P’nan 7th Biggest GDP in Ph

 LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Pangasinan placed seventh among the 82 provinces in the country in terms of share to the national’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on February 19, Pangasinan’s share at Constant 2018 Prices amounted to P352.93 billion or 1.8 percent of the national GDP.

The PSA report, titled “2022 Economic Performance of the Provinces in the Philippines,” disclosed that Laguna topped the list with P990.69 billion share; followed by Cavite, P731.39 billion; Batangas, P615.81 billion; Bulacan, P604.71 billion; Pampanga, P525.65 billion; Cebu, P388.11 billion. Trailing behind Pangasinan are the provinces of Rizal, P340.63 billion; Nueva Ecija, P298.57 billion; and Bataan, P256.89 billion.

 PSA cited that all 82 provinces had a combined share of about 56.1 percent to the country’s GDP in 2022.

In addition to this, the PSA for the first time released the results of the Provincial Product Accounts or the PPA of the 16 pilot regions outside the National Capital Region (NCR). Aside from the 82 provinces, 17 Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) from November to December 2023 were included.

Results showed that Aklan recorded the fastest growth of 22.5%. Nueva Vizcaya, Davao Oriental, and Sorsogon recorded 13.1 %, 12.3%, and 12.2%, respectively.

PPA is a mechanism to compile the GDP at the subnational level using a production approach and other economic accounts at the subregional level.

According to PSA, PPA shows how provinces improve, what are the growth drivers, productive sectors, where to invest, and indicators whether targets are met. (Ruby R. Bernardino/PIMRO)

Mayor Bona Hobnobs with Pres. BBM

 By Mortz C. Ortigoza

PASAY CITY – Mangaldan Mayor Bona Fe D. Parayno hobnobbed with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. during the sideline of the general assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) at the Marriott Hotel held here recently.

The lady chief executive was part of the 1,508 mayors from all over the country that attended the conclave last February 27 to 29, 2024.

PREXY & LADY MAYOR. Mangaldan Mayor Bona Fe D. Parayno (left) rubs elbow with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. during the recent general assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. (PIO-Mangaldan)

The assembly’s theme for this year was “SDGs Localization: Pathway to Sustainable Municipal Development”. It served as a platform for the collaborative efforts of all municipal mayors in the Philippines to address the challenges towards reaching their goals.

According to the Public Information Office of Mangaldan, Parayno attended the LMP’s General Assembly to actively participate on the discussions to the best practices, local and international linkages and capacity development regarding updates and trends on local governance.

President Marcos exhorted the participants not to waste their mandates on “petty things,” but instead promote community participation and engagement with constituents in decision-making processes.

“It is about going for ambitious projects that span several terms, without regard for who will inaugurate them when completed, instead of picking ones that are ribbon-cutting ready before elections and the campaign,” the President said.

During her term as the mayor of Mangaldan in 2016 to 2019, Parayno joined a small group of the members of the LMP- Pangasinan Chapter bound to Davao City in July 2018.

As an appointed spokesperson of the group, Mayor Parayno personally requested the concerns of some of the mayors in Pangasinan to President Rodrigo Duterte, according to this newspaper’s account titled: Mayor Bona Thrills by Duterte’s “Kiss”.

She even lobbied the President to intercede for the tens of millions of roads and eco- projects for her town that materialized during the stint of her immediate predecessor Mayor Mary Marilyn Lambino.

In March 2015, Parayno told reporters that the Angalacan River dike would become a tourist attraction once the Eco Park with a bike trail was fully developed.

“We want to preserve the river system especially that it has been a hall of famer for the search for the cleanest river in the province,” the lady mayor said.

The eight- kilometer Eco Park project supposed to cover Barangays Embarcadero, Tebag, Pogo, Salaan, Nibaliw and Palua along the Angalacan River.

Each of the six villages needed P10 million from the national government to prevent flood erosion and dredging, the chief executive cited.

The project supposed to include a 15- kilometer mountain biking trail as an added tourist activity for local and foreign tourists who would visit the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag which is near the landlocked town.

When Parayno left office in June 30, 2019, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed the first phase of the road in April 2021.

Facing the Angalacan River in Mangaldan town, the 900-meter concrete road has a river protection barrier of 1-meter x 1 meter x 0.5 meter parapet walls and 200-meter flood control system consisting of six-meter long per sheet pile project that extends to Barangay Embarcadero area up to Barangay Nibaliw in this town.

District Engineer Edita Manuel of the Pangasinan 2nd District Engineering Office said the P44.8 million road and eco-tourism project would not only serve as an access route leading to the park being developed as a tourist destination but would eventually lead in community development by providing alternative source of livelihood and economic benefits to the Mangaldanians specifically Barangays Embarcadero, Nibaliw, Tebag and Salaan.

DPWH said the phase II of the project eventually followed. It consisted of 1,195 meters’ concrete road with stone masonry and parapet wall and a 6.10 meters’ width of road carriageway.

Ombudsman Indicts P'sinan Ex-Mayor

 By Mortz C. Ortigoza

BINMALEY, Pangasinan – The former mayor here has been ordered by the Ombudsman to submit his verified position papers on the administrative case filed against him on the double payment of the concrete slab of a public school.

In the Order signed last February 2, 2024 by Ombudsman Director Margie G. Fernandez-Calpatura of the Preliminary Investigation, Administrative Adjudication and Prosecution Bureau - C, former Mayor Simplicio L. Rosario – the present Vice Mayor here – was directly instructed to submit his and his co-accused verified petition position papers on the grave misconduct case with docket No. OMB-L-A SEP-23-0162.

EX-MAYOR Sam Rosario (left photo) and his complainants former Mayor Enzo Cerezo and Leon Castro who sued him with criminal and administrative cases at the Ombudsman on the double payment of the more than P4 million concrete slab constructed in a government building. Photo below is Mayor Pete Merrera who is the political nemesis of incumbent Vice Mayor Rosario.

