aurorans

Coming to its own

2007-08-20T08:00:00.000+08:00

By Edgardo J. Angara published at Manila Bulletin on August 19, 2007

BALER, AURORA — Today, we celebrate the founding anniversary of my hometown Baler in Aurora Province.

Baler and the rest of Aurora are associated with raw and rugged attractions, lushness and pristine beauty. Those who have visited this side of the Pacific would know that our coastline is one of our best attractions, offering variety in the character and quality of its beaches.

Having spent my childhood in Baler, I grew up in this flourishing environment of rich forests, immense tracts of fertile land and vast coasts teeming with aquatic life. This is where I learned to truly appreciate the land.

Over the last few days, we inaugurated key development projects in Baler and Casiguran in the areas of agriculture, education and skills training, livelihood, infrastructure, and culture and history.

The Baler Coco Fiber Processing Plant makes it possible to turn coco husk into coco fiber and coco peat, which will provide additional livelihood to coconut farmers. The Aurora Technological Institute (ATI) will create a pool of skilled workers through technical and vocational programs which include Personal Computer Operation, Computer Hardware Servicing, Consumer Electronics, Hotel and Restaurant Management, and Shielded Metal Arc Welding. The Coffee Research and Development Center supports coffee development in Aurora, one of the top producers of coffee beans in the country, through training and research.

The 321-hectare Mariculture Park in Casiguran promotes fish cage farming to culture milkfish and other economically viable species such as grouper, siganids, and snapper, thereby sustaining our seas’ productivity and arresting resource depletion.

We also unveiled a bronze sculpture of Manuel L. Quezon in front of the Museo de Baler, to pay tribute to a great President and our province’s pride and joy. The kubo where he was born and spent his early years was refurbished into a museum shop which sells the finest sabutan handicrafts unique to Aurora.

Baler and the rest of Aurora’s bountiful resources and beautiful people prove its potential for growth and development. Through these development efforts, we look forward to watching the growth of Aurora as a model for rural development and a province coming to its own.

Governor issues stern warning to local officials

2007-08-16T17:10:00.000+08:00

Orders DENR to go after officials engaged in illegal logging
By ARIEL P. AVENDAÑO published in Manila Bulletin on August 16, 2007

DINGALAN, Aurora – Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo issued yesterday a stern warning to local officials against engaging in illegal activities.

The governor was reacting to reports that at least three newly elected officials are attempting to assemble a mobile mini bandsaw mill in Barangay Paltic here.
A mobile mini band sawmill is a movable equipment being used by smugglers in processing flitches of illegally cut logs.

Its use is intended to conceal the illegal activities and avoid detection by personnel of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Castillo, who inspected the area where a footbridge is to be constructed over Langawan River, directed provincial environment chief Benjamin Miña and district environment head Meliton Vicente to run after local officials who are engaged in illegal logging.

The visibly irked governor said that she will help in the prosecution of any local official who is found to engage in any illegal activities.

"There are no sacred cows in my administration," Castillo said, hinting that the concerned local officials, were her partymates in the recent election.

Earlier, Castillo stopped the transport of at least two trucks loaded with hundreds of sacks of charcoal, after she noted that the owners have no pertinent document covering the shipiment.

Reiterating her policy against illegal logging, gambling, and drugs, Castillo said she was embarrassed by the involvement of some local officials here in controversies in the previous years.

These had caused a black mark in the image of the province, she said.

She was referring to the cases involving some local officials here.

One such case is about the involvement of then town mayor Jaime Ylarde in the murder of a weekly newspaper pubisher.

In August last year, then councilor, now Vice Mayor Edgar Liu was implicated in the operation of a multi-million-peso shabu laboratory in Barangay Butas na Bato here which was raided by the authorities.

Liu admitted having brokered for the acquisition of the lot where the shabu lab was built in behalf of four Chinese nationals who were arrested during the raid.

Also last year, town Councilor Majalia Tabanguil nearly got killed when her car met an accident while tailing a cargo truck loaded with a huge volume of lumber.

"I will not allow the development which is now taking place in the province to be tarnished by the wrongdoings of corrupt local officials," Castillo said, reporting that economic growth is now beginning to be felt here.

She also noted the inclusion of Aurora in the as sites of special economic zone which was mentioned in the state-of-thenation address of President Arroyo last month.

Huge Korean presence hardly benefits Pinoys

2007-08-09T13:26:00.000+08:00

Excerpts from: Huge Korean presence hardly benefits Pinoys
By Rene Q. Bas, www.manilatimes.net

I think the popularity of the Philippines to Koreans as the place to learn English in is just a carry over of the Korean War.

In the times when we were the best friend of the South Koreans, I had classmate who came to study in the Philippines. One of my best friends in college was Bong Oh Cha, who I have been trying to trace for decades without any luck.

Sen. Edgardo Angara, who spoke at Kookmin University in September 2006, said these words which are still completely true today:

“The political alliance between the Philippines and South Korea goes a long way back. In fact, the government in Manila was among the first to send troops to the Korean peninsula to defend the South against the invasion from the communist North during the Cold War era.

