable Energy (LIRE); Ms. Trah Thi Hien Hanh, the Pollution Control Officer of the Pollution Control Department of the Vietnam Environment Administration, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; Mr. Robert Hughes, an Environmental and Water Engineer from Australia currently working with the floating communities of Cambodia for “Engineers without Borders- Australia” and the Live and Learn Environmental Education; Mr. Martin Lemenager is a highly qualified multi-disciplinary engineer from the best French top engineering schools and holding a complementary executive master degree in water management; Ms. Kieu Ly Doan, the Assistant Programme Manager and Regional Health and Hygiene Programme Coordinator of BORDA-Vietnam; Mr. Benjamin Clouet, a Water and Sanitation Engineer based in Cambodia; Mr. Julian Doczi, an environmental professional; Dr. Olivia Castillo, Board Member of the UN Secretary General’s Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation; and Mr. Vu Hai Nam, the Deputy Chief of the Scientific Research and Technical Department at the Center for Training and International Cooperation, Vietnam Academy for Water Resources in Hanoi, Vietnam.

La Union Information and Tourism (http://www.facebook.com/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/sanitation-systems-wow-foreign-guests-by-charlie-o-balanon/221634901188449)

hugodiekonig

June 7th, 2011, 12:23 PM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254421_221701341181805_204145946270678_864152_2787842_n.jpg

Feature Resort of the Week: VILLA D’ EL-LITA RESORT
Ipet, Sudipen, La Union
A quaint resort hotel along the highway on the way to Ilocos Sur where one can take a cool splash in its curved pools or simply take delight in its small landscaped gardens. Ideal for a stop-over from road trips or occasions such as birthdays.

Rooms & Rates: 18, Php1,000 (Cottage) / 1,500 (Aircon) / 2,000 (Family Room Aircon) per night inclusive of breakfast & swimming fee
Facilities: Swimming Pool (Entrance fee: Php100 from 8AM-5PM / 130 from 6PM-10PM), Picnic tables and kubos, Restaurant/Function room
Capacity for Functions: 100 people (function room), 350-500 people (whole venue including pool area)

Trivia: Villa d’ El-lita, established April 2006, was named after the owner’s grandparents, namely: Elena, Juanita and Lolita

For more Information, please contact:
(072) 607-3162; +639298519100
villadel_lita@yahoo.com

From: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=221701341181805&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 7th, 2011, 12:37 PM

by Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 7 (PIA) – A total of 81,396 tricycle franchises in Region I initially received their fuel subsidy from the government amounting to P150 each recently.

According to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), a total of P12,209,400 were initially released to 114 cities and municipalities as fuel subsidy for tricycle franchises in the region.

Pangasinan received the highest amount totaling P6,148,050 and covering 40,987 tricycle units, followed by Ilocos Sur with P2,208,300 and were distributed to 14,722 tricycle franchises.

Ilocos Norte received P2,025,750 covering 13,505 tricycle units and La Union, the least, received P1,827,300 covering 12,182 tricycle units.

Director Manuel V. Biason of DILG said that the amount given to the local government units is part of the P134.4 million released by the government for the Pantawid Pasada Program or the Public Transport Assistance Program (PTAP) under the Department of Energy.

Biason said that this is to subsidize 896,024 certified franchises nationwide to cushion the impact of the continuous oil price increase in the world market, as instructed by President Benigno S. Aquino III through Executive Order No. 32, series of 2011.

For his part, DILG secretary Jesse M. Robredo urged local government units to provide counterpart funding to help tricycle drivers cope with price increases of food and other basic commodities, as a result of the worldwide oil price hike.

In the region, DILG forged memorandum of agreements with concerned local chief executives, who were in full responsibility of the lists of certified tricycle franchises in their localities.

Also, they were directed to set-up a PTAP assistance and complaint desk as a feedback mechanism to receive issues and concerns regarding the program for proper action. (JCR-PIA 1 La Union with reports from LAOColisao-DILG 1)

http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=36742

hugodiekonig

June 7th, 2011, 12:40 PM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 7 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers and Welfare Administration (OWWA) is undertaking stop-gap measures to ensure considerable supply of sea-based overseas Filipino workers resulting from the maritime industry’s high demand for seafarers and enhancing competency for officer positions.

The agency, through Seafarer’s Upgrading Program provides training assistance to seafarers to upgrade and update their knowledge and skills through sponsorships. Each seafarer has scholarship grants of up to P7,500.

Also, under the government’s Bridging Program, the Mariners’ Dugtong-Aral scholarships grant is given to qualified graduates of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering who wish to graduate as Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering and board ocean-going vessels as qualified Marine Officers through referrals from manning agencies after hurdling the licensure examination.

As part of the education for development scholarship program of OWWA for prospective members, a financial incentive of P30,000 is given to top 200 cadets of BS Marine Transportation and BS Marine Engineering who passed the maritime school assessment program.

For prospective marine officers and engineers with guaranteed international onboard employment, they can also avail of an interest-free financial assistance to defray costs of their tertiary education through the Maritime Development Loan Program (MEDLOP).

The manning agency being the sponsor for the MEDLOP shall select the student to whom it shall extend the loan. It is the ‘Study Now, Pay Later scheme’ for Marine Officers and Engineers. (JCR/EMR-PIA 1 La Union)

http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=36838

nebelwerferXXX

June 8th, 2011, 02:25 AM

any update na pala sa Toyota La Union? kailan kaya magbubukas ito?
Yesterday in San Juan, La Union, nag-ground breaking ang Mitsubishi La Union. May competition between Toyota La Union in Bauang and Mitsubishi La Union in San Juan. The branch of Mitsubishi La Union is location in brgy. Naguituban at the diversion road. Please check...

hugodiekonig

June 8th, 2011, 03:07 PM

Yesterday in San Juan, La Union, nag-ground breaking ang Mitsubishi La Union. May competition between Toyota La Union in Bauang and Mitsubishi La Union in San Juan. The branch of Mitsubishi La Union is location in brgy. Naguituban at the diversion road. Please check...

waaaa ang saya! Finally magsasarili narin ng showroom ang Mitsubishi sa San Juan. Sana pati rin ibang car companies ay magtayo narin ng showroon nila sa La Union gaya ng Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, etc :banana::banana::banana:

hugodiekonig

June 8th, 2011, 03:12 PM

http://www.carlogo.org/lsm/mitsubishilogo.jpg

Welcome to La Union!!!

Showroom under construction at San Juan, La Union

hugodiekonig

June 8th, 2011, 03:23 PM

SAN MIGUEL Corp. expects to complete its takeover of a “big” Asian firm next month, an official yesterday said, signaling the conglomerate’s continued march towards more acquisitions four years after it first bared its diversification strategy.
The conglomerate, however, plans to retain majority control over its existing subsidiaries despite plans for several share sales this year, the official said.

“We have one big international acquisition very soon,” San Miguel President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon S. Ang told reporters after the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting.

“July is the set date for the signing [of the deal],” Mr. Ang said, adding that the Asian company to be purchased has a good cash flow.

He declined to elaborate.

In May last year, San Miguel said it was looking at buying a majority stake in a foreign energy, oil and gas firm valued at $2 billion.

Mr. Ang went on to clarify that San Miguel’s strategy remains focused on profiting from the domestic market, and that the foreign acquisition is lined up only as “it is very profitable and has a good potential.”

The San Miguel conglomerate began selling parts of key businesses in 2007 to fund its diversification from slow but stable core businesses of food and beverage into high-growth sectors like power, mining, infrastructure and telecommunications.

Other acquisition plans in the pipeline are directed towards local firms, he said.

“There are many local acquisitions that will happen like the public-private partnership, government bidding and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. bidding,” Mr. Ang said.

The spate of purchases comes as the conglomerate raised $970 million from an earlier share and bond sale and expects to book fresh earnings from its infrastructure business soon.

“There are a few [new] revenues that will come from infrastructure this third or fourth quarter but most of it next year,” Mr. Ang said.

For instance, San Miguel will start operations of the rehabilitated Caticlan airport late this month, according to earlier reports.

The airport, which is the gateway to tourist hotspot Boracay Island, will feature a larger 2,100-meter runway versus the existing 950-meter stretch, which would allow bigger planes like Airbus A320s to land there.

San Miguel Holdings Corp. holds a 93% stake in the firm in charge of operating the Caticlan airport.

The conglomerate also owns a 51% stake in Universal LRT Corp. that will build Metro Rail Transit-7 and a 35% stake in Private Infrastructure Development Corp., the concessionaire behind the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway.

Mr. Ang said the firm is waiting for the right-of-way acquisitions of the government for the rail project. Construction is slated to start late this year with commercial operations targeted to begin by January 2015.

New businesses will account for majority of the company’s revenues moving forward, Mr. Ang had earlier said.

“Over time, we are looking at a 70:30 mix, in favor of our new investments… The power business is pulling its share of the weight,” Mr. Ang said in San Miguel’s 2010 annual report.

Last year, Petron Corp. accounted for 47% of revenues, followed by beverages at 18%, food at 16%, power at 14% and packaging at 5%.

Aside from revenues from these new projects, San Miguel expects to also pocket proceeds from share sales of various subsidiaries in a bid to comply with the minimum public float rule of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).

“All subsidiaries of San Miguel is preparing to comply with the public float [requirement],” Mr. Ang said.

San Miguel Brewery, Inc. only has a public float of 0.6%, Petron Corp. at 7.5%, San Miguel Pure Foods Co., Inc. at 0.1% and San Miguel Properties, Inc. at 0.1%.

Last Nov. 30, the PSE started implementing the 10% minimum public ownership rule. Companies were given a 12-month grace period before the imposition of penalties, which include delisting from the bourse.

Shares in San Miguel, whose profits surged by 146% to P7.14 billion in the first quarter, fell by 0.34% to P116.10 each yesterday. -- Neil Jerome C. Morales

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?id=32696

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 03:18 AM

By PNA and U.S. News Agency / Asian
A lawmaker on Monday called on the government to implement the 21-year-old law of having at least one fire station in every town.
LPG/MA party-list Rep. Arnel Ty urged the House committee on appropriations and the committee on local government to jointly look into the implementation of Republic Act no. 6975, “to ascertain the conditions, financial or otherwise, that have prevented the DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) from establishing at least one fire station in every municipality, as required by law.”
RA 6975, which created the DILG in 1990, mandates the establishment of at least one fire station in every municipality nationwide.
Section 56 of the law states that: “There shall be established at least one fire station with adequate personnel, firefighting facilities and equipment in every provincial capital, city and municipality subject to the standards, rules and regulations as may be promulgated by the Department. The local government unit (LGU) shall, however, provide the necessary land or site for the station.”
In House Resolution no. 1228, Ty said four out of every 10 towns in the country have absolutely no firefighting capability whatsoever.
Citing Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) figures, he said, at least 613 of the country’s 1,502 municipalities still do not have a single fire station.
“In the absence of immediate and adequate firefighting capabilities, human lives as well as properties in the affected municipalities are at grave risk of being lost and instantly destroyed in an accidental blaze,” said Ty, a Filipino-Chinese fire brigade volunteer.
A fire could easily spread inside a few minutes and wipe out whole communities in the towns concerned, he said.
The LPG/MA party-list solon cited the four-hour blaze that consumed the five-storey Bed and Breakfast Pension House in Tuguegarao City on Dec. 19, 2010, which killed 16 people and injured 12 others.
Based on Ty’s resolution, here is a regional breakdown of the number of towns (per province) lacking a single fire station:
– Cordillera: Abra (22), Apayao (3), Benguet (7), Ifugao (6), Kalinga (5), and Mountain Province (6);
– Ilocos: Ilocos Norte (7); Ilocos Sur (16), La Union (10), and Pangasinan (15);
– Cagayan Valley: Cagayan (6), Isabela (13), Nueva Vizcaya (7), and Quirino (1);
– Central Luzon: Aurora (3), Bulacan (1), Nueva Ecija (4), Pampanga (5), Tarlac (4), and Zambales (2);
– CALABARZON: Batangas (8), Cavite (3), Quezon (5), and Laguna (5);
– MIMAROPA: Oriental Mindoro (11), Palawan (6), and Romblon (10);
– Bicol: Albay (4), Camarines Norte (3), Camarines Sur (8), Catanduanes (7), Masbate (15), and Sorsogon (7);
– Western Visayas: Aklan (10), Antique (12), Capiz (7), Guimaras (1), Iloilo (8), and Negros Occidental (6);
– Central Visayas: Bohol (30), Cebu (5), Negros Oriental (10), and Siquijor (3);
– Eastern Visayas: Biliran (3), Eastern Samar (13), Leyte (15), Northern Samar (6), Southern Leyte (9), and Western Samar (8);
– Zamboanga Peninsula: Zamboanga del Norte (14), Zamboanga del Sur (22), and Zamboanga Sibugay (7);
– Northern Mindanao: Bukidnon (6), Camiguin (1), Lanao del Norte (14), Misamis Occidental (8), and Misamis Oriental (10);
– Davao: Compostella Valley (3), Davao del Norte (3), Davao del Sur (6), and Davao Oriental (3);
– SOCCSKSARGEN: North Cotabato (6), Sarangani (3), South Cotabato (1), and Sultan Kudarat (6);
– Caraga: Agusan del Norte (5), Agusan del Sur (8), Dinagat Islands (5), Surigao del Norte (12), and Surigao del Sur (5);
– Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao: Basilan (9), Lanao del Sur (37), Maguindanao (25), Sulu (10), and Tawi-Tawi (3).

http://www.usnewslasvegas.com/national/lawmaker-wants-probe-on-implementation-of-one-fire-station-per-town/

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 03:45 AM

By Charles Keith
Inquirer Northern Luzon

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/files/2011/05/lomboy-298x224.jpg
AVELINO Lomboy, the former La Union agriculturist, believes that agriculture research and technology will help boost the country’s economy. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

AVELINO LOMBOY, the retired provincial agriculturist of La Union who is credited for propagating grapes in the province, did not have a normal childhood.

Growing up in a farm in Bauang town, he had to work for everything.
Every day, before going to school, Lomboy would feed the family’s carabao, chickens and pigs. When he got home in the afternoon, he would again tend their livestock.

On weekends, apart from looking after their farm animals, he went to the mountains to gather firewood that he would sell so he could have money for school expenses.

In high school, he and his friends would cut down growth in the mountains and plant ipil-ipil so they could pay their tuition.
He also helped his parents, who were also engaged in fishing, tended their tobacco and rice crops.

Though most of his older brothers and sisters had jobs, Lomboy, the youngest in a brood of eight, did not want to be supported by his siblings.
“I refused to bother my siblings. I wanted to prove that I could stand on my own,” Lomboy says.

At an early age, he believed that farmers could help propel the economy, and the country could benefit from agriculture.

He says the government should fund more research on crops that could adapt to global warming, develop location-specific technology and farming technologies, such as green-housing, which would increase the survival rate and productivity of crops.

Research

“All progressive countries start with research,” he says.
He hated that farmers had to work so hard for meager returns, he says. He understood the plight of farmers, who, he says, hardly make enough food for their families.

With hope and resolve, Lomboy sought to change the system and improve the lives of his fellow farmers.

“I wanted to change the agricultural landscape of the place. I wanted bare subsistence agriculture to be transformed to a higher level of farming. I wanted to introduce crops that are not traditionally grown in the area,” he says.

After graduating from Araneta University in 1966, Lomboy worked as farm manager for Chemical Industries of the Philippines (Chemphil), a Metro Manila-based company engaged in the production of industrial chemicals. However, three years into his job, he realized that his heart was in farming.

He quit Chemphil in 1969 and returned to his hometown in Bauang. He tried his hand at growing bananas, mushrooms and vegetables, but without much success.

Grape growing

In 1972, he shifted to growing grapes on the advice of a friend. Being in a tropical country, Lomboy knew that farming conditions might not support grape growing because the crop suits a temperate climate. But this obstacle only inspired him to try growing grapes, paving the way to his success.
“Grape growing in the Philippines is not a normal process—grape is not a normal product, it is not a normal crop. I was challenged. I read some literature and experimented with local varieties. I imported seeds from the United States and planted 20 vines in my backyard,” Lomboy says.

“I was on my own. I had nobody to ask about how grapes are supposed to be cultured,” he says.

After a year of experiments, Lomboy’s vines bore fruits. After two years of continuous research and tests, he discovered the key to the production of grapes.

“Grapes love long dry seasons, and the Ilocos region has long dry seasons. Where mangoes thrive, grapes will thrive,” Lomboy says.
He then sought to increase his production. He planted 40 more vines and, soon, he was tending 300 vines. He found himself renting more land as his production increased.

Continur Reading at http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/10943/%E2%80%98grape-king%E2%80%99-says-agriculture-can-help-economy-take-off

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 04:14 AM

http://hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/240087_221701341181805_204145946270678_864152_2787842_o.jpg

Feature Resort of the Week: VILLA D’ EL-LITA RESORT
Ipet, Sudipen, La Union
A quaint resort hotel along the highway on the way to Ilocos Sur where one can take a cool splash in its curved pools or simply take delight in its small landscaped gardens. Ideal for a stop-over from road trips or occasions such as birthdays.

Rooms & Rates: 18, Php1,000 (Cottage) / 1,500 (Aircon) / 2,000 (Family Room Aircon) per night inclusive of breakfast & swimming fee
Facilities: Swimming Pool (Entrance fee: Php100 from 8AM-5PM / 130 from 6PM-10PM), Picnic tables and kubos, Restaurant/Function room
Capacity for Functions: 100 people (function room), 350-500 people (whole venue including pool area)

Trivia: Villa d’ El-lita, established April 2006, was named after the owner’s grandparents, namely: Elena, Juanita and Lolita

For more Information, please contact:
(072) 607-3162; +639298519100
villadel_lita@yahoo.com

From: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=221701341181805&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

ergit222

June 9th, 2011, 08:01 AM

MANILA, Philippines - Two high school students each got a whopping P100,000 for their essays on environmental protection.

Excelle Anne Garrido, a senior from St. Rose of Lima Montessori School in Rizal, and Jason Madrid, a junior from St. Louis College High School in La Union, bagged the top prizes in the first Thunderbird Resorts Efforts on Environment Sustainability (TREES) on-the-spot essay writing contest.

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

Their schools received a cash prize of P50,000 each.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sites/default/files/a_images/topics/lifestyle/TREES_essayawarding_rizal.JPG

"We organized this contest to increase awareness of the environmental problems we face today, and to highlight the role of local communities in creating and implementing environmental initiatives," Damian Ball, hotel general manager of Thunderbird Resorts - Poro Point, said in a statement.

The provincial essay writing contest which was held simultaneously at Thunderbird Resorts in Rizal and La Union, was conducted with help from the Department of Education Center for Student and Co-Curricular Affairs (DepEd CSCA).

Fifty participants selected during a preliminary round wrote the essays after listening to lectures given by environment experts from Haribon Foundation, Earth Day Network and ABS-CBN Foundation - Bantay Kalikasan.

They were given 2 hours to write about what they have learned, how they can share these with their fellow youth, and how they can help save the environment.

"We wanted to spark a partnership with the youth, who are strong, dynamic excitement-seekers [and] agents of change," Ball said.

Photos from Thunderbird Resorts

source (http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/youth/06/09/11/2-students-win-p100k-each-environment-essays)

ergit222

June 9th, 2011, 08:07 AM

Yesterday in San Juan, La Union, nag-ground breaking ang Mitsubishi La Union. May competition between Toyota La Union in Bauang and Mitsubishi La Union in San Juan. The branch of Mitsubishi La Union is location in brgy. Naguituban at the diversion road. Please check...

That's good news for La Union. another car brand branch. siguro lilipat lang sila sa mas malaki na place. mitsubishi ay matagal na rin nandito sa LU (remember ko sa paringao bauang dati at ngayon nasa harap sila ng csi). medyo nalula siguro sila sa laki ng toyota sa baccuit bauang kaya tatapatin din nila ng laki. :lol:

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 12:33 PM

^^

Yeah! cars cars cars!!! :rock:

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 12:39 PM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 9 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has intensified its campaign and monitoring of government offices to ensure compliance and effective implementation of the 100% Tobacco-Free Environment in the Ilocos Region.

The Commission strictly observes and implements the policy under Memorandum Circular No. 17, series 2009, prohibiting cigarette smoking in government premises. Being the implementing agency, not one among its employees regionwide smokes.

The CSC regional office is among the six government offices nationwide bestowed with the ‘Special Red Orchid Award’ granted by Department of Health (DOH).

Other Special Red Orchid Awardee include the Department of Education-Region I while Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital in Batac, Ilocos Norte is one of the eight government hospitals nationwide declared as Red Orchid Awardees.

The DOH “Red Orchid Awards” aims to commend government offices, hospitals and local government units for having tobacco-free environments and to recognize their best practices in implementing the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control or the protection from exposure to tobacco smoke.

Pink Orchid Awards (2nd to the highest award) was also granted to four government institutions in the region, namely: San Juan, La Union (Municipal Government Category); Region 1 Medical Center and Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (Government Hospital Category); and Region 1 (Center for Health Development Category). (ANL/EMR-PIA-1 La Union with reports from CSC-RO1)

http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=37297

:rock: : applause:

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 12:52 PM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/254941_10150199807513412_161064168411_7231857_2357617_n.jpg

Thunderbird Resorts Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150199807513412&set=a.183858778411.125848.161064168411&type=1&theater&pid=7231857&id=161064168411)

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 12:56 PM

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http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/251651_10150189341641784_575101783_7529816_2904691_n.jpg

Photos by Wilbern David (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=222913731057677&set=t.100000171562449&type=1&theater&pid=1024939&id=100000171562449)

hugodiekonig

June 9th, 2011, 01:07 PM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/207200_209303539088252_204145946270678_765361_5286065_n.jpg

Like and Visit La Union Information and Tourism Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/pitolaunion

freightrunner

June 10th, 2011, 02:13 PM

http://cl.cooltext.com/rendered/cooltext529649617.gif

http://flags.redpixart.com/img/1129/flag_256.jpg

...sa dibdib mo'y buhay...

Ipagdiwang, Araw ng Kalayaan, Hunyo 12, 2011

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 10:16 AM

Townsfolk seek ways to keep textile tradition spinning

Philippine Daily Inquirer
11:21 pm | Thursday, June 9th, 2011

BANGAR, La Union—Sticking out in the agricultural land of Barangay Consuegra, in a corner where the paved village road curves, is a brick and stone structure that looks out of place.

Residents call it timbugan, one of the vestiges of an era when the town produced inabel (hand-loomed textile) in large volumes and residents planted cotton, spun it into thread, dyed it and turned it into fine fabric.

Bangar is still known for its inabel, which is used in colorful hand-loomed blankets, pillow cases, bath and hand towels, and gowns and dresses. But the threads are now bought in Metro Manila, and are mostly imported.

“It is unlike in the past when residents themselves produced the cotton thread,” said Councilor Irene Valencia, also the town’s tourism officer.

The timbugan, she said, was where residents used to dye the thread from cotton that was grown in the town.

Valencia said a number of timbugan used to be found in the villages of Ubbog, Reyna Regente, Adgepa and Alsate.

“But some residents sold the bricks of the timbugan in their areas,” said Valencia. She said she tried to preserve the structures, but found that only one was left.

The local government intends to preserve the timbugan as a reminder of the days when the town bustled with activity related to the inabel industry, she said.

The timbugan is a hollow, circular structure as high as 3 meters and as wide as 2 meters. Around its lower walls are holes that are plugged when the structure is full of dye water. The plugs are removed to drain used water after the dyeing process.

Beside the timbugan is a basin made also of brick and stone. It is where the newly dyed threads are rinsed with water fetched from a nearby well.

Valencia said the timbugan in different villages were assigned dye colors, so workers had to go to other villages if they needed a specific color for their threads.

The dye used was organic and extracted from barks of trees like duhat (red), siniguelas (reddish brown) and native plants like sago (blue violet) and koneg (yellow).

Timbugan areas also served as important meeting places for villagers. There, residents shared stories and problems.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/13578/townsfolk-seek-ways-to-keep-textile-tradition-spinning

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 10:28 AM

by Alice N. Rioteta

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 10 (PIA) -- The Ilocos Region’s Poverty Incidence (PI) improved from 2006 to 2009, according to Irenea B. Ubungen, Head of National Statistical Coordination Board Regional Division 1.

The latest estimates revealed that the poverty incidence of poor families declined by 2.6 percentage point from 20.4 percent in 2006 to 17.8 percent in 2009. It is lower by 3.1 percentage points as compared to the country’s poverty incidence in 2009 and the 6th lowest nationwide. Similarly, the number of poor families in the region decreased by 7.3 percent, from 193,392 in 2006 to 179,179 in 2009.

Among the provinces in the region, only La Union had an increasing poverty incidence among families from 2003 to 2009. From a 3.7 percentage points increase in 2006, it further increased by 2.1 percentage points in 2009. It recorded the highest poverty incidence in the region in 2009 at 23.3 percent.

On the other hand, Pangasinan experienced the biggest decrease in poverty incidence among families in 2009 at 3.9 percentage points as compared to 2006. However, its PI in 2009 is higher by 1.3 percentage points if compared to 2003. It also registered the 2nd highest PI among families in the region at 19.5 percent in 2009.

In Ilocos Sur, the province’s PI continuously improved from 2003 to 2009. Its 12.5 PI in 2009 is lower by 2.9 percentage points compared to 2006.

In Ilocos Norte, its PI also showed a declining trend from 2003 to 2009. It went down by 2.1 percentage points in 2009 compared to 2006. It registered the lowest PI among the regions provinces at 9.2 percent resulting to its inclusion as a new entrant in the least poor cluster of provinces in 2009 nationwide.

Ilocos Region shared 4.6 percent to the country’s total number of poor families in 2009, the 5th lowest nationwide. Among the provinces, Pangasinan took 3.0 percent of the country’s total poor families, the 4th highest nationwide. It also contributed 63.8 percent to the region. On the other hand, La Union accounted the 2nd highest share to the region at 19.9 percent followed by Ilocos Sur at 9.6 percent.

Ilocos Norte posted the lowest share at a 6.7 percent with only 11,923 poor families in 2009.

A family consisting of five (5) members in the region need an estimated amount of P5,162 a month to meet its basic food needs while it will need P7,403 a month to stay above the poverty line. (ANL/ANR-PIA 1 La Union with reports from NSCB)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=37499

:ohno:

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 10:39 AM

^^

I think most poor families in the province come from other provinces. Not considering those from the other provinces, PI in La Union might have been slightly lower.

The government and other NGOs must help then each other to alleviate poverty through providing livelihood assistance to poor families.

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 10:54 AM

THE P.NOY boys have struck anew against Ramos-era finance secretary Roberto de Ocampo, lumping his casino projects in the same dodgy category as those alleged “midnight” deals of the Arroyo administration.

The gaming regulator Pagcor has launched “cessation proceedings” against the De Ocampo-chaired Philippine subsidiary of Thunderbird Resorts, which operates casino-based golf resorts in Binangonan, Rizal and San Fernando, La Union.

The new Pagcor board headed by P.Noy classmate Cristino “Bong” Naguiat Jr. had wanted Thunderbird to sign to a revised agreement by June 3, imposing new operating conditions against the Euronext-listed gaming company.

“The [new] authority to operate [does] not grant the right to Pagcor to unilaterally impose new conditions and to threaten termination on this basis,” Thunderbird said in a press statement.

Instead of being cowed, Thunderbird sued Pagcor for breach of contract and monetary damages before the Manila Regional Trial Court, which earlier this week extended a three-day temporary restraining order to 20 days against the threatened closure.

Thunderbird maintains that its existing agreement with Pagcor allowed its two casinos, which started operations in 2005, to be co-terminus with the Pagcor charter, or until July 11, 2033.

The Thunderbird problem is the second regulatory issue being faced by De Ocampo, a co-vice chairman of the Makati Business Club and a former president of the Asian Institute of Management.

The shareholder and partnership issues of Stradcom, the information technology company where De Ocampo is also chairman, earlier caused disruption within the Land Transportation Office and the subsequent suspension of LTO chief Virginia Torres.

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideBusop.htm?f=2011/june/10/vicagustin.isx&d=2011/june/10

hmmmm base sa report na ito, may Point ang Thunderbird.

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 10:59 AM

By Coco Alcuaz, ANC; and Martha Vinzons
Posted at 06/10/2011 12:46 AM | Updated as of 06/10/2011 12:55 AM

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) said it is studying whether to close Thunderbird Resorts' casinos in La Union and Rizal when a 17-day temporary restraining order (TRO) runs out.

Thunderbird got the TRO earlier this week after Pagcor took steps to close the casinos amid a dispute over its license.