Rosario co-accused were Municipal Accountant Teggie V. de Guzman, Municipal Treasurer Josephine F. Anchiboy, and acting Municipal Treasurer Leo V. Fernandez.

The complainants were Leon C. Castro, Jr. Douglas R. delos Angeles, Lorenzo M. Cerezo, and Julian Edgar Gregorio Javier.   

Recall that Castro and former Mayor Cerezo were sued by a certain Annie, a supporter of Rosario, with Malversation of Public Properties during the latter mayorship. Both appealed the conviction of the lower court to the Supreme Court in a nine-year tortuous expensive litigation that the high court dismissed with finality.

“…the above –named parties are hereby directed to submit within ten (10) days from receipt hereof in three (3) legible copies addressed to this office through the Case Records, Evaluation, Monitoring and Enforcement Bureau, 3^rd floor office of the Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon, Agham Road, Government Circle, North Triangle, Diliman, 1104 Quezon City, their respective Verified Position Papers on the above-entitled case stating thereof the charges, defenses and claims contained in the respective pleadings filed in the present case,” excerpt of the Order to Rosario, his co-accuse and the complainants.

Director Calpatura included in the Order that in the same position paper the parties may submit such additional relevant affidavits and/or documentary evidence on the case.

“Thereafter, the instant case shall be deemed submitted for decision unless the conduct of further proceedings is considered still necessary by the investigating officer,” the Ombudsman Director added.

The administrative case cropped up after the Commission on Audit (COA) found out that the accused ordered the payment of a concrete slab on the 3^rd floor multi-purpose building of the public central school here despite being paid already by the Department of Public Works & Highway.

In May 9, 2023, this coastal town Mayor Pedro Merrera received a Notice of Disallowance from the Office of the Auditor –Commission on Audit Team No. 4 in San Carlos City, Pangasinan.

“Result of technical inspection revealed that the concrete slab for the third floor was included in the contract but had already been undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways 2^nd District Engineering Office, Lingayen Pangasinan as part of the phase– I implementation, thereby, incurring a deficiency of P4, 049, 195.58. Said amount is hereby disallowed in audit. Copy of the technical inspection report is here attached for reference,” excerpt of the eight pages’ letter that determined Rosario and OIC- Municipal Engineer Fernandez as liable for the overpayment.

Merrera was told by the COA to direct Rosario and Fernandez to settle immediately the multi-million pesos’ liability within six months from the receipt of the letter otherwise it becomes final and executory as prescribed under Sections 48 and 51 of Presidential Decree No. 1445 (Government Auditing Code of the Philippines).

“Yes, ang third slab binayaran na ng DPWH bakit nagkaroon pa ng other bidding sa pinaka third portion na excluded na iyong slab, samantala ang istimasyon nila iyong poste, iyong bubong saka iyong mga division sa last floor. Exclude mo na iyong slab nabayaran ng DPWH iyon e. E bakit kailangan pa e estimate pa ng municipal engineer pero utos ng mayor”,” Mayor Pedro A. Merrera told reporters how then Mayor Rosario and Municipal Engineer Fernandez ordered the payment of the municipal fund to contractor Citron’s Builders and Supplies when it constructed the controversial fourth floor of the public edifice.

If found liable, Rosario will be meted by the Ombudsman with a six-month’s preventive suspension as vice mayor according to a lawyer who was privy to the case.

CRIMINAL CASE LOOMS, TOO

One of the complainants said on conditioned of anonymity to Northern Watch Newspaper that they filed four cases at the Ombudsman in July last year against Rosario. One of them was a criminal charge related to the double payment of the P4 million’s slab.

He said that they are still waiting for the Resolution of the case where an affirmative action by the Sandiganbayan (court) would see an issuance of a warrant of arrest against the beleaguered former Mayor.

VM ROSARIO ANSWERS ALLEGATIONS

On the comment section of this blog, Vice Mayor Rosario said to shield the Binmalenians to any deception from the other party he welcomed the probe undertaken by the Ombudsman.

“Para sa kapakanan ng ating bayan at upang mailayo ang taong bayan sa anumang uri ng panlilinglang, malugod kung haharapin ito ng walang takot at pangamba dahil malinis ang aking konsensiya,” he said through his Facebook Page Vice Mayor Simplicio “Sammy” Rosario Municipality of Binmaley.

The former Mayor exhorted his constituents to allow the prosecution body to search for the truth on the cases hurled by Castro, Cerezo, Douglas R. delos Angeles and Julian Edgar Gregorio Javier.

 “Kayo ay aking hinihimok na hayaan nating gawin ng Ombudsman ang kanilang tungkulin na alamin ang katotohanan at maglabas ng tamang desisyon ng naayon sa mga ihahaing mga ebedensiya. Justice will surely prevail!” Rosario added.

Enough for these Oligarchs Who Bleed us to Penury!

By Mortz C. Ortigoza, MPA

The Philippines is an economic laggard among most of its peers at the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in snaring foreign direct investment (FDI). This is a major reasons why most of the 114 million Filipinos are poor because jobs are limited in our country. The culprit why this happened because our restrictive Constitution prohibits or allows only 40 percent of the business equities in most industries to foreigners.

Photo is internet grabbed.

As a result, investors instead go to Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia and pour their monies there because those countries allow 100 percent FDIs.

Pouring monies to build factories and offices mean jobs and better pay for the people there.

That's how logical were my premises.

To stop this senseless penury in our country, let's pressure the Senate, particularly, to expedite the passing of the bill to change to 100 percent the xenophobic economic provision of our Constitution.

Let's check and expose too how the owners of those Filipino family owned corporation pressure the Senate not to act on the bill because they're threatened with the competition the FDI will give them.

Enough for the local Oligarchs' control of our lethargic economy!

You've been enriching yourselves at the expense of our blood, enough salamabit!

