NEWS ARCHIVE April 2007

Keppel O&M wins orders worth $106 million
Taiwan losing control of Subic Bay to South Korea,...
PGMA moves to complete P21-B Subic-Clark road proj...
Power outage hits parts of Metro, Luzon
Right-of-way problems derail SCTEx schedule
Explore: Two Hours To Paradise!
SEARCH FOR MR. AND MS. SUMMER ICON
Subic lacks requirement for conversion to a city
READY…GET SET…BONG!
A CALL TO UNITY TO SUPPORT ZAMBALES ALLIANCE FOR A...
PALARO NG MGA PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWD) TODO...
Message to Zambalenos
Subic Bay Activities
Korean shipbuilding firm opens jobs, welcomes Akla...
SBMA READIES COMPLEX FOR REBIDDING AS FEDEX EXITS ...
GORDON TICKET PROCLAMATION
$215-M port project 92 percent complete ahead of s...
GABI NG PARANGAL SA MGA ‘’OUTSTANDING OLONGAPEñO’’...

Keppel O&M wins orders worth $106 million

Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd (Keppel O&M) has secured contracts for FPSO conversion and shipbuilding projects amounting to S$160 million (about US$105.8 million).

Keppel Shipyard has been awarded contracts for the conversion of two Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units.

One is from SBM Holdings Inc SA (SBM), the other is from Emas Offshore Construction and Production Pte Ltd (Emas).

The conversion of the 268,865 dwt VLCC (previously FSO XV - DOMY) for SBM is expected to be completed and the FPSO will sail from the yard in the third quarter of 2008. On completion, the facility will produce up to 100,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd), and have a storage capacity of about 1.6 million barrelsl.

The FPSO unit will be leased by a SBM/MISC joint venture to the BC-10 Consortium operated by Shell for the development of the BC-10 field in tBrazilian waters of the Campos Basin. This field is expected to be one of the key milestones in the commercialization of heavy oil in Brazil's deepwaters.

Mr Nelson Yeo, Executive Director of Keppel Shipyard, said, "This is our tenth conversion project for SBM since the year 2000. We wish to thank SBM for their continuing confidence in Keppel Shipyard's ability to perform and deliver quality services all the time."

The major scope of work for the conversion includes accommodations upgrading, fabrication and installation of an internal turret mooring system, piperacks, modules supports, helideck and shipside sponson tanks as well as installation of the power generation system and topside process modules.

The second contract, awarded by Emas Offshore Construction and Production, a subsidiary of Ezra Holdings Limited, is for the conversion of a 127,533 mt shuttle tanker into LEWEK FPSO 1 for deployment in the Gulf of Thailand.

Keppel Shipyard will carry out the overall project management and completion of the FPSO including fabrication and installation of flare tower, installation and integration of the topside modules. Its sister yard, Subic Shipyard and Engineering Inc (Subic Shipyard), will undertake repair and refurbishment works and part of the conversion, including bow modification for a mooring system, fabrication and installation of the helideck, pipe racks and module supports.

The vessel is expected to be completed in mid 2008.

Meanwhile, Keppel Nantong Shipyard in China has received an order for the construction of three 65-ton bollard pull twin-screw Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugboats from Keppel Smit Towage Pte Ltd. These vessels are of the proprietary MTD 3265ST design developed by Keppel Singmarine's technology unit, Marine Technology Development (MTD). They are expected to be delivered between third quarter of 2009 and first quarter of 2010.

Keppel Philippines Marine, Inc (KPMI) has also sold two units of 45-ton bollard pull tugboats to Keppel Smit Towage. These two boats are being built in Keppel Batangas Shipyard and Keppel Cebu Shipyard in the Philippines and are expected to be completed by the third quarter of this year. KPMI delivered two similar tugs to Maju Maritime Ltd, a sister company of Keppel Smit Towage, in 2006.

Keppel Smit Towage is 51% owned by KS Investments Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Keppel O&M.

Keppel Shipyard will convert the 268,865 dwt VLCC, FSO XVÐDOMY (center), for SBM which will be leased to the BC-10 Consortium operated by Shell.

Taiwan losing control of Subic Bay to South Korea, China - report

Taipei - Taiwan, the main player in developing the Subic Bay Export Processing Zone of the Philippines, is losing its competitiveness to South Korea and China, a newspaper said on Wednesday

The China Times said that while Taiwan helped launch the Subic Bay free zone and made huge investment, it is now being edged out by later comers, especially South Korea and China.

"A South Korean hotel is being built in front of Taiwan's Wistro Corp and China's Jingniu glass company will start building a 320-million-dollar glass factory in May," the daily said.

South Korea's Hanjin Heavy Industry and Construction Co is building a 1.4-billion-dollar shipyard across the bay from the Taiwan Industrial Zone.

"Hanjin said it will hire 20,000-30,000 workers by 2010. It will certainly look like a Korea Town," the paper quoted Wistro Manager More Chuang as saying.

The paper said the biggest threat was that the competition could eventually drive out Taiwan, whose investment has been dwindling.

Subic Bay, 110 kilometres north of Manila, used to be a US naval base but was returned to the Philippines in 1992.

Taiwan moved into Subic Bay in 1994 by forming a joint venture with the Philippines to develop it into a free port, agreeing to develop 300 hectares in three stages.

The project was politically motivated because former president Lee Teng-hui wanted to develop unofficial ties with the Southeast Asian nations and was encouraging Taiwan manufacturers to invest in Southeast Asia under the "Go South Policy."

However, due to changes in Taiwan's policies and the difficulty in attracting Taiwanese manufacturers to open plants in Subic Bay, Taiwan's development reached only the second phase, and the number of Taiwan factories has dropped from 300 to 50.