Pagcor said Thunderbird has been operating without a license since 2009 and refused to accept terms the agency set for a new license.

Pagcor said it offered Thunderbird 60% of revenue, compared with 75% in its original license.

"We will comply with the temporary restraining order when the order is in effect but once it lapses then we will study our options whether or not we will enforce the closure again or if by that time Thunderbird and Pagcor come to terms with respect to the issuance of the license," Jay Santiago, head of legal at Pagcor, said in an interview on ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC).

In a statement on its website, Thunderbird, which also operates resorts and hotels in Peru, Costa Rica and Nicaragua, said the terms proposed by Pagcor are onerous.

Pagcor clarified that Thunderbird is an isolated case because it was operating without a license.

It said it won't touch other companies whose licenses are in force. Some traders had blamed declines in Alliance Global Group Inc. and Belle Corp. on concern Pagcor may try to revise the terms of their licenses as well.

"The case of Thunderbird is an isolated situation," Santiago said. "Unlike other gaming establishments which have their operating licenses in place, Thunderbird as of now doesn’t have a license to begin with so we cannot compare Thunderbird's situation with gaming operators who are operating validly with a license.''

Alliance Global, which operates the Resorts World casino, fell 3% on Thursday. Belle, which plans to open a casino complex in the Manila Bay area next year, fell for the 7th day.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/business/06/09/11/pagcor-may-close-thunderbird-casino-after-tro

hmmm ano nanaman kaya\ang balak ng Pagcor dito?

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 11:01 AM

Thunderbird Resorts Inc.: Philippines Update

PANAMA, REPUBLIC OF PANAMA--(Marketwire - June 10, 2011) - Thunderbird Resorts Inc. (FRANKFURT:4TR)(EURONEXT:TBIRD) ("Thunderbird" or "Group") previously announced on 3 June 2011 and on 8 June 2011, that its affiliates in the Philippines, Eastbay Resorts, Inc. ("ERI") and Thunderbird Pilipinas Hotels and Resorts, Inc. ("TPHR") (collectively "Thunderbird Resorts Philippines"), filed lawsuits against the Philippine Amusement & Gaming Corporation ("PAGCOR"). The lawsuits were filed in response to notifications by PAGCOR that it "would initiate cessation proceedings" unless by 3 June 2011 ERI and TPHR provided "written unconditional acceptance" of onerous new Authority to Operate ("ATO") terms proposed by PAGCOR. The ATOs do not grant the right to PAGCOR to unilaterally impose new conditions and to threaten termination on this basis. Upon presentation of the ERI and TPHR lawsuits, the Court granted 72-hour temporary restraining orders ("TROs") enjoining PAGCOR from initiating the threatened cessation proceedings. On 7 June 2011 and 8 June 2011, the Court granted extensions of the TROs to both TPHR and ERI for an additional 17 days. The Court also consolidated the TPHR and ERI cases and set hearings before the 17-day period lapses to rule on motions for Temporary Injunctions enjoining PAGCOR from initiating the threatened cessation proceedings during the entire trial proceedings.

Thunderbird Resorts Philippines is obligated to set the record straight with respect to recent comments made by PAGCOR. First and foremost, ERI and TPHR have current written contracts with licensing rights in place with PAGCOR, which allow these companies to operate so that any statement that ERI and TPHR contracts, including licensing rights, expired in August 2009 is incorrect. Pursuant to the existing contracts, PAGCOR has accepted our tax/licensing fees and payments continuously since our opening in 2005 to date, which amounts to over PHP 2.5 Billion in gaming taxes. PAGCOR has had its casino monitoring teams located within our facilities since their inception and has continuously treated our facilities as validly operating casinos. Also, pursuant to our long-term contractual commitments, we have invested over PHP 2.6 billion to build two hotels and entertainment centers, all in reliance upon the currently active and binding contracts with PAGCOR. Second, we take seriously our responsibilities to our employees, to the communities where we operate, and to the provincial economies of those communities. Currently, we employ over 1,300 people, providing good wages and benefits. We continuously support Rizal and La Union municipalities through various community activities. Our facilities also support over 1,700 local vendors, spending with them over PHP 5.2 billion in the last 6 years. We have spent over PHP 27 million on various social responsibility initiatives, including monthly medical missions where we distribute medical care to the local areas in Rizal and Poro Point to over 10,000 constituents, an adopted school program affecting over 3,500 students in 2010, typhoon relief programs and donations to various other charities. Third, in order to protect our employees and our business, ERI and TPHR had no choice but to seek the protection of the courts when we received written notice that we would be shut down in 3 days unless we agreed to change our existing contracts.

http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/thunderbird-resorts-inc-philippines-update-frankfurt-4tr-1525567.htm

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 11:05 AM

Posted at 7:16 pm June 09, 2011

Tags: Cottage Industries, Entrepreneurship, Handicrafts

By: KC Santos

http://loqal.ph/business-and-finance/files/2011/06/david1.jpg

BAUANG, LA UNION – Eden Villa is using her knowledge as a Biology graduate to create unique handicrafts using twigs and leaves of local trees.

Eden, who owns David’s Well Crafts, is a self-taught handicrafts maker. She often uses books her husband gave her to create her unique items.

She started by gathering leaves, twigs, tree barks, and plant fibers to start her initial collection of handicrafts.

“Even back when I still in college, I have always toyed with the idea of making do with what I have in my surroundings. I never imagined that gift would be the key to the prosperity my family is enjoying now,” Eden says.

She says in their farm, there are mulberries and silkworms. Instead of disposing emptied silkworm cocoons, Eden processes these waste products to form native flowers and accent pieces to her wooden items.

Aside from the farm, Eden says she sources other materials, such as pine cones, from Baguio and Ilocos.

Her handicrafts products range include wall clocks, home decors, Christmas decors, refrigerator magnets, and smaller items like pens. Prices are cheap from P25 to P1,000 considering the labor that goes into processing the items.

With a little research, Eden says she found out that the products she creates are staple items in homes from the countryside of the US.

David’s Well Crafts is now a major supplier handicrafts to one of the major malls based in Manila. If not for manpower shortage, Eden says they would’ve committed to even more local business entities.

The former domestic helper says she didn’t succeed overnight. She adds that if there was one thing she learned while she was in a foreign land, it was that Filipinos are not lazy.

“Filipinos are hardworking. What most of us lack is the initiative,” she says. Eden also believes that Filipinos do not need to leave the country to have better lives.

“There is hope in our country. We just have to be really driven and industrious. Dollars don’t amount to the fulfillment we all can achieve if we stick to our guns,” Eden says.

http://loqal.ph/business-and-finance/2011/06/09/la-union-entrepreneur-makes-handicrafts-from-twigs-and-leaves-of-native-trees/

:rock: La Union people are creative!

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 02:55 PM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/224598_209793879041559_144790318875249_689934_1204555_n.jpg

Villa Marand Facebook http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=209793879041559&set=a.209793639041583.53383.144790318875249&type=1&theater (can't insert the link through url code

hugodiekonig

June 11th, 2011, 03:24 PM

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http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/226323_210120919008855_144790318875249_692037_1317004_n.jpg

Villa marand Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=210120909008856&set=a.210120339008913.53467.144790318875249&type=1&theater#!/photo.php?fbid=210120909008856&set=a.210120339008913.53467.144790318875249&type=1&theater&pid=692034&id=144790318875249)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 04:26 AM

(The Philippine Star) Updated June 12, 2011 12:00 AM Comments (7) View comments

Manila, Philippines - While Filipinos will not enjoy a long weekend on Independence Day, the Palace said they would have one for the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said June 20 would be a non-working holiday as President Aquino saw fit to make the people, especially the youth, remember Rizal and what he had done for the country.

Rizal’s birthday is on June 19, a Sunday, just like today’s Independence Day. But tomorrow will be a normal working day.

The national hero’s birthday will still be

observed on June 19 but Proclamation No. 154 moved the non-working day to the following day as per the request of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

The Aquino administration no longer implements holiday economics, or the practice of moving holidays to the nearest Monday so people could have long weekends, saying workers depending on daily wage as well as business concerns must be considered.

Lavish preparation for Rizal’s birthday

Meanwhile, an exhibit featuring a collection of Rizal in stamps and peso bills was set up at the lobby of the San Fernando City hall in La Union to celebrate the national hero’s 150th birth anniversary.

Old paper bills of P2 and P5 with Rizal’s photo are some of the collections displayed by Mayor Pablo Ortega at the exhibit while Joseph Dumuk, the mayor’s consultant on sports affairs, exhibited his stamp collection of the national hero.

Part of Ortega’s oldest collection are a P2 bill that circulated in 1903 and other bills that came out during the American era up to end of World War II when the P2 peso bill was marked with “victory” after the fall of the Japanese invaders.

“These old paper bills are my collections since my high school days in the 1970s. I started this hobby after my mother started giving me different kinds of currencies during my younger years,” Ortega said.

He said most of his collections were acquired through auctions.

Ortega said he preserved the old bills by inserting them inside a “paper money album” made in Germany. The album has a special kind of plastic intended for paper bill collection.

Dumuk, on the other hand, displayed an old stamp (1861-1961) while the latest was issued on March 12, 1999 after the celebration of the Philippine centennial anniversary.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has also scheduled on June 14 the official launching of the “Lakbay Jose Rizal @ 150” project in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.

The year-long event - from June 19 (the 150th birth anniversary of the national hero) to June 19, 2012 - is a project of an inter-agency group with the NHCP, Department of Tourism, Heritage Conservation Society, Intramuros Administration, Cebu Pacific, and the National Parks Development Committee.

Dapitan City Vice Mayor Patri Bajamunde-Chan, who chairs the City Heritage Task Force, said the launching rites will be held at the Punto de Desembarco de Rizal in Dapitan’s coastal village of Sta. Cruz where four boat-riding Spanish soldiers, led by Capt. Delgras, saw Rizal disembark at 7 p.m. on July 17, 1892 and, using Farol de Combate, took him to Casa Real where he was presented to district military governor Don Ricardo Cenicero before he began his four-year exile. - Aurea Calica, Jun Elias, J. Antonio Rimando

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=695316&publicationSubCategoryId=63

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 04:40 AM

Alalahanin natin ang lahat ng mga lumaban para sa watawat na ito
Let us commemorate to all of those who fought for this flag

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan, Pilipinas!
Happy Independence Day, Philippines!

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/260432_10150281098800619_547605618_9397027_4010588_n.jpg?dl=1

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:55 AM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/247826_10150330457109816_512744815_9781386_1062085_n.jpg

Phil Cabosura Nardo via Bangar, La Union Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150330457109816&set=p.10150330457109816&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 04:47 PM

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by henryreyes via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/henryeugenereyes/5455438372/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 04:49 PM

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by henryreyes via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/henryeugenereyes/5454826467/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 04:52 PM

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/180/369221912_4495cfb832_z.jpg?zz=1

by dodongflores via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dodongflores/369221912/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:00 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3316/3208628350_0cc98a1646_z.jpg

by evangar21 via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hidalgo211/3208628350/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:02 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5134/5584564034_34e16b900a_z.jpg

by RCL0527 via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rcl0527/5584564034/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:04 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5584564030_b2b2a56747_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5584564030_b2b2a56747_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5584564030_b2b2a56747_z.jpg

by RCL0527 via flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rcl0527/5584564024/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:06 PM

ZjdVuAuf1wA&feature=player_embedded#at=45

by dbalatan via youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjdVuAuf1wA&feature=player_embedded#at=45)

hugodiekonig

June 12th, 2011, 05:20 PM

Goodnight San Fernando City and La Union!

Sana gawan narin ng flyover ang ilang mga pangunahing kalsada sa San Fernando, lalo pa't parami na ng parami ang mga dumadaang sasakyan sa San Fernando.

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 03:57 AM

nag umpisa na kaya ang construction ng mcdo agoo?

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 07:59 AM

by Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 13 (PIA) -- The province of La Union joined the nation in celebrating the 113th Philippine Independence day, and simultaneously in honor of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, and the other unnamed heroes.

A short program was held at the San Fernando city hall gazebo yesterday, June 12, where an invocation and the singing of the national anthem were rendered by the Ortega Singing Scholars.

Former city mayor Mary Jane C. Ortega, in behalf of her husband, Congressman Victor F. Ortega of the 1st district of La Union, who was the guest of honor and speaker, spearheaded the wreath-laying ceremony, with the provincial government officials and department heads.

Likewise, city mayor Pablo Ortega led the city council and city division chiefs in the wreath-laying ceremony, followed by the Union Lodge #70 of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines.

In her speech, Ortega, urged the participants to value Philippine independence and the lessons it taught.

“Dr. Jose Rizal, thru his books Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, started the revolution for freedom. He is not only the hero of the Filipinos, but also hero to the Malay race,” Ortega stressed.

In closing, the “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” was sung with the release of balloons, as symbol of the freedom the Filipino people are now enjoying.

Adding more color to the celebration was the Dr. Jose P. Rizal money and postal stamps collection exhibit’s opening installed at the city hall lobby, the personal collection of city Mayor Ortega and Engr. Joseph Dumuk.

The local celebration is a joint project of the city government of San Fernando and the provincial government of La Union, with the participation of regional executives and representatives, non-government organizations and other stakeholders. (JCR-PIA 1 La Union)

http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=37961

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 08:00 AM

http://pia.gov.ph/press/image/110613-r1-rizal2.jpg

DR. JOSE RIZAL POSTAL STAMP COLLECTION: In honor of the 150th birthday of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Engr. Joseph Dumuk shares his postal stamps collection in an exhibit initiated by San Fernando City mayor Pablo C. Ortega at the city hall lobby which was opened yesterday, June 12 during the celebration of the 113th Philippine Independence Day. Dumuk is a Rizalist born on the same date with the national hero. (JCR/photo by: Victor A. Villanueva, Jr.-PIA 1 La Union)

source link: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=37961

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 08:04 AM

13-Jun-11, 4:52 PM | Sid Manalo, InterAksyon.com

Julio Catalino Sadorra, an Applied Mathematics sophomore at the University of Texas-Dallas, is now officially the Philippines' 14th chess grandmaster (GM).

Sadorra’s GM title was confirmed by the International Chess Federation (Fide) during its second quarter presidential board meeting in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates last June 4 to 7.

Also confirmed in the same meeting were the Woman International Master titles of Chardine Cheradee Camacho of Aringay, La Union, and Catherine Perena of Caloocan City.

“I can’t reduce my success to a formula, but it comes down to hard work and faith,” Sadorra said.

He achieved his third and final GM norm at the UTD Spring Invitational in Dallas where he scored a victory over GM Alexander Shabalov in the tournament’s 10th round.

Sadorra’s live Elo rating of 2508 breached the 2500 benchmark for a GM title.

The other Filipino GMs are Wesley So (Elo 2667), Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. (2589), Mark Paragua (2542), Joseph Sanchez (2539), Roland Salvador (2538), John Paul Gomez (2538), Rogelio Barcenilla (2518), Darwin Laylo (2516), Eugene Torre (2495), Nelson Mariano (2447), Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor (2440), Jayson Gonzales (2405) and the late Rosendo Balinas Jr.

Camacho and Perena joined the the ranks of Filipino WIMs that include Girmie Fontanilla, Cristine Rose Mariano, Beverly Mendoza and Filipino-Australian Arianne Bo Caoli.

source link: http://www.interaksyon.com/article/5613/philippines-has-its-14th-chess-grandmaster

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 08:19 AM

By Patchi Layug

2. THUNDER BIRD RESORTS - PORO POINT
Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union

You don't have to go very far for a Santorini-inspired photo shoot. Thunderbird Resorts-Poro Point will provide you with the perfect backdrop for that prenup shoot with a Mediterranean feel and sun-kissed vibe.

http://www.femalenetwork.com/images//gallery/photos/sex-relationships/20110604-4-outoftown-locations-for-prenup-shoots_gallery/prenup-02-poro.jpg

source link: http://www.femalenetwork.com/sex-relationships/4-outoftown-locations-for-prenup-shoots

ergit222

June 14th, 2011, 09:09 AM

ergit222

June 14th, 2011, 09:22 AM

ZjdVuAuf1wA&feature=player_embedded#at=45

by dbalatan via youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjdVuAuf1wA&feature=player_embedded#at=45)

full blast na pala ang construction ng TPLUEX. nice video update.

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 11:08 AM

this is tragic for the economy of LU... kung kailan pa kumikita na, ipapasara pa. bakit naman kasi walang licensiya ang thunderbird? :ohno:

Hmmmm sa bagay, wala sanang kontrobersiya sa thunderbird kung wala rin namang nakikitang illegal ang gobyerno sa lisensiya nila.

Puntahan paman din ito ng mga gamblers from all across the planet earth.

For i know matutuwa ang simbahan dito. I remember the time way back 2005 when we were asked to rally at the city plaza to oppose the casino. Now i think at start they were struck by the thunder but now i guess their plea has its answer today, though napakalaking tulong rin nito sa LU economy.

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 11:11 AM

full blast na pala ang construction ng TPLUEX. nice video update.

Hopefully, with good outflow of funds for the project and when it terminates in rosario by 2013 or 2014, we could expect a better economy for la union! :cheers2:

hugodiekonig

June 14th, 2011, 06:41 PM

hmmm i think malapit nang matapos ang toyota la union. Under construction narin ang mitsubishi showroom sa san juan. After hyundai, toyota and mitsubishi, anong car co. Kaya ang magpuput-up ng la union showroom nila? Hmmmmmmm

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:26 AM

By: Abigail L. Ho
Philippine Daily Inquirer
9:55 pm | Monday, June 13th, 2011

Thunderbird Resorts Philippines has slammed the claim of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) that it has been operating casinos without a license since 2009, adding that it will pursue all necessary legal remedies to protect its investments and employees.

The company said in a statement that both Eastbay Resorts Inc. and Thunderbird Pilipinas Hotels and Resorts Inc., its resorts in Rizal and Poro Point, had “current written contracts with licensing rights in place with Pagcor,” rebutting the government firm’s claims that these contracts lapsed in August 2009.

As proof of the validity of these contracts, Thunderbird said Pagcor had never ceased from accepting its tax and licensing fee payments since the resorts started operating in 2005.

To date, Thunderbird’s Rizal and Poro Point resorts had remitted more than P2.5 billion in gaming taxes.:eek:

Also, the resort and casino operator said that despite claims that the contracts expired in August 2009, Pagcor continued to place casino monitoring teams within Thunderbird’s premises “and has continuously treated our facilities as validly operating casinos.”

The company related that should Pagcor succeed in closing its operations down due to false allegations, the negative impact would not only be felt by the investor, Panama-based Thunderbird Resorts Inc., but also by the more than 1,300 individuals working in the two resorts.

Pagcor advised the two Thunderbird resorts that they would be shut down by June 3 unless they agree to new provisions in their authority to operate.
Thunderbird sought a temporary restraining order against the closure, which the court granted. The resort operator initially secured a three-day TRO, which was extended on June 7 and 8 by another 17 days.

source link: http://business.inquirer.net/4120/thunderbird-resorts-asserts-legality-of-operations

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:31 AM

14-Jun-11, 4:12 PM | Llewelyn Sanchez, InterAksyon.com

MANILA, Philippines - Globe Telecom was reminded on Tuesday that it was the one that asked the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) to give priority only to eight locations, and therefore its claim that the telecom giant was refusing to interconnect in 31 localities was totally baseless.

PLDT head of regulatory affairs and policy Ray C. Espinosa said PLDT and Globe are interconnected and continue to interconnect. “In the additional 31 areas mentioned by Globe, Globe's legal counsel seems to forget, conveniently, that Globe requested PLDT to prioritize only eight locations that it deemed workable within the year 2011,” said Espinosa.

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is witness, said PLDT, to the fact that Globe and PLDT interconnection representatives had agreed on the following locations and commercial activation schedules for the linkup: Pampanga (June 17), Laguna (July 13), Quezon (August 3), Bulacan (August 26), Zamboanga (September 16), Nueva Ecija (September 30), La Union (October 15) and Benguet (October 31).

The remaining 23 areas, which the two companies had agreed for negotiation next year, were set aside temporarily as they pose certain problems beyond the control of either PLDT and Globe---for example, issues related to dealings with local government units like getting permits and paying taxes.

Espinosa found it “strange for Globe's legal counsel to take the pulpit and proclaim Globe, in a very self-serving way, as the champion and guardian of consumerism and interconnection in the country.” He added: “The facts speak the truth.”

Globe earlier claimed it had been bugging PLDT for interconnection since 2006 and that without such interconnection, a Globe customer wishing to call a PLDT subscriber who is physically very proximate still has to pay NDD (national direct dialing) charges and vice versa.

It is mentally dishonest of Globe to claim that PLDT and Globe have only one point of interconnection, according to Espinosa, adding that “the truth can be verified from the NTC.”

The two rivals are currently interconnected in 10 major areas/provinces: the whole of Greater Metro Manila (GMM), Batangas, Cavite, Cebu, Iloilo, Roxas, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Leyte and Bacolod.

The PLDT official lamented an apparent campaign by Globe to get public sympathy by appearing to champion consumer welfare with misleading information. “History,” he stressed, “ will bear witness that Globe, behind the ‘pious veil’ artfully created by its legal counsel, has actually been anti-consumer, anti-interconnection and pro-monopoly.”

Espinosa gave a historical account to prove this: first, he said, Globe opposed text interconnection with Smart Communications Inc. and Piltel in 1999, prompting Smart to file an administrative complaint with the NTC. The regulator then directed both parties to interconnect their SMS (short message service) facilities and imposed a fine on Globe for refusing to interconnect.

Globe ran to the Court of Appeals, which sustained the NTC order. “Clearly, if Smart did not assert text interconnection and fight Globe’s vehement refusal to allow interconnection, the consumers today would still be communicating with isolated islands,” said Espinosa.

Second, Espinosa said, Globe opposed bucket price offerings between Smart and Piltel. It wanted Smart and Piltel as well to increase prices with the introduction of an artificial interconnection charge between the two operators. Globe advocated this, even though Smart and Piltel were using the same physical network and thus could not justify such an interconnection charge on consumers, said Espinosa. The NTC later allowed the crossing-over bucket price offerings of Smart and Piltel.

Finally, said Espinosa, the most recent case of what he called Globe’s “selective and misleading memory” is its objection to the impending acquisition of Digitel shares by PLDT.

Globe, Sealand Telecommunications Co. Inc., Eastern Telecommunications Philippines Inc., TXTPower Org. Inc. and Txtm8 are opposing before the NTC the proposed transaction valued at P69.2 billion.

Among the grounds for the opposition: PLDT’s acquisition of Digitel will produce a public telecommunications entity which will effectively control 70 percent of the market, notwithstanding PLDT’s promise to keep operations separate.

PLDT claimed “Globe was just sourgraping because it also bid for Digitel but failed.” Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile got Globe to admit the exploratory talks between it and Digitel in recent hearings. The Senate has left it up to the regulators to decide the case, saying it was not a transaction requiring congressional approval because franchising issues were not involved.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/5703/its-globe-that-resisted-interconnection-says-pldt

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:33 AM

Construction of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx) is under way even as another bypass from the North Luzon Expressway is being planned, according to Trade Undersecretary Cristino Panlilio

This developed as the government is set to bid out the operation and maintenance (O&M) for the linked up Light Rail Transit line 1 and Metro Rail Transit line on July11.

Panlilio said earth-moving and soil compacting works are being done up to Gerona, Tarlac, from the end of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway in La Paz, Tarlac.

He said the target is to have that stretch asphalted and operational by the middle of next year

Panlilio said right-of-way problems in the TPLEx have been solved, paving the way for the ground works of the road construction.

TPLEx is an 88.58-kilometer toll road being built by the Philippine Infrastructure Development Corp. (PIDC), the consortium which holds the 35-year contract to build, operate and maintain the road

The four-lane highway runs from La Paz, Tarlac, to Rosario, La Union and connects to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.

The new highway, originally set for completion in 2013, is expected to cut travel time by an hour for farmers and traders carrying agricultural products to Manila from Northern and Central Luzon.

PIDC is composed of San Miguel Corp., DMCI Holdings Inc., First Balfour Inc. and EEI Corp.

Panlilio said another major infrastructure project is expected to ease travel in Bulacan.

Panlilio said earth moving and soil compacting are also under way between the Tabang and Sta. Rita exits of NLEx to give way to a diversion road that will bypass the towns of Plaridel and Baliuag on the way to San Miguel, Bulacan.

According to Panlilio, this will particularly benefit commuters going to Nueva Ecija.

The proponent of the project is the Department of Public Works and Highways, which recently announced that efficiency in its bidding processes has reduced the cost of projects by 30 percent.

source link: http://www.malaya.com.ph/june15/busi7.html

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:37 AM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/248811_10150204229136986_526316985_7480245_6646827_n.jpg

photo by: Monch Barnachea via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150204229136986&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:39 AM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/246798_234696819879555_100000177174598_1152990_3030604_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/247408_234699963212574_100000177174598_1153000_1748112_n.jpg

by: Roger Rivera via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=234696819879555&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=1152990&id=100000177174598)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:41 AM

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250427_234697649879472_100000177174598_1152994_7927354_n.jpg

Photo by: Roger Rivera via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=234697649879472&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=1152994&id=100000177174598)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:42 AM

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/253947_234698629879374_100000177174598_1152998_7963345_n.jpg

Photo by: Roger Rivera via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=234697649879472&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=1152994&id=100000177174598)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:45 AM

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/260393_1824878457766_1114385106_31580028_3112526_n.jpg

photo by: Norberto Ofiana via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1824878457766&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=31580028&id=1114385106)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:47 AM

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/253821_1824873937653_1114385106_31580023_15827_n.jpg

by: Norberto Ofiana via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1824873937653&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=31580023&id=1114385106)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:48 AM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/249422_217533634946443_100000694241091_705223_997977_n.jpg

photo by: Miz Molina from "NATIVES OF LA UNION" Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=217533634946443&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=705223&id=100000694241091)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 08:55 AM

by Jennilyne C. Role

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 13 (PIA) -- Local officials of the province of La Union claimed that independence day is not only June 12, rather it’s everyday.

In his message during the local celebration of Independence Day here, board member Kit Ortega said, “if we are supporting the laws of the land, we are actually practicing democracy. In doing so, we are preserving our freedom.”
City mayor Pablo Ortega in his welcome remarks emphasized that freedom has grown its roots which every Filipinos should value, cherish and preserve everyday for the future generations to enjoy.

“We have laws to follow to maintain peace and prosperity…a simple manifestation of our sovereign Philippines… enjoining the present generation to work together in preserving the freedom our forefathers have fought for,” mayor Ortega added.

Former city mayor Mary Jane C. Ortega, likewise stressed that “living within the bounds of the law, means living freely, sharing little things for peace. Freedom is not anarchy, but it is following the rule of law.”

In doing so, former city mayor appealed to the Ilocanos to help and support all Rizalist because without Rizal, freedom or independence is not around.
“Agbiag ni Rizal ito posposotayo, agbiag ni Rizal iti dardarepdep tayo, agbiag ni Rizal ditoy probinsiya tayo. (Long live Rizal in our hearts, long live Rizal in our dreams, long live Rizal in our province.)”, Ortega added. (JCR-PIA 1 La Union)

source link: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38229

MABUHAY TAYONG MGA PILIPINO!!!
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana: :rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock::rock:

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 09:03 AM

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/148236_1543644873600_1309343951_31344024_2346937_n.jpg

photo by: John Cueto Lazo (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1543644873600&set=a.1452643278617.2067518.1309343951&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 09:16 AM

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/253437_10150205370218412_161064168411_7287410_839543_n.jpg

Thunderbird Resort Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150205370218412&set=a.10150205369068412.310056.161064168411&type=1&theater)

william :D

June 15th, 2011, 12:17 PM

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 06:28 PM

wow! :eek: 2.5 billion! daming zero's niyan ah.:cheers: ang daming perang umiikot sa Thunderbird, biruin mo ang tax palang 2.5 billion na..:cheers:

Iba pa yung local tax at yung tax pa sa nat. Government. Tiba tiba ang kita ng dalawang casino lang na mga ito. Grabe tlaga rin magsugal ang mga tao.

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 06:31 PM

napakahalaga rin ng casino ng thunderbird para sa source ng mga operating expenses nila sa mga resort nila. Kung mawawala ang casino temporarily, malaking dagok ito sa thunderbird

Roy Villanueva

June 15th, 2011, 07:06 PM

^^Ilan na ba ang Casino sa Norte?

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 07:34 PM

^^Ilan na ba ang Casino sa Norte?