The following Philippines industries below need to be changed to 100 percent investment ownership for everybody:

The 2022 Foreign Investment Negative List ( FINL) bans foreign ownership/participation in the following activities: mass media (except recording and internet businesses); small-scale mining; private security agencies; utilization of marine resources; ownership, operation, and management of cockpits (cockfight venues); manufacturing of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices; manufacturing and distribution of nuclear, biological, chemical, and radiological weapons; and manufacturing and distribution of anti-personnel mines. Foreign professionals in the following fields are allowed to practice in the Philippines if their country permits reciprocity: medicine, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, accountancy, architecture, engineering, criminology, teaching, chemistry, environmental planning, geology, forestry, interior design, landscape architecture, and customs brokerage.

The Philippines limits foreign ownership to 40 percent in the manufacturing of explosives, firearms, and military hardware; private radio communication networks; natural resource exploration, development, and utilization (with exceptions); educational institutions (with exceptions); operation and management of public utilities; operation of commercial deep sea fishing vessels; Philippine government procurement contracts (40 percent for supply of goods and commodities); contracts for the construction and repair of locally funded public works (with some exceptions); ownership of private land; and rice and corn production and processing (with some exceptions). The amended FIA includes 100 percent foreign ownership for enterprises with a minimum paid-in capital of USD 100,000 involved in advanced technology (as determined by the Department of Science and Technology), endorsed as start-ups or start-up enablers (pursuant to the Innovative Startup Act), and where a majority of direct hires (but not less than 15 workers) are local talent. The FINL cannot change prior laws related to foreign investments, such as Constitutional provisions which bar investment in mass media, “public utilities,” and natural resource extraction (but the government has implemented policies to permit 100 percent foreign ownership of investments in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal).

1,000 Pangasinense Farmers Benefit Anew from Corporate Farming Program

 

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Some 1,000 members of different farmer cooperatives and associations from six congressional districts will serve as beneficiaries of the Provincial Corporate Farming Program (PCF) of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan (PGP) for the current dry cropping season.

In line with this, PCF production field day, mass graduation, and presentation of technology demonstration results are slated for five scheduled dates in March 2024 in different venues as follows: (March 8)—Districts 1 and II, Brgy. Calzada, Mabini, Pangasinan; (March 6)—District III, Brgy. Bued, Calasiao, and (March 11) Brgy. Tuliao, Sta. Barbara (March 5): District IV, Brgy. Angio, San Fabian; (March 14): Districts V and VI, Brgy. Dupac, Asingan.

Provincial Agriculturist Dalisay Moya said the scheduled farming field day, mass graduation, and presentation of technology demonstration results by participating program partners will serve as an opportunity for them to showcase their outputs in conducting alternative technology and farming systems.

Corporate Farming is the flagship program of the present administration for the agri-fishery sector through the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III. This aligns with the province’s strategic objective to uplift the socio-economic status and well-being of every Pangasinense.

Major projects under the program are rice production, corn production, high-value crop production, and fishery production. It aims to enhance food production and transform farming into a lucrative and sustainable economic enterprise through the so-called convergence approach among farmer cooperatives and associations (FCAs), local government units (LGUs), the Department of Agriculture and its attached agencies, different national government entities, the private sector, and financial institutions.

The PCF program is implemented not only to enhance food production but also as a support to the national government’s food sufficiency thrust under the Masagana Program for Agriculture. (Ruby R. Bernardino/Pangasinan Information and Media Relations Office)

 

P10-K Pinagkaloob ng Bataoil Admin sa Bawat Pamilyang Nasunugan

 Nagpa-abot ng tulong pinansyal ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Lingayen kamakailan sa mga pamilyang nasunugan sa P. Moran West St., Brgy. Poblacion kamakailan.

HOMECOMING. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri (left) and Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil in a jovial mood during the recent Alumni Homecoming of the Philippines Military Academy at Fort del Pilar in Baguio City. Zubiri served as the guest of honor and speaker and also officiated the oath-taking of the new officers and board directors of the PMA Alumni Association, Inc. (PMAAAI). Bataoil is a member of the PMA’s Magilas Class of 1976. 

Sa ginanap na flag raising ceremony noong  ika-19 ng Pebrero 2024, pinangunahan ni Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil at Vice Mayor Mac Dexter Malicdem kasama si Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Lorenza Decena ang pag abot ng "Emergency Shelter Assistance" na ngakakahalaga ng sampung libong piso (P10,000) sa mga apektadong pamilya na maaari nilang gamiting inisyal na pambili ng mga materyales upang muling maipagawa ang kani-kanilang nasirang bahay.

"There were 10 families affected. So we have given them from the LGU 10 thousand each po for every family. There were 10 families so P100 thousand po ang itinurn over po natin sa kanila" pahayag ni Mayor Bataoil.

Samantala, idinagdag naman ni MSWDO Officer Decena na tuloy tuloy pa rin ang kanilang pakikipag ugnayan sa iba't ibang sangay ng pamahalaan na maaari umanong mahingian ng karagdagang tulong para sa mga apektadong pamilya.

Sa ngayon, kasalukuyan pa ring nanatili sa Lingayen Evacuation Center ang mga biktima na siyang kanilang nagsisilbing pansamantalang matutuluyan.

May mga ilan ding mga kababayan, mga pribadong indibidwal at non-governmental organization ang personal nang nag-abot ng kani-kanilang tulong bagay na ipinagpapasalamat ni Mayor Bataoil.

Una nang nagkaloob ang lokal na pamahalaan ng relief supply katulad ng bigas, groceries mga damit at ilang hygiene kits sa mga biktima ng sunog na kanila nang ginagamit habang nananatili pa rin sa evacuation center.

Samantala pinarangalan naman ang Lingayen Police Station dahil sa kanilang inisyatibo upang masugpo ang iligal na droga sa bayan habang ang flag ceremony ngayong araw ng Lunes ay pinangunahan ng Municipal Tourism Office. (MIO_MRVinluan)

Bar, Resto Transform Into P’sinan College

 By Mortz C. Ortigoza

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Two of the countless facilities renovated and spruced up by the provincial government here for the Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC) are former restaurant and a bar during the Espino Administration.