"China's investment in Subic Bay has strategic considerations. But the Subic Bay is close to Taiwan and is our gateway to ASEAN countries. Taiwan should have a more open-minded view when considering investing in the Subic Bay," the paper quoted Wu Hsin-hsing, Taiwan's trade representative to the Philippines, as saying.

PGMA moves to complete P21-B Subic-Clark road project

Now, President Arroyo is moving in. She is determined to speed up the completion of the PhP 21 billion Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx), which is seriously behind schedule.

In fact, the President has instructed the Subic-Clark Alliance for Development council (SCADC) to invite the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) and the Japanese principal contractors and consultants for an urgent meeting in Malacanang on Friday.

The main agenda at this meeting would be to find a workable solution to the tag-o-war between the contractors and the authorities, which is the cause of the delay in the completion of the project.

In an interview at his extension office here, Sec. Edgardo Pamintuan, SCADC chief, said that he has relayed this to the Japanese consortium.

Earlier, the Japanese consortium, which is constructing the expressway, has asked for a 457-day extension to finish the 93-kilometer road project due mainly to right-of-way problems.

Earlier, Pamintuan briefed the President that the delay in the completion of the project is being caused by the principal Japanese contractors failure to comply with its obligation to utilize in the prosecution of the project, new, modern and heavy equipment.

Pamintuan said that the main reason for inviting DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan to the Malacanang meeting, is to look into the possibility of seeking the help of the DPWH on allowing the use of the giant equipment they used in building the multi-billion peso anti-lahar megadike in Pampanga after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991.

Aside from Pamintuan and Secretary Cerge M. Remonde, presidential adviser on infrastructure development, others invited to the Friday meeting at Malacanang were

BCDA president Narciso Abaya and the principal contractors and consultants of the expressway project.

Some officials of the Japanese consortium earlier blamed BCDA for its alleged failure to immediately solve the right-of-way problem in the Dinalupihan, Bataan section of the project.

The Japanese contractor undertaking the Package I of the project between Subic and Clark was blamed for the delay of the construction and the negative slippage.

According to Pamintuan, reports reaching him showed that the Japanese contractor in that portion relied mostly on small and old equipment provided by sub-contractors.

The contractors so far have incurred an 8 percent slippage. A 15 percent slippage or delay could be ground for re-termination of the contract, Pamintuan said. The project was contracted to be completed in November this year. (PNA)

Power outage hits parts of Metro, Luzon

A DAY after assuring the public of uninterrupted power supply this summer, sections of Metro Manila and nearby provinces were left in the dark as a number of plants the National Power Corp. (Napocor) contracted to supply energy shut down.

In a statement, Napocor blamed the power outage on generation shortfalls caused by its failure to anticipate the increase in demand for electricity.

Cyril del Callar, Napocor president, said Wednesday’s peak demand in electricity shot up by 200 megawatts from the forecast 6,400 megawatts for the period, thus straining the Luzon grid’s supply.

This was compounded by equipment trouble at the 270-megawatt Bataan Combined Cycle Power Plant in Limay town. Both the 225-megawatt Bauang and 600-megawatt Limay power plants run by independent power producers (IPPs) contracted by Napocor also shut down.

“We are now utilizing all available power plants, including those running on coal, natural gas and diesel, to address the situation. We are also making sure that these power plants are running reliably and efficiently,” del Callar said.

Only a day earlier, del Callar said that maintenance work on power plants would be suspended to ensure uninterrupted electricity during the upcoming election. Napocor also assured that its power plants have adequate fuel supply and that quick-start generating units would be available not only on election day, but also during the subsequent counting of ballots and canvassing of votes.

Napocor blamed the increase in power demand on the extreme summer heat, which forced people to use cooling appliances for longer-than-usual periods. Last year demand for electricity peaked in May.

Napocor said that it expects power to be restored in affected areas in the afternoon or the evening.

The power troubles prompted state-run National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) to declare a system red alert at 8 a.m. in the Luzon grid due to lack of system reserves.

This in turn prompted the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to implement “a manual load dropping” resulting in rotating power interruptions within its franchise area until 12:30 p.m.

Because of the unusually high demand of electricity, Meralco had to temporarily shut down power in Bulacan and portions of Novaliches. TransCo, on the other hand, had to cut off power supply in areas in Zambales (Subic and Castillejos towns); Bataan (in the municipalities of Balanga, Orani, Limay, Bagac, Orion) and Pampanga (in Guagua, Santa Rita, Bacolor, Lubao, Mexico and Arayat towns).

“The power interruptions, which could last up to four hours in different areas, started at 10:19 a.m. in the Meralco franchise area. Residential, commercial and industrial customers may be affected by these rotating power outages,” Elpi Cuna, Meralco vice-president and corporate communication head, said.

The power interruptions was a result of a generation deficiency of 450 megawatts for Meralco. This was attributed to the cutting-in of Santa Rita Module 10 and the diversion of coal intended for Cebu to the Pagbilao plant.

Meanwhile, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said it would proactively set measures to avoid blackouts similar to the ones experienced by California in the early part of the decade.

The assurance was made after IPPs expressed concern that the failure of Meralco to pay its power suppliers may lead to massive blackouts similar to the ones that crippled California in 2001.

“The ERC will do its best to find avenues to prevent ‘buy high but sell low’ transactions and expeditiously act on application of distribution utilities including Meralco for the collection of generation charges from their respective electricity consumers so as not to impair the financial viability of power distributors,” Rodolfo B. Albano Jr., ERC chairman, said.
By Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo Manila Times Reporter

Right-of-way problems derail SCTEx schedule

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO—Officials of a Japanese consortium building the Pampanga-Tarlac portion of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway have asked the Bases Conversion Development Authority to grant them 457 more days to finish the project due mainly to right-of-way problems.