“Today, Korea is the most important source of tourists for the Philippines. In popular tourist places such as Boracay, Bohol, Cebu or Palawan, the Koreans have become regulars. And apart from short-stay tourists, the estimated number of South Koreans who choose to permanently live in our country now stands at 46,000.

Angara recalled that Koreans began migrating to the Philippines in the 1950s when Korean students came here in great numbers to study business, science, economics, political science and agriculture.

Angara also said that many Koreans actually come to the Philippines today in order to learn English either in universities or in one of the numerous private language schools. He noted that some of these language centers even cater exclusively to Korean students.

Koreans indeed have decided that the Philippines is best halfway house in their eventual progress to become students or residents in the United States.

The Philippines has received some Korean cultural influences. The most recent of these is the Philippine passion for Korean-made telenovelas shown on primetime TV.

Angara intimately knows about the Korean government’s support of the country’s development effort to educate illiterates through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Angara said that KOICA has been instrumental in the efforts to put up a “Digital Village” in Aurora province where farmers can use the Internet to access information by computer. These pieces of information include the prices of goods, land records, weather forecasts, local government database and other agricultural knowledge support.

“Imagine if every province was connected to each other through a computer network where information could be downloaded in seconds. Think of the businesses to be spawned and the investments to come if such a system were in place,” Angara said.

“Since Korea is acknowledged globally as a leader in wide broadband and recognized as having the highest Internet penetration rate in the whole region, I envision that someday Filipinos, hand in hand with the Koreans, will be highly modernized in information technology. I believe the people of Korea have recognized the talent and skill of our workers—proof of this are the many Filipino workers in Korea. And similarly, the country is a host to the biggest overseas Korean population in the region,” the senator continues.

Korean newspapers report that Filipino workers there are among the best liked. Of the 36,000 Filipinos in Korea, half are undocumented.
There are also stories of Koreans complaining about the Filipinos.

Election 2007 provincial result

2007-05-17T09:48:00.000+08:00

Here's final result of provincial canvassing; thanks to big screen projector stalled outside the SP hall. At exactly 11:00 AM winners were proclaimed at the latter's hall.

Congressman

JUAN EDGARDO ANGARA -53,091votes

Governor

BELLAFLOR ANGARA-CASTILLO -50,847 votes
RUBEN DELA CRUZ 14,539 votes

Vice Governor
GERARDO ANGALA NOVERAS -34,197 votes
ROMMEL RICO TEH ANGARA -32,379 votes

Board Member-First District
1. Mariano Calderon Tangson -21,844 votes
2. Oscar Wenceslao Padua -21,219 votes
3. Pedro Ong Jr. -20,241 votes
4. Shierwin Taay -16,744 votes

Board Member-Second District
1. Denia Pena Valin -16,326 votes
2. Danilo Tolentino -13,685 votes
3. Joselito Cabauatan -12,560 votes
4. Renato Pascua -11,158 votes

Trivia:

- Noveras only won in Dipaculao, Maria Aurora and Dilasag, maybe this can be attributed to Ilocano votes.
-only Pedro Ong Jr. belong to opposition in board member.
- Senator Edgardo Angara make it to top rank in senatorial race with 50, 303. Only half of total registered voters.

Climb for a cause

2007-05-09T09:17:00.000+08:00

Mt. Pulido next for Blue Falcons
published in Journal Online

SAN LUIS, AURORA -- Mt. Pulido, known for its rich mineral deposits and tropical rain forest situated in Diteki, San Luis, Aurora, will be the site of the advance mountaineering course of the Noble Blue Falcons Mountaineers on May 12. Under the leadership of Leonardo “Onad” Usita, the training will be led by premiere trainors Alfredo “Pedie” Dukha(Course Director), Anthony “Allan” Usita (head of mountaineering affairs) and Nelson Pandi(founder of Lakas ng Kamaong Pinoy).

The DENR Forests Rangers and the Philippine National Red Cross-Aurora Chapter will also send their expert instructors to guide the 600 climbers.

The training is one of the breeding grounds of the Noble Blue Falcons, who will send their best climbers to the ambitious Mt. Everest expedition.

The group was encouraged by the efforts of Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo of Aurora to promote environmental preservation and conservation.

The Blue Falcons’ “Climb For A Cause” revised the traditional concept of mountaineering where the climbers conquer their limitations for personal glory and prestige.

Noble Blue Falcons also encourage their members to join mountaineering as an alternative healing process.

For interested members, please email the secretariat at noblebluef@yahoo.com or aurorabluefalcons@yahoo.com.ph

blog again!

2007-05-07T11:18:00.000+08:00

After almost 8 months in hiatus mode. AURORAns blog is back again, with lots of updates and pictures of our province, hopefully.

Do Not Enter (part 3)

2006-09-13T17:46:00.000+08:00

Defiant Aurora mayor refuses to vacate town hall
The Philippine Star 09/13/2006

DINALUNGAN, Aurora — Embattled Mayor Marilyn Marquez has vowed to hold on to her post until the lapse of her 60-day preventive suspension later this month.

Superintendent Teodoro Saclolo, provincial police director, said the feisty Marquez, in explaining her refusal to vacate the municipal hall, gave assurances that she was willing to face the consequences of her action, including a possible additional six-month suspension.