FORMER BARS. The former Chatanoga Grill Seafood and Restaurant (top photo) leased by the previous Espino Administration to the owner of the business establishment and the edifice (photos below) used by the administration as a bar according to Pangasinan Governor Ramon V Guico III. Those buildings are one of the many structures converted by the present dispensation for the Pangasinan Polytechnic College located at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Complex in Lingayen. According to its first President Raymundo D. Rovillos, PPC caters to the students in the province who come from the marginalized sector.

“Itong cell na ito used to be a restaurant lang. Iyong nandoon sa gate inuman dati iyon. Ngayon, oo, bar di ba perspective dati ganoon. Andaming educational facilities na makakatulong sa pag-aaral so we make use of what we have is to have competent, dedicated people who will run it,” said by Governor Ramon V. Guico, III about the availability of government owned buildings he converted for the PPC during the launching of the Center for the Lifelong Learning (CELL) of the PPC and the ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Colleges and Institutes Canada at the CELL building in the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Complex in Lingayen.

Guico said the competence and dedication of the people who would run the PPC matter for the pedagogy of the youth of Pangasinan.

PPC first President Raymundo D. Rovillos said that classes for the short term courses start on the last week of March while the bachelor programs will start on August this year.

“Those beneficiaries of the 4Ps Program (The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) sila talaga ang primary na potential enrollees,” he told reporters during the press briefing that ensued after the launching of the CELL.

The initial offerings of the short term programs are under the auspices of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and are the following: Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II; Driving NC II; Driving (Passenger Bus/Straight Truck) NC III, and; Automotive Servicing NC 1.

The Microcredential Courses are the following:

*Pangasinan Studies; Clinical Skills for Community Health Workers; Organic Production of Vegetable Crops; Dairy Production; Design Thinking; Videography; Barangay Governance: Role and Functions of the Barangay as a Local Government Unit, Project Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Budgeting and Local Public Enterprise; Local Tourism Development Planning; Tourism Product Development; Indigenous Education Paradigm, Pedagogy and Sources and Uses of Instruction Materials.

The following four-year courses: Bachelor of Public Administration, Bachelor of Special Needs Education, Bachelor of Multimedia Arts, and Bachelor in Agribusiness.

The vision of the PPC is “producing world-class talents and leaders in the fields of science, technology, culture, and the arts” and “creating societal impact through transformative and inclusive education”.

The Governor told the crowd that the students of the PPC will be enrolled to the Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education Act (UniFAST) as government scholars.

UniFAST became a law under Republic Act No. 10687

The requirements for the scholarship -- that allocates P10, 000 per semester or P20,000 per year to a deserving student -- he/she must be a Filipino citizen, minimum age requirement (usually 17 years old and above), completed high school or its equivalent and the prescribed academic qualifications for the chosen program.

Valentine’s Day Mass Weddings in P’nan Towns

By Mortz C. Ortigoza

Various free kasalang bayan (mass weddings) have been simultaneously held at the four towns of Pangasinan solemnized by the couples’ respective Mayors in the Valentine’s Day this year.

Ninety-four (94), sixty-five (65), thirty-nine (39), and twenty–five (25) contracting parties have officially tied the knot in February 14 at the government buildings of the first class towns of Lingayen, Calasiao Mangaldan, and Sta. Barbara, respectively.

MASS WEDDING. The 65 couples who tied the knot at a mass weddings solemnized by Calasiao Mayor Kevin Roy Macanlalay in the 2024 Valentine’s Day.

Philippines law (The Family Code) empowered elected local chief executive to solemnize civil wedding within his jurisdiction. It is a requirement that one of the couples should be a resident where the rite will take place. The ceremony can be held either inside the Mayor’s Office or within its vicinity. The chief executive can also officiate mass wedding or we call it kasalang bayan. 

LINGAYEN
A supposedly modest wedding became pompous in Lingayen when 94 couples entered the Lingayen Civic Center at 10 a.m of that sunny Wednesday.
They walked on the red carpet amidst the aesthetics of flowers displayed at both sides of the aisle while an elegant decorated stage faces them.
The momentous event was witnessed by the sponsors, relatives and friends of the couples while a group of reporters have been busy taking photos of the event.

Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil solmnized while Senator Francis Tolentino stood as the main sponsor in the historic rites.
It has been a tradition under Bataoil’s governance to have a kasalang bayan annually.
Bataoil advised the couples to make God as the center of their love and exhorted them to have love, patience and understanding with each other to buttress their marriage

MANGALDAN
Almost 40 couples availed of the free mass nuptials solemnized by Mayor Bona Fe D. Parayno held at the third floor of the Social Hall of the Mangaldan town hall.
Parayno, Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Christopher de Venecia and his mother former Congresswoman Gina became the main sponsors of the wedlock.
Former Speaker Jose de Venecia attended the event with a sideshow when he offered a bouquet of flowers and a heart shaped balloon to spouse Gina as symbols of his love to the latter.

The mass wedding was organized by the Municipal Civil Registry Office (MCRO) head Aida Cera, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) chief Rowena de Guzman and the staff at the Office of the Mayor.

Among those who were married, 26 pairs fall under the category of Article 34 of the Family Code who lived-in (cohabitate) for more than five years where they do not have any restrictions anymore and the 13 who underwent the marriage license application.

“Ang pakakasalan ninyo ngayong araw ay mahal na mahal mo at mahal na mahal ka rin niya sa lahat ng araw, sa lahat ng panahon at sa kabila ng lahat ng mga pagsubok na darating sa buhay ninyo… sa mga groom, mayroon akong tatlong “S” na ibibilin na gagawin ninyo para sa mga asawa ninyo. Make her smile, be strong at Give her Support,” message of Mayor Parayno to the underprivileged contracting parties clad on their best dress for the occasion.