The request, made by the Hazama-Taisei-Nippon Steel (HTN) Joint Venture on March 29, cited “a critical delay” in its work due mainly due to right-of-way problems, which was also the basis of another Japanese contractor to ask for a 383-day extension on the road’s Bataan-Pampanga stretch.

The KOJM and the HTN made the request on the same day.

‘Critical delay’

In the request, project manager Kunio Kimata told project consultants that “despite our best endeavors, circumstances beyond our responsibility and control have arisen that caused a critical delay to the completion of the work.”

“As such we have no other alternative but to exercise our right under the contract to claim for an extension,” Kimata said.

He referred to the 422 days of delay incurred at the Clark interchange “due to late giving of site possession there.”

HTN explained its basis: “BCDA’s failure to comply with its contractual obligations to give HTN the right of access to and possession of the whole site is a major breach of contract.”

“As a result, HTN has encountered delays to the progress of the work leaving HTN open to the risk of liquidated damages. It is no doubt unreasonable to expect HTN to pay liquidated damages for not completing the work on time due to the late giving of the right of access to and possession of site by BCDA,” it added.

But BCDA president Narciso Abaya said HTN has withdrawn its request and the deadline extension sought by the consortium was now “moot and academic.”

Robert Gervacio, SCTEx project manager for operational support, said HTN’s work was already 80-percent completed as of March.

Joint venture

Except for saying that HTN would apply “single-minded dedication to complete the job,” Abaya did not say how it would catch up with the work.

Abaya said the HTN committed to meet its Aug. 18, 2007 deadline when he met its officials last week.

In a statement, Abaya said HTN general manager Makoto Yoshida, Kimata and Hazama general manager for international division Tetsuro Marui gave this commitment when they paid him a courtesy call on April 13.

Marui flew in from Hazama’s head office in Tokyo, Japan, to give the official advice, he said.

“The assurance of the top executives [of HTN] came as a whiff of fresh wind, coming as it did at a time when the Japanese contractor of Package 1 … had requested an extension of its project completion deadline for another 300 days,” Abaya said.

An HTN official did not return Inquirer’s calls.

The BCDA board of directors wanted the other contractor, the Kajima-Obayashi-JFE Engineering-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (KOJM) Joint Venture to stick to its Nov. 16, 2007 deadline.

The project consultants—the Pacific Consultants International, Katahira and Engineers International and Nippon Koei Co. Ltd.—advised KOJM, which reported incurring 2,408 days of delay, to take measures to arrest the lag, noting that its 69-percent accomplishment rate as of March 31 was 10 percent behind work schedule. Its work covers the 50-km segment of the 94-km, four-lane toll road .

Explore: Two Hours To Paradise!

It's the glorious season of the sun once again. It's the season of sun-kissed gods and goddesses, banana coladas on the beach, and island sunsets. Everyone is busy planning that great summer getaway in Boracay, Palawan, or some exotic and unexplored tropical paradise. Everyone except you.

"I just don't have the time!" It's that same old boring but nonetheless all-encompassing truth. So that dream summer escapade stays as it is--a dream. A figment of your imagination.

But wait! Don't write this summer off as another missed opportunity to have a little fun in the sun just yet. All is not lost.

This paradise is just a short two-hour drive from the daily grind of Metro Manila.

Think blue, crystal waters, Mediterranean-style cabanas, clean, crisp air, and a seaside haven cradled by picturesque mountains.

A smooth drive along the North Luzon Expressway brings you to summer's perfect getaway: White Rock Beach Hotel in the quiet little town of Matain, Zambales province, along the beautiful shores of Subic Bay. White Rock is a welcome reprieve for the city-weary soul: Quiet and peaceful-- enough for that badly needed R&R and yet never too far from home. And thanks to the picturesque mountain ranges surrounding the bay, White Rock is virtually tsunami-free so you can free your mind of any worry and simply concentrate on having a grand time.

White Rock's 7-hectare stretch of lush greenery, soaring palm trees, and ashen sand is overflowing with leisure and indulgence. Who could resist an early morning frolic at the resort's all-weather garden or watching the sunset on one of its beach lounge beds? Or perhaps, reading your favourite book on a hammock under the palm trees while you sip fresh buko (young coconut) juice and bask in the cool breeze?

The resort's natural scenic beauty is enhanced even more by the rich colours of its 130 hotel rooms. With the resort completing its room renovations and the addition of lavish bathroom amenities, White Rock is more spacious and luxurious than ever.

Garden and beachfront rooms are an experience all by themselves, as an unrivaled view of the beach during sunrise and sunset unfolds before you from your own bedroom's veranda.

Boredom is out of the question. Choose your day's activity with the resort's recreational facilities--jet skiing, kayaking, wreck-diving, island hopping, snorkeling, or go riding on a banana boat or on a traditional banca (boat). You can also try improving your swing at the resort's driving range or try scoring a strike at the bowling lanes.

When filling your stomach, head to the resort's Seaside Plaza for its "all you can eat" buffet of local and international cuisine. The resort's cumbancheros and the nightly performance of live bands make your meals even more enjoyable. For a more intimate fine dining experience, try the open-air Sunset Cafe located at the main building.

There are grand swimming pools for a more peaceful swim, a fully equipped gym for the fitness buff, and a videoke lounge, billiard tables, and a great selection of cocktails at Rock bar for those who fancy a gimmick night.