What i know ay 3. Pagcor laoag, sun city casino sa sta ana cagayan at thunderbird fiesta poro point la union

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 07:38 PM

balita ko may another resort nanaman na maipapatayo sa la union, approved by the BOI. It must be something big

hugodiekonig

June 15th, 2011, 07:52 PM

sm city san fernando la union in year 2015? Sure na kaya? Nasa strategic plan na ng sm?

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=79670888&postcount=57

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 11:53 AM

Investments registered with the Board of Investments (BOI) rose 338 percent in January to May this year to P191.82 billion, from P43.613 billion in the same period in 2010, the agency reported.

The figure, combined with the P66.956 billion investments registered in the first five months of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, brought total investments committed to the Department of Trade and Industry to P258.776 billion, up 187 percent from the combined P90 billion registered by the two agencies for the same period in 2010.

The BOI investments for the first five months will generate 24,337 jobs, against 8,465 in 2010 or an increase of 188 percent.

There were 117 projects registered during the period, compared with 65 in 2010, as all sectors posted increases in registration.

By sector, the biggest investments were generated under the downstream oil deregulation law, totaling P74.798 billion or about 39 percent of total investment approvals.

The single biggest project in this sector was the P74.78-billion investment of Petron Corp. for the upgrade of its Limay refinery that would make the Philippines compliant with environmental standards a year ahead of implementation.

From January to May, BOI also approved four wind power projects under the Renewable Energy Law. These were Energy Development Corp. unit Burgos Wind Energy Systems’ P14.4 billion 86-megawatt wind power project in Burgos, Ilocos Norte; the two projects of Northern Luzon UPC Asia Corp. for a 54 MW and 20 MW wind power plants worth P11.21 billion in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte; and, the P6.45 billion 154 MW wind project of TransAsia Renewable Energy Corp. in Guimaras.

In terms of number of projects, the BOI reported that housing took the biggest chunk with 57 low-cost mass housing registered.

The sector was also the biggest generator of direct employment at 15, 296 for construction workers, engineers etc., or 63 percent of total jobs.

Among the players in the industry, SMDC registered the largest investment in the mass housing sector, totaling P7.78 billion. The four big-ticket projects registered from January to May were Mezza, Sun, MyPlace and Jazz.

SMDC’s registered projects for the period had a total of 6,482 low-cost mass housing units.

Other major developments in housing were undertaken by Filinvest Land and DMCI.

The BOI said in infrastructure, the major investments include the P1.93-billion water supply and sewerage system project of Boracay Water Corp., a joint venture between the Philippine Tourism Authority and Manila Water in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, and the P24.94-billion 300 MW coal-fired power plant of Therma South Inc. in Davao.

The BOI also approved nine tourism projects: A resort in La Union; hotels in Baguio, Lapu-Lapu, Cagayan de Oro, Muntinlupa and Pasig; and, a tourist transportation in Zamboanga del Norte.

The biggest of the hotel projects is the P1.92-billion, 27-story, 345-room Entrata of Filinvest Group.

A notable investment in manufacturing is the P10.57-billion project of New Carcar Manufacturing Corp. in tolling operations for the production of steel billets for Steel Asia in three locations, La Union, Cebu and Davao del Norte.

source link: http://www.malaya.com.ph/june16/busi8.html

:banana::cheers:

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 11:56 AM

by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union June 15 (PIA) -- Aiming to facilitate easy movement of people, goods and services for the Ilocos Region, the Department of Public Works and Highways – Regional Office 1 (DPWH 1) targets about 80 infrastructure projects for the calendar year 2011 which will focus primarily on the rehabilitation and improvement of the national arterial and secondary national roads along the Manila North Road (MNR), according to Esperanza Tinaza, Regional Information Officer of the agency.

DPWH 1 Director Veniedo O. Reyes said that this is consistent with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s national development thrust and Secretary Rogelio L. Singson’s policy and strategy of upgrading the quality and safety features of our national roads and bridges.

Reyes added that the 80 infrastructure projects under the 2011 General Appropriations Act (GAA) are mostly intended for the rehabilitation and widening of the MNR from Pangasinan towards La Union, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte.

To date, 13 projects have already been completed, 18 are ongoing and all the rest are still for implementation.

It was also emphasized that the completion of three (3) major bridges namely Bagulin Bridge along San Fernando -Bagulin Road; Banela Bridge along San Nicolas-San Quintin-Umingan Pangasinan-Guimba,Nueva Ecija Road, and the Aluling Bridge in Cervantes Ilocos Sur will interconnect the inner municipalities of the Ilocos Region.

The Aluling Bridge, which is expected to be completed within this year 2011, will also connect Region 1 to Mountain Province of the Cordilleras. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union with reports from DPWH-RO1)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38480

:cheers:

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 11:57 AM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 15 (PIA) -- The La Union Provincial Police Office apprehended recently the two (2) suspects linked to the killing of Vigan City Regional Trial Court Judge Reynaldo Lacasandile at the Cockpit Arena in San Gabriel town.

Through close coordination of police units, sharing of vital intelligence and thorough surveillance, the suspects were arrested with Order of Arrest issued by the national Capital Regional Trial Court, Branch 142 in Makati City.

The two suspects identified as Candido Almazan Mitrado, 49, and Peter Reyes Tagura, 52. They were arrested initially for illegal possession of firearms and later on believed to be the one used in the murder of Lacasandile in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur last October 4, 2010.

Firearms seized from Mitrado were a .45 Colt pistol with two magazines containing 14 live ammunitions and from Tagura, one caliber .45 Colt pistol with one magazine containing five ammunition and a fan knife (veintinueve/batangas).

Based on ballistic examination and cross matching with the caliber .45 cartridges collected at the crime scene on Judge Lacasandile slay, the Regional Crime Laboratory Office I (RCLO1) confirmed a positive match of ballistic markings of the collected caliber .45 spent cartridge used in the killing of Judge Lacasandile with the firearm confiscated from Mitrado.

The La Union Provincial Police Legal Officer and Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit-1 will furnish the prosecutor-in-charge of the case a copy of the RCLO1 ballistic examination and the corroborative sworn statement of witnesses who positively identified the suspects in the assassination of Judge Lacasandile.

The success of police operation was supported by the La Union and Ilocos Sur Criminal Investigation and Detection Team, the Regional Intelligence Unit 1 and the Regional Intelligence Division. (ANL/EMR-PIA 1 La Union)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38482

:applause:

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 11:58 AM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 16 (PIA) -- The regional office of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philheath 1) will conduct the Second Nationwide Philhealth Registration Day on June 25 in selected municipalities and cities in Region 1 to ensure eligible family members of public school students, especially indigents, to enroll and take advantage of Philhealth benefits.

Among the seven selected municipalities/cities are Bacarra, Ilocos Norte; Magsingal, Ilocos Sur Aringay, La Union and Urdaneta City, Dagupan City, San Carlos City and Lingayen town in Pangasinan.

The activity aims to encourage other eligible individuals to register in the individually-paying program, educate members about the benefits, rights and responsibilities and enjoin partners in mobilizing resources and ensuring universal health care coverage.

The event will be spearheaded by the Department of Health and will be participated in by other government agencies such as Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Leagues of Provinces, Cities, Municipalities and Barangays.

All eligible family members of public school pupils, Philhealth non-members, government and non-government stakeholders are invited to attend the activity to gain access to an affordable and accessible quality health care for all Filipinos.

“Siguraduhing Pasok ang buong Pamilya sa Philhealth Magseguro, Magparehistro, ” the theme of the Second Nationwide Philhealth Registration Day. (ANL/EMR-PIA 1 La Union with reports from Philhealth)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38588

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:01 PM

by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union June 15 (PIA) -- In support to the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government that seeks to rehabilitate/ re-green hundreds of thousands of denuded forests in the whole country and to the declaration of year 2011 as the International Year of Forests, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) led by Governor Manuel C. Ortega, signed and approved recently the Executive Order No. 004 series of 2011 which creates the Provincial Technical Working Group for the Greening Program of the province.

According to the Provincial Information and Tourism Office, the signing was done at the Provincial Capitol grounds with the presence of the Tanim Kalikasan Inc. Program Manager Estacio S. Lim, whom the governor invited to share the programs and advocacies of the organization.

Lim discussed the mission of Tanim Kalikasan and its role in promoting the Greening Program of the national and provincial administration, and seeks to restore, rehabilitate, and protect the environment with the unique strategy of inviting former loggers in producing and selling bulk seedlings for reforestation.

He also thanked Governor Ortega for strongly supporting the advocacies of the organization and emphasized the importance of the solid steps in developing strong and effective partnerships with local communities, civil society organizations, private sector, local government units, national government agencies, and other key institutions.

Lim also encouraged everyone to participate in the Greening Program of the province and the nationwide greening program which targets 10 seedlings to be planted per employee and in donating seedlings to the Provincial Nursery as this will ultimately lead to the total protection of the environment and for the province to sustain its identity as the cleanest and greenest province in the region. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union with reports from PITO-LU)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38411

:applause:

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:05 PM

under: Opinion

Posted on June 15, 2011 08:28:54 PM

Calling A Spade... -- By Solita Collas-Monsod

The quotes from internal tobacco industry documents that were quoted in my previous column are taken from a 2004 University of Sydney School of Public Health study, entitled "Philippine Tobacco Industry: ‘the strongest tobacco lobby in Asia’." A dubious distinction, but apparently well deserved. The paper, written by K. Alechnowicz and S. Chapman, finds that "the Philippines has long been an unrestricted operating environment for tobacco companies, ripe for corruption and exploitation," so that "Against international standards of progress, the Philippines is among the world’s slowest nations to take tobacco control seriously."

Those findings resonate even more strongly as the years go by. Chat Manasan has estimated that for the year 2009, the revenue losses from the taxes on cigarettes resulting from the inclusion of that "poison pill" provision by the tobacco lobby which keeps cigarettes classified for specific tax purposes based on their 1996 prices, was P37 billion. That is not all. There is another P3 billion that should have been collected in 2009 had the specific tax rates imposed in 2005 been automatically adjusted for inflation. And we’re not through counting, because aside from the persuasive powers of the tobacco lobby on the legislative side (poison pill and no indexation for inflation) there is also the damage, this time from the executive side, due to tax leakage from "the deterioration of tax collection efficiency" -- estimated by Manasan at 0.19 of GDP in 2009, which amounts to another P15 billion of lost revenue. That’s a total of P55 billion, folks, just for the year 2009 alone. Can you imagine how much has been lost since 1997 (when the Comprehensive Tax Reform Law or RA8240, which included change from ad valorem to specific taxes, plus the poison pill provision)?

As if this tremendous outrage on the Filipino people (compared to which the NBN-ZTE pales into insignificance), committed yearly, is not enough, there is the added outrage on the tobacco farmers themselves. behind whose poverty the tobacco lobby hides every time the subject of cigarette and tobacco taxation or tobacco control comes up. The tobacco farmers are exploited coming and going, as it were.

On the coming side, so to speak, they are exploited by the tobacco manufacturing industry, because they are paid monopsony/oligopsony prices (meaning, it is a buyers’ market). Elpidio Que, one-time regional manager of Fortune Tobacco and since then a whistle-blower who has been whistling in the wind in the sense that he has been ignored by legislature and executive alike, has pointed out that the tobacco farmers were paid much less for their Virginia tobacco than what Fortune Tobacco paid for purchases of the same product from China). Newsbreak has also reported the complaints of tobacco farmers that the contract-growing scheme foisted on them by the National Tobacco Administration (reputedly pro-tobacco manufacturers rather than pro-tobacco farmers) reduces their negotiating leverage and income so much that they are seeking government help in seeking alternative income sources.
And here’s where the going side comes in. Farmers of Virginia tobacco-producing provinces, by virtue of RA 7171 (circa 1992) are supposed to be extended special support "inasmuch as these farmers are the nucleus of the Virginia tobacco industry which generates a sizeable income’" for the government. The law further specifies that 15% of the government’s Virginia tobacco-related tax revenues will be set aside to "advance the self-reliance of tobacco farmers," through projects that will enhance the farmers’ income (e.g., increase quality or productivity, alternative farming systems, farm to market roads, management and subsequent ownership of agro-industrial projects ).

It sounds good, doesn’t it? Except for the fact that first, Virginia tobacco farmers constitute only 52% of the total number of tobacco farmers -- which means that 48% of tobacco farmers get no "special support." Second, that only four provinces actually get that 15% of tobacco tax revenues -- Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, La Union and Abra -- although there are at least 23 tobacco-producing provinces in the Phlippines (it is not coincidental that the principal backer of the law was then Rep. Luis "Chavit" Singson). And third, that the 15% pot, which is allocated pro-rata among the four provinces (50% to I. Sur 20% to La Union, 15% to I. Norte and 5% to Abra), has been found by COA to have been misused on several occasions. That is to say, it would seem that it is not the Virginia tobacco farmers as much as the local government officials who have benefited from those allocations (Newsbreak has a lot of stories regarding this issue).

In other words, not only does the national government get less revenues than it should from tobacco (courtesy of tobacco industry lobbyists) but those revenues don’t seem to have helped the "impoverished" tobacco farmers at all (courtesy of the local governments themselves). Either way, the Filipinos get the short end of the stick (or the lighted end of the cigarette).
And yet, one can be certain that when the sin-tax and other tobacco control proposals are up for discussion in Congress, the tobacco lobby will be emphasizing the suffering that will be imposed by the higher taxes (and cigarette prices) on the poor Filipino cigarette consumer’s budget, on the poor Filipino tobacco farmer’s income, and the poor Filipinos employed in the tobacco manufacturing and retailing industry. These, together with the benefits of these proposals, will be examined next.

link source: http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Opinion&title=The-tobacco-lobby&id=33153

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:07 PM

under: Opinion

Posted on June 13, 2011 09:37:40 PM

Poverty, Capacity, Nation -- By Amihan R. Perez

Among the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG), three are specific to health. In the Philippines, the MDG that is difficult to accomplish relates to the targets set for the reduction of maternal mortality. Thus, much money is now being poured into infrastructure to upgrade health facilities so as to encourage mothers to deliver their babies in accredited health facilities and not at home.

In 2008, the municipality of San Gabriel, La Union, had the highest maternal mortality rate in the province. For San Gabriel’s mayor, Dr. Divina "Divine" Velasco, such a situation was not acceptable and she fully intended to do something about it.

Dr. Divine, prior to being elected mayor of San Gabriel in 2007, served as the town’s municipal health officer (MHO) for 17 years. After she became mayor, the MHO post she had to vacate was unoccupied for almost a year. Despite repeated announcements for the vacancy, no one applied. So, Dr Divine requested her husband, Dr. Herminigildo "Hermie" Velasco, then working abroad, to come home and to take up the MHO post. Realizing the opportunities for better service and chance to be a more present father to their young children, Dr. Hermie accepted the invitation and was appointed MHO of San Gabriel in January 2008.

Being both licensed doctors, the Velasco couple were very well trained and educated in medicine, yet both also realized the need to build capacity and grow as they take on their new leadership roles. Thus, in April 2008, the husband-and-wife team sat in their first class under the Master’s in Public Management Program (MPM-La Union) at the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG).

When asked by their professor to identify a problem in their locale that they could solve, Doc Hermie and Mayor Divine decided to focus on improving health services, particularly reduction in maternal mortality in their town. Learning from their various MPM classes allowed them to do a good analysis of the local situation from the perspective of the different stakeholders. Eventually, both decided on embarking on the Women in Sitios project -- the vehicle they would use to address the problem of maternal mortality in San Gabriel.

Changing Mind-sets

Typical of the situation in rural Philippines, lack of money influenced people’s health care in San Gabriel. Most of the women in the town did not seek regular pre-natal care and chose home delivery because it was too expensive for them to deliver their babies in the public hospital. The average monthly income of many upland families of the town was just P900-1,200.
The Women in Sitios project focused on training women in preventive care and public health. In their studies in public management, an important learning they gained was the need for capability-building as an important ingredient in achieving an enabling environment needed for a project to succeed.
These two doctors, now leaders, firmly believed that poverty can be reduced by increasing the knowledge of women. Why the women? Because San Gabriel’s women took care of the young and old while managing homes, preparing meals, and even engaging in economically productive activities to help augment the family’s income. The project also focused on monitoring and ensuring that the knowledge and skills gained are indeed practiced in the homes.

San Gabriel has the largest land area in La Union with road networks leading to its 15 barangays. If training sessions were held in the main health center, women would have to spend at least P30.00 for transportation. Because of this, a consultation was conducted among women of upland barangays to determine best times for training to achieve maximum attendance. The women said that in order to assure good attendance, the sessions must be held between the planting and harvesting seasons.

To be able to cover the 15 barangays, inter-barangay health zones were established. Adjacent barangays grouped together and visits were scheduled according to these zones. The women could just walk to the health zone site so they would not have to spend for transportation.

Current Status

The Women in Sitios project finally took off in March 2011. Many stakeholders were at the launch -- the parish priest and a representative from the Department of Education. Today, the work of conducting baseline health surveys of the 15 barangays is being completed. For the initial three barangays that they surveyed, a three-day seminar on health, nutrition and herbal medicine was conducted. An important lesson that Doc Hermie emphasized to the women was that ensuring good health does not necessarily require a lot of money.

In order to assure sustainability, post-seminar checkups were conducted where teams would also check on the trainees to see how they applied what they learned.

Today, many women in San Gabriel have begun planting vegetables in their backyard enough to provide for their sustenance. Here they applied what they learned from the nutrition seminars. In order to ensure sustained interest, Mayor Divine also devised an incentive system to encourage even more participants.

When asked about what the seminars did for them, many women responded, "kaya ko pala" and even requested more trainings. To Doc Hermie, seeing that the women actually thirsted for more knowledge was affirmation enough that indeed the program was taking the right direction.

This is the approach that San Gabriel’s health system also hopes to take to reduce maternal mortality in their town. With better understanding and correct beliefs, the Velasco couple are confident that the women will begin to appreciate the value of prenatal care and child birth in health facilities and will themselves help to influence and encourage their fellow mothers to prepare for this so as to be assured of the safety and health of both mother and child.

Source link: http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Opinion&title=More-than-just-money&id=33014

:applause: kudos to San Gabriel officials!

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:14 PM

Provincial Information and Tourism Office-La Union

It’s now official, the Philippines’ Chess Wonder, Caba, La Union’s very own Chardine Cheradee Camacho is now a Woman International Master (WIM) after conferment from the World Chess Federation (Fide) after its Presidential Board Meeting held in United Arab Emirates on June 4-7, 2011.

Dubbed as the female version of Wesley So, the youngest Filipino Grandmaster, she is best remembered during her very successful 2007 and 2008 sortie at the U14 group of the 2007 World Youth Chess Championship where her name appeared for the first time on Chessdom.com, the bible of chess enthusiasts; a dramatic 5th place at the 2008 World Youth Chess Championship in Vietnam; and a great play during the Chess Olympiad in Dresden scoring 8,0/10, which brought her a WIM norm. Camacho is also a recipient of the Governor’s Award in 2004 given during the Pammaadyaw as part of the annual celebration of La Union’s Foundation Anniversary.

In a related development, two other young wood pushers from La Union, Mariel Batulan of San Fernando City and Brena Mae Membrere of Aringay added honor to the province as they bagged Gold Medals in Chess in the Secondary Division in this year’s Palarong Pambansa held at Dapitan City on May 8-14, 2011.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/251228_224000327618573_204145946270678_881287_11049_a.jpg

Source link: http://www.facebook.com/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/la-unions-camacho-is-new-woman-international-master-by-israel-o-rudio/223999860951953

:rock:

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:16 PM

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/252799_223963417622264_204145946270678_880906_1929726_n.jpg

by: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=223963417622264&set=a.223963327622273.66248.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 16th, 2011, 12:27 PM

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/254580_10150196712058204_336893718203_6970986_3975376_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254835_10150196712453204_336893718203_6970988_5901587_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/253554_10150196717618204_336893718203_6971075_8147945_n.jpg

From: BAUANG, LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150196717618204&set=a.10150196716093204.300214.336893718203&type=1&theater)

ergit222

June 17th, 2011, 10:09 AM

sm city san fernando la union in year 2015? Sure na kaya? Nasa strategic plan na ng sm?

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=79670888&postcount=57
malamang siguro. narinig ko na ginagawan na nga ng feasibility study yung potential site nila along pennsylvania ave sa may poro point. 4 years kasama na dun yung planning at construction ng mall. mag-dilang anghel yung source.:cheers:

hugodiekonig

June 17th, 2011, 02:36 PM

malamang siguro. narinig ko na ginagawan na nga ng feasibility study yung potential site nila along pennsylvania ave sa may poro point. 4 years kasama na dun yung planning at construction ng mall. mag-dilang anghel yung source.:cheers:

kaya nga, mag-dilang anghel nga sana :angel:

Dapat naring paghandaan ng San Fernando ang pagpasok ng sm. Kailangan ng mga bagong kalsada at mas maayos na transport at urban planning system. 4 years is enough para paghandaan ang pagpasok ng SM. confident ako na feasible ang SM La Union, kahit 2 storeys lang. Very robust ang population growth ng San fernando at ng neighboring towns kaya confident ako na magkaka-SM rito

hugodiekonig

June 17th, 2011, 02:42 PM

'LIFE'

Published : Friday, June 17, 2011 00:00
Written by : Alfred Dalizon

http://www.journal.com.ph/images/news/Headlines/lomibao2.jpg

A Manila judge yesterday meted out six life terms to seven Chinese nationals for kidnapping the wife of former Philippine National Police chief retired General Arturo C. Lomibao in September 2001.

Judge Antonio M. Rosales found Shi Jian Hui alias Jacky Sy King, Lim Jian Feng alias Jason Lim, Xu You Kwang alias Johnny Co, Wu Chang, Shi Chun Qi alias Ocampo Jacky Sy and Zhang Xi Wang alias Michael Wang guilty of kidnapping Jacky Rowena Tiu beyond reasonable doubt and sentenced each of them to six life terms without parole.

Rosales sentenced in absentia Zhang Du alias Wilson Chang to an indeterminate penalty of imprisonment ranging from six years minimum to eight years and one day maximum.

In May 7, 2005, Zhang Du, an accessory to the kidnapping was released from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology jail in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City using fake and photocopied documents and deported to China.

Another, suspect, Henry Ong remains at large.

Rosales ordered each of the suspects to pay Tiu-Lomibao exemplary damages of P100,000.

In addition to their kidnapping conviction, Shia Jian Hui, Xu You Kwang and Wu Chang were found guilty of carjacking and sentenced to 17 years and four months in jail.

The convicted kidnappers, who were aided by an interpreter, were immediately whisked to the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa after the promulgation of their sentence.

The Lomibao couple lauded Rosales’ decision as another “triumph of justice” in the country.

“After nine years, eight months and 20 days, the case against my kidnappers has finally come to an end. I thank God for giving me the strength to fight for the justice I rightfully deserve. I thank Judge Rosales for taking the side of the truth and remaining true to his sworn duty. And I thank those who joined me and my family in our quest for truth and justice,” Jacky said.

After the verdict was given, the Lomibao couple headed straight to the Manila Cathedral to pray. It was in the same Cathedral where the two were married in 2008.

Then 29-year-old, Jacky was kidnapped on September 27, 2001 a few meters away from their residence in San Fernando, La Union. She was forcibly taken at gunpoint as she was driving their car while her mother, who was riding with her, was able to escape and ran back home.

Tiu’s kidnappers initially demanded US$2 million as ransom but eventually settled for P10 million. After being held captive for eight days, the victim was released unharmed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after her father paid the P10 million ransom.

Within hours after she was released, seven suspects were arrested by combined agents of the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response then headed by Deputy Director General Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr. and the Police Regional Office 1 then headed by Lomibao.

source link: http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/news/headlines/7506-life

hugodiekonig

June 17th, 2011, 05:38 PM

by Abe N. Libadia

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 17 (PIA) -- Motivated by its modest growth in 2010, the Trade, Industry and Tourism (TIT) sector of the Regional Development Council (RDC) of Pangasinan/ Ilocos Area is seizing the momentum amidst the looming new world order in pursuing the Ilocos region as agribusiness and tourism powerhouse in Northern Philippines in 2011.

Reporting the sector’s accomplishment in 2010 and their plans to address the challenges and prospects of 2011 during the State of the Regional Development conference held recently in Bauang La Union, Trade and Industry Director Florante O. Leal said the TIT sector managed a minimal gain in 2010 and strategic plans have been laid out to transform Ilocos Region as an agribusiness and tourism powerhouse in 2011.

The TIT sector of the RDC has 29 members coming from various line agencies, local government units and non-government organizations based in the region.

NEW WORLD ORDER

Leal who chairs the TIT sector said barring cataclysm, India will soon overtake Germany as the World’s third biggest economy within three decades, while China is seen to dislodge the U.S. as No 1 by mid-century. These two fast-rising economic powers could account for half of the global output. While the troika of China, India and the U.S.- the only industrialized nations with significant population growth by most projections will dwarf every other economy.

Economic conditions in these three countries play a major role in setting the economic atmosphere of less well-to-do nations. In many aspects, developing and less developed economies rely on the developed countries for their economic well-being, including the Philippines.

ECONOMY WITHSTOOD 2008-09 RECESSION

The Philippine economy weathered the global recession in 2008-2009 better than its regional neighbors due to minimal exposure to securities issued by troubled global financial institutions; lesser dependence on exports; relatively resilient domestic consumption, supported by high remittances from the 8 to 12 million overseas Filipino Workers; and a growing business process outsourcing industry.

TIT SECTOR POSTS MODEST GAIN

In 2010, the tobacco industry enjoyed an increasing inflow of investment with a double digit growth of 13.16 percent. Investments, however, went down from P 7,355.77 million in 2009 to P 6976.37 million in 2010 or a 4.89 percent decline. Private investments and Investment in Priority Industries, likewise dipped to 7.32 percent and 10.37 percent, respectively, on a year-on-year basis. Overall, the Investments went down by 4.88 percent.

Exports continued to rise with a 16 percent increase or US$ 113.41 million in 2010 to US$ 97/25 million in the previous year. Thus, sustaining the growth momentum of the regional economy.

On a positive note, tourists arrivals significantly increased by 22.56 percent compared to the previous year. The sector recovered from lingering effect of the global recession and despite the negative effect brought about by the Manila Hostage Crisis last year where eight HongKong nationals were killed.

MTRDP 2011-2016

Region 1’s Medium Term Regional Development Plan 2011-2016 has laid down the foundation to make the region resilient and adaptive to maximizing the opportunities presented by the emergence of a new world order.

The sector has incorporated President Benigno S. Aquino III’s priorities and customizes the sector’s programs and projects along these priorities.

The sector will be critically aggressive in driving its economic growth utilizing the opportunities that the present proposes and that of the past, as well as maximizing the available resources in the region in realizing its dream of becoming an agribusiness and tourism powerhouse in Northern Philippines in 2011.

PROSPECTS, CHALLENGES IN 2011

Owing to its significant importance and the future’s cash cow of the region, the stakeholders will transform the sector into a globally competitive sector significantly contributing to economic wealth creation employment generation, poverty reduction, environmental conservation and creation of an environment conducive for business for sustainable growth and development.

To achieve the dream, the sector will push for the economic integration of the region with the dynamic North-East Asian countries taking advantage of the region’s strategic location for greater market opportunities. Specifically, the sector shall undertake the following:

-Leverage the region’s land sea and air transportation networks, utilities and communication facilities, social service facilities and banking networks to entice investors and tourists to visit and do business in the growth centers of the region.

-Position Region 1 to become the trading and tourism hub in Northern Luzon linking Southeast Asia with East Asia in four of the eight targeted sectors of the Philippine Investment Priority Plan of the Department of Trade and Industry namely: a) Agro-industry, b) Business-process outsourcing Information technology, c.) Logistics, and d.) Tourism

-Make Region 1 a successful tourist destination with Pangasinan leading the way with the development of the Pangasinan Eco-Tourism Zone. The area will be an eco-tourism zone with a self contained community that will include on 18-hole gold course, beach front residences, high-end and mid-range subdivisions, commercial area, amusement park, resorts and hotels, restaurants and retail shops, water sport area and a yacht club.

-Develop local products through DTI’s product branding and certification to boost marketing of the “One Town, One Product” (OTOP) of the local government units.

-Develop competitive and skilled workers that will complement manpower requirement for the tourism and offshore and outsourcing industry among others, through the continuous development and competencies of labor force to match industry needs.

-Engage the assistance of the private sector in the implementation of government programs and projects through volunteerism and enrolment of projects through the Public-Private Partnership and the “Bayanihan Bayan Program of Government Service.