Marquez made the statement during a meeting here with Saclolo, lawyer Rolando Calabarzon and lawyer Ofelio Tactac, assistant regional director and legal officer, respectively of the Department of the Interior and Local Governments (DILG) when they paid her a visit to inform her of the legal consequences of her refusal to vacate the town hall.

As of press time, a 60-man police contingent remains encamped at the municipal compound to prevent possible outbreak of violence between the camps of Marquez and supporters of acting mayor Harvey Tubera.

Marquez continues to discharge her functions, even signing checks in spite of the fact that this will not be recognized by the municipal government’s depository bank.

Saclolo said they have defused the tension between the two camps with the presence of policemen from the Regional Mobile Force (RMF), the Provincial Mobile Group (PMG) and the Dinalungan police.

"So far, the presence of the police has kept the peace," he said.

Saclolo said that the municipal employees could not do anything but follow the mayor out of fear that they would be punished. "They seemed to be intimidated and are afraid of reprisal from the mayor. After all, her suspension would lapse on Oct. 3," he said.

Marquez said the decision of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo to suspend her and Vice Mayor Virgie Callejo based on the administrative complaint filed by the Industries Development Corp. (IDC) was "very erroneous." — Manny Galvez

Read complete news

Logging again!

2006-09-13T17:42:00.000+08:00

Reyes lifts suspension order of 2 Aurora logging firms
By Manny Galvez The Philippine Star 09/13/2006

SAN LUIS, Aurora — Environment Secretary Angelo Reyes has lifted the suspension order on two logging companies here, signaling the resumption of logging operations in this town, following a 20-month hiatus.

Benjamin Mina, provincial environment and natural resources officer for Aurora, told The STAR that Reyes ordered the lifting of the logging ban imposed on the Benson Realty Development Corp. (BRDC) and the San Roque Sawmill Corp. (SRSC) located in Barangays Dikapinisan and Dibayabay, respectively, both based here.

The request for the lifting of the ban on the BRDC and the SRSC was granted by Reyes after a thorough evaluation of the revised Comprehensive Development and Management Plan (CDMP) of the Industrial Forest Management Agreements (IFMAs) of the two firms.

The order was based on the recommendation of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Executive Director for Central Luzon Regidor de Leon.

Fred Sadueste, chief of DENR-Central Luzon’s Forest Resource Conservation Division (FRDC), said that they are still deliberating on the two firms’ operational plans.

The BRDC, led by its president and general manager Ching Sen Ben, was issued the IFMA on July 8, 1993, covering 951 hectares in sitio Diotorin. It would expire on July 8, 2018.

Based on the approved revised CMDP, it is allowed to cut 8,381.44 cubic meters of trees within the established plantation area and 3,130.84 cubic meters within its residual production forest annually.

On the other hand, the SRSC, led by its president and general manager Christina Tan Siong, was issued IFMA on Dec. 18,1992, covering 900 hectares in sitios Amisan and Abaca, Barangay Dibayabay. It would expire on Dec. 18, 2017.

The two firms’ operations, along with five others, were suspended in the aftermath of the deadly landslides that struck the province in late 2004. The other logging firms were Green Circle, Pateco, Industries Development Corp. (IDC), Inter Pacific Resources Corp. (IPRC) and Toplite Lumber.

The DENR has since lifted the suspensions of the IDC and Toplite.

Aurora Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said she is not against the resumption of logging operations for as long as the companies comply with the requirements.

"The grant of license emanates from the national government. For as long as they comply, they will hear nothing from me, but the moment they engage into something illegal, the provincial government will do everything to stop them," she said.

She added that it is up to the people of the province to be vigilant in seeing to it that these firms operate within the bounds of the law.

Read complete news

katutubo ng aurora

2006-09-09T11:24:00.000+08:00

Isang bagong blog na kumikilala at nagpapakita ng pinagmulan natin, ang mga katutubo ng aurora. Ito ay gawa ni aurorafreerisedweller (isa ring ayaw magpakilala). Ginamit ko ang sariling wika bilang pagpupugay sa ating mga katutubo.

BIO FUEL IN AURORA

2006-09-01T17:40:00.001+08:00

Press Release from PAIAD, Sept. 1, 2006

The province of Aurora will soon be a BIO FUEL producing province. Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo signed a memorandum of agreement with the officials of the Philippine Coconut Authority headed by Dennis J. Calub Regional Manager of PCA, last August 18, 2006.

Since coconut is a major product of Aurora, which covers approximately 24,000 hectares of coconut plantation, Senator Edgardo J. Angara, Congressman Juan Edgardo M. Angara and Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo decided to modernize the field of Agriculture particularly coconut farming. Though close coordination with the Philippine Coconut Authority, Department of Science and Technology, Bureau of Post Harvest and Research Extension, BIO FUEL project was demonstrated and introduced in the province of Aurora last May 2006 by the Philippine Coconut Authority team headed by Mr. Dennis Calub at the Aurora State College of Technology Bazal Campus, Maria Aurora, Aurora.

The team tackled the extraction of filtered coconut oil from Copra in which they poured filtered coconut oil to the empty gas tank of the two vehicles and they test run it.