Ocean Adventure

While you're at it, try taking a sidetrip to Ocean Adventure--Southeast Asia's only open-water marine park--and get up close and personal with its playful and fascinating sea lions, dolphins and false killer whales.

Aside from offering fun and educational shows, Ocean Adventure is first and foremost a wildlife and environment protection sanctuary for endangered species and injured animals. These animals are housed, fed and treated until they are well enough to be released back into the wild or, in the case of those disabled by their injuries, lovingly kept under the care of the marine park.

Its Wildlife In Need Animal Rescue Center has become the safe haven for hundreds of injured and endangered animals rescued from commercial establishments, uncaring hunters, or accidents.

After a full day of frolicking and adventure in the sun and sand, head back to the Sanctuario Spa on the second level of White Rock's main building. Awarded Asia's Most Innovative Spa and Salon by the Global Excellence Awards 2006, Sanctuario offers a wide range of pampering services that are sure to rejuvenate and revive the spirit.

And just before you retreat to your beachfront home away from home, what say you cap the night with a leisurely stroll on the beach?

These two summer destinations are just waiting to be explored. And because they're both very accessible any time, any day, there's no reason for you to stay at home--pale and sulking--while the whole country is busy working on that perfect tan. (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN)

SEARCH FOR MR. AND MS. SUMMER ICON

Sa inisyatiba ni Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. at sa pakikipagtulungan ng City Tourism Office ay ilulunsad sa ika-27 at 29 ng Abril 2007 ang Search for Mr. and Ms. Summer Icon sa Driftwood Beach, Barrio Barretto.

‘’Binuo ang ganitong konsepto ng patimpalak upang lalo pang palakasin at pasiglahin ang turismo sa lungsod sa panahon ng tag-init,’’ wika ni Mayor Gordon.

Ang Search for Mr. and Ms. Summer Icon 2007 ay bukas sa mga kababaihan at kalalakihan na may edad na 18 hanggang 30 taong gulang na may taas na 5’2 pataas para sa lalake at 5’ pataas naman para sa mga babae.

Kabilang sa mga kinakailangang requirements para sa mga interesadong sumali ay ang: fully accomplished application form, (1) 3R colored whole body shot na nakasuot ng swim wear; original copy ng birth certificate at P 200.00 registration fee.

Ang screening ng mga aplikante ay gaganapin sa ika-29 ng Marso 2007 sa FMA Hall kung saan ang mga kalahok ay dadaan sa casual wear presentation, interview at contest briefing. Sa screening na ito pipili ng tig-20 candidates para sa kababaihan at kalalakihan na syang magiging opisyal na kalahok sa contest sa ika-27 at 29 ng Abril.

Tatanggap naman ng cash, trophies, sash, at gift certificates ang mga magwawagi sa naturang patimpalak.

Ang Search for Mr. and Ms. Summer Icon ay bahagi ng pagdiriwang ng Sibit-Sibit Festival sa ika-27 hanggang 29 ng Abril sa beach area ng Brgy. Barretto na tatampukan ng ibat-ibang aktibidades tulad ng decorated banca sailing at raising, Bonggo Bingo Bonanza at Summer Dance Craze.

Subic lacks requirement for conversion to a city

SUBIC, Zambales - This southernmost town of the province, contrary to the hype being peddled by local officials and some provincial executives, is not yet qualified to become a city, lacking the required minimum locally generated average annual income to support its conversion, Vice Governor Ramon Lacbain II bared recently.

Lacbain, who hails from Subic town and is now eyeing the congressional seat of the province's first district, said the Department of Finance, through Bureau of Local Government Finance executive director Ma. Presentacion Montesa, has advised Subic Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun in a letter dated January 30, 2007 the town did not earn enough revenues pegged at a minimum of P100 million a year to support its conversion into a component city of the province.

The town mayor had earlier requested the bureau of local government finance for a certification on the average annual income of Subic in connection with the proposal to convert the town into a component city.

"The locally generated average annual regular income of Subic, Zambales for calendar years 2005 and 2006 based on 200 constant prices and exclusive of special funds, transfers and non recurring income amounted to only Twenty-Three Million Three Hundred Seventy Thousand Three Hundred Thirty Pesos & 98 (P23,370,330.98). Hence the municipality does not meet the minimum income requirement of P100 million pursuant to RA 9009 amending Section 450 of RA 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, to support its conversion into a city," Montesa' s letter to Khonghun stated.

Lacbain said he became interested to know more about the proposal to convert his town into a city and had even requested the House of Representatives for a copy of the bill supposedly filed by First District Representative Mitos Magsaysay.

"The Subic Cityhood Project is already a much talked-about by my townmates so I decided to get a copy of the bill so that a more thorough study could be done by everyone concerned," Lacbain said.

Lacbain, however, lamented that despite a resolution made by the Sangguning Panlalawigan on December 19, 2005 requesting the incumbent congresswoman of the first district to file a bill in Congress for the conversion of Subic into a component city of Zambales, he learned on May 22, 2006 in a letter from the House of Representatives Secretary General Roberto Nazareno there was no such bill filed in Congress yet.

Lacbain said all the hype by the town officials and some provincial executives actively pursuing the cityhood project appear to be an attempt only to make them look good in the eyes of Subic residents.

Lacbain added in relation to this that he has asked the Commission on Audit to look if there is also a basis on the part of the town officials to allocate a P5 million fund for the project when there was not even a bill filed yet.

READY…GET SET…BONG!

Handa nang magtapatan ang mga pambatong manlalaro ng City at National Departments and Agencies kaugnay sa gaganaping Inter-Department Intramural Meet sa ika-9 hanggang 13 ng Abril 2007.