Leal said he never believes in luck, but opines luck is when opportunity meets preparation which “we have both at our fingertips right now and we are in a position to make things happen and compel ourselves to transform these opportunities to push the economy farther, he said. (ANL-PIA 1 La Union)(Abe N. Libadia/NEDA R1 Report)

source link: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=38732

hugodiekonig

June 17th, 2011, 06:27 PM

hmm,m ano kaya ang ipapatayong resort sa launion na approved by boi? Malaki iyon fore sure.

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 04:51 AM

The Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) has realized 70% collection efficiency covering the period January 1-May 31, 2011. The Office has already collected Php 53,228,799.59 out of the estimated income of Php 76,205,930.47 from Revenue and Receipts from Local Sources wherein a difference of Php 22,977,130.88 to be collected for the rest of the year.

This is the result of various collection strategies implemented by this Office which include the continuous sending out of Demand Letters to delinquent taxpayers province wide for Real Property Taxes and Rental Fees, and has activated the Provincial Task Force Collection composed of representatives from PTO, Office of the Provincial Accountant (OPAcc), Provincial Legal Office (PLO) and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) to monitor and collect the long over due accounts under Kabuhayan 2000 and Sagayad Resettlement Project.

Moreover, the Province of La Union has realized 27% rate of increase in collection having collected the amount of Php 53,228,799.59 for January to March 2011 as compared to the collection of Php 41,738,997.10 for the same period last year.

The Office continuously adheres to its mandate to collect local taxes and fees and to take custody and exercise proper management of all funds of Provincial Government to effectively deliver the basic services to the people.

La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/pglu-tax-collections-soar/224301137588492)

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 04:53 AM

By: Felix S. Macayan

Governor’s Press Corps-La Union

Aimed to further tighten security of La Union Capitol Buildings and properties, the Security Services Division (SSD) under the Office of the Provincial Governor (OPG), is now fully implementing its Security Information Dissemination & Education (SIDE) program.

Under the program, all SSD personnel will undergo trainings to further improve good quality of service for the benefit of the general public with emphasis on concepts of service, trustworthiness, public service and commitment to community satisfaction. It is expected to educate personnel for the attainment of the SSD Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives and facilitate “Behavioral Change.”

For the 2nd quarter of this year, SSD Officer-In-Charge Albert C. Palomique conducted lectures on Leadership while Acting Operation and Intel Officer Mario A. Munar conducted training on VIP Security and Protection. Lectures are part and taken as the division also participated on various programs or activities of Local Government Units (LGUs), Non Government Organizations (NGOs) and other government offices to strengthen the harmonious relationship between the SSD and the populace. Regular inspection is being conducted to all posts or station to ensure proper discipline in dealing with people most especially on the wearing of clean and presentable uniform; maintenance of cleanliness; observance of client-friendly office; projection of smart and snappy image; execution of Good Manners and Right Conduct; and survey of all establishments under the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) to ensure the security and safety of employees, equipment, and other properties.

As an implementing arm of PGLU, SSD has constantly reiterated abidance to PGLU policies and directives that also includes the dress code prescribed for government officials and employees in the workplace as directed by the Civil Service Commission (CSC); monitoring of loitering personnel; and prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages among government officials and employees. Mr. Felix S. Macayan, Acting Administrative Officer and Security Guard I Calixto C. Ugay, Security Supervisor, have also begun conducting on the spot and random inspection to all PGLU offices to monitor implementation of said policies and directives.

La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/capitol-guards-take-side-by-felix-s-macayan/224310154254257)

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 04:58 AM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263544_224340610917878_204145946270678_883974_3984622_n.jpg

Pupils of Manggan Elementary School, swarming La Union Vibrant Women, Inc. Chair Geraldine R. Ortega for a free Rosary during the seminar on Common Diseases on Children held on June 15, 2011.

Phot by: Alfredo R. Buenaventura, Jr.
Provincial Information and Tourism Office-laUnion

La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=224340610917878&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

Tarlaqueno-ako

June 18th, 2011, 05:09 AM

kaya nga, mag-dilang anghel nga sana :angel:

Dapat naring paghandaan ng San Fernando ang pagpasok ng sm. Kailangan ng mga bagong kalsada at mas maayos na transport at urban planning system. 4 years is enough para paghandaan ang pagpasok ng SM. confident ako na feasible ang SM La Union, kahit 2 storeys lang. Very robust ang population growth ng San fernando at ng neighboring towns kaya confident ako na magkaka-SM rito

Naimbag nga bigat Hugo he he.

Agree, mainam na habang under study ang future establishment ng giant SM Mall sa San Fernando City ay nakapalano na ang mga improvements na gagawin particularly sa mga kalsada. Optimistic din ako na magiging maganda ang hatid ng hakbang na eto sa economy ng Launion.:)

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 05:25 AM

Naimbag nga bigat Hugo he he.

Agree, mainam na habang under study ang future establishment ng giant SM Mall sa San Fernando City ay nakapalano na ang mga improvements na gagawin particularly sa mga kalsada. Optimistic din ako na magiging maganda ang hatid ng hakbang na eto sa economy ng Launion.:)

di pa kasi gaanong naiimplement rito sa san fernando ang maayos na urban planning. Kahit saan nalang may bahay, sa may malawak na lote may nagpapatayo ng bahay, may mga ibang bakanteng lote rito na pinagpapatayuan ng bahay ng mga IS, tapos grabe rin ang trapiko rito.

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 05:41 AM

Magandang Venue para sa mga kasalan

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http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/222140_101511669940740_100002457210242_13677_4308413_n.jpg

Photos by: Fevie Rivera

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 05:46 AM

2_HNmVhW3zk

youtube video uploaded by: romyocon http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_HNmVhW3zk

Tarlaqueno-ako

June 18th, 2011, 03:19 PM

di pa kasi gaanong naiimplement rito sa san fernando ang maayos na urban planning. Kahit saan nalang may bahay, sa may malawak na lote may nagpapatayo ng bahay, may mga ibang bakanteng lote rito na pinagpapatayuan ng bahay ng mga IS, tapos grabe rin ang trapiko rito.

Siguro abandoned na ng mga may-ari ng lote yung pinagtatayuan ng mga IS. Sayang naman lalo na kung nasa commercial zone siya. Tama, kung maimplement na maigi ang maayos na urban planning, mas magandang tingnan ang city at magkakaroon din ng mabilis na daloy ng tapiko.

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 06:31 PM

^^

habang maaga pa at maliit pa ang San Fernando, umpisahan na dapat ang malawakang urban planning

hugodiekonig

June 18th, 2011, 06:44 PM

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Visit their website at: http://marandresort.ph/

hugodiekonig

June 19th, 2011, 05:00 PM

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyAVO9AH36s/Tftlh3b_YkI/AAAAAAAAKRo/XeHuRd2-LYw/s1600/Zest+Air+Father%2527s+Day+Seat+Sale.jpg

Details
Zest Air Father's Day Seat Sale is from June 18 to 20, 2011.
Travel date is from September 1 to October 15, 2011.
P388 for Manila to Iloilo, Virac, San Jose and Busuanga or vice versa.
P488 for Manila to Bacolod, Cebu, Kalibo, Catarman, Calbayog and Legazpi or vice versa.
P588 for Manila to Tagbilaran and Tacloban or vice versa.
P688 for Manila to Puerto Princesa or vice versa.
P788 for Manila to Marinduque and Tablas or vice versa.
P888 for Manila to Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga and Davao or vice versa.
P1,088 for Manila to Masbate and San Fernando, La Union or vice versa.
Per CAB Aproval
Inclusive of Fare and Taxes
Exclusive of ASF and Fuel Surcharge and 12% VAT.
Limited seats only.
FREE Baggage Allowance of 10 Kilos for MA60 Flights.
FREE Baggage Allowance of 15 Kilos for A320 and A319 Flights.
For phone booking and more information, please call 855-3333 or visit your favorite travel agent.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8smy5vL9F34/TUBQ8dWfxOI/AAAAAAAAD74/pHF7aUNoi7Q/s1600/Zest+Air+Domestic+Routes.JPG

http://everythinginbudget.blogspot.com/2011/06/zest-air-fathers-day-domestic-seat-sale.html

hugodiekonig

June 19th, 2011, 05:07 PM

A June 17, 2011 press release by the Department of Public Works and Highways
Infrastructure projects for Region 1 under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) CY 2011 infrastructure program are focused on the rehabilitation and improvement of national arterial and secondary national roads along the Manila North Road (MNR) to speed up mobility.
DPWH Region 1 has about 80 infrastructure projects under the CY 2011 General Appropriations Act (GAA), most of them are intended for the rehabilitation and widening of Manila North Road from Pangasinan to La Union, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte.

To date, of the 80 projects in Region 1, 13 projects have been completed, 18 are ongoing and the remaining projects are for implementation.
DPWH Region 1 Director Veniedo O. Reyes said that this is consistent with the President Benigno S. Aquino III’s national development thrust and Secretary Rogelio L. Singson’s policy and strategy of upgrading the quality and safety features of the national roads and bridges.

According to Director Reyes, the completion of three major bridges, namely Bagulin Bridge along San Fernando -Bagulin Road; Banela Bridge along San Nicolas-San Quintin-Umingan Pangasinan-Guimba,Nueva Ecija Road, and the Aluling Bridge in Cervantes Ilocos Sur will interconnect the inner municipalities of the Ilocos Region.

The Aluling Bridge, which is expected to be completed this year 2011, will also connect Region 1 to Mountain Province of the Cordilleras.

The project will facilitate easy movement of people, goods, and services from the highlands to Candon City in Ilocos Sur.

Meanwhile, to mitigate flooding and relieve the anxiety of the stricken communities in eastern Pangasinan, which had been devastated by previous typhoons particularly Ondoy and Pepeng, Director Reyes personally monitors the progress of activities and quality of works of completed and ongoing restoration/rehabilitation of major flood control projects along the Agno River.
The flood control projects are part of the Post Ondoy Pepeng Short-Term Infrastructure Rehabilitation Projects (POPSTIRP) under loan agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

“We should not let great devastation happen again, that’s why, we in the DPWH Region 1 are very strict in the implementation of rehabilitation works and inspections are being done regularly,” said Director Reyes.
Joining Director Reyes in his inspection at the ongoing restoration and rehabilitation of the flood control structures along Talingkapor Dike in Santa Maria East, San Nicolas, and Sitio Departe, Barangay Bantog, Asingan are Agno Flood Control Project Director Edgardo C. Paragas, OIC-District Engineer Emmanuel W. Diaz of Pangasinan 3rd District Engineering Office and Regional Maintenance Chief Cornelio G. Amita.

dpwh.gov.ph

hugodiekonig

June 19th, 2011, 05:29 PM

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/261790_234846186531805_100000192752238_1134375_3117533_n.jpg

Photo by: Halo Halo de Iloko Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=234846186531805&set=a.234846126531811.78461.100000192752238&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 19th, 2011, 05:33 PM

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Pinakbet w/ Bagnet

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Pancit en Grande

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Prawn Crackers

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Fiesta Halo Halo

from: Halo Halo de Iloko Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=228488587167565&set=a.228488460500911.75724.100000192752238&type=1&theater&pid=1079191&id=100000192752238)

nebelwerferXXX

June 20th, 2011, 02:34 PM

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8smy5vL9F34/TUBQ8dWfxOI/AAAAAAAAD74/pHF7aUNoi7Q/s1600/Zest+Air+Domestic+Routes.JPG

http://everythinginbudget.blogspot.com/2011/06/zest-air-fathers-day-domestic-seat-sale.html
Airports of the Philippines

hugodiekonig

June 20th, 2011, 04:14 PM

from blog by oohnet at http://ooohneh.blogspot.com/2011/06/ma-cho.html

When in San Fernando, don't forget to visit the Ma-Cho Taoist Temple located at the town proper.

Built in 1975 on at least 1 hectare of land area, its namesake was a tribute to a Chinese deity who adored sailors and fishermen. “Dragon Girl”, “Goddess of the Sea” and “Queen of Heaven” she was to the Chinese.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yf2Pepxvt3c/Tfxnc0iv0pI/AAAAAAAAAiI/2FBQjMR8nu4/s640/IMG_0263_wm.JPG

I did not get a chance to see the statue of Ma-Cho, I doubt even if it exists inside the temple. Maybe it doesn't because according to several web references, the temple instead houses the image of the Virgin of Caysasay, the patroness of the Filipino-Chinese community. It is transferred from St. Martin, Taal, Batangas sometime September to the Temple with street festivities typical of the Chinese.

I have seen the image of the Virgin of Caysasay in St. Martin, Taal, Batangas several years ago. It depicts the dark-skinned, curly black hair and nose common to the native Aetas. What intrigues me is the Chinese community venerating an indigenous looking Filipino deity very much different to the Chinese physique. But I think its cool!

Out in the stone brick courtyard, tourists with appreciation for the diversity of religion will enjoy the sight of the 18 Disciples artistically crafted each with its unique pose.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uEf9MlTSl4M/TfxjvzBxAgI/AAAAAAAAAiE/VfROKKqJw14/s640/18disciples_wm.jpg

Beside the pagoda is a pond with another important Chinese deity-Kuan Yin (also Guanyin) or Goddess of Mercy standing proudly on its center.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7_2soELxPnI/TfxnldTxIBI/AAAAAAAAAiU/NsvVzKN4fFk/s640/liang+thing_wm.jpg

Ma-Cho's adoration for sailors and the fishermen might be the reason the Majestic Five Door Gate to the temple is facing the South China Sea.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kR5CCn-62bk/Tfxnftxp06I/AAAAAAAAAiM/gXOqKaF1Moo/s640/IMG_3670_wm.JPG

hugodiekonig

June 20th, 2011, 06:52 PM

Airports of the Philippines

Sana rin lumakas pa ang turismo ng la union at may mag open muli na airline sa sf airport. So far so good naman ang zest air, 11 months na silang operational sa said airport

hugodiekonig

June 20th, 2011, 07:15 PM

hmmmm any idea if kailan mag oopen ang toyota la union

ergit222

June 21st, 2011, 01:43 AM

kaya nga, mag-dilang anghel nga sana :angel:

Dapat naring paghandaan ng San Fernando ang pagpasok ng sm. Kailangan ng mga bagong kalsada at mas maayos na transport at urban planning system. 4 years is enough para paghandaan ang pagpasok ng SM. confident ako na feasible ang SM La Union, kahit 2 storeys lang. Very robust ang population growth ng San fernando at ng neighboring towns kaya confident ako na magkaka-SM rito

No question feasible ang SM LU, matter of time lang kasi di lang whole LU ang cater nya pati na rin neighboring provinces like Ilocos Sur at some part of Pangasinan. Lalo na kung nandyan na yung Ferry system at dadami ang tourists dahil sa thunderbird o surfing sa san juan (thru land, sea and air). siempre ang taga highlands usually bumababa sa LU para lang mag-beach.

Pero tama ka sa infrastructure, SFC should start planning ahead for the entry of a big shopping mall 4 years from now.

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 05:29 AM

No question feasible ang SM LU, matter of time lang kasi di lang whole LU ang cater nya pati na rin neighboring provinces like Ilocos Sur at some part of Pangasinan. Lalo na kung nandyan na yung Ferry system at dadami ang tourists dahil sa thunderbird o surfing sa san juan (thru land, sea and air). siempre ang taga highlands usually bumababa sa LU para lang mag-beach.

Pero tama ka sa infrastructure, SFC should start planning ahead for the entry of a big shopping mall 4 years from now.

May sf urban planning noon na ipinresent ni former mayor mary jane ortega way back 2006, about iyon sa zoning areas ng sfc.maganda iyon. ewan ko lang din ngayon kung tinutuloy rin ni mayor pablo ang urban planninb na iyon sa sf. Baka di lang aware ang karamihan. Silent workaholic kc si mayor pablo. Sana ay tuloy tuloy na ang pag unlad ng sfc at la union

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 05:38 AM

A hump at expressway’s endpoint By Inquirer Northern Luzon, Vincent Cabreza 8:31 pm | Monday, June 20th, 2011

ROSARIO, La Union—The 88-kilometer Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx), which the Aquino administration intends to complete in
two to three years, will end in a proposed interchange here, but will it be at
the doorsteps of the Cordillera, or the Ilocos region? Baguio City Rep. Bernardo Vergara prefers an exit of the P11-billion TPLEx to
be built closer to Kennon Road, so that tourists can go straight to the
Cordillera. Vergara and Benguet Rep. Ronald Cosalan, chair of the House committee on
public works, have been lobbying for an exit near Barangay Saytan, the
junction used by motorists to reach Baguio via Kennon, or Marcos Highway. “The TPLEx project is important for Baguio and Benguet, but its exit must lead to Kennon Road and Marcos Highway,” Cosalan said in a a text message sent to the Inquirer from Switzerland. Heavy traffic But former Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco, wants it past the town proper,
Cosalan said. This would mean that “those going to Kennon and Marcos Highway will pass through heavy traffic in Rosario, which is why I and
Representative Vergara objected.” It was during Cojuangco’s term as Pangasinan’s fifth district representative that the TPLEx took shape. The district is now represented by his wife, Kimi,
the former mayor of Sison town. Work on the TPLEx, which extends the North Luzon Expressway and the
Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, started in 2010. The project features eight
interchanges in the towns of Victoria, Gerona, Paniqui and Moncada in
Tarlac; the towns of Carmen and Pozorrubio and Urdaneta City in
Pangasinan; and this town. According to Vergara, the proposed road link would cut travel time from
Metro Manila to Baguio from six to three hours, provided it exits near
Kennon. This would not only help improve Baguio tourism but also stabilize
vegetable prices in Metro Manila because it would provide shorter routes for
truckers hauling produce from Benguet and Mt. Province, he said. Access to Ilocos But Cojuangco said he wanted the Rosario interchange to follow the Manila
North Road or the MacArthur Highway which would locate it 7 kilometers
from the town center. This would provide a smooth access to San Fernando
City in La Union, as well as to other coastal towns of the Ilocos, he said. “This new route would kill two birds with one stone, ” Cojuangco said. It allows the government to widen the TPLEx lanes by 30 meters and grant
work crews a more cost-effective way of designing a flyover that would link
Kennon Road to the new Rosario interchange, he said. But the proposed realignment would entail building a single-lane flyover at
the new exit point for the Rosario interchange that is dedicated to
northbound vehicles traveling to Baguio, he said. Cojuangco is a son of business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr., chair of San Miguel Corp., which has a 25-percent stake in Private Infrastructure Development Corp. (PIDC), the company developing TPLEx. PIDC is a joint venture between DM Consunji Inc. and DM Wenceslao &
Associates Inc. Vergara believes that Cojuangco’s idea would raise bigger social problems for the government because it would have to expropriate more private lots for the project. He adds that he is banking on President Aquino’s wish to modernize Kennon Road during his term. Emmanuel Diaz and Alfredo Doctolero, acting district engineers in Pangasinan
and La Union, respectively, will submit a report about the officials’ positions to Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson.

newsinfo.inquirer.net/16628/a-hump-at-expressway’s-endpoint

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 05:51 AM

the terminal of the expressway must have exits leading to both places(to la union/ilocos and baguio/benguet)para naman parehas na magbenefit ang mga lugar na ito sa project na ito

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 01:00 PM

26 schoolers benefit from police office’ “Edukasyon Mo, Sagot Ko” by Miriam P. Aquino

CAMP DIEGO SILANG, Carlatan, City Of San
Fernando, La Union, June 21 (PIA) -- A total of 26
elementary pupils benefited from the recently held
distribution of school supplies thru the impact
project “Batang Mahirap: Edukasyon Mo, Sagot Ko” of the La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO). The project is an outreach program for the
education of selected elementary pupils who
belong to the indigent families from the different
municipalities of this province, according to Police
Superintendent (PSupt) Eduardo C. Abaday, LUPPO
Chief, Police Community Relations (PCR) and Public Information Officer. The student beneficiaries personally received the
school materials with their respective parents/
guardians together with the family juvenile gender
and development police non-commissioned officers
of the different municipalities. Abaday said this project which is now on its fifth
year, is sustained thru distribution of coinbanks by
the police personnel to the different establishments
in the province like groceries, mall, schools, offices
and the like and a regular donation which started
in 2009 coming from vice governor Aureo Q. Nisce who was the guest of honor and speaker during
the activity. LUPPO Director PSSupt. Ramon O Purugganan
together with Nisce led the distribution to the
beneficiaries who received school uniforms, shoes,
white socks, raincoat, umbrella, writing pads,
notebooks, crayon, pencil, pencil case, ruler,
sharpener, slipper, paste, eraser and a school bag. In his message, Nisce recognized the noble
achievement of the PNP in helping the less
fortunate children in the province. Likewise, he motivated the beneficiaries to give
value on education and finish their studies to have
a better life in the future. He also encouraged the
parents/guardians beneficiaries to guide and
support their children morally and spiritually and
to compliment the efforts of the police by participating/cooperating in their anti-crime crime
campaign. Nisce donated again funds for the education of
these 26 beneficiaries who are now in grade five
this school year 2011-2012. Aside from the school supplies, the chiefs of police
in each municipality also provide monthly/weekly
allowances to the children. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La
Union with reports from LUPPO)

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 01:12 PM

DPWH to establish, maintain plant
nursery for the National Greening
Program by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 21 (PIA) --
The Department of Public Works and Highways
regional office 1 (DPWH – RO1) director Veniedo O. Reyes instructed the 10 district engineers and the
project director of the Agno Flood Control System
to establish and maintain a plant nursery in their
respective district offices in support to the National
Greening Program (NGP) or Executive Order No. 26
issued by President Aquino on February 24, 2011 to put back trees in hundreds of thousands of
hectares where they once stood. According to regional information officer Esperanza
Tinaza, this move is also in response to the United
Nations declaration of the year 2011 as the
International Year of the Forest with the theme
“Forest for People.” Director Reyes said that tree planting is not new to
DPWH, since it has been a long policy of the
agency to plant and maintain trees on the
roadsides of the national and secondary highways
in the whole region. “These trees are maintained by the roadside maintenance workers and the local government
units. With the implementation of the NGP as a
priority activity by all government agencies, the
human, economic and ecological security and
stability is not too far to attain,” Reyes added. The NGP targets some 1.5 billion trees to be
planted in 1.5 million hectares of denuded forests
for a period of 6 years (from 2011 to 2016) in
lands of the public domain which include
forestlands, mangrove and protected areas,
ancestral domains, civil and military reservations and urban areas. Consequently, it will address and result to poverty
reduction, food security, biodiversity conservation,
climate change mitigation and adaptation. This program also aims to rejuvenate rural
economies in some chronically poor areas in the
uplands, ultimately providing livelihood
opportunities for some six million families in the
upland area across the country within six years.
(JCR/MPA-PIA 1 La Union with reports from EOT- DPWH-RO1)

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 01:28 PM

Globe equips teachers in N. Luzon with ICT tutoring skills

June 20, 2011, 4:12pm

MANILA, Philippines — Teachers in the public school system in North Luzon completed recently a special
program designed to enhance their knowledge and
skills in integrating Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) in their teaching strategies
.
Globe, a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, sponsored the Global Filipino Teachers
(GFT) program for teachers Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La
Union, Pangasinan, all in Region 1. Globe, together with the Coalition for Better Education
(CBE), crafted the six-day live-in training workshop for
24 select teachers from 24 public schools in the region. The program aims to give teachers the necessary skills
to integrate ICT in their respective subject areas such as
Math, Science, English, and Heyograpiya, Kasaysayan at
Sibika (Hekasi). GFT, a Globe initiative under its corporate social
responsibility program called Globe Bridging
Communities (Globe BridgeCom), intends to improve
teaching efficiency of teachers and re-engineer their
role in schools. It was proven that by using ICT, there is increased
teacher motivation and improved student memory
retention and comprehension of various subjects. In
essence, GFT has transformed computers and the
internet from just being desktop sources of information
into instruments of interactive teaching and online collaboration. Yoly C. Crisanto, Globe Head for Corporate
Communications, said that the program involves giving
ICT training to teachers from schools which are
beneficiaries of the Globe Internet in Schools (ISP)
program. Through ISP, Globe is able to help prepare young
Filipinos to be globally competitive by introducing
them to internet literacy skills and opening doors to a
wide range of information available on the Internet.

mb.com.ph/articles/323483/globe-equips-teachers-n-luzon-with-ict-tutoring-skills

ergit222

June 21st, 2011, 04:58 PM

the terminal of the expressway must have exits leading to both places(to la union/ilocos and baguio/benguet)para naman parehas na magbenefit ang mga lugar na ito sa project na ito
i will go to what was originally planned. actually TLPLEX was conceived to connect clark subic and poro point to boost of economic growth and countryside development in the northern corridor. It will end up at the junction of Rosario and Pugo Intersection which is a just near Kennon Road at Saitan.

Pinopolitika na naman ni vergara na alam naman nya 3 highways ang nagawa na papuntang baguio. puro baguio na lang ang nakikinabang sa progress at development. hayaan din nya ang ilocos region na guminhawa rin.

ergit222

June 21st, 2011, 05:01 PM

BY IRMA ISIP

A Beijing-based group is looking for site on which to build a $500 million industrial estate that will house Chinese manufacturers, Cristino Panilio, managing head of the Board of Investments, said yesterday.

Panlilio said officials of the China New Rural Construction and Development Council, led by Chen Wai Keung, expressed their interest in putting up an industrial estate during a recent meeting.

He said the meeting was arranged by Patrick Caoile, executive vice president of Vulcan Industrial of the Alfredo Ramos Group.

Panlilio said the group is looking for a 500- to 1,000-hectare site in Central or Northern Luzon which can host light industries such as garments, energy, water, utilities, information technology and other light industries.

He said the group inquired about incentives as well as requirements.

The BOI head said he has offered the Ilocos region, Pangasinan and Zambales as well as Subic and Poro Point to take advantage of the ports in these locations.

The Chinese group’s expression of interest in the Philippines came just weeks after a trade conference for Chinese investors hosted by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The Manila Guangzhou Trade and Investment Conference and Cantonese Product Promotion in Asean held Monday was attended by a 146-member delegation from Guangzhou, the capital city of China’s Guangdong province.

During the conference, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo noted how a tiger economy like China continues to help boost the growth of Philippine exports.

While the natural disasters in Japan and sluggish recovery in the United States slowed down exports, Philippine trade with China climbed steadily.

"In 2009, China was the Philippines’ fifth largest trading partner. In the first quarter of this year, China was our country’s third largest trading partner with exports increasing by 58 percent," Domingo said.

The event also launched the Manila-Guangzhou Business Council, which aims to promote trade relations and cooperation between Manila and Guangzhou.

Various local industry associations signed agreements on toy production, furniture, jewelry, and textiles.

source (http://www.malaya.com.ph/june22/busi1.html)

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 06:31 PM

i will go to what was originally planned. actually TLPLEX was conceived to connect clark subic and poro point to boost of economic growth and countryside development in the northern corridor. It will end up at the junction of Rosario and Pugo Intersection which is a just near Kennon Road at Saitan.

Pinopolitika na naman ni vergara na alam naman nya 3 highways ang nagawa na papuntang baguio. puro baguio na lang ang nakikinabang sa progress at development. hayaan din nya ang ilocos region na guminhawa rin.

Naipost rin dati dito sa forum ang proposed realignment ng tpluex around 7kms frm saitan, rosario na kinokontra uli ng mga baguio officials.

Kung ganoon, huwag naman na sana pulitikahin ng mga baguio officials ang project. Marami at marami parin ang pupunta ng baguio no matter where the terminal point is. 5 roads leading to baguio na nga lang ang ginawa para highly accessible ang baguio

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 06:57 PM

about sa post no. 369

Let us point out ang laban ng poro point over the other investment areas

-poro point is strategically located equidistant between ilocos norte and manila and is near to the mountain resort city of baguio
- may airport at seaport na ang poro point
-mas malapit man ang subic sa manila kaysa kapag poro point sa manila, the tpluex will cut travel time from poro point to manila,vv from 5 to 3hrs at di rin malalayo sa travel time pag subic to manila,vv
-the tpluex rin will interconnect the major economic areas in luzon, namely subic,clark,baguio at poro point pati narin ang manila
-highly accessible ang poro point
-marami pang bakanteng lote sa poro point na pwedeng pagtayuan ng industrial park, at katunayan, may nakalaan na ang poro point para sa industrial park

hugodiekonig

June 21st, 2011, 07:01 PM

sana nga ay mapunta sa poro point (iinvest sa poro point)ang investment na iyon.

ergit222

June 22nd, 2011, 02:35 AM

Naipost rin dati dito sa forum ang proposed realignment ng tpluex around 7kms frm saitan, rosario na kinokontra uli ng mga baguio officials.