STA.BARBARA
Because of the vigorous support of the local government unit of Sta. Barbara, the mass wedding of the 25 couples to say “I Do” to each other was successfully concluded at the Orbos Gymnasium in Poblacion Norte of the town.

Mayor Carlito S. Zaplan solemnized the nuptials while witnessed by Vice Mayor Rogelio Navarro, members of the lawmaking body, Municipal Civil Registrar Office Chief Attorney Cynthia Natividad, PATMOS Rev. Alejandro L. de Vera and main guest Philippines Statistics Authority – Pangasinan Head Eng. Edgar M. Norberte.

CALASIAO
Mayor and solemnizing officer Mayor Kevin Roy Q. Macanlalay tied the knot of the 65 pairs in the kasalang bayan held at the Calasiao Sports Complex.

The chief executive was accompanied by Vice Mayor Dr. Nestor A. Gabrillo, Liga President Patrick A. Caramat, Councilors Gerald C. Aficial, Felipe K. De Vera, Manny V. Datuin, Jose A. Loresco, Myc D. Sison, Ardieson B. Soriano, and Elias S Villanueva.

“Ipinamalas ng ating mga magsingirog na Calasiaoeños ang kanilang wagas na pag-ibig at pangako sa isa’t isa,” according to the excerpt posted in the vernacular at the Facebook Page of the young mayor.

Pangasinan Polytechnic College Opens

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan —The entire officialdom of Pangasinan and their constituents witnessed the formal opening of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC) Center for Lifelong Learning (CeLL) and the signing of the memorandum of understanding with the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) held on February 14 at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Complex here.

PPC, a landmark project under the administration of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, serves as a gift to Pangasinenses.

NEW COLLEGE. Guests of honor for the launching of the Center for the Lifelong Learning (CELL) of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College held at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Complex in Lingayen pose for posterity before cutting the ribbon at the entrance of the CELL. (From left to right) Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Head  Camille Joseph Khoury, Pangasinan Governor Mark Lambino, Governor Ramon V. Guico III, PPC First President Raymundo D. Rovillos and Mrs. Khoury. (Caption by Mortz C. Ortigoza)

Envisioned to make “Pangasinan a premier province of great opportunities, sustained socio-economic growth, and a place where one can experience life at its best,” the provincial government saw the establishment of the PPC as a key factor in the province’s development and progress.

Gov. Guico told the attendees that he was emotional because he started his political career by establishing an educational institution in his hometown during the term of his father, now Cong. Ramon ‘Monching’ Guico Jr., based on his belief that this would be a key factor in the progress of Binalonan.

From a handful of students, the University of Eastern Pangasinan (UEP) in Binalonan crowed more than 12,000 students now after 20 years of operation.

He congratulated the people behind the creation and establishment of PPC because he was surprised by its accomplishment and physical plan and the chemistry of the team that made it happen.

The governor lauded too the provincial legislature headed by Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino for the legislative and funding support for the project.

He thanked too the provincial partners from the University of the Philippines and the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) headed by Camille Joseph Khoury, along with his brother, Patrick Guico, who have the heart to showcase, develop, and forge the partnerships for the materialization of the PPC.

‘We have to acknowledge that the institution will be greater than all of us. We built a clock that tells time, and we are only a part of that whole element. That is the vision. The clock is still ticking, telling time and reminding all of us to be on time. We are good only as our term, but this one will outlast all of us here,’ the Governor added.

Wrapping up his speech, he exhorted the students and the incoming enrollees of the PPC the importance of education.

“Mag-aral kayong mabuti. Ito ang pinaka-importanteng pamana ng ating lalawigan sa ating mga kabataan. And, once you make it, be somebody who will create an impact on your family, but most especially on the community and collectively on our nation.”

Chairman of the Committee on Education of the Provincial Board and Vice Governor Lambino cited the event as a significant milestone and journey towards fostering excellence in education and professional development.

He added that the event is a celebration of the spirit of collaboration between the PPC and CICan.

“Let us see this as an opportunity to learn from each other, inspire one another, and create corporate solutions that enrich the academic landscape and benefit communities all around the globe,’ Lambino added.

Meanwhile, Prof. Raymundo D. Rovillos, Ph.D., Interim PPC President, said that the institution is the realization of a dream of every Pangasinense that is championed by Gov. Guico III.

Rovillos finally said that the vision of the governor is “already unfolding before our very eyes, right here, right now”.

Part of the launch was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding and Agreement on strengthening linkages between the PGP, PPC, and CICan.

In his speech, CICan Manager and Partnerships and Knowledge Development Head Khoury said that it has been a privileged to be part of the opening ceremony and celebration and that he is excited for the partnership ahead.

CICan is Canada’s largest secondary school association with 140 polytechnics, colleges, training institutions, and universities.

CICan’s core mandate is dedicated to advancing education globally, finding partners that have similar missions and values, and moving in the same direction.

‘The opening embodies a lot of hope. We can imagine the incredible inspiration that will be given to Filipino men and women of all ages as they come here for training, to improve themselves, to improve their skills, and to contribute to their communities. Our partnership here is the result of a lot of work for many people. I want to say that I was moved by the governor’s speech. The vision of the governor to plan for the community is always with a heart. We are honored to be part of that,’ Khoury said.

Guests were provided with the opportunity for a walkthrough inside the PPC CeLL after the cultural performance and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The event was graced by Khoury, Senior Program Officer, Partnerships and Knowledge Development Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Milica NJegovan, Rovillos, Heads of the Higher Education Institutions, CHED-Regional Director Christine Ferrer, President of World Citi Colleges (WCC) Patrick Guico, Chancellors of the different UP Campuses, University Presidents, Local Chief Executives from various municipalities and cities, Heads of National Agencies, Industry Partners, Department Heads headed by Provincial Administrator Melicio Patague, Chiefs of Hospital and Consultants, Dr. Perla Legaspi, other luminaries, guests and students (future learners of PPC) (Chona C. Bugayong / PIMRO)

NEW AMBULANCE

 

Basista Mayor Jolly R. Resuello (extreme left) and personnel of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) of the town proudly show to all and sundry the newly procured ambulance for emergency uses among the Basistenians. Because of the vehicle, the MDRRMO under the stewardship of its head Josephine Disierto could work with more efficiency to meet the needs of her and Mayor Resuello’s constituents. The new ambulance materializes because of the approval of the Committees of the Local Finance and Bids and Award.