During the MOA signing Mr. Dennis Calub mentioned that Aurora was the 2nd province to receive such project. Because Aurora produce good coconut, the province was chosen as one of the sources of coconut seedlings that were intended to be distributed to northern part of Luzon. Two fuel substances can be extracted from Coconut. METHYL ESTER and filtered coconut oil, which will be the target of the aforesaid project to be produce by the province.

Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo, ensures that since Aurora has a huge plantation of coconut, and also one of the best producer of VIRGIN COCONUT OIL, the project will surely be a success and hope the province will soon becoming the number one producer of BIO FUEL in the country.(RAUL L. CALIWAG/ PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION ASSISTANCE DIVISION)

Aurora town exec linked to shabu lab

2006-09-01T17:03:00.000+08:00

by Manny Galvez published in philstar.com

DINGALAN, Aurora — The acting vice mayor of this town has been linked to the four Chinese nationals who were arrested in last Wednesday’s raid on a shabu laboratory here.

Acting Vice Mayor Edgar Liu has reportedly sent surrender feelers to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) after he was alleged to have been involved in the operations of the shabu laboratory in Barangay Butas na Bato where more than P5 million worth of shabu was seized.

Arrested by a 40-man NBI team led by Roel Olivar were Zhi Qu, 25, of Zhzun Tsu, China; Ong Tua Ti, 24, of Han Tzi; Zhin Na, 30, of Fujian province; and Xian Tian, 28, of Zun Tah.

Also collared was Francisco Ramos, who was with the Chinese nationals when the shabu laboratory located inside the Jonathan Resort in Butas na Bato, some three kilometers from the town proper, was raided.

Two repackers, who were allegedly under Liu’s employ, identified as Jimmy Padua and Hernani de Guzman, eluded arrest and are now the subject of a manhunt.

According to an NBI source, Liu went to the NBI-Cabanatuan City office to give himself up to its chief, Pedro Roque Jr., but was instead advised to surrender to NBI director Nestor Mantaring.

The raid yielded five kilos of finished shabu worth about P5 million, as well as crystallized and liquid forms of the illegal drug.

The raid jolted Aurora officials who could not believe that a remote coastal town like Dingalan could be a haven for the illegal drug trade.

Aurora Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said she was shocked to learn that nobody among the local officials knew about the existence of the shabu lab in Barangay Butas na Bato.

She said she has asked the Philippine National Police (PNP) to look into the possible involvement of other local officials in the illegal drug trade.

"I want the PNP to spare no one in the investigation," she said.

Angara-Castillo said she has taken acting Dingalan Mayor Edgardo Galvez to task for his failure to detect the operations of the shabu lab as well as the barangay officials for a breakdown in intelligence gathering.

She said she was told that the shabu lab had operated for only about a month, contrary to the claim of Henry de Vera, executive officer of the NBI-Reaction Arrest and Interdiction Division, that it had been there for six months and delivered shabu to Metro Manila.

"I feel so bad that it’s always Dingalan which is giving us a black eye. If not illegal logging, then it’s illegal drugs," she said.

Angara-Castillo said she has asked the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to establish an office in the province.

Sought for comment, Galvez said the barangay officials, not the municipal executives, should be the ones responsible for monitoring the people entering their communities.

Galvez took over as acting mayor after Mayor Jaime Ylarde was detained for his alleged involvement in last year’s murder of local publisher Philip Agustin.

read complete news

Binibining San Luis 2006

2006-08-29T17:26:00.000+08:00

Here's a pic of this year's tittle holder of Binibining San Luis 2006. I have to research her name. She was flanked by Vice Governor Annabelle C. Tangson and Mayor Nano Tangson. Below are other winners.
update:

Binibining San Luis 2006 poll of winners

Binibining San Luis '06 -Marissa Ico Valera - Brgy San Isidro
1st Runner Up - Mariamel Natividad Bihasa - Brgy. Zarah
2nd Runner Up - Marinel Ungriano Buenaventura - Brgy. Ditumabo
Other Candidates:
Sheena Marie Corioso Recososa - Brgy. Dikapinisan
Marivic delos Santos Aringo - Brgy. Dibayabay
Kwinnie Sison Querijero - Brgy. Dibut
Mary Joy Palma Badua - Brgy. 02
Shiela Vel Pitogo España - Brgy. Real

Photo courtesy of Rhenz

San Luis Fiesta 2006

2006-08-29T16:42:00.000+08:00

One of the Street Decoration on the streets of San Luis, Aurora during their Celebration of Town Fiesta on August 23-25, 2006. They used bamboo, sabutan hats and other native products. Click below for few pics.

Vice Governor Annabelle C. Tangson

Guests and Local Officials during August 25, 2006 Celebration program

Street Dancing competition

Photo Courtesy of Rhenz

Do Not Enter (update)

2006-08-29T11:35:00.000+08:00

Road user’s fee in Aurora town illegal
By Manny Galvez, published in Philippine Star on August 29, 2006

DINALUPIHAN, Aurora — The controversial municipal ordinance imposing a road user’s fee on vehicles passing through this town, which has led to the 60-day preventive suspension of Mayor Marilyn Marquez and Vice Mayor Virgie Callejo, is illegal and constitutes double taxation, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.