Kung ganoon, huwag naman na sana pulitikahin ng mga baguio officials ang project. Marami at marami parin ang pupunta ng baguio no matter where the terminal point is. 5 roads leading to baguio na nga lang ang ginawa para highly accessible ang baguio
5 roads na ba from LU? kenon, marcos at naguilian lang, di ba? ang alam ko yung aritao road galing sa nueva viscaya. that cost the govt billions of pesos to construct, is the only access from the east side of baguio.

anyway, alam naman natin lahat na ang baguio ang pinupuntahan ng mga bakasyonista, tourista at naging lugar na rin ng maraming koreans. baguio officials should find a way to connect Kenon Rd with the TPLUEX, not the TPLUEX realigning in order to connect with Kenon Rd. There's no way politicians like vergara can derail what has already been contracted, budgeted and implemented by TPLUEX proponents and stockholders. The question is "Why now?"

ergit222

June 22nd, 2011, 02:55 AM

May sf urban planning noon na ipinresent ni former mayor mary jane ortega way back 2006, about iyon sa zoning areas ng sfc.maganda iyon. ewan ko lang din ngayon kung tinutuloy rin ni mayor pablo ang urban planninb na iyon sa sf. Baka di lang aware ang karamihan. Silent workaholic kc si mayor pablo. Sana ay tuloy tuloy na ang pag unlad ng sfc at la union
I think Mayor Pablo is still adopting Ex Mayor's Zoning Plan for SFC and a working zoning committee composed of citizens from all sectors of the society (civic, business, military, police, religious, academe etc) is working together to improve it with the changing times.

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 04:27 AM

5 roads na ba from LU? kenon, marcos at naguilian lang, di ba? ang alam ko yung aritao road galing sa nueva viscaya. that cost the govt billions of pesos to construct, is the only access from the east side of baguio.

anyway, alam naman natin lahat na ang baguio ang pinupuntahan ng mga bakasyonista, tourista at naging lugar na rin ng maraming koreans. baguio officials should find a way to connect Kenon Rd with the TPLUEX, not the TPLUEX realigning in order to connect with Kenon Rd. There's no way politicians like vergara can derail what has already been contracted, budgeted and implemented by TPLUEX proponents and stockholders. The question is "Why now?"

3 roads from la union, tapos from nueva vizcaya at yung halsema hgwy from mt.province

Actually yung balak na realignment noong last month ay mukhang lalayo ang dulo ng expressway sa may saitan ng around 7 kms, kung saan kontra ang baguio offiials dahil raw inconvenient sa mga baguio motorists kpag papunta o paalis ng baguio. Kung gawan nalang ng exit pa-kennon road sana, ok na sana, pero parang gusto tuloy ilapit yung expressway sa baguio which i think parang napakaselfish na move. Intended naman talaga ang expressway to benefit the north not just only baguio but also the ilocos at la union provinces as well

Why now? Ewan ko nlang ang rason ng mga baguio officials. It is so hard to tell

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 06:32 AM

I think Mayor Pablo is still adopting Ex Mayor's Zoning Plan for SFC and a working zoning committee composed of citizens from all sectors of the society (civic, business, military, police, religious, academe etc) is working together to improve it with the changing times.

Maganda kung ganoon.at least sa sfc may urban planning narin, sana pati rin sa bauang at san juan.Sana masolusyonan rin ni mayor pablo ang problema sa trapiko,baha at dumaraming nakawan sa syudad.

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:18 PM

By Alexander Villafania

http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/EOEaQiBngzueo9OpPtFBqA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9aW5zZXQ7aD0zODQ7cT04NTt3PTUxMg--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-PH/News/loQal/loQal-june22-photo1-damortis.jpg

DAMORTIS, LA UNION – Danggit or dried fish is always synonymous to Cebu, particularly dried fish market of Tabo-an, where these are sold by the truckloads.

But what few know is that danggit has always been the traditional method of Filipino fisherfolk in preserving caught fish. This is particularly true for subsistence farmers who dry their fish for later consumption.

Apart from Cebu, there are still a few other places in the Philippines where danggit is made into an industry for mass markets. One of these places is the town of Damortis in La Union, particularly the small barangay of Sto. Tomas.

This area is actually accessible as the McArthur Highway, which is the main coastal road that stretches all the way up to Ilocos (and also the main road that most Baguio buses take before turning right to Aspiras Highway).

Due to the proximity of Sto. Tomas to the coastline of Lingayen Gulf, many fisherfolk sell their catch along the main road. There are a variety of fresh fish, shellfish and crustaceans available. But of course, the most unique are the danggit vendors who sell their products in large transparent bags, in similar fashion as the danggit sellers of Tabo-an in Cebu.

Danggit , which is often associated with the small malaga, is just one of the many kinds of dried fish sold in Sto. Tomas. There is also the dalag-baybay, espada, sapsap,pusit, turay, dilis, and shrimp.

A local fish called basasong, which is about a foot in length is also commonly sold. Sometimes, dried bangus (milkfish) can be found here.

Usually, vendors with baskets approach vehicles that are attempting to park near the shops in an effort to sell their products first. Prices range from P100 for 1/4 a kilo to P300 a kilo. The purchases are packed in newspapers or paper bags and wrapped plastic to reduce the odor.

Apart from the dried fish, the vendors also sell patis (fish sauce), alamang, and bagoong. Prices for these are between P20 per bottle to P60 depending on the “purity” of the product. Still, these are cheaper than those sold in shopping malls.

For those hoping to get a sampling of dried fish up north, Sto. Tomas, Damortis in La Union is one such place to visit.

source link: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/la-union-town-tabo-north-because-danggit-075322853.html;_ylt=A7Tpc5SeuwFO4z0AdAHiV8d_;_ylu=X3oDMTNhMTdrcjJpBHBrZwM2OWM2MDQyMS0yZGRkLTNkZjEtODMxOS0xZDY5YjA5ZjllOTkEcG9zAzMEc2VjA01lZGlhSnVtYm90cm9uBHZlcgNiM2Q5ZjQ1MC05Y2E0LTExZTAtYTdiZC1mNDljZGNiNjZiZjM-;_ylg=X3oDMTFpNDR0a2hyBGludGwDcGgEbGFuZwNlbi1waARwc3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdANob21lBHB0A3NlY3Rpb25z;_ylv=3

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:30 PM

By Yolanda Sotelo
Inquirer Northern Luzon

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/files/2011/06/handlooming-167x224.jpg
HANDLOOMING survives in Bangar, La Union, courtesy of village women who inherited the craft from their elders. PHOTOS BY YOLANDA SOTELO

SEVERAL years ago, a group of Japanese businessmen arrived in the agricultural town of Bangar in La Union and offered to help mass- produce inabel, the handwoven fabric that the town has been creating for centuries.

There was also a group of foreign businessmen who wanted to computerize the handlooming process and make the fabrication of blankets, bath towels, pillow cases and fabrics for dresses and gowns faster.

The businessmen asked Wildreda Rivera, 59, a known weaver and trainer, to demonstrate the handlooming procedures, then tried to engage her services in computerizing the process.

Both instances showed that modernization is tugging at the seam of the age-old inabel weaving industry of Bangar. Local officials and residents, however, continue to resist these advances.

Far from earning more money, the residents would rather preserve the industry’s cultural practices and the unique appeal of their handwoven textiles, Councilor Irene Valencia-Taguiam says.

“Handlooming is our heritage. We want to preserve the uniqueness of our products which will lose their appeal if [these are] mass produced [and created by] machines. Besides, our townsfolk can produce beautiful designs even if they do not have formal schooling. It is an innate talent. We do not want to lose that identity to machines,” says Taguiam, also the town’s tourism officer.

“Besides, with the use the machines, Bangar residents will lose their chance to earn even if they stay at home, and after harvesting their palay,” she adds.

The town has always been synonymous with inabel. During the Spanish era, residents produced the textile starting from planting cotton, spinning the cotton into thread, dyeing and handweaving them into different materials.

Old women in Barangay Consuegra have only faint memories of the boom in the town’s inabel industry. They say the industry started to wane in the late 1960s.

Consuelo Noto Tan, 77, says her late mother left a spool of thread that was dyed at the village’s timbugan, the brick structure where cotton threads were dyed. But save for a braided strand, she had used all as wick for her oil lamp.

“I did not know they were important, or I would have saved them,” Tan says.

source link: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/16925/new-hope-for-bangar%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98inabel%E2%80%99

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:32 PM

Backbreaking

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/files/2011/06/finished-products-298x224.jpg
“INABEL” fabric produced through traditional handlooming is turned into hand towels, bedsheets and material for gowns and dresses. PHOTOS BY YOLANDA SOTELO

Producing the fabric was a backbreaking activity in the olden days, Taguiam says.

Residents harvested cotton, which they themselves planted, after harvesting rice. They removed cotton seeds through an improvised equipment called ladditan.

After this process, the fiber would be spread on a bed of bagasse (sugarcane fibers) and the cotton compacted by beating them with sticks. The compacted fiber is rolled in bamboo sticks and spun through a process called panagtibbi. To strengthen the thread, residents would apply cooked starch on these.

The threads, now rolled in balls, were dyed at the timbugan, then handloomed into inabel.

These days, farmers in the town no longer plant cotton, and the industry is down to handweaving with threads, mostly imported, bought in large quantities from Metro Manila suppliers.

Taguiam says the inabel industry gave Bangar something to be proud of and helped its residents earn a living.

“The town was very fortunate to have an inabel industry. No one was idle and even children earned by engaging in the different phases of the industry that became a show window of values like industry, patience, and craftsmanship,” she says.

Sunset

But she admits the industry is nearing its sunset, with only a few families now engaged in handlooming.

One is retired school teacher Benita Castro, 84, who continues to operate a small shop to give livelihood to her village mates and help preserve the inabel industry.

Castro maintains 20 workers, including Rhodora Rivera and her daughter Roxanne. Roxanne, a Grade 4 pupil, can make at least 10 hand towels a day, earning her P40. Rhodora earns bigger by weaving bedsheets and towels.

Taguiam says many Bangar residents earn through subcontracting, with shops providing them with thread that they handloom at home during their free time.

Others can earn by making plecos, a tassel-like design sewed to a bedsheet’s edges. Sewing the plecos to the edges is another job for some women.

Taguiam laments the waning of the industry. “Sometimes, I blame those residents who told their sons and daughters to study hard to enable them to leave and get away from the inabel weaving industry, which they considered to be a very difficult work. What they did not realize was, because of inabel, they were able to produce professionals,” she says.

source link: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/16925/new-hope-for-bangar%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98inabel%E2%80%99

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:41 PM

from blog by: Oooneh at http://ooohneh.blogspot.com/2011/06/pindangan.html

Another place to have a look at when in San Fernando City, La Union is the Pindangan Ruins. It is located in Brgy. San Vicente, San Fernando City, La Union, about 500 meters from the national highway.

We had a hard time looking for the road, because even the locals are not quite familiar with the area. With us was a colleague from our regional office, a resident of La Union, and unaware of the existence of my sought-after ruins. We entered a small road at a signage of the Regional Headquarters of the Philippine National Police, got off track a little, backtracked, and it appeared by the left side of the road. If not for the rusty signage, we would not have seen it right away.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NY9W5CRAKuI/TfygEhAS1LI/AAAAAAAAAi8/hPT3L7PpKpg/s640/IMG_3793.JPG

The Pindangan Church was built in 1764. The proximity of the church to the seacoast made it vulnerable to pirate attacks, such that the town's church was transferred to several different location and finally to its present site at the town proper as St. William Cathedral. The old church deteriorated through time to the present Pindangan ruins which composed of solid stone walls and buttresses. Lush vegetation in the area gave the ruins' bulk masonry a calm contrast.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6i7I3XHf2ec/TfyXFXYeyFI/AAAAAAAAAi4/W9zZOAx5LLc/s640/panoramic_wm.jpg

A monastery run by the Carmelite Sisters at the forefront of the ruins stands as the guardian to the heritage of the Pindangan Church.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ikPkUptJDU/TfyXA8J64_I/AAAAAAAAAiw/di-TFBliKN8/s640/IMG_3804.JPG

Though the church may be in ruins, an altar of the Mother Mary carrying the child Jesus exists to inspire silent prayers.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jt_D1HmO6TE/TfyW-YE_shI/AAAAAAAAAis/lPJg7oI3uu8/s640/IMG_3795.JPG

Not much to see here, and visit can take as little as ten minutes. Looking for the road took longer time. But if you have a knack for churches as do I, (though I am not religious) it is worth a visit.

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:51 PM

7PhGz0BpGhs

video by: MrLeonardoDacumos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PhGz0BpGhs

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 03:54 PM

By DEXTER SEE
June 19, 2011, 4:39pm

ROSARIO, La Union – Some members of the House committee on public works prefer that the toll plaza of the P27-billion Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx) be stationed near the Marcos Highway and Kennon Road areas pursuant to its original design in order to realize its main purpose of significantly reducing travel time from the Metro Manila area to Baguio City, the country’s Summer Capital.

This was underscored by Baguio City Rep. Bernardo M. Vergara, vice chairman of the House committee on public works, during an inspection in the various sites being proposed by Pangasinan officials where the toll plaza will be stationed which is a virtual revision of the original plan to base the entry and exit points of the TPLEx near major roads leading to the Cordillera and other parts of the Ilocos region.

Under the new proposal which will be considered as a revision to the original plan, the exit and entry points of TPLEx will now be located at least seven kilometers away from the junction of Marcos Highway and Kennon Road which would result to more travel time for the motorists just to reach their desired destination either in the Cordillera or Ilocos regions thereby deviating from the original proposal.

Vergara pointed out stationing the exit and entry points of the 84-kilometer expressway near major roads leading to the Cordillera and Ilocos regions will greatly help in the campaign of local governments in the areas to attract the influx of more foreign and domestic tourists who will contribute to the economic growth of the areas rather than relocating the same to areas who will only be beneficial to the personal business interests of some influential individuals in the Pangasinan and La Union areas.

Once officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will agree to the proposed revision of the programs of work and plans of the expressway, the exit and entry points of the TPLEx will be relocated near a cement factory which is owned by a relative of President Benigno S. Aquino III who also purchased vast tracks of agricultural lands near the proposed relocation site of the expressway’s toll plaza in preparation for alleged much bigger business opportunities.

However, Vergara argued the proposed relocation of the expressway’s toll plaza will no longer be for the general welfare but instead for personal and business interests of a few individuals who stand to benefit from the development of the new road network.

The construction of the TPLEx is now underway in the Tarlac and Pangasinan areas and that the same is expected to commence within the next two to three years depending on the ability of the government to settle road-right-of-way conflicts along the different areas to be traversed by the newest highway in the Northern Luzon area.

Vergara claimed Cordillera congressman will continue to oppose the move of Pangasinan-based politicians to relocate the site of the highway’s toll plaza, saying that such move is not intended to benefit the public which should be the main purpose of building state-of-the-art road networks leading to the countryside.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/323342/tplex-toll-plaza-location-discussed

hugodiekonig

June 22nd, 2011, 04:06 PM

to date, these are the significant developments underway here in La Union:

- Toyota La Union Showroom at Bauang
- Mitsubishi Showroom at San Juan
- One Nisce Place

and these are the developments seen to be realized in the future:
- Development of Poro Point Special Economic Zone (more airport and seaport operations)
- SiTel La Union site
- SteelAsia Plant
- A resort approved by Board of Investments
- TPLUEx
- SM
- Pregold/Robinsons??
- Commercialization of San Juan, Bauang, Agoo and Rosario

ergit222

June 23rd, 2011, 03:04 AM

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 07:24 AM

^^ 7 kilometers away from the junction of Marcos Hi-way and Kennon Rd will not serve the purpose of minimizing travel time from Manila to the gateway of Ilocandia and Cordilleras. I agree with vergara on this one. the new proposed exit/entry point by some pangasinan politicians will benefit just a few with vested interest not for the general welfare of the public who are the main beneficiaries in the first place.

Ito kasi ang hirap sa mga government projects dito sa pinas, nagiging pagkuhanan ng makukurakot ng mga government officials. Sariling interest nalang ang iniisip at hindi ang ikakabuti ng mga makikinabang sa expressway nito

Sa mga cojuangco pla ang union cement sa sison. Tsk tsk tsk kaya pala. :ohno:

ergit222

June 23rd, 2011, 01:44 PM

Ito kasi ang hirap sa mga government projects dito sa pinas, nagiging pagkuhanan ng makukurakot ng mga government officials. Sariling interest nalang ang iniisip at hindi ang ikakabuti ng mga makikinabang sa expressway nito

Sa mga cojuangco pla ang union cement sa sison. Tsk tsk tsk kaya pala. :ohno:
on 2nd thought, let's give everyone the benefit of the doubt. the more advantages the proposal of each one has will redound to greater benefits of the public.

i will side actually for the greater good of the public. :)

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 02:32 PM

on 2nd thought, let's give everyone the benefit of the doubt. the more advantages the proposal of each one has will redound to greater benefits of the public.

i will side actually for the greater good of the public. :)

The re-alignment has its pros and cons,each opposing sides has their own points, but in the end, generel welfare of the public must be considered

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 02:44 PM

in addition to, kailangan manaig nalang ang plano kung saan mas marami ang benefits kaysa sa disbenefits. It is still up to the project owners to decide the expressway's path, basta dapat sa daang matuwid

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 05:48 PM

’s a big cultural shift and it’s happening in Lorma San Juan. Chinese Mandarin and Korean classes are this school year’s front row innovations as these foreign language subjects take an impressive headstart
with the graders and high school students. Introduced on June 15, 2011
after the flag raising ceremony, the two Chinese Mandarin teachers Ms. Shi
Hui Ling and Ms. Wu jin as well as Korean consultant to Lorma Institue for
Koreans learning English program (L.I.K.E.) Mr. Kwang Chun Park were
received warmly by a beaming crowd of excited Lormanians.

Ms. Shi “Sherlyn” who graduated Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics in Heilongjiang University in China will teach the Mandarin subject
to Grade 1-5 pupils while Ms. Wu “Jean ”, a graduate of TCSOL (Teaching Chinese as a Second Language) of Jinan University, will handle Grade 6 to
4th year High School students.

Mr. Park, who has been the school’s Korean program adviser since last year, will also be teaching the basics of the Hanggul language to third and fourth
year students of the Special Science High School.

Mandarin and Korean classess are schedule twice a week and are included
as a mandatory elective of the basic education curriculum. The demand for bilingual experts in many business industries and companies
worldwide has been one of the many key points that Lorma Grade School
and Special Science High School Principal Mrs. Elizabeth Camara has
pondered on for the past three years.

Mrs. Camara mentions the global concept of “citizens” and reiterates that modern society isn’t too selective of culture or race when it comes to development. In fact, she cites that for a student to be equally at par with
his contemporaries in other countries, foreign language learning is
imperative.

“There is a need to learn at least one or two foreign language before college,” she said. “This is also a benchmark of the Lorma San Juan campus for the upcoming opening of the Lorma International School.” The two Mandarin teachers are volunteers of the language program
established by the Confucius Institute to promote Chinese language learning
in different countries all over the world. Both had undergone a rigid testing
and screening process before being sent over as qualified instructors.

lorma.edu/website2011/2011/06/mandarin-korean-subjects-offered-in-san-juan-campus/

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 05:59 PM

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan

QUEZON CITY, June 23 (PIA) -- To significantly
minimize total vehicle emissions in the country, one
of the things mulled at the Department of
Transportation and Communication (DOTC) is the
setting up of motor vehicle inspection and testing
centers in all provinces across the Philippines, a DOTC official said Thursday.

During today's edition of Talking Points aired live on
dzRB Radyo ng Bayan 738 kHz AM, DOTC Project
Manager Eleuterio "Terry" Galvante said that
through the establishment of additional testing
centers, their agency aims to improve air quality and
road safety by weeding out all unfit, smoke-belching vehicles. Currently, there are four of these centers in
operation which conduct comprehensive fitness tests
of land vehicles prior to registration, Galvante said,
adding that the DOTC is planning to put up more of
these facilities to at least one per region and
eventually, one per province.

"Sa kasalukuyan meron tayong dalawa dito sa Metro
Manila, 'yung North and South Motor Vehicle
Inspection Centers. Merong isa sa Pampanga at
merong isa sa Cebu. (At present, we have two in
Metro Manila, one in Pampanga, and one in Cebu),"
he said with a view to strictly evaluate the roadworthiness of vehicles. "Meron pa rin tayong programa na maglagay nitong
testing center sa Region 1 sa San Fernando (sa) La
Union, Region 2 sa Solana (sa) Cagayan, at tsaka sa
Region 6 sa Iloilo, sa Cotabato (SOCCSKSARGEN) at
tsaka sa Cagayan de Oro (Region 10), ganun din sa
Davao (Region 10), at itong matatapos na (testing center) sa Region 4-A sa Alaminos, Laguna," he
added.

Galvante said that for this year, the DOTC allocated
some P547 million for the construction of these
centers in various regions, adding that the amount is
on top of the P200 million to P300 million allocated
earlier for the rehabilitation of all existing facilities. He said the funding came from the Special Vehicle
Pollution Control Fund (SPVCF). The SPVCF--which is
a special trust account in the National Treasury used
to finance road transport pollution control
programs--receives around 7.5 percent of the Road
Users' Tax collected every year.

However, he said, in order to facilitate the
establishment of additional centers, particularly in
the provincial level, government is encourging public-
private partnership or PPP because of the huge
amount involved. Relative to this, he said that since 2006, the operation
and maintenance of these testing centers have been
turned over to the Land Transportation Office, an
attached agency of DOTC. (RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Source link www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=39724

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 06:00 PM

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 06:17 PM

y PAOLA ESPIRITU
www.nordis.net SAN FERNANDO, La Union — Kabataan Partylist with other progressive youth organizations greeted the first day of classes
on June 13 with an activity on the state of education in the
province of La Union at the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial
State University- South La Union Campus and at the San
Fernando City Playground Area.

We’ve come up with the idea of posting comments on a giant
Facebook wall to air the
remarks of students, parents
and the youth regarding tuition
and other fee increases,” said Dennise Galang, Chairperson of
College Editors Guild of the
Philippines-La Union Chapter. The giant Facebook wall was
flooded with comments and
calls on education issues and
local problems.

Among the posts said:
“Nangina ti tuition, agsakit pa’t ulok nga makakita aglalo ti
bulsa ni mama ken papa. Five
digits gamin e”; “sana libre nalang ang tuition fee para sa
mga kabataan”; “sana makagamit rin ang mga
batang mahihirap ng book.” In the data collated by Kabataan Partylist-La Union, four
private institutions were granted tuition fee increase by the
Commission on Higher Education. The list includes Lorma
Colleges, Union Christian College, Saint Louis College and La
Union College for Science and Technology; by 5 to 10 percent
rate up on tuition fees. Miscellaneous fees had also gone up based on the assessment forms of students collated by the
group.

From P368.689 per unit last semester, a regular nursing student
enrolled in UCC must pay for P405.55 per unit, a P36.87 pesos
additional expense on the tuition. On the other hand, a nursing
student in Lorma Colleges shall pay an average of P20, 000 per
semester for the tuition and other miscellaneous fees. Besides the tuition and miscellaneous fees, the youth groups
question the redundant fees collected by the schools. In
DMMMSU, the lone state university in the province, PTCA
pegged a P500 fee per student and another PTCA fee worth
P100 is being collected separately in one of the departments.

Students also raised their brows when they learned that they
paid for two Library fees at P100 and P50 each while the
Student Development Fee (SDF) was raised to P600 from P500
last year. Another private college imposed Athletic and cultural
fees at P238.93 despite collecting PRISAA/PALARO fee of P100. “These are excessive fees and they [administration] must explain why they have collected the same fees at different
rates,” said Katrin Hipona, National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP) – La Union coordinator.

She added that school administrations usually deceive their
enrollees with advertisements that there is no tuition fee
increase but miscellaneous fees, on the contrary, doubled. In
addition, some of the school’s administration fails to conduct democratic consultations before hiking up fees. Rene Boy Valmonte, student leader in DMMMSU, said that the
administration especially in private institutions usually call for
a consultation not to get the opinion of students and parents
but to notify them of their plans and to justify their proposed
increase.

Consultations, Valmonte said, are supposedly venues to meet
the concerns of the students with that of the administration. In
most cases, parents and students are not even aware that such
procedure should be done. With the increases in school fees, parents get headaches on
how to budget their monthly income. “We need to provide the allowances, fare expenses, projects and other school
requirements with our meager salary,” said Ligaya Lambergue, a house helper and a mother of three.

She is worried on how to send her children to school specially
with that K+12 implemented, She sees that the additional two
years in school would mean additional expenses, additional
problems. “But we have no choice but to tighten our belts or stop sending our kids to school, for now,” she added. “We were no longer surprised with CHED, instead of protecting the welfare of the students they seem to be the defenders of
private institutions. “ Dean Badua, Kabataan Partylist area coordinator said.

He said that CHED legitimizes the collection of excessive fees
through CHED Memorandum 13 that allows school
administration to impose miscellaneous increases without
undergoing consultations. Kabataan Partylist believes that
CHED remains inutile for allowing school administrations
impose exorbitant, redundant and unnecessary fees and increases. If this will be the case, more students will be robbed
off of their chance to a better future.

Source link www.nordis.net/?p=9858

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 06:27 PM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 23 (PIA) -- The
Provincial Government of La Union and the city
government of San Fernando joined the nation in
celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose
Rizal, the Philippine national hero on June 19.

A flag raising ceremony, followed by a wreath-laying
ceremony at the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal infront
of the city hall were conducted headed by the guest
of honor and speaker, former city mayor Mary Jane
C. Ortega. In her message, she stressed that Rizal is our
Ambassador of goodwill and he possessed many
qualities worth emulating, especially the youth, who
are the future hope of the country.

Ortega said, Rizal put up a team ahead of us for us
to have global fellowship in terms of three (3)
aspects: education, believe in God regardless of
religion, and fellowship with others. “Through joint organizations, you will have unity and peace as Rizal said,” she added. However, she lamented over Rizal’s face which is carried only in a Philippine coin. “Idi dadiay rupa ni Rizal ket ada idiay money paper bill, ngem tatta
dadiay five peso coin laengen, apay nga inkuspil
damet ni Rizal. (Before, the face of Rizal is seen in
money paper bill, but now, he is seen only in the
five peso coin, why they have belittled him), ” Ortega said.

She urged that Rizal’s face be carried in a new money paper bill to mark his good deeds and be
remembered at all times. For his part, vice governor Aureo Nisce said, “as a whole nation, Rizal was known of his unselfish
attitude even at his young age.

Nisce inspired the people quoting, “Put your heart and mind in doing something. Accept the challenge in
making the difference through touching the lives of
the people and the country to make a better place
to live in. We must contribute our share for the good
of our country.” “The life and works of Rizal will inspire us to serve our country better,” Nisce added.

Highlights of the celebration were the Rizal photo
mosaic puzzle which was assembled by 150 pupils
from the different elementary schools in the city and
the released of 150 balloons that symbolized the
hero’s birth years. Also, an oral interpretation of “Sa Kabataang Pinoy” by Dr. Jose Rizal was presented by selected
elementary pupils and the “Ako ay Pilipino” was sung as the culminating part.

The recent joint celebration was participated in by
local officials, city and provincial employees,
department heads, regional line agencies’ executives and representatives, and selected elementary pupils
from public schools in the city. (JCR/EMR-PIA 1 La
Union)

www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=39848

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 06:31 PM

by Alice Naungayan-Rioteta SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 23 (PIA) --
The Department of Education (DepEd), through
Order No. 28 series of 2005 has re-issued a
guideline on the existing policies on suspension of
classes to help the public decide whether classes in
all public and private schools should be suspended, without having to wait for an official
announcement.

DepEd La Union Schools Division Superintendent
Dr. Edna Leal, in a radio announcement, reiterated
to the public that when typhoon and other
calamities occur, concerned parties should keep in
mind the rules on the cancellation of classes due
to the bad weather. When Signal No. 1 is raised by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical Services
Administration (PAGASA), classes at the preschool
level shall be automatically suspended in all public
and private schools. When Signal No. 2 is raised,
classes at the preschool, elementary, and
secondary levels shall be automatically suspended in all public and private schools. And When Signal
No. 3 is raised, classes in all levels are
automatically suspended.

However, in the absence of typhoon signal
warnings from PAGASA, localized suspension of
classes in both public and private schools at the
pre-school, elementary and secondary levels can
be decided by the local authorities, including the
DepEd regional director, DepEd division superintendent, school principal or local
government officials concerned. The ultimate responsibility for determining
whether or not their children should go to school
is given to the parents because they know better
about the situation in their areas, Leal said.