Politician Marching Order: Don’t Invite the Guicos at R1MC

         DESPITE PROV’L GOV’T OWNING THE LAND WHERE R1MC STANDS

By Mortz C. Ortigoza

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan - Despite the provincial government owning the land that hosts the Regional 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City, a politician instructed the officials of the hospital not to invite the governor and his congressman's father during the opening of its Center for Disease Prevention and Control and the groundbreaking of the Nuclear Medicine Facility.

CUT. (from left to right) Department of Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, former House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Pangasinan 4th District Cong. Christopher de Venecia and his mother former Congresswoman Gina prepare to cut the ribbon for the opening of the Center for Disease Prevention and Control at the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan City. 

Those who graced recently the occasion were Department of Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, Area 1 (Northern and Central Luzon) UHC-HSC, CHD-I Regional Director Dr. Paula Paz Sydiongco, R1MC Medical Center Chief Dr. Roland Mejia, five-time Speaker of the House Jose de Venecia, Jr., former Cong. Gina de Venecia and incumbent Cong. Christopher de Venecia. Gina is seen by political kibitzers to run on the congressional seat to be vacated by her son after the latter ends his nine years' term on June 30, 2025.

Pangasinan Governor Ramon “Monmon” V. Guico III reacted that all the properties built on the two – hectare R1MC are owned and titled to the provincial government and should be named to the Capitol.

“Ang probinsiya andami pong hospital. Sa province pa iyang Region 1 Medical Center. Tapos ayaw kaming imbitahan doon. Nakita ko ang iba sa inyo (reporters who covered the event) andoon. Merong instruction: huwag imbitahan ang mga Guicos. Pero lahat ng inilagay doon sa property sa Arellano, Dagupan City ipangalan mo sa probinsiya kasi ang lupa ay titulado sa provincial of Pangasinan. Legally sa probinsiya po iyon..,” Guico III told reporters in a press conference held Wednesday’s morning at the launching of the Center for the Lifelong Learning (CELL) of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College held at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Complex in Lingayen.

The governor’s father Pangasinan 5th District Congressman Ramon “Monching” Guico, Jr. launched the Ginhawa Mo, Gets (Gamot, Edukasyon, Trabaho, Serbisyo) Ko Agad Campaign. The campaign aims to strengthen the local government, and provide faster and improved services to the Filipinos. Rep. Guico is also the Vice Chairman of the powerful Commission on Appointment in Congress.

The Civil Code of the Philippines says that “the owner of a parcel of land is the owner of its surface and of everything under it,… (Article 437)” and “he who builds, plants or sows in bad faith on the land of another, loses what is built, planted or sown without right to indemnity (Article 449)”.

The governor told reporters that his administration will be using the property in Dagupan City for his expanding and improving health programs where he just hired last month additional 200 doctors and nurses in order to address the growing needs of his constituents spread in the 44 towns and three cities.

“We have 14 hospitals – 15 technically because the Province of Pangasinan… the property almost two hectares in Dagupan is owned and titled to the Province of Pangasinan. Sa atin iyan. We will be using mga ito (inaudible) regarding that matter,” he said.

Reasons Why the Philippines is Poor

By Mortz C. Ortigoza

The reasons why the Philippines has an unemployment rate of 1.60 million (Philippines Statistics Authority 2022) and a 1.96 million (PSA) overseas foreign workers (OFW) (where members of the families are dislocated because of joblessness in the home country) among its 114 million population are blamed on the anti-foreign business equity in our Constitution.

Photo of a poor Filipino family. (United Nations)

      Our fundamental law says that “No franchise, certificate, or any other form of authorization for the operation of a public utility shall be granted except to citizens of the Philippines or to corporations or associations organized under the laws of the Philippines at least sixty per centum of whose capital is owned by such citizens, …”. (Section 11, Article XII).

       It is time to change this xenophobic law that only gives 40 percent ownership to foreigners because many member - countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have dusted us off in snaring foreign direct investment (FDI) that powered their manufacturing firms and exports because they offered 100 percent foreign ownership of their industries.

      It would show that in year 2022 Singapore was the largest recipient of FDI with U.S$141 billion followed by Indonesia ($22 billion), Vietnam ($18 billion), Malaysia ($17 billion), and the Philippines ($9.2 billion) (UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2023)

 Below is the list of ASEAN in their export feats (Source: SeaAsia 2022):

                      

Below is the list from top to bottom of manufacturing outputs in 2022 of ASEAN:

       Those countries who topped the Philippines on capturing most of the FDIs, export and manufacture products have 100 percent law for everybody to own an industry.

       Look for instance Vietnam: It was called by France President Charles de Gaulle as "ce pays pourri (this rotten country) in the 1960’s U.S – Vietnam War -- despite Vietnam defeating the French in the 1950's war. The country bore the brunt of three times the total bomb tonnage dropped by the allies in World War - II in Europe and Asia when the Americans carpet bombed it. In 1990s it was still behind the Philippines economically but the figures above on number of FDI, output of its manufacturing firms, and exports show Vietnam eclipsed by a mile the lethargic growing Philippines due to its initiative to open up and without turning back its once decadent Marxist economy to burgeoning capitalism.

      Aside from the 100 percent ownership she offered to FDI, the other come-ons of the country are the low corporate taxes, strategic location for trade and investment, stable politics, renewable energy, wide manufacturing hubs, technology, stock market, and real estate.

Vietnam has become a global hub for producing electronics, footwear, textiles, and furniture. The once war torn country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, low-cost labor, and trade agreements with major markets leap frogged it significantly.