The DPWH issued the clarification amid the raging controversy over the ordinance, which imposes fees ranging from P50 to P100 on heavy equipment, trucks, elf vans, forward trucks and jeepneys and buses passing the town. — Manny Galvez

Source: Philippine Star online read here

Comment: It should be Dinalungan, not Dinalupihan. Dinalupihan was part of Bataan

cedula fever

2006-08-25T11:22:00.000+08:00

Region 3 leaders’ meeting sought on ‘cedula’ issue
by : Ariel Avendano, from Manila Bulletin online

BALER, Aurora – Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said yesterday that she will request Nueva Ecija Gov. Tomas Joson III, chairman of the regional peace and order council (RPOC), to convene an urgent meeting by top leaders in Central Luzon to determine and clarify the issue over alleged imposition of "silent martial law" in the region.

Read complete news

Military denies harassing rural folk

by : Bernadette E. Tamayo from journal online

BALER, Aurora • The military leadership here has dismissed reports of alleged harassment being committed by government forces against residents in the course of their operation against the communist insurgency, including the controversial requirement for residents to obtain a “cedula” or community tax certificate.

Meanwhile, Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said he would seek an explanation from the military on why teenagers as young as 13 years old should get a cedula. She had earlier received reports that teenage males were rushing Friday to secure one after word spread that soldiers were coming to their town.

read complete story

Do Not enter (part 2)

2006-08-24T12:05:00.000+08:00

Aurora mayor, vice mayor defy suspension order
By Manny Galvez published in the Philippine Star 08/24/2006

{excerpts}

DINALUNGAN, Aurora — Tension reigns in this sleepy town as its mayor and vice mayor continue to defy the suspension order which Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo slapped on them late last month on charges of gross misconduct and grave abuse of authority.

Additional policemen have been deployed here to prevent confrontation between the followers of embattled Mayor Marilyn Marquez and Vice Mayor Virgie Callejo and the supporters of acting Mayor Harvey Tubera.

Angara-Castillo said both Marquez and Callejo continue to hang on to their posts even after the Department of the Interior and Local Governments (DILG) served their 60-day preventive suspension last July 28.

The suspension order stemmed from charges of gross misconduct and grave abuse of authority filed against them with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by an employee of a logging company operating in the town.

Read full story >>>

DBP Forest Project Launching

2006-08-22T16:51:00.000+08:00

On August 17, 2006 amid bad weather, The DBP Forest Project has successfully launched at Brgy. Dimasalan, Maria Aurora, Aurora. It was attended by Guests from DBP Head Office headed by Patricia Sto. Tomas, Government Officials and various cooperative groups in Central Aurora. Two projects of the Provincial Government of Aurora was also launched, The Organic Vegetable Farming Project and Development and Promotion of Pottery and Clay Brick Industry in partnership with Food Basket program and DOST, respectively.

Signing of Memorandum of Aggreement between DBP and the Provincial Government of Aurora on the Launching of DBP Forest Project.

DBP Chair Patricia A. Sto. Tomas delivered an inspirational message. Incidentally her maiden name was Aragon. and she pleaded to be one of the adopted daughter of Aurora.

Ceremonial Tree Planting with Chair Patricia A. Sto. Tomas, Sen. Edgardo J. Angara, Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo, Vice Gov. Annabelle C. Tangson, Mayor Ariel Bitong, PENRO Ben Mina and other DBP officials and employees.

Baler fiesta '06

2006-08-15T11:12:00.000+08:00

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

August 14, 2006
8 AM Opening Jobs Fair (Municipal Plaza)
7 PM Singing, Group Dance and Ballroom Competition

August 15, 2006
8 AM Jobs Fair (continuation)
9 AM Booth Opening (Coco Sabutan Festival)
2 PM Raffle Draw
6 PM Little Miss Baler (Dr. Juan C. Angara Sports Complex)

August 16, 2006
8 AM Historical Quiz Bee
9 AM Karera ng Bangka (Baler Fish Port)
2 PM Farmers Day
8 PM Miss Baler (Dr. juan C. Angara Sports Complex)

August 17, 2006
7 AM Drum & Lyre Band & CAT Competition
8 PM Auditorium

August 18, 2006
7 AM Street Dancing Competition
7 PM SMB Nights

August 19, 2006
5 AM Procession
6 AM Mass
8 AM Parade/Program
7 PM Stage Show/Fireworks

Do Not Enter

2006-07-31T17:54:00.000+08:00

2 Aurora town officials suspended
By ARIEL P. AVENDAÑO Published in Manila Bulletin Online on July 31, 2006

{excerpts}
BALER, Aurora — Aurora Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo slapped a 60-day suspension against the mayor and vice mayor of a northern Aurora town who were both charged with gross misconduct and grave abuse of authority by an employee of a logging company operating in Dilasag town for allegedly unlawful collection of road user’s fees.

The suspension was imposed last Friday on Mayor Marilyn Marquez and Vice-Mayor Virgie Vallejo but has yet to be received by the two officials because they were reportedly attending a seminar in Baguio City.

Angara-Castillo said the suspension order has been imposed on the two officials to prevent them from influencing the witnesses or to tamper with records needed in the investigation to be conducted by the sangguniang panlalawigan (provincial board).