Ang malaking sport activity ng mga opisyales at kawani ng gobyerno sa Olongapo na tinaguriang ‘’Ready…Get Set…Bong!!! ay pangungunahan ni City Sports Coordinator Angie Layug sa atas ni City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr.

Maliban sa basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, chess at swimming ay hahataw rin ang mga kalahok sa dance sports katulad ng Rumba, Cha-Cha, Jive, Foxtrot, Waltz at Tango.

Bubuhayin rin ang mga ‘’Laro ng Lahi’’ kabilang na ang kadang-kadang, sack race, tug of war, obstacle course, patintero at hulihan ng biik challenge na sinasabing magiging highlight ng Ready…Get Set.. Bong!!

‘’Bagamat puno ng tension o stress ang mag-hapong pagtatrabaho ay kinakailangan rin ng mga kawani ng gobyerno ang maglibang at ito ay sa pamamagitan ng ibat-ibang sport events na batay sa kanilang hilig,’’ wika ni Mayor Bong Gordon.

Pangunahing layunin ng palaro na higit na paglapitin at buhayin ang ‘’sportsmanship’’ at panatilihin ang masigla at maayos na pangangatawan ng mga manggagawa sa gobyerno.

A CALL TO UNITY TO SUPPORT ZAMBALES ALLIANCE FOR A PROSPEROUS ZAMBALES

(OPEN LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF ZAMBALES – PART II)

I filed my certificate of candidacy for Congressman of the 1st District of Zambales last March 29, 2007 at 10:57 p.m. with renewed hope to continue my fight for good government in Zambales.

Initially, you have read in my first open letter to you that I am already saying my goodbye in Zambales politics but with the desire to run for mayor in my town of Subic.

My decision to run for Congressman came as a surprise to many of our supporters and believers. In fact, the following day after the deadline of filing of candidacy, many of my town mates came to visit me to volunteer in the campaign for mayor.

This is a hard decision on my part. My running for Congressman was the result of a consensus of the mayors of Olongapo and the towns of Subic, Castillejos and other leaders in San Marcelino as well as Senator Dick Gordon who was born in Castillejos and therefore has all the rights to involve himself with the solutions to current problems of Zambales. But of course in the end I made the final decision myself.

I decided to run for congressman because I believe that with this position I can continue my fight for a better Zambales. I believe I can push for my vision and mission for Zambales. The only way by which we can change the lives of Zambalenos for the better is by offering the people with better alternatives.

What is outstanding in this present situation is that our key leaders have bonded together and forget our respective personal interests for the sake of the people of Zambales by offering much better alternatives to the people this coming election.

With inspiration from Senator Dick Gordon and trust in his leadership and vision, the Zoom, Zoom Zambales was born. This alliance of leaders who believe there will always be hope for a better Zambales offers a partnership of leaders of Olongapo City and Zambales.

As the saying goes – “in unity there is strength”. This alliance reunites Olongapo City and Zambales into one strong community that will work harder to achieve economic prosperity and save the people from poverty and control of just one family.

The partnership is very obvious with the combination of the following candidates – Ramon Lacbain for Congressman (from Subic), Amor Deloso for Governor (from Botolan) and Anne Gordon for Vice Governor (first lady of Olongapo City) with the full backing of incumbent Castillejos Mayor Wilma Billman and Olongapo City Mayor Bong Gordon.

Zoom. Zoom Zambales with its very strong desire to serve Zambales is the total opposite of the other group coming from just one family - one running for Senator, one running for governor, one running for congressman, one running for party list congressman and another one running for mayor – ALL COMING FROM ONE FAMILY.

I am convinced that there is great chance for Zoom Zoom Zambales to win this battle against one family. The issue is the worsening poverty brought about by the absence of economic programs that will alleviate the many poor Zambalenos from poverty. This one family has not implemented any program and project to solve this problem. They have a different focus.

All Zambalenos within and outside the Philippines are now called to unite and once and for all prevent this one family from continuing to control the province and its people. ISA-ISA LANG, SOBRA NA, IBA NAMAN.

I shall continue my fight for a prosperous Zambales with my strong faith in God and with my determination to succeed, will you join me?

Please visit our website - www.ramonlacbain.com to know the latest developments in our campaign for Congressman and please leave your message in the guestbook so I know how you feel and in case you have any advise.

PALARO NG MGA PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWD) TODO SUPORTA NI MAYOR GORDON

Masigabong palakpakan at sigawan ang salubong sa punong-lungsod nang dumalo ito sa awarding ceremonies ng ginanap na Sportsfest para sa PWD nung ika-1 ng Abril, 2007 sa East Tapinac Oval Track (ETOT).

Si Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr., kasama ang Head ng CSWD na si Ms. Gene Eclarino, ay nanguna sa pag-aabot ng awards na mga trophies at medals sa mga nagwagi sa iba’t-ibang palaro na ang tema ay “Ang Mga Taong May Kapansanan, May Karapatan Din”.

Lahat ng nakilahok sa para-olympics ay ginrupo sa mga team Blue, Yellow, Red at White na nag laban-laban sa Track & Field ; 25m, 50m at 100m dash, mga swimming competitions at water polo. Ang Blue team ay nanalong Over all Champion.

Nabighani ang lahat sa pinakitang gilas sa pagkanta ng isang bulag na pitong gulang na bata. May mga PWD na nagpakita ng galing din nila sa pagpinta.

Ang mga Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ay kinabilangan ng mga taong bulag, pipi, mga may saklay o wheelchair, mga autistic at iba pang kapansanan. Ang sinumang nais maging miyembro sa organisasyon na ito ay maaring makipag ugnayan sa CSWD at sa Labor Center ng City Hall.