For the suspension of work in government offices,
the Office of the President, through the Executive
Secretary, shall make the announcement based on
the recommendation of the chairman of the
National Disaster Risk Reduction Management
Council. (ANL/ANR-PIA 1/DepEd)

www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=39850

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 06:38 PM

Lawmakers battle over road's exit point

By JM Agreda Thursday, June 23, 2011

REPRESENTATIVES of La Union and Baguio are gunning for
an exit of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway
(TPLEX) in their districts. Baguio Representative Bernardo Vergara criticized moves
of La Union legislators to extend the exit of the TPLEX to
La Union instead of Baguio's historic Kennon Road.

Together with Benguet Representative Ronald Cosalan, chairperson of the House committee on public works, Vergara opposed this
move and instead pushed for the extension of the TPLEX, which ends in
Rosario, La Union to Kennon Road. Both legislators earlier this year
requested Public Works Secretary
Rogelio Singson to help conduct a feasibility study and engineering design
for the modernization of the historic road, which was built during the
American occupation.

They stressed that Kennon remains as the shortest land route between the
region and the lowland provinces and will spur faster transport and
conveyance of goods, services and people. Their statements came after Bishop Carlito Cenzon briefed lawmakers on the
conversation he had with President Benigno Aquino III last year, stressing the
need for the rehabilitation of the 34-kilometer road.

Earlier this year, Singson promptly responded by ordering Public Works
Regional Director Edilberto Carabaccan to study the proposal in making
Kennon as an all-weather scenic road. Once Kennon Road's modernization starts, this will be connected to the
North Luzon Expressway through the TPLEX, which will be completed by
2013. This will eventually cut travel time to Baguio and Benguet from Manila to
less than five hours.

Heavy downpour often causes landslides during the rainy season resulting in
the closure of the road to vehicles. Representatives, however, are open to creating to exit points of the TPLEX to
San Fernando and Baguio City. Published in the Sun.Star Baguio newspaper on June 23, 2011.

Source link www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2011/06/23/lawmakers-battle-over-roads-exit-point-162729

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 07:31 PM

hugodiekonig

June 23rd, 2011, 09:58 PM

hugodiekonig

June 24th, 2011, 03:49 AM

Janet D. Molina, Governor ’s Press Corps-La Union

The Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) has realized 70% collection efficiency covering the period January 1-May 31, 2011. The Office has already collected Php 53,228,799.59 out of the estimated income of Php 76,205,930.47 from Revenue and Receipts from Local Sources wherein a difference of Php 22,977,130.88 to be collected for the rest of the year.

This is the result of various collection strategies implemented by this Office which include the continuous sending out of Demand Letters to delinquent taxpayers province wide for Real Property Taxes and Rental Fees, and has activated the Provincial Task Force Collection composed of representatives from PTO, Office of the Provincial Accountant (OPAcc), Provincial Legal Office (PLO) and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) to monitor and collect the long over due accounts under Kabuhayan 2000 and Sagayad Resettlement Project.

Moreover, the Province of La Union has realized 27% rate of increase in collection having collected the amount of Php 53,228,799.59 for January to March 2011 as compared to the collection of Php 41,738,997.10 for the same period last year. The Office continuously adheres to its mandate to collect local taxes and fees and to take custody and exercise proper management of all funds of Provincial Government to effectively deliver the basic services to the people.

launion.gov.ph/news.php?item.240.2

ergit222

June 24th, 2011, 12:37 PM

^^

Over na ang baguio officials pag ganoon. Ipapalihis na nga ang expressway to kennon, tapos nagdedemand pa ng funds para irehabilitate ang kennon. Saan napunta ang milyones na pondo na inilaan para sa cordillera? Hindi ba pwedeng mula rin ss pondo ng cordillera ang gamitin pang maintain ng kennon kahit pa ito ay national road at nat. Government ang kailangang magpondo? Sobra naman na yan, parang gusto nila baguio at cordillera ang mas makinabang sa expressway kaysa naman sa la union at ilocos provinces

bakit hindi gumawa ng compromise para di "naaagawan ng lollipop" ang baguio at cordillera? gawin nila ang original plan na naka-align sa Manila North Road going straight to the Ilocos Region tapos may Saitan Exit going too Kennon Road. Bahala na ang Baguio politicians ang maghanap ng Kennon Road rehabilitation fund. TPLEX ay ginawa naman hindi para sa Baguio lang at ito'y para mapaunlad ang North Luzon area. Kung akala ni vergara na sa baguio lang makikinabang sa TPLEX, nananaginip sya.

hugodiekonig

June 24th, 2011, 04:29 PM

bakit hindi gumawa ng compromise para di "naaagawan ng lollipop" ang baguio at cordillera? gawin nila ang original plan na naka-align sa Manila North Road going straight to the Ilocos Region tapos may Saitan Exit going too Kennon Road. Bahala na ang Baguio politicians ang maghanap ng Kennon Road rehabilitation fund. TPLEX ay ginawa naman hindi para sa Baguio lang at ito'y para mapaunlad ang North Luzon area. Kung akala ni vergara na sa baguio lang makikinabang sa TPLEX, nananaginip sya.

:okay: madali lang naman maremmedyohan ang problemang ito. kung ang daanan ay di makakapunta sa paroroonan, edi gumawa ng daan patungo roon. Hindi sa paglilihis ng expressway ang solution kundi sa paggawa nalang ng Exit leading to kennon

hugodiekonig

June 24th, 2011, 04:32 PM

By: Felix S. Macayan
Governor’s Press Corps-La Union

Aimed to further tighten security of La Union Capitol Buildings and properties, the Security Services Division (SSD) under the Office of the Provincial Governor (OPG), is now fully implementing its Security Information Dissemination & Education (SIDE) program.

Under the program, all SSD personnel will undergo trainings to further improve good quality of service for the benefit of the general public with emphasis on concepts of service, trustworthiness, public service and commitment to community satisfaction. It is expected to educate personnel for the attainment of the SSD Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives and facilitate “Behavioral Change.”

For the 2nd quarter of this year, SSD Officer-In-Charge Albert C. Palomique conducted lectures on Leadership while Acting Operation and Intel Officer Mario A. Munar conducted training on VIP Security and Protection. Lectures are part and taken as the division also participated on various programs or activities of Local Government Units (LGUs), Non Government Organizations (NGOs) and other government offices to strengthen the harmonious relationship between the SSD and the populace. Regular inspection is being conducted to all posts or station to ensure proper discipline in dealing with people most especially on the wearing of clean and presentable uniform; maintenance of cleanliness; observance of client-friendly office; projection of smart and snappy image; execution of Good Manners and Right Conduct; and survey of all establishments under the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) to ensure the security and safety of employees, equipment, and other properties.

As an implementing arm of PGLU, SSD has constantly reiterated abidance to PGLU policies and directives that also includes the dress code prescribed for government officials and employees in the workplace as directed by the Civil Service Commission (CSC); monitoring of loitering personnel; and prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages among government officials and employees. Mr. Felix S. Macayan, Acting Administrative Officer and Security Guard I Calixto C. Ugay, Security Supervisor, have also begun conducting on the spot and random inspection to all PGLU offices to monitor implementation of said policies and directives.

http://launion.gov.ph/news.php?extend.241

ergit222

June 25th, 2011, 06:44 AM

:okay: madali lang naman maremmedyohan ang problemang ito. kung ang daanan ay di makakapunta sa paroroonan, edi gumawa ng daan patungo roon. Hindi sa paglilihis ng expressway ang solution kundi sa paggawa nalang ng Exit leading to kennon
exactly, minsan kasi dakdak na lang dakdak ang mga ito para may "media mileage" at "name recall" sa darating na election. hindi ba nila alam ang nag-plano sa TPLEX ay mga experto sa kanilang fields? kaya paurong ang pilipinas dahil sa mga itong baluktot na pagiisip. :bash:

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:26 AM

exactly, minsan kasi dakdak na lang dakdak ang mga ito para may "media mileage" at "name recall" sa darating na election. hindi ba nila alam ang nag-plano sa TPLEX ay mga experto sa kanilang fields? kaya paurong ang pilipinas dahil sa mga itong baluktot na pagiisip. :bash:

2011 palang "nangangampanya" na. malayo panaman ang 2013, or baka di na umabot ng 2013 dahil 2012 next year end of the world na :lol::lol::lol: :jk:

sino ba naman ang gagawa ng project ng walang planoo, diba? hahahaha hay nako ang mga Pinoy talaga, lalo na sa mga pulitiko rito. :ohno:

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:34 AM

A cultural show featured colorful traditional dance performances from the Philippines by Hong Kong overseas Filipino workers (OFW) organizations such as Adibay Dance, Sapatya, Kakawati, Visayan Surtido, Tinikling, Carinosa, Pandanggo sa Ilaw, Cordirella Coursthip Dance, Manobo Dance, Singkil, and La Jota Moncadena.

Six OFW organizations participated in the choral competition featuring Filipino songs such as Kalesa, Pagbabalik, Bagong Lipunan, Bayan Ko, Malaya Ka Pilipino, and Tagumpay Nating Lahat. Three groups were later announced as winners.

PIDOC's special guest from the Philippines, Folklorico Ti La Union, performed a four-part production number beginning with different dances from the Cordilleras, Bailes de Ayer (Spanish-influenced dances), the Palakaya and the Anchor line songs.

The youth from different sectors also performed. Sisters Renee and Allyson Yeh performed a violin rendition of Bayan Ko, and the Hong Kong Association of the Deaf did an interpretative dance of The Carpenters hit, Top of the World.

Tara Banta and Hong Kong X Factor Champion Margaret Ortega both performed song numbers. The Consulate General was represented by Samantha Celis and the PCG Kiddie Group, who danced to the Ilocano Surtido.

Various companies representing the tourism, airline, media, logistics, estate, food, finance, telecommunications, and manufacturing industries showcased their services to the public.

Filipino permanent residents married to nationals of various countries participated in the Global Pinoy Village, which featured various games, gimmicks, prizes, and giveaways.

The historical floats were the biggest draw in the Independence Day rites depicting key historical events of the Philippines.

http://dfa.gov.ph/main/images/stories/Hongkong_Indy_Picture2.jpg

read more at http://dfa.gov.ph/main/index.php/news-from-rp-embassies/3282-113th-philippine-independence-day-celebrated-in-hongkong

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:45 AM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267229_1850196330697_1114385106_31606994_4978261_n.jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263725_1850195210669_1114385106_31606991_3158206_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/261892_1850194570653_1114385106_31606989_1200908_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/264689_1850192730607_1114385106_31606982_5004812_n.jpg

Photos by: Norberto Ofiana via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1850192730607&set=oa.10150225810622973&type=1)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:49 AM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263866_1840391365579_1114385106_31599142_7932352_n.jpg

Photo by Norberto Ofiana Via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1840391365579&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:51 AM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/268072_233116530040286_204145946270678_898095_5221570_n.jpg

Serving as Resource Speaker for the Provincial Government of La Union’s Staff Development Program for the month of June, Prof. Brillo S. Paje explains to participants the secrets of a happy life. Professor Paje is the head of the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University Open University System’s Student Affairs and Services Office.

Photo by: Alfredo R. Buenaventura, Jr.

from: La Union Information and Tourism facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=233116530040286&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 08:59 AM

Luna Municipal Hall

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262034_1901100286133_1200464523_31877581_3347952_n.jpg

photo by: Joyce Nuesca Corpuz via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/home.php?sk=group_36219002972)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 02:11 PM

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/270308_232932250058714_204145946270678_896724_1216173_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263861_232931803392092_204145946270678_896720_5709709_n.jpg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/271020_232931940058745_204145946270678_896721_4840926_n.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262746_232932060058733_204145946270678_896723_1134716_n.jpg

photos from La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=232932060058733&set=a.232931520058787.67129.204145946270678&type=1&theater#!/photo.php?fbid=232931940058745&set=a.232931520058787.67129.204145946270678&type=1&theater&pid=896721&id=204145946270678)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 02:17 PM

Halo halo de Iloko - Something new

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254445_236009246415499_100000192752238_1145289_2702700_n.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/263076_236007256415698_100000192752238_1145282_1878712_n.jpg
NATIVE CHAMPORADO w/ daing or tuyo and polvoron

photos from: Halo Halo de Iloko (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=236009246415499&set=a.236007219749035.79215.100000192752238&type=1&theater#!/photo.php?fbid=236007256415698&set=a.236007219749035.79215.100000192752238&type=1&theater&pid=1145282&id=100000192752238)

hugodiekonig

June 25th, 2011, 07:08 PM

miss ko na ang la union.

nebelwerferXXX

June 26th, 2011, 04:43 AM

^^ 7 kilometers away from the junction of Marcos Hi-way and Kennon Rd will not serve the purpose of minimizing travel time from Manila to the gateway of Ilocandia and Cordilleras. I agree with vergara on this one. the new proposed exit/entry point by some Pangasinan politicians will benefit just a few with vested interest not for the general welfare of the public who are the main beneficiaries in the first place.
IMO, dapat ang exit ng TPLEX ay hangang Saitan, Rosario, La Union, kasi malapit na sa Baguio City. By comparing Sison to Baguio, ang Sison ay wala pang well-known tourist destination, sa cool weather na lang wala na. Ano ka ? Boneless Bagoong at Alamang na lang ba ang dadayuhin mo sa Sison ? Sa Baguio Strawberry, may Session Road, may SM, may John Hay, may SLU etc etc ! Sorry Po !

william :D

June 26th, 2011, 05:38 AM

Sunset at La Union

http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af8/williamroi/launion3.jpg
photo by Palo Gurl (http://www.flickr.com/photos/palo_gurl/3367480558/)

william :D

June 26th, 2011, 05:41 AM

http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af8/williamroi/poropoint.jpg
photo by [ Rodelicious ] (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodjbman71/4593863049/)

Poro Point
La Union

william :D

June 26th, 2011, 05:43 AM

http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af8/williamroi/launion.jpg
photo by B2Y4N (http://www.flickr.com/photos/blrapadas/4229261325/)

Thunderbird Resort
La Union

william :D

June 26th, 2011, 05:44 AM

http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af8/williamroi/launion2.jpg
photo by tsiklotsilog! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsiklotsilog/3269374146/)

Surfing at La Union

nebelwerferXXX

June 26th, 2011, 05:44 AM

To date, these are the significant developments underway here in La Union:

- Toyota La Union Showroom at Bauang
- Mitsubishi La Union Showroom at San Juan
- One Nisce Place

and these are the developments seen to be realized in the future:
- Development of Poro Point Special Economic Zone (more airport and seaport operations)
- SiTel La Union site
- Steel Asia Plant
- A resort approved by Board of Investments
- TPLEX
- SM
- Puregold/Robinson's ?
- Commercialization of San Juan, Bauang, Agoo and Rosario
Ano yong dalawang buildings na under-construction since 1999 pa sa Diversion Road sa Sevilla malapit sa Shell gas station ? Hotel ba ?

hugodiekonig

June 26th, 2011, 01:23 PM

Ano yong dalawang buildings na under-construction since 1999 pa sa Diversion Road sa Sevilla malapit sa Shell gas station ? Hotel ba ?

since 1999 pa ba iyon? malamang hindi hotel iyon. baka residential unit lang na di natapos

hugodiekonig

June 26th, 2011, 01:24 PM

http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af8/williamroi/launion2.jpg
photo by tsiklotsilog! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsiklotsilog/3269374146/)

Surfing at La Union

wow ang ganda nito. salamat william!

hugodiekonig

June 26th, 2011, 01:27 PM

From blog by Oooneh at http://ooohneh.blogspot.com/2011/06/botanical-garden-san-fernando-city-la.html

BOTANICAL GARDEN - San Fernando City, La Union
Approximately eight (8) kilometers from the town proper of San Fernando City, somewhere along the rolling hills of Brgy. Cadaclan lies the five (5) hectare La Union Botanical Garden.

The Province of La Union takes pride of the Botanical Garden as being not just a recreational park but as a center for flora research and conservation as well. It showcase several garden themes such as the Shade Garden, Sunken Garden, Evergreen Garden, Arid Paradise, Fragrance Garden, Fernery and Palmery.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BBXNkW36sL0/Tf3ffrXlsBI/AAAAAAAAAkU/J8i1YdLgRpY/s640/IMG_3879.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NKovfG6VKzo/Tf3fZEpdNoI/AAAAAAAAAkI/msiuUAG9I3k/s640/IMG_3861.JPG

The garden has paved trails for going around the area. Cottages are available to accommodate tourists and/or researchers.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c0sjm-kiC6k/Tf3fbS46RkI/AAAAAAAAAkM/xrilIDv0PcA/s640/IMG_3862.JPG

A playground makes it a great place for the entire family to visit. Don't forget to bring anti-mosquito lotion.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4LaQrPB0rYw/Tf3fdUWhWII/AAAAAAAAAkQ/ZKzTxlU8NtE/s640/IMG_3863.JPG

Tossed a coin at the wishing well for a bid for luck at Love, Money, Health, Peace, Lotto and Travel as a finale to my trip at the Botanical Garden.

hugodiekonig

June 26th, 2011, 01:30 PM

http://web1.manilatimes.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/younghusband.jpg

By Euden Valdez , Staff Writer
PHOTOS BY RENE DILAN

BEHIND Phil and James Younghusband’s good looks, brilliant football skills and rising stardom and fandom, lies a desire bigger than what we see on the surface:

To make football the sport for Filipinos.

In the Philippines, football is only often played inside private schools or exclusive clubs. Of course, only those who can pay enormous tuition fees and membership dues can actually get to learn and play the sport. Ergo, the number of people who can become professional football players becomes limited, and the perception of football as an elite sport prevails in the country.

Brothers Phil and James—midfielders for the Philippine national football team Azkals—grew up playing football in the United Kingdom where they were born and raised. They have long been exposed to this worldwide sporting phenomenon and worked hard at becoming professional players.

Football in other nations, according to Phil, is the opposite of how it is perceived in the Philippines: “Here, football is played where one can afford it. You go to Brazil, you go to Argentina, people play football on the streets; the same is true in Europe and almost everywhere else.

“Football is considered the sport for all, but it has lost that image in the Philippines,” he lamented at a press conference at the Century Park Hotel to promote The Younghusband Football Academy (TYFA).

TYFA, founded by Phil and James, is a football school that aims to bring football to Filipino masses regardless of age and status in the community.

TYFA’s beginnings
Back in 2009—when Phil, James and the rest of Azkals were not yet popular—Phil already thought of teaching football to Filipino children. At the time, James was still living in England.

To start with, Phil went from school to school, and different clubs to offer his skills at teaching football, but was sadly turned down. It was either the school already had a football program, or was simply uninterested. Still he did not lose hope. One day, he visited Cuenca Field in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, where he met Coach Jojo Durias of the Cuenca Football Club. Phil shared with Durias his plans of reaching out to children and teaching them football, and found himself an ally.

Immediately, the coach agreed to help Phil, and later invited Cathy Nazareno-Rivilla, the football club’s president, to join them as well.

By December 2009, Phil, Durias and Rivilla started to run the Alabang Country Club Football Clinic, which gained an overwhelming response from the community. The training went on for six months, with a weekly session every Sunday.

Despite the success of the clinic, Phil was not content with the results. At the end of the course, he asked Durias and Rivilla how he could possibly draw the nation to football if he could only teach a hundred paying children to enroll in the clinic. With James finally flying in from the UK, the four of them found the answer: To put up their own football academy.

Across the nation
Rivilla recalled that he told Phil and James, if they wanted to teach football on a grander scale, they would first have to part ways with the Alabang Football Association because they would only serve the Muntinlupa-Las Piñas-Parañaque area.

Thus, they established The Younghusband Football Academy (TYFA) in January 2010, where Phil serves as chairman, James as director, Rivilla as executive director, and Durias, the head coach. And with the Union of European Football Association (UEFA) coaching badges under their sleeves, Phil and James went on to bring football to the masses.

TYFA has since held a series of football clinics and training programs all over the Philippines targeting not just the youth but all age brackets—from schoolchildren, actual football players and trainers.

TYFA started with “Train the Trainers” as its grassroots program. Train the Trainers targets Physical Education (PE) teachers of different public schools in partnership with the local governments. The first Train the Trainers program was held in Paniqui, Tarlac, then went to Taguig City, and also Palawan.

Today, TYFA has taught football to more than a thousand public school teachers with no knowledge whatsoever in football through classroom lessons and field sessions. And because teachers can now train students themselves, many of the public schools that the TYFA visited have adopted football as a PE subject.

TYFA continues to visits cities in the Philippines like Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod and Dumaguete, and also beginner provinces that show interest in football like Batangas, Ilocos Norte, San Fernando in La Union, Clark in Pampanga, Laguna, Leyte and Isabela. In Metro Manila, they have gone to Makati, Mandaluyong, Manila, Quezon, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Las Piñas and Taguig.

Inspiring children
For Phil and James, another way of changing football’s image as an elite sport is by giving every child an opportunity to play football.
Programs focusing on young students and children include mall tours, training sessions in select private schools, speaking engagements and summer camps.

The efforts to reach as many kids as possible do not end with these activities. As Phil said, “We want to create as many opportunities for the kids. That is why we also have scholarships programs for those who cannot afford to pay [fees in some of their clinics].”

These scholarships programs, according to Rivilla, are done with the help of Gawad Kalinga (GK) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which tap the communities with youths who to learn football.

Some of the communities that have benefited from TYFA scholarship programs are GK’s Smokey Mountain community and DSWD’s Nayong Kabataan.

James, on the other hand, said that he and Phil are very hands on when it comes to children because they want to pass on everything they learned as professional football players. They coach and teach the children themselves and go on numerous demonstrations.

Children, James added, only listen to lessons now and then. “Kids really just want to run around and kick the ball,” he admitted.

What TYFA then also tries to develop in the children is the technical and tactical aspect of football, rather than the physical side. Children need to gain the right knowledge about the game early on so that playing becomes natural to them, Phil explained.

Priority: Football
What few realize is that TYFA already started bringing football closer to Filipinos even before the Philippine Azkals became popular.

The Azkals’ popularity came after the 2-0 win against Vietnam in the Asean Football Federation Suzuki Cup in December 2010, almost a year after TYFA was founded.

However, Durias admitted that after that fateful win, a lot of sponsors have been kinder to TYFA and more partnerships were forged. The domino effect took place.

Even Phil and James’ had a huge share of the popularity. People looked up to Phil and James as role models. Their football careers and even their private lives became hot topics; especially for Phil who found himself in a string controversies over Twitter.

Phil admitted that he talks to people who support him on how to deal with these kinds of intrigues. Still, football is his priority. “We make sure nothing gets in the way of football. If we let things get in the way, it will change who we are,” he added.

“We train and forget about it [controversies],” James said supporting Phil.

The brothers are currently training hard for the Azkals’ World Cup qualifying game against Sri Lanka in July 3, to be held in at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

More to come from TYFA
July will be a busy month for the football brothers because besides the World Cup match, TYFA will also hold a series of football tournaments among participants from different schools. The weekly tournament starts on July 10.

TYFA encourages everyone to join these clinics and tournaments to further develop their footballs skills.

Moreover, before the end of 2011, TYFA will go to Lanao del Norte to hold a Football for Peace program. Rivilla said that TYFA tries to involve advocacies to further do away with the notion that football is only for the elite.

In fact, TYFA has conducted programs in provinces and cities that do not have a football field. “The first thing we ask is what do you have that has a lot of space? If they say a badminton court, we’ll use the badminton court; a parking space, we’ll go to the parking space. We teach them with what they have,” explained Durias.

In no time, TYFA is sure to produce world-class football players what with the devotion the Younghusbands have given the cause. Phil and James’ dream is “to produce a famous football player that studied in TYFA,” and “to hear a football player answer ‘TYFA’ when he is asked where he learned football.” All this is sure to become a reality.

source link: http://www.manilatimes.net/sunday-times/sunday-magazine/the-younghusband-football-academy-brings-football-to-the-%E2%80%98masa%E2%80%99/

hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 04:13 AM

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Photos from: San Luis Del Mar Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=114779771947263&set=a.112741415484432.22457.100002457210242&type=1&theater&pid=148011&id=100002457210242)

hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 02:22 PM

by Esteleta M. Rafanan

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 27 (PIA) -- The National Economic and Development Authority Region 1 (NEDA-1) recently invited “Friends of RDC-1”, who are consultants in the field of development planning to share their knowledge and wisdom. The consultants are expected to give comments and recommendations to improve local development planning processes through the various technical working groups of the RDC-1, and the NEDA secretariat, as well.

According to senior economic and development specialist Raquel T. Atawe, designated information officer of the NEDA-1, the consultants will provide outputs thru feedback reports, process observations, directional guidance and policy issues, per guidelines enumerated by NEDA-1 Director Leonardo N. Quitos, Jr., as vice-chairperson on the RDC-1 during the orientation-meeting.

Also, they are to provide technical advice on various strategic sectoral issues, concerns and processes relative to local and regional development.

The selected consultants mostly came from the academe such as state colleges and universities whose expertise are recognized in the fields of economics, social development, environment, and governance.

For the economic sector, Dir. Maolito C. Manuel of the Pangasinan State University (PSU); and Dr. Marilou Lucas and Dr. Violeta Alonzo, both of the Mariano Marcos State University, were chosen.

Identified consultants for social development sector were Dr. Fe dela Lona Alcantara-Andico of PSU; and Dr. Marivic Alimbuyuguen and Dr. Carmelo James Esteban, both from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU).

Experts on environmental concerns such as environmental sciences, biology and agriculture include Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog and Dr. Floramante Pastor of MMSU, Dr. Elizabeth Olarte of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), and Dr. Irene De Vera of PSU.

In governance and development administration sector, the following were tapped: Dr. Perlita E. Legaspi of the Lyceum Northwestern University, Ms. Odette Abaya-de Guia of Learning Alliances Asia and Dr. Ferdinand J. Lamarca of the University of Northern Philippines. (JCR/EMR-PIA 1 La Union with reports from RTA-NEDA 1)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=40276

hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 02:24 PM

by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 27 (PIA) -- In a bid to foster compliance with labor laws among their ranks, the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office1 (DOLE 1) together with officers of the Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace Council, met with owners of security agencies and janitorial manpower services in the region recently and agreed to create a working committee which will be in charge of drafting a voluntary code of good practices to cultivate a culture of volunteerism among industries.

According to DOLE1 Director Henry John Jalbuena, the code is a set of flexible rules or minimum standards which employers and workers voluntarily formulate to mutually benefit them as to matters affecting labor, employment, social and economic issues.

DOLE 1 Information Officer Arly S. Valdez said that the committee will convene on July 1 to put together in a single document all the inputs from all concerned.

She said the output of the committee will be presented on July 13 to the rest of the sector members for refinement and approval.

Framed within President Benigno Aquino III’s public-private partnership, tripartite cooperation in a voluntary fashion is the brainchild of labor secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz to involve industries in the achievement of inclusive growth.

The formulation of a voluntary code of good practices in the said sector was seen as a strategy to increase compliance in the identified sector, which was noted for low compliance based on DOLE 1’s inspection data from 2007 to 2011, Jalbuena added.

The code is aimed to ensure voluntary labor compliance among these industries thru self regulation without the need for DOLE’s imposing regulatory power.

“The code will lay the parameters within which labor and management will treat each other on key matters that affect them in order to co-exist peacefully and further boost the industry – that is, with less interference from the government,” Jalbuena said.

Earlier in May, DOLE1 was able to implement same program in Dagupan, Pangasinan and in Ilocos Norte for the hotel and restaurant industry.

Other program partners include the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, National Conciliation and Mediation Board, Department of Health, Department of Tourism, Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance, Home Development Mutual Fund, and Technical Education, Skills and Development Authority. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union with reports from DOLE 1)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=40417

hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 02:25 PM

by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 27 (PIA) -- More labor issues were resolved amicably in the region, with the implementation of the single-entry approach (SENA) – a 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation of all labor cases in all offices of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), according to Arly S. Valdez, DOLE1 regional information officer.

DOLE-1 Director Henry John Jalbuena said that the SENA program, which is one of the labor arbitration reforms initiated under labor secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, is an effective and efficient way to resolve more cases at the local level before these ripen into full blown disputes.

As secretary Baldoz declared earlier, “the 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation system is the way to go towards industry self-regulation and “de-judicialization”.