Conclusion

      To make the Philippines a draw to more FDIs, we need to amend the economic provision in our Constitution to 100 percent ownership so we can solve if not mitigate our joblessness and stop the diaspora of our citizens abroad because they can be employed in the country, be with their families and shun the downsides of working abroad.

 After the amendment, our government could strategize the industrial and manufacturing hubs in the provinces – for example - so we could compete with the low wages offered by Vietnam, Indonesia and other ASEAN members.

 

Cayetano to deep-dive into Nuclear Regulation Act in Monday Senate Hearing

 Senator Alan Peter Cayetano is set to further review on Monday the proposed Philippine Nuclear Regulation Act which aims to establish a regulatory framework for the usage of radioactive materials in various industries across the Philippines.

This comes after an initial Senate hearing held on December 2, 2023 where Cayetano, chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, emphasized that the bill is focused on regulation, not on establishing a new nuclear power plant.

"Doon sa mga may agam-agam, may doubt sa nuclear power plant, nuclear energy: this bill is not to put up one (nuclear power plant). It's precisely to have the institution and the right people to be able to assess [the use of nuclear energy]," he said.

The Senate hearing on Monday holds critical sway over the Philippines' nuclear future. It tackles key issues such as safe radioactive use, public safety, and building trust in the technology, among others.

The proposed Philippine Nuclear Regulation Act is part of a broader legislative effort that includes House Bill No. 9293, known as the "Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act," which proposes creating the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM).

This independent body aims to license facilities using radioactive materials, including hospitals with radiology services and ensure safe and secure utilization of nuclear energy in the country.

Cayetano earlier expressed his support for DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) Director Vallerie Ann Samson who had stressed that nuclear energy is not only used for power generation but also for agriculture, medicine, and other industries.

“I’m happy that we’re tackling this early in the administration kasi kung mid-term na o pahuli na, maipasa man ito, y’ung implementation [sa susunod na administration pa],” he said.

As the Senate hearing approaches, stakeholders and experts are expected to provide further insights into the proposed legislation and its potential implications for the Philippines' energy landscape, environment, economy, and public health.

Last year, apart from the experts who participated in the initial Senate hearing, many other guests from other sectors also attended to learn more about the proposed law. Among them was Barangay Captain Eriberto “Bobot” Ibarra of Palatiw, Pasig City who urged the public to be informed about the agenda.

“Hindi sila dapat matakot kasi nga ito ay araw-araw halos nang ginagamit sa ospital. Hindi lang tayo aware kung ano itong mga ito. [Kaya] maglalagay sila ng nuclear department para magkaroon tayo ng awareness at magkaroon tayo ng safety doon sa mga ginagamit na kemikal,” he said.###

Wala na Kayong Magawa Putol na ang mga Puno

 By Mortz C. Ortigoza

Mabuti na lang hindi isinali ng Pangasinan provincial government ang environmentalist group na  Pangasinan People’s Strike for the Environment (PPSE) noong nagpaputol sila ng 64 kahoy noong February 1 para magbukas sa P100 million na reflecting pool and interactive fountain.

Pag nagkataon, hanggang ngayon walang makikita ang mga taga Pangasinan at mundo sa nakakaaliw na malaking pananda na lalong magpapaganda sa picturesque American stately colonial era designed Capitol dahil manggugulo sila.

 

Gov. Ramon V. Guico III (second from left), Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG Lambino, Department of Public Works & Highway-Regional Office -1 headed by Engr. Amelia M. Zamudio (extreme left) and DPWH 2nd Provincial Engineering District Chief Engr. Edita L. Manuel lead the ground-breaking ceremony and the laying of the time capsule for the Reflecting Pool and Interactive Fountain Project held at the Provincial Capitol Complex on November 8, 2023. (Photo by PIO)

 Mantakin ninyo  na merong tumatakbong Pari sa katauhan ni Father Robert “Running Priest” Reyes sa gilid ng mga acacia trees, mga pagtali ng mga puting ribbons sa mga puno ni Yano rock band vocal Dong  Abay, at araw araw na ingay ng mga raliyista sa paligid ng Kapitolyo. Mantakin niyo ang abala at sakit ng ulo pag isinali pa sila sa kunsultasyon na inaalmahan nila.

Itong mga senaryo ng panggugulo ng mga overacting na mga environmentalist ay hindi na bago sa Pangasinan. Ito ay nangyari na ng years 2013, 2014 at 2015 kung saan hindi makapag-apply ang Department of Public Works & Highway (DPWH) sa Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) sa eastern Pangasinan noong kailangang putulin ang mga nalalabing 770 puno na karamihan ay century old dahil sa road widening ng Manila North Road (MNR) at pati na rin sa highway na sakop ng Urdaneta City patungong Dagupan City. 1,030 na puno lang ang naputol ng contractor sa 1,800 na dapat putulin pero na abutan ng three months deadline noong November 2013 to February 2014 kaya nag apply uli ang DPWH. Doon nagsimula ang gulo sa ikalawang aplikasyon sa pagputol.

Paano ang pangkahalatang kapakanan ng mga Pilipino nito pag hinayaan na lang na masadlak ang mga sasakyan sa “perennial traffic congestion” na magpapaparusa sa kanila sa araw-araw na sila’y nabubuhay at paggastos ng malaking halaga sa krudo sa mga motorista dahil ang kakaunti ay ayaw ipaputol ang mga puno sa loob ng mga kalsada?

Dahil sa kawalan ng permit dahil nag aatubili ang DENR na mag isyu dahil sa ingay ng mga environmentalists at sa sulat ni Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr (kung saan ang anak niya ay makakalaban sa 2016 governorship election ni dating 5^th District Cong.Mark Cojuangco – proponent ng road widening), naging katawatawa ang probinsiya dahil ang ibang lanes ng kalsada ay may mga dambuhalang puno na kumitil na sa mga buhay ng mga driver ng mga sasakyan na bumangga.