Message to Zambalenos

It is indeed a reality that the Magsaysays will do anything to perpetuate themselves in power. They know and feel that the people have grown tired of them not only because of the length of years they are in office, but because of the recognition and awareness that our beloved province have gon! e from better to worse. The people are angry but feel helpless. They need someone to lead them.

It is a fact in our province that there is a proliferation of illegal drugs which are speedily corrupting our youths. Zambales has been in news black out for the past nine years. Unbeknownst to most of us here in the forum, there were innumerable senseless killings in the municipalities of Palauig, San Felipe, Botolan, Candelaria, Subic, and Iba to which my friend's brother even fell victim to. One way or another, they were drug related. The pepetrators were never found and not put to justice. There have also been growing abuses of young women which truly bleeds my heart. If the Magsaysays have no hand to all of these, what have they done to prevent or put a stop to all of these? Further, farm lands which are valuable to our marginal farmers as their only source of livi! ng, were being taken by force. The people of Iba, San Felipe, San Narciso, San Antonio and Subic will attest to this. The Magsaysays cannot deny that all these all occured during their reign.

The Magsaysays do care about the people. They never cared about Zambales. They only care about themselves. They want control of everything, even every aspect of businesses legal and/or illegal. They want the people to remain impoverished so they can titilate them with the glitter of gold and easily scare them.

What has happened to us? What has happened to Zambales?

We have to stand behind a viable candidate as our instrument to remove the Magsaysays. The decision is with us. Let set aside the politics of patronage for once and think about our youths, our young women, and save our beloved province from further degradation.

Bias as it may seem, but we have to support Amor Deloso. My father was taken out of retirement to run again for Governor because the people believe that he can muster enough support to put an end to the reign of the Magsaysays. Most of you know him that he is a man of proven integrity. He never waivered in his position. He aims of developing our young people so they can grow(just as he did), even from a humble origin, and someday they too will be able to serve the province and create their own place under the sun. He wants businesses to grow in order to assure employment for the people, and alleviate them from poverty. Education is also foremost in his list and many more.

Most of you may have heard by now that Ruben Torres's (my uncle's)is also running. Let truth be told that he only planned of running last week. It was a last minute decision. He knows that he did not prepare for this fight and knows that he has very slim chance of ! winning. He has no set up machinery. So why did he run? That is a question that I've been musing for the last few days. It is clear that the Magsaysay's intention is to split the votes. It is just so sad to see if he is playing a part in that ploy.

Please understand that all is not yet lost. Do not give up the fight easily. It is just starting. I firmly believe that we have to be united and must act as one. We have to trust our strength and our perseverance will move us to victory.

As I said when I was running against Vic Magsaysay last election for governor, "Ang masasama ay magwawagi kung and mga mabubuti ay pupunta lamang sa isang tabi at masasawalang kibo!!! Panahon na upang alisin natin ang piring sa ating mga mata, alisin ang takot sa atin isipan, at lagutin natin ang tanikila ng ating kahirapan!!!"

It is time to make a stand against the Magsaysays! It is time to fight! It is time to redeem! Zambales and find a definite future for all Zambalenos alike.

This I humbly submit to all my fellow Zambalenos.

Blessed be!

CHERYL

Deloso-Montalla

P.S.

I will be going home to our province once again and campaign. I do solemnly pray that we will win this fight not for us but for the people of Zambales.

I will try to log in as much as I can but I cannot promise because I will be going around. Should you want to contact me, I will log in once I get there and provide you my number. Thank you so much.and rally behind him.

Subic Bay Activities

APRIL 05- MAUNDY THURSDAY

5:30 pm- Mass of the last Supper & Washing of the Feet (Boardwalk)
Last Supper Meal 7:00 pm (Admiral Guest House)
VIGIL, 7:00 pm Altar of Repose (San Roque, SBMA Chapel)
7 pm, Haydn’s Seven last words by Coke Bolipata & Casa San Miguel Foundation
( Boardwalk)
8:00 pm- Acoustic night at the beach (Boardwalk)

APRIL 06- GOOD FRIDAY
9:00-11:00 am- Liturgy of the word Veneration of the Cross (San Roque, SBMA Chapel)
6:00 pm- Grand Procession (San Roque, SBMA Chapel)
Station of the Cross (Boardwalk, open any time )
7:00 pm- Film Viewing (Boardwalk)

APRIL 07- BLACK SATURDAY

7:30 pm- Easter Vigil Mass (San Roque, SBMA Chapel)
7:00 pm - San Miguel Corp. Black Saturday Jam Concert (Boardwalk)
w/ Fireworks Display
APRIL 08- EASTER SUNDAY
Salubong Procession, 4:30 am
Female to follow the image of Mater Dolorosa (Main Gate)
Male to follow the Image of Risen Christ (Rizal Gate)
SALUBONG
Mass Follows at san Roque (SBMA Shapel)
“AGAPE” Releasing of Ballons
7:00 am-12:00nn- Subic BAY EASTER EGG HUNT

Korean shipbuilding firm opens jobs, welcomes Aklanon applicants

Kalibo, Aklan -- If all other major shipyards and foreign companies follow suit and invest in the Philippines just like what the Hanjin Heavy Industries and Contruction Company (HHIC-Phil. Inc.) did, Filipinos will never lack for jobs and their families will no longer go hungry, as long as they have the necessary skills and are willing to work.

HHIC-Phil. Inc. is a major company known for shipbuilding in Korea and now expanding its operations at Subic Freeport Zone in Zambales. It is now in need of some 2,248 workers and has made contacts in Aklan for job applicants for various positions and skills related to ship building.