She added, “It will lessen government intervention, de-clog case dockets, and equip industry tripartite councils (ITCs) with capability to amicably, peacefully, and speedily settle labor disputes, thus, avoiding expensive litigation that could erupt into all-out, debilitating strikes and lock-outs that benefit no one.”

Consolidated reports from DOLE field offices showed that from February to May, SENA has facilitated the payment of P3,906,400.46 in monetary settlements for 281 workers or 186 cases, all these were resolved thru amicable settlements by both parties involved as encouraged by designated SENA officers.

Director Jalbuena disclosed that one case was settled on the same date it was filed, with total monetary entitlement of P195, 000.00, and benefiting five workers. Another case was settled within 18 days with only one conference.

In some cases where both parties refuse to enter into amicable settlement, these were either referred to the National Labor Relations Commission or other appropriate agencies.

SENA is applicable to cases falling under the administrative and quasi-judicial functions of all DOLE offices and attached agencies, to include: 1) termination or suspension of employment issues; 2) claims for any sum of money, regardless of amount; 3) intra-union and inter-union issues, after exhaustion of administrative remedies; 4) unfair labor practice (ULP); 5) closures, retrenchments, redundancies, temporary lay-offs; 6) overseas Filipino worker’s cases; and 7) any other claims arising from employer-employee relationship.

The SENA partly fulfils President Benigno S. Aquino III’s thrust of bringing reforms in labor case adjudication by streamlining procedures, removing red tape, and at the same time, restoring integrity and fairness in the system.

The SENA allows involved parties to dispense with costly and taxing litigations by providing speedy, impartial, inexpensive and accessible settlement procedure of all labor issues or conflicts. (JCR/MPA-PIA 1 La Union with reports from ASV-DOLE1)

source link: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=40277

hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 02:27 PM

from a blog by oooneh at http://ooohneh.blogspot.com/2011/06/poro-lighthouse.html

Poro Point lies northwest of Luzon within San Fernando City in the Province of La Union. Approximate travel time from Manila is 5hrs by land travel and less than an hour by plane. A lighthouse was built at Poro Point in 1905 during the American occupation.

The Poro Point Lighthouse is 8 meters (27 ft) high, its tower made up of concrete tower which consists a gallery but it has no lantern. It has a focal plane of 33meters (107ft) and has two white flashes every 10seconds.

The lighthouse is not accessible to tourist because it is inside a military airfield/base. Plans to develop the lighthouse as a tourist destination is being considered. The blogger got a (once in a lifetime) chance to visit the lighthouse, up close and personal.

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Aboard a red plate vehicle and lead by a personnel from our regional office, we went to the entrance of the lighthouse. We stopped by the checkpoint, and courteously asked if we could take photos of the lighthouse. The military guard on duty was a bit hesitant and he radioed someone somewhere inside the base. He asked us of our purpose for trying to enter the military secured area.

I had that scene playing over and over in my mind.
Take 1: We are going to take samples for some baseline study on seawater quality on this side of the gulf.
Take 2: We received a call about unstable ground and earth movement inside.. We are here to investigate.

I grew up in a military base, so I know how it is with these guys. They are strict and they follow protocol. But if they don't see you as a threat and you show them valid proofs of credibility, you'll have no problem asking for a small favor.

So the safest answer, not to mention the one that worked was - "Oh these guys are from Manila and we are touring them. We are from _____. Is it okay if we enter? It wouldn't take long." (Me at the back, flashing my best smile..) He asked for our ID's and gave us the thumbs-up!

And finally my photo at the lighthouse after the military fuzz at the gate...

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Around the lighthouse are abandoned structures. The only wildlife out there are dogs barking at us, and goats happily chewing grass. Several structures can be seen inside the base including these two building with giant golf balls as a roofing.

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hugodiekonig

June 27th, 2011, 02:33 PM

http://www.sanctuarycove.biz/Images/egretheader.jpg

Sanctuary Cove is in a secluded walled location nestled between native forest and the Kasay Marine Sanctuary Canaoay, San Fernando City, La Union.

Bordered to the West by the Kasay Marine Sanctuary, to the East by native forest, to the North a privately owned tennis court and to the South by a monastic retreat owned by the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

http://www.sanctuarycove.biz/Images/sanctuary-cove-plan.gif

link: http://www.sanctuarycove.biz/

hugodiekonig

June 28th, 2011, 09:25 PM

By Lawrence Casiraya SAN JUAN, LA UNION – Marie Tereze Lumdang is a natural-
born surfer. When she was four, she was more excited to
spend time at the beach than play with Barbie dolls at home.

At only six years old, she's showing a lot of promise as a
competitive surfer – she was the women's singles champ in
the Baler Beginner's Cup last April, winning over other
surfers twice her age. Tereze began playing with bodyboards during a family
vacation in Bacnotan some two years ago. Moving on to a
bigger surfboard was a challenge she readily accepted – and
conquered.

“I thought she would give up after every fall. It took her
maybe only two hours before she began being comfortable
on a board,” says her dad John. It also helped that John, a
pilot, and his family moved from Manila to La Union. To nurture her daughter's interest, Tereze took up formal
surfing lessons at the Little Surf Maid Resort in San Juan.
She also trained under champion surfers in La Union,
including Jeff Dela Torre, who went with her to Baler last
April.

After watching the Australian championships on TV one
time, John recalls Tereze jumping up with joy, declaring: “I
want to go there!”. John reveals he and his wife Estern have
plans of sending Tereze to the Gold Coast in Australia to
train for two months at the Gary Palmer Surf School. The dusky six-year old giggled with delight when I asked her
random questions about surfing. Favorite surfing movie?
Blue Crush. Favorite surfer? Andy Irons. (R.I.P., the legendary
surfer died late last year.)

“I want to surf all over the world!,” she adds, her eyes
beaming with excitement. Surfing has become more than a hobby and now a way of
life for bubbly Tereze. When not in school, she spends most
of her time surfing. John admits they would rather have her
engage in outdoor activities that sit around at home
watching cartoons.

“Aside from the discipline, surfing has also taught her
respect for nature and awareness towards the environment.
When at the beach, we often see her picking up trash,” says
John. While other parents may find surfing a not-too-safe sport for
kids, John recommends getting kids acquianted with the
ocean first. He recommends surfspots like San Juan that
have calmer waves suitable for beginners.

If you have the proper foundation and the right discipline,
surfing is not much of a risk for children,” he says.

Source link m.yahoo.com/w/news_asia/six-old-surfer-tereze-lumdang-dreams-conquering-waves-063105924.html?orig_host_hdr=ph.news.yahoo.com&.intl=ph&.lang=en-ph

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 04:53 AM

MAYOR ALEXANDER “ALAN” O. BUQUING STRENGTHENS ABOT KAMAY ANG BARANGAY (AKAY)

by: Clemcy S. Beninsig and Marjorie R. Dawey of Sudipen Information Office

--------------------------

Sudipen is envisioned to be the Home of Quality Bamboo Industry in Region I, where unified, empowered and God – loving people enjoy a healthy, orderly, well – manage environment and productive economy, inspired by transparent, participative, accountable and responsive leaders strongly supported by citizenry. A Mission that inspires the Municipal Officials of the Local Government Unit of Sudipen to intensify the unity among the people.

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“Agnanayon Latta nga Agserserbi iti Napinget” the battle cry of the humble but intuitive mayor of Sudipen Hon. Alexander O. Buquing as he conveys his constant and devoted service to the people of Sudipen that cause him to strengthens the program Abot Kamay ang Barangay (AKAY) through an Executive Order no. 24 series of 2010 dated November 5, 2010. That all departments and other agencies are enjoined to visit selected Barangays every last Thursday of the month to bring the government closer to the people such as providing basic services, monitoring sanitation and conducting information dissemination drive .

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Sudipen is generally mountainous. Of the total land area, forest, mountains and hills cover about 63%. This topographic characteristic is contributory to the poor transportation facilities. Of the total land area 92% can be utilized for agriculture. A call that persuades Mayor Buquing to access the Seventeen (17) barangays especifially upland areas. The objective of this program is to bring the various services to the barangay people and to be familiarize with the predicament and confer resolutions to these problems, to bestow priority projects that the barangay requires. Part of this program is the promotion of clean up drive which is adopted form national agencies. A campaign for clean, green and safe community. A clean community that will diverge the constituents from infirmity and to alleviate poverty by generating other sources of income through backyard gardening. This program utilizes all the employees to monitor the adherence of constituents in the implementation of the Provincial Government program Operation Magsidalus iti Arubayan.

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Every department are anticipated in the execution of their assignment specifically on their areas like the Municipal Health Office bequeath free medical and dental check up and give available medicines and vaccines, while the Office of Agricultural Offices provide planting materials, animal deworming, vaccination and free circumcision, the Municipal Treasury monitors new establishments for record purposes and proper action. Among other offices various services are conducted.

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The conduct of this program develops the camaraderie not only among the officials and employee but also with the barangay people. Where in the municipal government and the constituents are receptive to each others requirements.

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sourced from :La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/mayor-alexander-alan-o-buquing-strengthens-abot-kamay-ang-barangay-akay/234137553271517)

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:05 PM

The Provincial Government of La Union welcomes the new heads of the Office of the Provincial Assessor (OPA) in the persons of Mr. Samuel F. Delizo as the Provincial Assessor and of Atty. Maria Paz I. Rivera-Basangan as the Assistant Provincial Assessor. The OPA heads assumed their offices on May 2, 2011 and June 6, 2011 respectively.

Mr. Samuel F. Delizo or “Sammy” as called by his peers was formerly employed at the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) as Local Assessment Operations Officer III prior to his appointment as OPA Head. Mr. Delizo, however, is not new to the Provincial Government of La Union for he was also once the Chief Deputy Assessor of the OPA in year 1984. He is a Licensed Appraiser and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Saint Louis University in Baguio City where he also took his Master’s Degree in Public Administration. He is married and blessed with six children.

Atty. Maria Paz I. Rivera-Basangan, “Atty. Paz” as her colleagues call her, on the other hand, was formerly connected with the Department of Education Regional Office I (DepEd RO1) as Attorney III. During her stint in DepEd, she developed, among others, an inter-agency system on school sites titling which involved the DENR, the DOH, and the DPWH. She had been a legal practitioner as well having been granted by the DepEd authority to practice her legal profession. Atty. Basangan is also a Louisian just like Mr. Delizo. She obtained both her degrees in Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts in Communication at Saint Louis University, Baguio City. A busy person that she is, Atty. Basangan, however, reserves time exclusively for her husband and three children.

The two OPA heads are jointly pushing for a better and more efficient delivery of public service. Among their Priority plans are:

1. A. On Assessment Transactions Improvement
1. Modification of office procedures to expedite transactions for a more efficient taxation and tax collection.

GOAL: to cut transaction time from the current average period of fifteen (15) days to one (1) day.

1. Conduct of periodic assessment of the iTax Project.
2. Considering that La Union is noticeably progressing evident from the new establishments built within the province, the OPA heads intend to refocus the office on assessment of buildings and other real properties used for operation of businesses not otherwise exempt from taxation.
3. The OPA heads also intend to conduct research and study through trainings and on-site observation on the various techniques and procedures of assessment transactions proven to be effective and efficient.

1. B. On Personnel Development and Management
1. Continuing trainings and seminars for all personnel such as but not limited to:

i. Assessment and appraisal
ii. Frontline service managemen
iii. Records management
iv. Personnel management
v. Assessment and other Work-related ethics

1. Conduct of periodic Management Committee meeting to assess the accomplishment of the Office and in order to determine problem areas and their possible solutions and;
2. Conduct of Annual Team-building activities.

With the fresh start of the two OPA heads, the Office of the Provincial Assessor is on set for a more efficient delivery of a world class public service for a much progressive La Union.

from: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/new-provincial-assessor-and-assistant-provincial-assessor-assumes-office-by-vict/234171243268148)

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:08 PM

TOURISM STATISTICS TRAINING HELD

By: Arthur S. Cortez, Jr.

_________________________

The Department of Tourism - Region I Office in collaboration with the Provincial Government of La Union held a two-day Tourism Statistics Training for La Union local government units and accommodation establishments on June 21 and 22, 2011 at the Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union.

This training workshop aimed to discuss the importance of conducting and reporting tourism statistics surveys as a basis in the development of tourism plans and programs in the province and the region as a whole. Participants were familiarized with the new system on recording and reporting tourist arrivals that can be adopted by accommodation establishments’ management in recording and reporting their daily operations.

Dir. Martin S. Valera, DOT-ROI Regional Director stressed that success in tourism industry relies on the availability of information, data and statistics. “Dependable data and reliable facts and figures help tourism stakeholders better manage resources, staff and facilities as well as to market tourism facilities and plan for future expansion or improvement,” said Dir. Valera.

The tourism statistics system, a project of the DOT, will develop and improve the institutional mechanism for collecting, compiling, recording and analyzing tourism data. It provides a uniform format among tourism industry stakeholders to gather, report and share information. This system will track down performance of accommodation establishments, determine seasonality, and adjust planning, marketing and operational cost. Further, this tourism statistics system generates essential data for market research, investment and promotion. It also facilitates better performance assessment as it determines requisites for infrastructure, transportation and environmental policies.

With this system in place, the Provincial Government of La Union as well as the City and Municipal Tourism Offices will have a guide and foundation to better plan tourism products, activities and events as well as marketing tourism destinations. The compendium of destination tourism statistics will later on be used for policy and decision making, development and improvement of the tourism industry and marketing and investment promotion in the local, regional and national levels.

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http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/261275_234197379932201_204145946270678_905985_4738453_n.jpg

from: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/tourism-statistics-training-held-by-arthur-s-cortez-jr/234182966600309)

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:10 PM

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

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In the Healthy Lifestyle (HL) Revo Movement Advocacy-Orientation for Doctors in the Province of La Union held at the Diego Silang Hall of the Provincial Capitol Building on June 28, 2011, Dr. Hector T. Beñas, OIC Provincial Health Officer assured that the Provincial Health Office (PHO) shall continuously be in the lead to support the HL Revo Movement in consonance with the Civil Service Commission’s Memorandum Circular No. 8 Series of 2011 requiring all agencies to adopt the “Great Filipino Workout”. He relayed Gov. Manuel C. Ortega’s commitment to the campaigns for healthy living as he welcomed the guests and speakers from the Department of Health (DOH) – Center for Health Development (CHD).

Warming up with the physical activities of the In the Healthy Lifestyle (HL) Revo Movement Advocacy-Orientation for Doctors in the Province of La Union held at the Diego Silang Hall of the Provincial Capitol Building on June 28, 2011 whole day orientation was Dr. Madeline Retuta from the DOH-CHD who also served as the resource speaker for the “HL REVO Movement” Atin to!” advocacy program. REVO stands for Regionalized Efforts Vital to Overcoming Challenges in the prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases. Dr. Retuta discussed on the HL Revo Strategy, its purpose and benefits of implementing it to the Health Professionals and Workers, and Overcoming Stress. She pointed out that health leaders must start their own initiatives to implement the said program, to encourage health workers to become full-pledged HL Revo Practitioners, and most importantly, to help make the environment 100% Smoke Free. At the Capitol, Governor Ortega has already ordered the strict prohibition of smoking through signages posted on strategic areas of the building.

This orientation was actively participated by the La Union Doctors, Health workers, and PHO Employees of the Province of La Union. In closing, guests from the DOH-CHD acknowledged the warm welcome and strong support of the Governor in advocating the success of HL REVO Movement which could entirely benefit the country and the province as well.

From: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/la-union-information-and-tourism/healthy-lifestyle-hl-revo-movement-shakes-capitol-by-abigail-d-ancheta-cabilin-p/234473469904592)

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:13 PM

by ishare from blog by i-share Club Inc. http://blog.ishareinternational.com/?p=195

It was a rainy morning at La Union, but the rain did not prevent the iShare team from performing it’s task. First in the agenda was a tie-up agreement with “RIVERFARM” seafood restaurant, owned and operated by Cesar Ocampo. The view was refreshing and food spectacular, and did I mention…. fresh! Yes, the ponds are literary beside your dining area, try their GOLDEN TILAPIA, taste like Lapu-lapu without the sting in the wallet, and their Sinugba… top notch! Coming soon to iShare tie-ups!

Next in the agenda was “LORMA COLLEGE”. We had the privilege of meeting Engr. Ana Belen Noble, Dean of Computer Studies and Engineering. She allowed us to present the ISHARE concept to some of the IT classes. This was a great opportunity for the students to see how technology could be applied in real life applications in helping the society, earning extra passive income, promoting communication, and to show the ingenuity of the Filipino as evident in what iShare is all about and what iShare stands for. We also challenged the students to be creative and to also experience firsthand the benefits of becoming an iShare member!

Before we knew it, we had now to rush to “STI” San Fernando City, where a number of afternoon classes were awaiting our arrival. Engr. Antonio Alvarado Jr. Managing Director and COO of STI, greeted us warmly and presented us to some of the faculty that headed their computer courses. Again, the students were amazed on the iShare concept. They had an actual demonstration on the “i-modules” especially the “i-load” facility where we demonstrated how easy and practical it is to load your own cell phone using your very own iShare web site!

We would like to give special thanks and congratulations for a job well done to Mr Jun Ocampo and Dir Oskee Mabalot ! Kudos iShare Team!

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hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:15 PM

By Firth McEachern

Inside Looking In

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

TARIQ Rahman is a professor at Quaid-i-Azam University and has written about the damage inflexible linguistic policies have had on Pakistani society. Like the Philippines, Pakistan reacted to colonialism in a very nationalistic way, defining only one native national language (Urdu) and elevating its role in education and government, alongside English, while essentially ignoring the other languages of Pakistan. When Tagalog was declared as the basis of the national language in 1937, it was spoken by less than 20% of the Philippine population. Similarly for Pakistan, less than 10% of Pakistanis spoke Urdu, with the bulk of the people speaking one of the regional languages such as Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, and others. Prof. Rahman writes in his paper, “Language policy, multilingualism and language vitality in Pakistan”:

“The state’s use of Urdu as a symbol of national integration has jeopardized additive multilingualism as recommended by UNESCO and, of course, by many eminent linguists and educationists. As Urdu spreads through schooling, media and urbanization, pragmatic pressures make the other Pakistani languages retreat…. As people learn languages for pragmatic reasons, they are giving less importance to their heritage languages and are learning Urdu. Instead of being an asset, [their native tongue] becomes a liability. It prevents one from rising in society. In short, it is ghettoizing. Then, people become ashamed of their language, or, even if not [explicitly] ashamed, they do not want to teach the language to their children because they think that would be overburdening the children with far too many languages.”

When I first read this passage, I had to wipe my glasses clean. Was I reading about the Philippines? The similarity of the Pakistan and Philippine case is striking. Just as with Urdu, the Tagalog-cum-national language of the Philippines has been given a boost in prestige and prevalence through its use in schooling and media. The exclusion of other Philippine languages from these domains, meanwhile, has rendered them less useful and less desirable. You can see the evidence of this on the streets of Baguio, Taguegarao, Angeles City, Urdaneta, Dagupan, Tacloban, and many other cities. If I spot a group of teenagers here in San Fernando, La Union, for example, I can guess what language they are speaking to each other with about 90% accuracy. If they look well-dressed, maybe with some brandname clothes, the girls sporting salon-sleek hair—they are almost always speaking Tagalog when I walk past. If on the other hand their clothes seem rather cheap, the boys aping a grunge gangster look, their complexions a little darker—they are usually speaking Iloko.

The same experiment can be repeated with other variables. Tell me the profession of an Ilokano parent based pretty much anywhere except Ilocos Sur and Norte, and I’ll be able to tell you what language he is speaking at home with his kids. Doctor? Professor? Engineer? Med-Tech? Teacher? Tagalog. Laborer? Tricycle driver? Guard? Plumber? Vegetable seller? Iloko.

Tell me a 10 year old’s school, and I’ll tell you the common language he uses both with his friends and parents. Private? Near the center of town? Takes vehicular transportation to get there? Tagalog. Public school? Not in the city center? Has to walk to school? Iloko.

Boy eating a Yum Burger in Jollibees and a little on the plump side? Tagalog. Skinny boy sitting by the side of the road in a plastic chair, watching people go by? Iloko. I wish it were not so painfully consistent, but it is. Everyone in La Union therefore has developed an in-built language radar to adjust to these language divides. If a scruffy boy with sandals and carrying a water jug walks into our office, the staff addresses him in Iloko. If however the visitor is a pretty, fair-skinned student, for example, they speak in Tagalog. And 90% of the time their guess as to which language the visitor most commonly uses is correct. In this way, “sosyal” Ilokano youth who lack the ability to speak Iloko (due to their parents’ emphasis on Tagalog and English) are conveniently spared the few potentially embarrassing consequences of their parents’ language abandonment, because no one even bothers attempting to speak Ilokano to them.

When I remark on the prevalence of Tagalog now, people commonly say: “Oh well, San Fernando is mixed now. It’s part Ilokano, part Tagalog.” But this belies a crucial point. It’s not as if these two languages have been mixed randomly or isotropically into the La Union population. Who speaks Tagalog and who speaks Iloko in the home follow very clear patterns along class divides. And this divide---like skin color, clothing, and all the other characteristics that enable a wider gap between rich and poor in this country---further stigmatizes local languages and those who speak them. Just as Prof Rahman described in his paper, an asset has been turned into a liability; and that does not bode well for these languages’ survival.

Published in the Sun.Star Baguio newspaper on June 29, 2011.

Source link: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/opinion/2011/06/29/mceachern-language-loss-and-social-stratification-163863

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:17 PM

^^ Well I think that happens on areas where people of different cultures meet, especially like the people of the province of La Union. I believe it does not only happen in La Union but also in most places now.

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:20 PM

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Press Release
June 29, 2011

ZUBIRI TURNS OVER SCHOOL BUILDING IN LA UNION
UNDER HIS ONE TOWN, ONE PROJECT PROGRAM

Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri today turned over a two storey school building named Ceferino Abad Aquino Sr. Memorial Building in San Juan National High School in La Union. The P8-M project is a joint undertaking by the LGUs and the One Town, One Project of Senator Zubiri.

In his message before local officials, teachers and students during the ceremony, Zubiri emphasized the importance of having a conducive place for learning to encourage more and more students to pursue their studies and fulfil their dreams.

One Town, One Project was launched in 2007 to fulfil a promise to provide nationwide assistance through Senator Zubiri's Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). To date, the Zubiri project has extended assistance ranging from multi purpose buildings, barangay centers, internet centers to classroom rehabilitation and repairs to 49 provinces in the country.

In La Union alone, the following municipalities benefited from One Town, One Project amounting to P17.5 million with each municipality receiving P500-thousand peso assistance for various infrastructure programs: Bacnotan, Balaoan, Bangar, Luna, San Gabriel, Santol, Supiden, Agoo, Aringay, Bagulin, Bauang, Burgos, Caba, Naguilian, Pugo, Rosario, Santo Tomas, Tubao and San Fernando City.

"One Town, One Project is not just a campaign slogan but a promise I keep dearly close to my heart since I started my public service career not too long ago. I am humbled by your support and friendship. Let us continue to work together and work harder to help steer our country to progress," Zubiri said.

Local officials led by Rep. Victor Ortega, Governor Manuel Ortega, Mayor Ruben Valero, teachers and students of San Juan public school welcomed Zubiri during his visit.

Source link: http://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2011/0629_zubiri1.asp

:applause:

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:23 PM

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THE P.Noy boys at Pagcor have accused the vice chairman of the pro-Aquino Makati Business Club, Ramos-era Finance Secretary Roberto de Ocampo, of being a recipient of a “midnight” award by the Arroyo administration for his foreign principal.

The details of the explosive allegation are contained in the lengthy answer by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. to the breach of contract suit filed by Thunderbird Resorts before the Manila Regional Trial Court.

Specifically, the new Pagcor board said Thunderbird, where De Ocampo is chairman, had been operating “by tolerance” since the casino-resort’s license expired in August 2009.

Pagcor added that Thunderbird had been operating on a month-to-month extension of its license since July 2008.

“However on April 28, 2010, or at the ‘midnight’ of [Pagcor’s] former management, the co-terminus renewal of authority to operate... was suddenly approved” despite the standing opposition of the Pagcor legal counsels, Pagcor said.

“When [Pagcor’s] former board supposedly approved the amendment of [Thunderbird’s] license or authority to make the period therein co-terminus with [Pagcor’s] present charter, the [old Pagcor] board was actually doing a legal impossibility—amending a provision of a nonexistent license or authority,” Pagcor added.

Despite the alleged midnight decision, the Pagcor approval was only relayed to Thunderbird on June 2, more than a month after the supposed approval and only 28 days before the Aquino administration took power.

What chairman Cristino Naguiat Jr. and president Jorge Sarmiento and the other Aquino appointees to the Pagcor board did after assuming power was to ask Thunderbird to sign a new agreement, containing more stringent conditions, by June 3, 2011 or face closure.

But Thunderbird counsel Lorna Imelda Suarez of Medialdea Ata Bello Guevarra Suarez law firm beat Pagcor to the draw by filing and obtaining an injunction from Manila RTC Judge Cicero Jurado Jr. against the gaming agency.

The order allows the Binangonan and San Fernando, La Union casino-resorts to continue operating during the trial.

Source link: http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideBusop.htm?f=2011%2Fjune%2F29%2Fvicagustin.isx&d=2011%2Fjune%2F29

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:24 PM

^^ :lol: tuloy parin ang negosyo habang wala pang desisyon ang korte ukol sa anomalya umano sa Thunderbird

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:29 PM

http://www.travelbook.ph/lib/phpThumb/phpThumb.php/q=95;600x600;/images/catalogue/la_union/denise_mallabo/love_like_a_a_sunset.jpg

http://www.travelbook.ph/lib/phpThumb/phpThumb.php/q=95;600x600;/images/catalogue/la_union/denise_mallabo/sunshine_on_my_shoulder.jpg

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http://www.travelbook.ph/lib/phpThumb/phpThumb.php/q=95;600x600;/images/catalogue/la_union/denise_mallabo/pagoda.jpg

source link: http://www.travelbook.ph/articles/from-the-beach-to-the-mountains?print=1

hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 12:44 PM

ok ito ah.

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http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=189212731121342&set=a.146658605376755.24626.146658372043445&type=1&theater
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hugodiekonig

June 29th, 2011, 06:29 PM

Lakay bets shine in grappling tilt in SFLU

TEAM Lakay Central Gym bagged 10
medals to rule the 6th Team Lakay
Grapplers Cup at the Pacoy Ortega Gym in
San Fernando City La Union recently. Grapplers from Team Lakay came up with
three gold medals including four silver
and three bronze medals to rule the
competition backed by Honorable Paolo
Ortegam D’ Cap, Arch. Peter Munar and Love Radio.

Giovhann Bautista (San Fernando Lakay Gym), meanwhile,
won the gold in the cadet division, while Taro Barrientos
(San Fernando Lakay Gym) took the silver with Joshua
Mirote (San Fernando Lakay Gym) and John Noel Astudillo
(Bauang Warriors Gym) bagging the bronze. In the juniors’ division, Ken Marzan of Lakay Central gym
bagged the gold in the 50 kgs and below weight class,
while the 50-57 kgs was lorded by Crispin Lugawe of the
UC Wushu team with Joshua Pacio (San Fernando Lakay
Gym) settling for silver while Mark Stephen Loman(Lakay
Central Gym) and Jhaymie Gayman(UC Wushsu Team) came home with bronze.

In the distaff side, Jhayvie Mae Espada (Lakay Shape Right)
won the gold in the 50-57-kg class with Sheena Panisigan
(Lakay Shape Right) settling for the silver. In the seniors division, Lemuel Matib (Contender Gym) won
the 50 kgs and below with Ralph John Ramos (Lakay
Central Gym) coming home with silver, while Devrick
Cordero (San Fernando Lakay Gym) and Jerome Wanawan
(UC Wushu Team) salvaging for bronze.

In the 58-64 weight category, Joseph Amurao (UC Wushu
Team) won the gold, Roldan Sangcha-an (UC Wushu Team)
winning the silver with Delfin Nawen (Lakay Central Gym)
and Tristan Rebuyaco (Lakay Central Gym) taking the
bronze. The gold in the 73-80 weight class was won by Patrick
Rilloraza (Lakay Central Gym) with Patrick Mariano (Lakay
Central Gym) settling for silver, while Othmar Guilan (Lakay
Shape Right) and Kjell Pineda (Lakay Central Gym) salvaged
for bronze.

Dave Galera (Lakay Central Gym) won the gold in the 81
and above weight class, while Jasper Roman Ulep of Lakay
Central Gym took the silver with Gio Alfred Lacsamana (San
Fernando Lakay Gym) and Ronald Allan Rivera (Agoo Yaw
Yan Kampilan) bringing home the bronze. (Roderick Osis) Published in the Sun.Star Baguio newspaper on June 27,
2011.