Read complete article >>

A drill that no one wanted to happen

2006-07-28T11:31:00.001+08:00

Aurora folk pass tsunami test; E. Visayas LGUs not ready
By Tonette Orejas, Joey A. Gabieta
Published on Page A17 of the July 28, 2006 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

{excerpts}
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- SOME 1,500 residents in Baler, Aurora scored “above average” points in disaster preparedness during a tsunami drill last week, the second to be held in the country’s eastern seaboard, according to the chief of the Office of the Civil Defense in Central Luzon.

“Those who joined the exercise were really aware of the threat and what to do when the event strikes. They demonstrated a high level of cooperation,” said Neri Amparo, OCD regional director.

Amparo said residents of Sitio Castillo in Barangay Sabang and Sitio Munting Gusang, Puntian, Cemento, Digisit and Ylaya in Barangay Zabali joined the drill on Saturday. These villages face the Pacific Ocean.

The first drill was held in Sitio Pinagbuhatan in Sto. Domingo, Albay, on May 17.

The villagers began an orderly evacuation when the church bell and the kolong-kolong (an empty acetylene iron tank) were struck at 3 a.m. to announce an impending tsunami, said Danilo Nieva, chief of the provincial disaster coordinating council in Aurora.

Taking along basic kitchen wares, some food and clothes, they trekked to Ermita Hill (Point Baja), which stood 50 meters above sea level, Nieva said.

Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said the retreat to Ermita Hill was a lesson from the past. This was where Franciscan missionary Jose de San Rafael ran for safety during the Dec. 27, 1735 tsunami, the friar’s accounts showed.

::Read the complete story

Tsunami Drill Exercise

2006-07-26T12:51:00.000+08:00

"FIRST TIME IN AURORA, SECOND IN THE PHILIPPINES"

At exactly 3:00 am on July 22, 2005 people of Sitio Castillo, Brgy. Sabang and Sitio Munting Gasang, Ermita Hill, Cemento, Ilaya, Fishport and Diguisit Brgy. Zabali Baler, Aurora participated actively on the Tsunami Drill exercise held in Baler by the National Disaster Coordinating Council and the Regional disaster Coordinating Council down to the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council, Municipal coordinating council and the barangay disaster Coordinating council. The mobilization of the people in those areas was spearheaded by Municipal and Barangay officials. This drill was conceptualized by the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council 3 and was supported by Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo, Chairwoman of the Provl. Disaster Coordinating Council.

An estimated 1,500 residents from Brgy. Sabang and Brgy. Zabali Baler, Aurora participated in the Tsunami Drill Exercise. Photo shows the people walking to the top of Ermita Hill going to higher ground as a standard operation procedure during Tsunami.

Mass Casualty Handling demonstrated by Philippine National Red Cross personnel led by volunteers Lauro Bihasa and Rading Gonzales in Aurora province.

PDCC Chairwoman Hon. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo speaking to the crowd on the high level of awareness of the people of Baler on Disaster Preparedness.Thus, making them Tsunami ready.

::photo and text courtesy of Provl. Disaster Coordinating Council

fyi: Albay hosts first Pacific-wide tsunami drill

Aurora province ready for takeoff

2006-07-17T18:05:00.000+08:00

Excerpts from Manila Bulletin Online written by Dr. Bernardo Villegas last July 14, 2006.

AURORA in Spanish means dawn. Aurora Province is literally at the dawn of more rapid economic development after decades of neglect, as its present leaders are mobilizing resources to give a major push to countryside and agricultural development.
Last May 26-29, I made a sentimental journey to Baler. Accompanying me in the harrowing 8-hour land trip was my 97-year-old mother who last saw Baler some 65 years ago. In 19401941, just before the outbreak of the Second World War in the Philippines, my parents and their first three children moved to Baler where my father worked as a young rural doctor in an anti-malaria unit in this remote outpost in the Pacific Ocean. I was barely two years old. My brother Eddie was newly born and actually got baptized in the Baler church, with the late Maria Aurora Aragon Quezon as his godmother. You can imagine what great emotions my mother felt as we attended Holy Mass in the old Baler church, made famous world-wide by the Spanish soldiers who made their last stand inside the church during the SpanishAmerican War.

>>> view complete story

New books for 186 public and private schools in Aurora

2006-07-08T20:06:00.000+08:00

Partnership forged with Metrobank Foundation and Aurora Rep. Angara
excerpts from MTKalaw Institute

The Metrobank Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group and the office of Congressman Juan Edgardo Angara are extending donation to the Maximo T. Kalaw Institute for Sustainable Development's Earthling journal project. Over 2000 public school students in Pangasinan will benefit from the donations from the Metrobank Foundation, and 186 public and private schools in Aurora Province will benefit from the donations from Cong. Angara.
MTKISD forged partnership with Metrobank Foundation and Cong. Angara through their education programs. Earthlings shall serve as the take-off project for integral citizenship building, as the entire education system is looped into a program for environmental conservation and nation development. To ensure that teachers are primed in the use of the journals, Teachers' Guides are bundled into each distribution, and shall be monitored to assess the impact.
Earthling Journals are designed to instill values of respect for and promotion of human and ecological security, Filipino identity, sustainable lifestyle and consumption patterns.
>>view complete story

CSC Honor award semi-finalist

2006-07-07T16:58:00.000+08:00

Dr. Romeo S. Cabanilla, ASCOT President grabbed the semi-finalist nomination of Presidential or Lingkod Bayan Award conducted by Civil Service Commission.