Vivian R. Solano, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager here said Pyung Jong Yu, Business Department and Human Resource Manager of HHIC-Phil. Inc. recently contacted Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez about their company's need of applicants with skills and experiences in operating various cranes like overhead, gantry, bridge travel, Goliath, Jib, tower and hydraulic; transporter, lifts, and signal men.

Also needed are maintenance staff - 50 mechanical and 50 electricians, 20 plumbers, compressor operators, engineering and administrative staff.

The engineering staff must be 18-35 years of age, college graduate with major in electrical, plumbing, mechanical and marine industry while the administrative staff should be a college graduate, computer literate specializing in MS Excel, Word and Power Point, has bookkeeping skills and with experiences in Human Resource Department, Procurement, warehouse management, etc.

The shipyard also needs trainee applicants who are 18-35 years old, high school graduate or college level and skilled in welding, cutting and piping jobs. Two thousand (2,000) trainees are needed every quarter and they will undergo three months training and enjoy training allowance.

Interested applicants, said Gov. Marquez, must go to PESO-Aklan with their resume, ID pictures and employment certificates.

In a related development, the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) remains confident the country is still a competitive business destination for Japan despite issues of high cost of labor, telecommunication, electricity and taxes as reflected in the 17th Survey of Investment-Related Cost Comparison in Major Cities and Regions in Asia.

The survey also revealed information and communication technology and automotive sectors remain an enticing investment opportunity for Japanese firms because of the pluses like human resources and lower office space rent despite relatively high basic charges for landline and mobile phones, as well as corporate income taxes.

A total of 269 Japanese firms are now in the Philippines, mostly inside export processing zones engaged in electronics, semiconductors and automotive parts. (by Venus G. Villanueva - PIA)

SBMA READIES COMPLEX FOR REBIDDING AS FEDEX EXITS SUBIC HUB

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT - In an effort to gear up for the imminent pull-out of US logistics giant Federal Express (FedEx) in 2008, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) formed an inspection team that will oversee the preparation of the facilities to be left by the firm for its rebidding this year.

SBMA Administrator Armand C. Arreza said the inspection team is composed of representatives from FedEx, SBMA Engineering Department, and SBMA Property Procurement and Management Department.

"The team is tasked to evaluate and assess the building and other facilities occupied by FedEx. They will make sure that it is in the best condition before the rebidding due this year," he said.

The inspection was deemed necessary to identify which buildings and facilities under the lease contract of Federal Express that needed to be repaired or replaced by the firm and or the SBMA before the rebidding date.

"As FedEx transfers its Asia Pacific hub to China in December 2008, it will still occupy the Subic Freeport office as its regional office and back-office functions to provide continuous quality service to local clients," he assured.

Arreza said the SBMA has already received a number of business proposals from foreign airfreight service providers who have expressed keen interest in taking over the facilities to be left by FedEx.

These proposals are to undergo careful scrutiny and evaluation before final details are disclosed.

The transfer of FedEx to its new home in Guangzhou China will provide the American cargo giant more than 80,000 square metres of floor space inside the 63,000 hectares of land space, making it the biggest facility outside the mainland United States.

The company has reportedly spent US$150 million to set up the new facility. (PNA)

GORDON TICKET PROCLAMATION

Isang araw matapos na sama-samang nagfile ng Certificates of Candidacy (COC) sa tanggapan ng Commission on Election (COMELEC) ang Gordon Ticket ay isang Proclamation Rally naman ang isinagawa nitong ika-30 ng Marso 2007.

Ang motorcade na sinimulan sa Driftwood Beach bilang assembly area ay nag-ikot sa ibat-ibang barangay at pangunahing lansangan sa lungsod ay sinundan ng malaking programa sa Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.

Ang Gordon Ticket ay pinangunahan ni City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. na muling tumatakbo sa pareho ring posisyon, kasama sina Kagawad Cynthia Cajudo na tumatakbo naman bilang Vice-Mayor ng lungsod.

Buo rin ang sampung (10) kagawad ng Gordon Ticket kabilang na ang limang (5) incumbent na sina Elmo Aquino, Edwin Piano, Marey Beth Marzan, Gina Perez at JC delos Reyes na nagbigay ng ilang minutong pagpapakilala sa kanilang sarili at paglalahad ng plataporma.

Samantala, ipinakilala rin ni Mayor Bong Gordon ang limang (5) bagong-mukha ng ticket para sa Konseho kabilang na sina Ellen Dabu, Jong Cortez, Gie Baloy, Rodel Cerezo at Lex Magrata.

Kasama rin ni Mayor Gordon ang pambato ng ticket sa pagka-Congressman para sa Unang Distrito ng Zambales na si Vice-Governor Ramon Lacbain at ang tumatakbong Vice-Governor ng Zambales na si First Lady Anne Marie Gordon.

Bitbit ang mga flaglets ay matinding show of force ang ipinakita ng mga ka-pamilya, kaibigan at supporters ng Gordon Ticket na umabot sa mahigit walonglibo (8,000). Maging ang GMA-7 talent, host, singer at Olongapeñang si Gladys Guevarra ay dumating rin sa venue bilang pagbibigay suporta sa Gordon Ticket.

$215-M port project 92 percent complete ahead of schedule

Officials of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) announced that the $ 215-million Port Development Project is 91.793 percent complete as of March 15.

"The port modernization project is almost complete and at the rate it's going, it will meet the target date of completion. In fact, a positive variance of 2.572 percent was noted. Meaning, the construction is a little ahead of schedule," SBMA Chairman Feliciano G. Salonga said.