***

Pero kwidaw iyong kelangang ipagpaalam sa mga environmentalists. Bukod sa naputol na ang mga kahoy, lahat ng technical at legal requirements gaya sa pagsali sa kunsultasyon ng mga pinuno at residente ng Barangay Libsong West at Barangay Poblacion ay sinunod ng Kapitolyo.

Ito ang ibang nilalaman ng press release noong February 4 galing sa Provincial Information Office:

“To kick off the project, the Capitol accomplished various requirements like the cutting of 64 trees of different species, which was done through the conduct of an ocular inspection and inventory of trees by the Community Environment and Natural Resource Office (CENRO) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resource (CENRO-DENR). A tree-cutting permit was approved by DENR on January 16, 2024. As a replacement for the trees that were cut, 3,200 seedlings will be planted in different areas.

“Likewise, some 150,000 seedlings were planted by the provincial government under its “Pangasinan Green Canopy” program, which affirms the present administration’s commitment to protect and preserve the environment”.

Ang Reflecting Pool ay ginaya sa Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool sa Washington D.C, The Mansion in Baguio City at sa Taj Mahal sa India habang ang Interactive Fountain ay inspirasyon ng dancing fountain sa Vigan City.

***

Madrama pa itong mga environmental activists at heritage conservation advocates.

Bakit daw ililipat sa kanilang mga tirahan ang mga memorabilia na U.S made Sherman tank at kanyon at Japanese World –II na eroplanong “Zero Fighter” na gawang Mitsubishi na matagal ng nakakabit at nakalatag doon.

Diyos ko! Hindi sila inalis kundi lalong inilapit doon sa dagat kung saan lumusong ang liberator o tagapagpalaya ng mga Pilipino na si Gen. Douglas “I shall return” MacArthur sa kuko ng mga demonyong Hapon na sumakop sa Pinas ng mahigit tatlong taon. Bukod pa diyan, may pag-apruba na galing sa National Historical Commission na pwede silang ilipat.

 Iyang mga ingay na ginagawa ngayon ng mga environmentalists, media entities, trolls ng mga kalaban sa pulitika at mga anti progress na writers sa social media ay “standing on a feet of clay” dahil ang Kapitolyo ay nakatayo sa legalidad at teknikalidad.

 

How Indo, Thailand, Vietnam Left Economically Ph

By Mortz C. Ortigoza 

It did not stop to impress me how the once backwater Vietnam has gone to places.

In the 1960's war with the Americans, French President Charles André Joseph Marie de Gaulle called Vietnam as "ce pays pourri (this rotten country) despite the poor country defeating the French in the 1950's war. France sucked out - just like those greedy European countries - the "blood" of IndoChina (Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) as its colony for centuries.

Look at Vietnam now. After it adopted the 100 percent foreign ownership of businesses on its Constitution, foreign investments flock there because of its cheap labor.

Vietnam has eclipsed the Philippines because investors shun the latter due to its fundamental law that provides 40 percent ownership to foreign investors while 60 percent goes to Filipino oligarchs like the Lopez, Sy, Gokongwei, Aboitiz, Ang, Pangilinan, and others.

We need Congress to amend the economics provision of our Constitution so we could be liked Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand.

PANGASINAN HEAT

 PANGASINAN HEAT joins Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL). MPBL Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes (third from left first row) officially welcomed the team at the Ceremonial Hall of the Urduja House by signing the franchise agreement with franchise owner, former Bayambang Mayor Dr.Cezar Quiambao (right side of Duremdes). Others at the front row are (after Mayor Quiambao) Pangasinan Gov. Ramon V. Guico, III,  Alaminos City Mayor Arth Bryan Celeste, First District Congressman Art Celeste, and Vice Governor Mark Lambino who all committed to fully support the team. (PIO Photo)

94 Top Execs of the BIR Reshuffled

 By Mortz C. Ortigoza

CALASIAO, Pangasinan 94 top executives of the Bureau of Internal Revenue in the country have been reassigned to various post as part of the recent Revenue Travel Assignment Order (RTAO) because of the exigencies of their services.

NEW BIR CHIEFS in Pangasinan. Central Pangasinan Revenue District Office (RDO) No. 4 Chief Lope N. Tubera and Eastern Pangasinan RDO No. 6 Chief Ma. Susana SP. Santos.

In the RTAO No. 37-2024 dated January 10 and signed by BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr., he directed the concerned personnel to strictly comply with the RTAO “...regarding turnover of all accountabilities and compliance to issued RTAOs covering transfer of personnel”.

The reassigned executives are Aldrin A. Camba, CRO III as OIC- Revenue District Office (RDO) Chief of RDO No. 4 Calasiao, Pangasinan to OIC-RDO Chief in Laoag City; Eden R. Serafica, CRO IV as RDO Chief of RDO No. 6 in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan to RDO Chief in RDO No. 7 in Bangued, Abra; Trinidad Acorda Villamil from RDO Chief of RDO No. 32 in Quiapo-Sampaloc, San Miguel in Manila to RDO Chief in RDO No.33 in Intramuros, Manila; Christine M. Cardona as RDO Chief RDO No. 58 in Batangas City to RDO Chief of RDO No.63 in Oriental Mindoro; Ma. Bernadette B. Mangaoang, CRO IV as RDO Chief of RDO No. 11 in Tabuk City, Kalinga to RDO Chief of RDO No. 23-A in Talavera, North Nueva Ecija; Yolanda C. Zafra, CRO IV as RDO Chief of RDO No. 83 in Talisay, Cebu to RDO Chief in RDO No. 40 in Cubao, Quezon City.

Replacement of Camba in Calasiao is RDO Chief Lope N. Tubera, CRO IV who hailed from RDO No. 23-B in Cabanatuan City while that of Serafica in Urdaneta City is newly promoted RDO Chief Ma. Susana SP. Santos, CRO III who hailed as Assistant Chief of RDO No. 50 in South Makati.