The Presidential or Lingkod Bayan Award is conferred on an individual or group of individuals for exceptional or extraordinary contribution/s resulting from an idea or performance that had nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony. The contribution may be a suggestion, innovation, invention or superior accomplishment.

The Civil Service Commission requests any information, positive or negative, about the aforementioned semi-finalists. Please submit information on or before July 13, 2006 to the CSC Honor Awards Program (HAP Secretariat, Public Assistance and Information Office, Civil Service Commission, Constitution Hills, Quezon City through:

Telephone numbers : 931-7993; 932-0381; and 932-0111
Fax number : 932-0179
TEXTCSC : 0917-8398272
E-mail address : csc_2006awards@yahoo.com.ph
: paio@csc.gov.ph

view other semi-finalist
picture of Dr. Cabanilla link here

Phil-Spain Friendship day 2006 snapshots

2006-07-07T15:56:00.000+08:00

Military Soldiers waiting for their turn.

(Above photos) Wreath laying proper at the Shrine of the Siege of Baler with Cong. Sonny Angara, Vice Governor Annabelle C. Tangson(Acting Governor), Mayor Arthur J. Angara, a representative from National Historical Institute and other guests and visitors.

Officials, military and locals join hand in hand in salute to our national flag(minus the flag photo).

Mayor Arthur J. Angara of Baler

Vice Governor Annabelle C. Tangson delivered a remarkable speech in celebration of Phil-Spanish Friendship Day.

>>in the news::
Of Friends and Allies
By EDGARDO J. ANGARA
Manila Bulletin 07/02/06

PALENCIA, CASTILLA Y LEON – For the first time since its inaugural celebration in Baler, Aurora in 2003, the Philippines-Spanish Friendship Day was commemorated in this province of Castilla on Friday, June 30. This was made possible through the efforts of Jesus Valbuena, a grandson of Corporal Jesus Garcia Quijano, one of the 33 Spanish soldiers who survived the siege of Baler.

Photo taken by Carrie Emmanuel

The Ilongot

2006-06-28T13:00:00.000+08:00

Catch the opening of exhibit on June 30, 2006 at the Museo de Baler on the celebration of 4th Phil-Spanish Friendship Day and 107th Anniversary of the Siege of Baler.

The Ilongot
Local but not Homegrown: Plants from Spain
Lines Across Time: The 19th Century Fil-Hispanic Architecture

The Ilongots are a tribe who inhabit the southern Sierra Madre and Caraballo Mountains, on the east side of Luzon Island in the Philippines. Presently, there are about 2500 Ilongots. The Ilongots tend to inhabit areas close to rivers, as they provide a foodsource and a means for transportation.
In Michelle Rosaldo’s study in 1980 of the Ilongots , she described “gender differences related to the positive cultural value placed on adventure, travel, and knowledge of the external world.” Ilognot men, more often than women, visited distant places. They acquired knowledge of the outside world, amassed experiences there, and returned in order to share their knowledge, adventures, and feelings in a public oratory to pass on their knowledge to others. The Ilognot men received acclaim as a result of their experiences. Because they lacked external experience on which to base knowledge and expression, Ilognot women had inferior prestige.
On the basis of Michelle Rosaldo’s study and findings of other stateless societies, anthropologists must distinguish between prestige systems and actual power within a society. Just because a male has a high level of prestige, he may not own much economic or political power compared to others that are less prestigious within the society.
source: wikipedia.org

payao

2006-06-25T16:44:00.000+08:00

Not a floating restaurant, nor a festival float but a payao or modern fish cage. A part of Mariculture project of PGA that was recently inaugurated in Baler Fishport and Casiguran port.

“Payao” is a fish aggregating device consisting of a floating raft anchored by weighted line with suspended materials such as palm fronds to attract pelagic and schooling species common in deep waters. These are installed along the path of migratory high value species such as tuna and tuna-like fishes. Local fishermen associations guard these units and when there is already enough fish population converging in the area, catch them either with hook and line or nets, hence contributes to coastal resource conservation.

Photo courtesy of Ferdie Delos Reyes

Relatively active fault

2006-06-25T16:33:00.000+08:00

excerpt from philippine star news

Seismically active areas

Based on the distribution of earthquake epicenters, the most seismically active part of the Philippines is eastern Mindanao, Samar and Leyte, with at least 16 perceptible earthquakes per year caused by the subduction of the Philippine Trench.

Active Fault

The other “relatively active” areas of the country are those near Dingalan Bay, Casiguran, Lubang Island and Mindoro, according to Phivolcs.

read story>
Note: Not to cause panic but a reminder for everybody to prepare

Dingalan execs scolded over illegal logging

2006-06-21T18:43:00.002+08:00

excerpt from Philippine Star 6/21/06 by Manny Galvez

DINGALAN, Aurora — Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo has scolded local officials over their supposed failure to stop illegal logging amid reports that certain officials have been conniving with some businessmen to transport forest products out of this calamity-ravaged town.

view complete story>>>

other story:Mayor-suspect nixes transfer of trial to Manila courts

playground

2006-06-20T17:32:00.000+08:00

Check this out!!! new place for kids to enjoy and relax.Can be found at Quezon park, Baler Aurora.