Salonga explained that the construction of the New Container Terminals (NCT) will be able to meet its target date of completion by June 2007. NCT will be managed by private operators.

He noted President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's vision for the Subic Freeport as a world-class logistics hub is now becoming a reality.

The Port Modernization Project, a flagship project of the government, is expected to spur development throughout the nearby communities, provinces as well as the entire country.

Early this week, SBMA officials witnessed the unloading of two more goose neck-type Quay gantry cranes to join the other two, which were previously installed at the port terminal in Leyte Wharf. Each gantry crane has a load bearing capacity of 40.6 tons.

The acquisition of the four gantry cranes from Japan is a major component of the Port Development Project that will increase the port capacity of the container terminals in its full operations to as much as 600,000 twenty equivalent units (TEUs) from the present capacity of 100,000 TEUs.

Through a concession agreement with the SBMA, Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) will submit a technical and financial proposal to operate the NCT-1 according to the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the SBMA.

Based on the agreement between both parties, the SBITC proposal will be subjected to a Swiss Challenge bidding where it will be pitted against other interested bidders.

The operator for NCT-2 will be selected after a three-week International Competitive Bidding (ICB).

NCT-1 facility will then be turned over to the winning bidder, including the container yard, four gantry cranes and other buildings. They will build their own administration building, engineering office, truck holding area, refueling station and field office.

The privatization scheme for NCT 1 and 2 is part of the comprehensive Subic Port Master Plan prepared by the experts from the JBIC given to the Philippines as the official development assistance (ODA) in August 2000 to bankroll the said project. (PNA)

GABI NG PARANGAL SA MGA ‘’OUTSTANDING OLONGAPEñO’’

Pinarangalan na ang mga natatanging mamamayan ng lungsod na nagpakita ng galing para sa Olongapo at sa mamamayan nito. Ang parangal na tinaguriang ‘’Outstanding Olongapeños’’ na isinagawa nitong ika-15 ng Marso 2007 sa Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC) ay inorganisa ng Barangay Councilors’ League of the Philippines (BCLP)-Olongapo Chapter.

Ang awards night ay pinangunahan ng BCLP sa pamamagitan ng Presidente nito na si Cesar Santiago, kaagapay ang Dept. of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Olongapo at ng City Government sa pangunguna ni City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Godon, Jr.

Iginawad ang tropeyo sa mga sumusunod na kategorya at awardees:

• Law - Atty. Alruela Bundang-Ortiz
• Medicine - Dr. Restituto Acosta
• Education:
Principal - Maritess Calara
- Olongapo City Elementary School

Teacher - Annie Quinoveba
- New Cabalan Elementary School
• Entrepreneur - Oscar Santos
• Non-Government Organization (NGO) – Peninsula Lions Club

Ginawaran rin ng Special Award ang Olongapeñong si Abner Mercado ng programang ‘’The Correspondence’’ ng Abs-Cbn Channel 2 para sa kategoryang Investigative Journalism.

Maliban sa prestiyosong titulo ay tinanggap ng mga awardees ang cash, ‘’Ulo ng Apo’’ trophy at citation samantalang tumanggap rin ang lahat ng mga finalists ng medal of merit.

Naging mahigpit ang pagpiling ginawa ng mga huradong buhat sa ibat-ibang sektor na kinabilangan nina Domingo Cruz na kumatawan sa Senior Citizen, Ferdinand Cruz-Banking and Entrepneur, Gene Eclarino-Social Service, Jay Diaz-Academe at Col. Jose Aquino, Jr. ng PNP-Olongapo.

May puwang rin ang religious sector sa pagpili sa pamamagitan ni Rev. Father Roque Villanueva ng St. Anne Parish at ang Mass Media sa pamamagitan naman ni Retired Col. Jerito Adique.

Samantala, sa pamamagitan ng kanilang naiwanang pamilya ay tinanggap ng pitong (7) namayapang kagawad ang Service Recognition buhat sa BCLP. Iginawad posthumously ang award sa kanila Barangay Kagawad Cornelio Alipio-Brgy. Old Cabalan, Romero Elayda-Brgy. Barretto, Jose Raymundo-Brgy. New Kalalake, Ramon Diwa-Brgy. New Banicain, Aida Rosas-Brgy. Old Cabalan at Cesar Lorenzana ng Brgy. Barretto.

Sa mensahe ni Mayor Bong Gordon, Jr. ay kaniyang binigyang-pugay ang mga nagawa ng mga natatanging Olongapeño, ‘’Kayong lahat ay inspirasyon at modelo ng ating lungsod. Patuloy kayong maging magandang ihemplo sa Olongapo.

Para sa 3rd year ng ‘’Outstanding Olongapeño’’ ay muling sisimulan ang pangangalap para sa mga susunod na nominasyon. Maaaring tumungo sa Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Office na matatagpuan sa 3rd Floor, City Hall Building o tumawag sa 222-3353 para sa karagdagang impormasyon.

FIGHTING FOR EXCELLENCE!!: Si Mayor Bong Gordon kasama ang mga awardees ng ‘’Outstanding Olongapeños’’ na pinarangalan ng Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines (BCLP)-Olongapo Chapter. (From R-L) Bella Adamos (Peninsula Lions Club)-NGO, Maritess Calara- (Principal)Education, Annie Quinoveba-(Teacher) Education, Atty. Alruela Bundang-Ortiz-Law, First Lady Lady Anne Marie Gordon, Mayor Bong Gordon, BCLP President Cesar Santiago, Oscar Santos-Entrepreneur at Dr. Restituto Acosta-Medicine.