Source link: sunstar.com.ph/baguio/sports/2011/06/27/lakay-bets-shine-grappling-tilt-sflu-163452

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 03:46 AM

MANILA, Philippines — Leading housing
brand Camella recently launched a
strategic expansion program strengthening
its dominant position in the real estate
industry in Metro Manila and across the
regions. A member of the country’s largest homebuilder, Vista Land & Lifescapes,
Camella embarked on 16 new
development projects in key locations
nationwide within the next 12 months. Maribeth C. Tolentino, Camella president,
revealed ventures and partnerships that
will generate growth aimed at exceeding
last year’s success.

“We are setting the trend for innovation as
we build and expand in ways never seen
before – Camella takes on 2011
unimpeded as we tirelessly fulfill our
commitment to provide every Filipino
family the opportunity of home ownership,” she said.

Camella was received by the Ilocanos
when it recently opened its Laoag property
– the first stop of its national expansion
campaign. It plans to grow within Ilocos
Norte while preparing to launch in Ilocos
Sur, La Union:banana::banana::banana::cheers:, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Batangas, Quezon
Province, Bicol, Davao, Butuan, Agusan del
Sur and Zamboanga.

Every community is composed of well-built
homes with prices ranging from P1.2 to
P3.5 million. The developer has various
flagship developments with available
house-and-lot packages – from bungalows
to townhouses, duplexes to single- detached, two-story homes.

Whether one aspires for an extended
family home, a start-up townhome, or a
long-term home investment, homebuyers
can be assured of contemporary design,
and accessibility to major shopping areas,
malls, hospitals, churches, schools and universities, as well as work and business
hubs.

Properties feature spacious clubhouse that
serves as venue for intimate gatherings
and grand reunions. Recreational amenities
include swimming pools for adults and
children, pocket parks and gardens,
playground and sports facilities like basketball court are commonly found
within the project.

The communities of Camella are located
near vital destinations such as malls,
hospitals, schools and churches. The gated
communities feature round-the-clock
security and efficient property
management that the developer’s projects have always been known for.

“The demand for quality built homes and
communities in the regions, mostly for
returning OFW’s and their families,
continue to be our inspiration to build
more homes and expand into more growth
areas,” Tolentino said.

Camella, founded in 1977, has built over
250,000 homes and has a strong presence
in 21 provinces and 48 cities and
municipalities, while expanding to other
regions in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Source link: www.mb.com.ph/articles/324778/camella-leads-with-regional-expansion

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 12:28 PM

Luna Watchtower

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/262668_213370612040668_100001031918204_681770_7749667_n.jpg

Photo by Carl Emar Carbajal via NATIVES OF LA UNION (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=213370612040668&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 12:29 PM

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Photo by: Ikaw ang Ballala via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=114308168661017&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=132533&id=100002455027634)

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 12:30 PM

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 12:52 PM

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REVIVING BARORO WATERSHED: LU VOLUNTEERS GO GREEN. Volunteers from the Provincial Government of La Union, Municipal Government of San Gabriel, Philippine National Police – San Gabriel and Tanim Kalikasan, Inc. conducted a simultaneous tree-planting activity in Barangays Balbalayang and Bayabas, San Gabriel, La Union on June 28, 2011 in implementation of the Baroro Watershed Native Forest Development Project. The volunteers planted Philippine Dipterocarps and other saplings native to the virgin forests of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range to proliferate the ecosystem of Baroro watershed, which is a major water source for San Fernando City, San Juan and parts of Bacnotan.

Photo By: Jonah Avegail C. Gaerlan, PITO-LU

from: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=234866533198619&set=a.208595342492405.55111.204145946270678&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 01:04 PM

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Photo by: Rj Valencerina via BAUANG, LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150224191710811&set=o.336893718203&type=1&theater)

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 07:05 PM

ano na pala ang development sa san fernando city hall west wing? Ano kaya ang gagawin doon? Sana rin irenovate narin ang Marcos bldg

hugodiekonig

June 30th, 2011, 07:19 PM

congratulations San Fernando City!

Awards for 2011:

Urban Partnership for Sustainable Upliftment, Renewal,
Governance & Empowerment Awardee

Jaime V. Ongpin Foundation, Inc.

Best LGU City in Region I

2nd Runner Up, LGPMS 2009

phoenicians

July 1st, 2011, 12:45 PM

:) Ask Ko lang Po if mayroon sa san fernando ang FIGARO Coffee Shop ? Thanks:)

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 02:48 PM

:) Ask Ko lang Po if mayroon sa san fernando ang FIGARO Coffee Shop ? Thanks:)

:colbert:wala pa sa ngayon. kaunti palang ang branches nila sa mga probinsiya. Pinakamalapit so far ang sa Baguio

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 02:59 PM

MANILA — The country's top two investment promotion agencies — the Board of Investments and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority — aggregated a total of P259.94 billion worth of investments from January to May, or 189 percent higher compared to the P90-billion of approved investments generated in the same period last year.

Both agencies' investment approvals increased, with those of BOI's rising considerably by 338 percent at P191.35 billion from P43.65 billion, and similarly for PEZA, with a 48 percent at P68.59 billion from P46.35 billion compared to the same period last year.

The major sources of investments were local investors with committed investments worth P224.57 billion, accounting for 86 percent of total investment approvals, while foreign investors contributed a total of P35.37 billion or 14 percent.

The 390 approved projects are expected to create 74,266 additional jobs when fully operational, a 76 percent increase from last year's 42,105.

The manufacturing sector topped the list of sectors with the highest committed investments worth P120.79 billion, a whopping 439 percent increase compared to the P22.41 billion posted in the same period last year.

A notable project is that of Petron Corporation (99.47 percent Filipino and 0.53 percent Various Foreign), an existing industry participant under the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998 (Republic Act No. 8479) which infused new investments worth P74.78 billion that will engage in the modernization/conversion of Bataan oil refinery project.

Another notable project is New Carcar Manufacturing Inc. (100 percent Filipino), a new producer of steel billet which has committed P10.57 billion worth of investments. The company's production facilities are proposed to be located in La Union, Cebu, Panabo City and Davao del Norte.

The electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply sector, which came in second with investments amounting to P70.17 billion from P31.13 billion investments last year, remains bullish, garnering a 27 percent share of total investment approvals in the first five months of 2011.

The real estate activities sector generated P51.77 billion worth of investments in the first five months of 2011, posting an increase of 92 percent from P27 billion in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the administrative support and service activities sector posted the highest increase in investment approvals of 6,457 percent (P5.55 billion from P84.61 million in the same period a year ago). Accommodation and food service activities sector also posted a positive increase of 122 percent (P3.21 billion from P1.45 billion).

With no investment approvals in 2010, the mining and quarrying and the water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation sectors, generated a total of P2.3 billion and P2.01 billion, respectively, in the first five months of 2011.

On the other hand, investment approvals declined in the following sectors: transportation and storage (P2.38 billion from P2.49 billion), information and communications (P868.97 million from P3.68 billion), down by 76 percent; and agriculture, forestry and fishing (P805.41 million from P1.70 billion). (PNA)

DCT/scs/BAC/mec

http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/33327-BOI,-PEZA-investments-hit-P260-B-as-of-May.html

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

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 03:02 PM

PIA Press Release
Friday, July 01, 2011

by Miriam P. Aquino

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, July 1 (PIA) -- Another round of the “Operation Rang-Ay iti Barangay” (ORB) was conducted at the municipality of Rosario, this province, benefiting seven barangays namely: Bacani, Carunuan East and West, Parasapas, Marcos, Tanglag, and Vila, with Tanglag National High School as host.

Free services were provided such as medical, dental, veterinary, legal, supplementary feeding for children and proper handwashing orientation, information dissemination among all participating line-agencies.

Sets of sports (volleyball and basketball) equipment were given to each barangay, and an additional water pump (1) and tents (2) to the host barangay.

In the absence of Governor Manuel Ortega, who has given full support to the ORB program initiated by former La Union Governor now 1st District Congressman Victor F. Ortega, it was 2nd District Congressman Eufranio C. Eriguel who graced the program.

Eriguel informed the beneficiary residents that there were Philhealth cards/benefits that are supposed to be given to the residents in Agoo, but he is giving them for the people of Rosario, especially the beneficiary barangays of the ORB.

The Congressman said, “Saan kayo nga agdanag apo ta adu pay ti isagsagana tayo nga pagsayaatan” (Don’t worry, because we are preparing more benefits for all of you.”)

In response to this message, Rosario mayor Bellarmin Flores Jr. together with the barangay captains of these beneficiary barangays expressed their heartfelt gratitude for all the benefits and services provided to them and their constituents.

Also present during the activity were Board Members Jun Rillera, Rudy Rivera, Vice Mayor Allan Labangan, former Rosario mayor Larry Flores, ABC President Anastacio Garcia and other officials.

Various line-agencies present include the Philippine Air Force, Naval Forces Northern Luzon, La Union Police Provincial Office, Police Regional Office 1, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Health Insurance, Technical Educational Skills Development Authority, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Public Attorney’s Office, Philippine Red Cross, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, Social Security System, and the different provincial offices. (ANL/MPA-PIA 1 La Union)

source link: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r01&id=41214

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 03:04 PM

Road Sense
By PINKY CONCHA COLMENARES
July 1, 2011, 5:47pm

Hill Climb series

Some of the country’s best drivers are set to assault historic Bacsil Ridge aboard their mean racing machines when the first round of the 2011 Hill Climb Series, powered by Castrol Edge, flags off on July 3, Sunday, in Barangay Pias, San Fernando, La Union.

To date, 46 drivers from Baguio City, La Union and Manila have signed up for the opening leg of this annual series. Among these altitude breakers in motorsport are defending champion Carlos Anton, multi-awarded racers Dennis Aoyong, Alfie Concepcion and Frankie Domingo, fast rising speedsters Garry Loy, Pancake Pimentel, Jet Ramos and the Querimit brothers Jem and Julius.

The Historic Car Class charge will be led by Mark Quinto and Ronnie Manalo. While the scrutineering session on Friday is expected to bring more registrants, the organizers are limiting entries to only 60 drivers.

source link: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/325002/weekend-events

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 03:07 PM

# Posted on Thursday, June 30, 2011
# by the quest boi

from a blog at http://nboi.blogspot.com/2011/06/chicken-feet-delight.html

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RNuMfTpSlY/Tg1i3PmVx_I/AAAAAAAAAdM/xJaaRC20_Os/s320/269756_212324372146243_100001060456737_610981_4162603_n.jpg

Yesterday, my colleagues and I went to this place called "karay-kayan" in City of San Fernando, La Union. "karaykay" an Ilocano verb word to dig by feet specially the feet of chicken and added with an "an" as a place then the place called "karay-kayan". We were laughing all the way to San Fernando, we even met there our very own Vice-Mayor there eating the adidas. It was my third time to come to that place again, this time was a birthday celebrations of one of my colleagues....happy birthday.

The place was pact with people. This place is really booming raised by the popular adidas (chicken feet) which is really tender, i meant really really tender; that your not fight with the bones to get the meat. hahahaha. The first time I went there, I ate around twenty chicken feet, counted with the left sticks. We ordered hotdogs adidas, bbq and hot bread. It was delightful.

For those who don't know adidas (chicken feet). Adidas is the Pinoy coined name for chicken feet. It is a street food cooked as adobo and barbecued in sticks. It is as popular as the other chicken parts like isaw (small chicken intestines), tails, head etc. I like my chicken feet with vinegar, with chili and special sweetened sauce. I know some do not fancy eating chicken feet but for those who have come to love this dish. I think you should try it. We left with chicken feet as pasalubong...

:eat:

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 04:48 PM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/269032_235336776484928_204145946270678_910812_744864_n.jpg

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/263483_235337576484848_204145946270678_910820_3955329_n.jpg

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267497_235336209818318_204145946270678_910809_4753661_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267880_235336533151619_204145946270678_910811_8315216_n.jpg

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267496_235337233151549_204145946270678_910816_4469707_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/269193_235337023151570_204145946270678_910814_2217549_n.jpg

Photo from: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=235337023151570&set=a.235336096484996.68019.204145946270678&type=1&theater&pid=910814&id=204145946270678)

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 04:55 PM

http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/261167_223162554378455_6702207_n.jpg

Hangout! #1 Address: Pennsylvania Avenue (Poro Road), San Fernando City, La Union Philippines 2500

296619

July 1st, 2011, 06:21 PM

hugodiekonig

July 1st, 2011, 07:08 PM

salamat rod! Pasyal rin kayo sa la union pag may time hehehe

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 03:06 AM

From a blog at langyaw.com http://langyaw.com/2011/07/01/monument-to-a-past-the-pindangan-ruins/

http://langyaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/pindangan_2.jpg
Side entrance to a once beautiful church

It was a no brainer. The ruins in Pindangan, part of Barangay Parian in San Fernando City, La Union is old judging from the primitive construction technique of mamposteria, stones, placed one on top of the other.

It was how smaller churches of old were used to be built during the middle of the Spanish colonial period or places where evangelization has just started. But for me, I’ve always wanted to visit this ruin, precursor to the present cathedral of San Fernando City, probably constructed in the 1780s by the Augustinians.

I’m not sure if this is the original church as a document is said to list down four structures in different parts of San Fernando built prior to the current one.

http://langyaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/pindangan_1.jpg

Pindang is an Ilocano term for a fish drying method and this might be the place where the locals used to do it. The sitio of Pindangan was originally formed when the two oldest and important towns of Dalangdalang and Balanac were merged. Later, Pindangan was known as San Fernando, currently the capital of La Union.
The ruins only has its walls and buttresses with parts of the facade. There are interesting bas reliefs at the interior walls that are mostly Augustinian symbols: the miter and the hand ho lding a house. A portion of the facade has interesting animal carvings and some floral designs.

The ruins can be accessed through a small road along the MacArthur Highway, meters from the Department of Foreign Affairs Regional Office and just before entering the city center.

http://langyaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/pindangan_3.jpg
Bas relief of a symbol of St. Augustine.

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 03:08 AM

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7EwWlUNI7cI/Tg0l9qqHZGI/AAAAAAAAINw/rILb4o5k5ew/s640/IMG_8496%252520color%252520copy.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--arus35ZfOk/Tg0l8zXvrUI/AAAAAAAAINs/huGgOqlAOUs/s640/IMG_8495%252520copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WdBvkRi2K2A/Tg0l3VtidpI/AAAAAAAAINo/OmNy5EjxMEM/s640/IMG_8504%252520copy.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7xGDmgOT-ms/Tg0lyzJ-hCI/AAAAAAAAINg/_gMEd07bNiM/s640/IMG_8501%252520copy.jpg

Photos by: Rawen Balmaña http://digitalphotographer.com.ph/forum/showthread.php?t=41564&goto=nextnewest

Tarlaqueno-ako

July 2nd, 2011, 03:51 AM

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/268968_10150220640256986_526316985_7593620_7036093_n.jpg

Photo by Monch BArnachea via NATIVES OF LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150220640256986&set=o.36219002972&type=1&theater&pid=7593620&id=526316985)

Naimbag nga bigat kaniayo amin.:D

Ang ganda ng simbahan, naalala ko tuloy yung lumang simbahan sa bayan namin, may paintings sa ceiling nito, tinitingnan ko dati habang nakikinig ng misa ha ha..:)

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 04:05 AM

Naimbag nga bigat kaniayo amin.:D

Ang ganda ng simbahan, naalala ko tuloy yung lumang simbahan sa bayan namin, may paintings sa ceiling nito, tinitingnan ko dati habang nakikinig ng misa ha ha..:)

Salamat!

Manong ipasyar dak met tu dita Tarlac ah? agkakadua tayo nga MILABIT forumers

Tarlaqueno-ako

July 2nd, 2011, 04:14 AM

Sige. pagkatapos ng rainy season pasyal tayo he he.:) Nakakaanim na bagyo palang daw tayo sa loob ng 22 typhoons sa taong eto, dami pa.

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 07:41 AM

kaya nga. Aasahan pa natin ang marami pang bagyo.

nebelwerferXXX

July 2nd, 2011, 09:25 AM

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267496_235337233151549_204145946270678_910816_4469707_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/269193_235337023151570_204145946270678_910814_2217549_n.jpg

Photo from: La Union Information and Tourism Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=235337023151570&set=a.235336096484996.68019.204145946270678&type=1&theater&pid=910814&id=204145946270678)
Naka-display ba ito for public viewing for free as you order ?

nebelwerferXXX

July 2nd, 2011, 09:31 AM

http://www.sanctuarycove.biz/Images/sanctuary-cove-plan.gif

link: http://www.sanctuarycove.biz/
Okay ang site development, pero parang masikip ang road right of way...

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 09:59 AM

Okay ang site development, pero parang masikip ang road right of way...

Hmmm maliit nga ang ROW nito, pero considering sa size ng sanc cove eh parang dina kailangan ng expansion ng ROW

Ephesus29

July 2nd, 2011, 10:01 AM

Salamat!

Manong ipasyar dak met tu dita Tarlac ah? agkakadua tayo nga MILABIT forumers

Luv your signature. Canada just had its 144th B'day. Infact was the biggest celebration because of the presence of Will & Kate. Thanks again.

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 10:47 AM

Naka-display ba ito for public viewing for free as you order ?

Ngee decoration lang ata ang boat na ito sa resort

nebelwerferXXX

July 2nd, 2011, 01:09 PM

Ngee decoration lang ata ang boat na ito sa resort
Alam ko na scale model ships lang mga ito...

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 06:39 PM

Luv your signature. Canada just had its 144th B'day. Infact was the biggest celebration because of the presence of Will & Kate. Thanks again.

OT muna ako

Canada has played an important role in saving Queen Victoria of England in the Britain-American war in early 1800s, and for such a reason Ottawa was made as the capital of the country, and as a gift, England gave tulips to Canada, that's why England and Canada have these everlasting "special ties" to each other, and just yesterday the royal couple William and Catherine joined the Canadians in their special Day

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 06:42 PM

PIA Press Release
Friday, July 01, 2011

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, July 1 (PIA) -- The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) has urged all employers, employees and other members to register and update their records via Internet through the On-line Employer /Membership Registration System.

Registration will be extended until August 31 this year.

The On-line facility is now available at website www.pagibigfund.gov.ph.
The Online system works using Internet Explorer 8 as web browser. Under the Member Services , it can be accessed on the Online Filing of Short Term Loan for local members issued Transaction Cards with MID and Security Number; OFW Members’ Contribution Verification; Online Membership Registration; Housing Loan Payment Verification; Modified Pag-IBIG 2 (MP2) Enrollment; and the Employer’s Registration.

The Fund will soon adapt a new system wherein all transactions shall be processed based on Pag-IBIG Employer’s ID Number./Registration Tracking Number (RTN) and Pag-IBIG Membership Identification (MID) Number/Registration Tracking Number (RTN) to further enhance their system resulting to better services and benefits of members and stakeholders.
If there are corrections or changes on the personal details of members, submit a duly accomplished Members Change of Information Form (MCIF) together with the required supporting documents to Pag-IBIG office.

In remitting membership contributions and/or loan amortization, indicate your Pag-IBIG Employer’s ID No. /RTN and your employees’; Pag-IBIG MID No./RTN to avoid any inconvenience. Similarly, ensure the registration of the newly-hired employees with the Fund before initial remittance.

For queries, coordinate with the Marketing and Enforcement Unit 2nd Floor Pag-IBIG Fund Building, Government Center Sevilla, San Fernando City or call telephone numbers (072) 2425588/89 loc. 204 or send emails to launion@pagibigfund.gov.ph. (ANL/EMR-HDMF/PIA 1 La Union)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=41108

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 06:43 PM

by Arlene Collado Villanueva

AGOO, LA UNION—Flooding paddy fields to obtain a 6-ton per hectare yield seems easy but the real challenge is to top the 10-ton potential.

Since starting operations in 1963, irrigation in the province has tapped the Masalip river to serve the towns of Tubao, Agoo, Aringay and Sto. Tomas.

In an update, project officer-in-charge Feliciano Estonilo said beneficiaries of the National Irrigation Administration consisted of at least 4,860 farmers on 6,696 lots across 1,548 hectares in 46 villages.

“NIA delivered water to the fields, farmers utilized the water to irrigate their crops and paid the service fee,” he said.

“Five to six tons on Rc 28 and Rc 82 can be harvestered on a hectare of land,” he told Manila Standard, referring to varieties available to farmers.

On Internet reportage, Thelma Padolino, PhilRice plant breeding and biotechnology division head, said Rc 28 and Rc 82 along with Rc 212 and Rc 214 strains while averaging six tons per hectare have a potential 10 ha plus productivity level.

According to Estonilo, NIA built a diversion dam designed for a flow of 4.7 cubic meters per second on the 19.3-km main canal stretching along with 44 kms of lateral canals.

“The system covers three small reservoirs—Bacsil Dam, Gumacbao Dam, Manaclew Dam—sourced from the Masalip Dam in Tubao,” he said, underscoring the importance of infrastructure to maximise productivity from high-yield varieties of rice and other crops.

Last February, Bacsil’s main canal was rehabilitated following damage caused by typoon.

Estonilo said the riprapping and desilting was made through the initiatives of Rep. Eufranio Eriguel, La Union Gov. Manuel Ortega, Abono Party-list Rep. Francisco Emmanuel Ortega III and irrigation management chief, Engr. Lelito Valdez.

source link: http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideNation.htm?f=2011%2Fjuly%2F2%2Fnation7.isx&d=2011%2Fjuly%2F2

:applause:

hugodiekonig

July 2nd, 2011, 06:51 PM

from a blog by: EnChAnG at http://aithnic-sweet16.blogspot.com/2011/07/fagg-reef-la-union.html

http://bp1.blogger.com/_RtZaUSyvqso/RjFvvYl1QYI/AAAAAAAAAzs/F72xskSNu7c/s400/fagg2.jpg

La Union is located in the north of Luzon (The main island)in the Philippines. Boasting impressive visibility, and one world class dive site the Tanks, 6 WW2 M10 tanks located some distance from the mainland on Fagg reef. Ranging in depth from 45m to 60m. one tank is also home to a huge moray. We have spotted mantas diving Research reef , but unfortunately dynamite fishing has all but destroyed the reefs around la union and over fishing has seriously damaged the fish population.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_BfC6j03vee0/TSSLThFNWBI/AAAAAAAAJVk/tSLZZHKOEvk/pargueraseasquirts11103025.jpg

http://bp0.blogger.com/_RtZaUSyvqso/RjFvsIl1QXI/AAAAAAAAAzk/XY2jAPR1z-A/s400/fagg1.jpg

A great location for deep tech diving with a couple of almost undived WW2 ship wrecks still in the process of being explored, one is believed to be a Japanese sea plane tender similar to the Akitsushima found in Coron a U.S. Cargo ship at 250 feet and explore the mystery wreck at 245 feet.
This is, without doubt, the most famous site in the area. Situated a 40 min boat trip away from La Union, the reef is actually part of the shelf that marks the divide between The Lingayen Gulf and The South China Sea.

The site may also be referred to as The Tanks as three WW2 M10 tanks were dropped off a barge at the end of the war and came to rest on a ledge part of the way down the drop-off at 39m. As a result, they have become home to a wide and diverse range of marine life.

Around the tanks and on the drop-off you can expect to see wrasses, dorados, Spanish mackerel, king barracuda and leopard rays. Whitetip sharks are common and if you’re really lucky you may come across a whale shark.
It should be emphasized that the drop-off descends to some 250m and currents can carry the unwary towards it. This dive should only be taken by the experienced and a knowledgeable guide employed. This is not an easy dive.

Getting There

La Union and San Fernando are located about a four hour drive up the Northern Expressway from Angeles. It is a prime location with the Mountains and City of Baguio only an hour away. Ideal to combine a few days at the beach with some spectacular sightseeing

Three hours from Angeles City and five hours from Manila, you can take a Philippine Rabbit, Times Transit or Farinas Trans bus going north to San Fernando, La Union, Vigan or Laoag.

Ephesus29

July 2nd, 2011, 07:41 PM

OT muna ako

Canada has played an important role in saving Queen Victoria of England in the Britain-American war in early 1800s, and for such a reason Ottawa was made as the capital of the country, and as a gift, England gave tulips to Canada, that's why England and Canada have these everlasting "special ties" to each other, and just yesterday the royal couple William and Catherine joined the Canadians in their special Day

Hey.....you are quite a world history buff. I thought tulips came from the Netherlands. I would have known. OT..sorry

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 02:50 AM

Hey.....you are quite a world history buff. I thought tulips came from the Netherlands. I would have known. OT..sorry

hihihi I only read and known about Canadian History through wikipedia and youtube videos

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 02:58 AM

San Fernando City, La Union

This property has an approximate area of 10,378 square meters. Located in Barangay San Francisco, city of San Fernando, La Union. It seats just across from the newly developed International Airport in the area. Approximately 2 kilometers from the Thunderbird Hotel, a brand new resort and golf course, located at the Poro Point and Wallace Air Communication Station, about 10 kilometers from the city proper. Structures existing on the property are a two story hotel building with 36 rooms, and a separate conference room.

http://acapulco-ashram.com/contents/images/abr/acapulco_01.jpg

ACAPULCO Beach Resort 36 Room Hotel
This 36 room structure can be easily restored to its former beauty with a little tender, loving care. It has rooms facing the beach and others facing the huge parking. For early risers, a gorgeous sunrise can be seen.

Their website: http://acapulco-ashram.com/contents/acapulco_beach.html

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 04:45 AM

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/270853_10150214713468204_336893718203_7081280_8278430_n.jpg

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/268940_10150214713638204_336893718203_7081284_909740_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263754_10150214713733204_336893718203_7081287_4708061_n.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/267497_10150214713168204_336893718203_7081274_3953828_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263100_10150214713303204_336893718203_7081277_7699687_n.jpg

From: BAUANG, LA UNION Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150214713468204&set=a.10150214713083204.304084.336893718203&type=1&theater#!/photo.php?fbid=10150214713303204&set=a.10150214713083204.304084.336893718203&type=1&theater&pid=7081277&id=336893718203)

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 11:07 AM

from a blog by Oooneh at http://ooohneh.blogspot.com/2011/07/san-fernando-city-engineered-landfill.html

San Fernando, La Union, promotes their city as an environment-conscious place. A place where Mother Nature need not be sacrificed for the progress and advancement of the town. They have long term plans for effective waste management and their research for flora conservation at La Union Botanical Garden deserves proper recognition.

I'm not 100% sure that a landfill actually qualifies as a tourist destination. The 10.6hectare Engineered Landfill was a PhP168Million project from different foreign financial sources.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iE0LDeVrtc/Tf37hE3682I/AAAAAAAAAko/TcEW0CjRUXU/s640/IMG_3882.JPG

Once inside the landfill, I was surprised I did smell the stench of trash that one would expect. The garbage truck which picks up trash at our neighborhood smelled worst. Here's a glimpse of the landfill.

Bigger cities like most in Metro Manila can learn from how San Fernando City take care of its environment. Kudos to San Fernando!

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oiZHPJijA6M/Tf4VbeL9VuI/AAAAAAAAAkw/uvxSXuyV_xo/s640/IMG_3880.jpg

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 11:12 AM

Miramonte Beach Resort is the oldest resort in La Union having been established pre-war. It is the only resort hotel located near the intenational seaport, regional airport and walking distance to the Fiesta Casino. It is a private property but located within the government declared PORO POINT SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE.

Soon a hotel and golf course will be established within the Casino grounds.

Miramonte Beach Resort has a restaurant bar, 16 individual hotel rooms and 2 conference rooms, all partly operational.

For the convenience of foreign guest, it is 20 meters away form the Regional Office of the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation. Safe and peaceful i adjoins the Philippine Navy grounds.

Miramonte Beach Resort is bounded on the west by a cove, the favorite water skiing area of then President Ferdinand Marcos.

link: http://launion.mlsdirectory.net.ph/bestproperties/properties/miramonte.html

william :D

July 3rd, 2011, 12:18 PM

hugodiekonig

July 3rd, 2011, 05:08 PM

dating location kasi ng naval base sa wallace station sa poro point ang area na malapit diyan

Buti at may nangangalaga sa mga corals dito

phoenicians

July 4th, 2011, 11:06 AM

:colbert:wala pa sa ngayon. kaunti palang ang branches nila sa mga probinsiya. Pinakamalapit so far ang sa Baguio

:)..Thanks for the Info..

QatPhils

July 4th, 2011, 04:18 PM