Mangrove planting

2006-06-16T13:10:00.000+08:00

A mangrove seedling was planted by Gov. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo as part of Mangrove Rehabilitation and Enhancement Planting of the Provincial Government of Aurora. National and Provincial offices has joined and more than a thousand mangrove seedlings was planted.

An ENRO employee pin a tag to a young pawikan for documentation and was released to the ocean afterward. Looking on were Gov. Bella Angara-Castillo, CENRO Casala and Mr. Victoriano San Pedro.

Finally, at home again!!!

more photos soon>>

RH Advocacy goes local

2006-06-14T18:59:00.002+08:00

"We are not giving up the battle. We are just changing our strategy by tapping the local government in raising awareness of the people on what this reproductive health is all about." said Aurora Province Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo.

(excerpt from PIA homepage)

view complete story>>

stonehenge in dikaloyungan

2006-06-14T16:37:00.000+08:00

Dikaloyungan river: a perfect place for picnic among locals and tourist as well.

Independence Day Celebration in Aurora

2006-06-13T18:09:00.000+08:00

Government Officials and Veterans posed for a snapshots. (Photo by Renz Lagto)

Only 10 veterans attended the event.

The Parade

PNP, what a synchronized movement!!(Photo by Renz Lagto)

Students from Aurora Natl. Science High School.

Provincial Government employee's.

LGU employee's of Baler.

Provincial and Municipal Officials.

The Ceremony

Flag raising ceremony.

Ferdinand G. Bautista Jr, the champion of Tuklas Talino 2006, led the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. (Photo by Renz Lagto)

Gov. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo was represented by the Provincial Administrator, Mr. Alex N. Ocampo. Oppss! its not an optical illusion...he is "Mr. PA" of PGA and not MLQ nor Former Senator Heherson Alvarez.
The Honorable Governor attended the same equally important occasion in Casiguran, Aurora.

Araw ng Kalayaan 2006

2006-06-13T11:26:00.000+08:00

The Provincial Government of Aurora and Municipal Government of Baler celebrate the 108th Independence Day. The Philippine flag soar high after the flag raising and brief ceremony at the Capitol Compound.

Local newspaper

2006-06-08T09:44:00.000+08:00

Two local newspaper in Central Aurora, so far. The WEEKLY TIME RECORD AURORA and NEWSBREAK AURORA.

Pahabol na piktyur!!!

2006-06-02T18:23:00.000+08:00

The celebrities together with the upcoming stars.(Photo courtesy of Carrie Emmanuel)

Time out, Mr. Referee !!!

2006-06-02T16:14:00.000+08:00

Presenting, the Basketball Association of the Phils. - Baler, Aurora Chapter. Headed by Mr. Rene Paulo(2nd standing from right), under the guidance of Mr. Joseph Kuizon. This 2 months-old group composed of referee, timer, scorer, and statistician. They are professionals in their own field but come out in similar interest in sports. They value sportsmanship, dedication and professionalism.

web watch

2006-06-01T17:32:00.000+08:00

Baler Institute

Baler Institute was founded in the year 1939 by the late Mr. Paulino G. Espinosa, Sr., CPA. It was the first secondary school ever built in the province of Aurora. The school officially received its Government Recognition Permit in the year 1955 numbered 554.

June is Philippine environment month

2006-06-01T11:07:00.000+08:00

With almost 70% forest reserve of aurora, so far. Let us continue to protect and conserve our forest and environment as well...

AURORANS won by 2 points against Celebrities

2006-05-28T15:56:00.000+08:00

2-point margin that Aurora got from Celebrity players:

1st point... Persons with disabilities, indigenous people, youth, and women from Aurora now have funds for their training, support, and development. Also, initial funds for the establishment of Peoples Empowerment Center of Aurora were given.

2nd point...The people of Aurora were entertained by top male celebrities from Manila as they held a friendship game against selected players from our province headed by top scorer Cong. Sonny Angara.

Through the initiative of Gov. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo and the cooperation of different agencies, the Basketball: Aurorans & Celebrities event was generally successful and peaceful. With over 1,500 in attendance, the Dr. Juan C. Angara Sports complex rumbled as the celebrity players appeared in red uniform. They were Christopher De Leon, Tirso Cruz III, Bembol Roco, Rez Cortez, Nino Muhlach, Onyok Velasco, Carlos Morales, Dino Guevarra, Felix Roco and Anton Dela Paz.

Here are some snapshots of the event:

Most popular among the celebrities in Baler, no other than the Drama king himself Christopher De leon.

Nino Muhlach proved to be a true comedian when he delighted the crowd with lots of fun and comic antics.
I don't think Tirso Cruz III was trying to shake the complex but he definitely needed to stress out from long hours of travel just to make our kababayans happy.

Those who could not afford to buy tickets had a chance to meet the stars right by the windows. This photo shows Bembol Roco. He was with his son Felix Roco, an upcoming matinee idol.

Among the audience were Gov. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo, Vice Governor Annabelle C. Tangson, UA&P Vice President Bernardo M. Villegas, and foreign visitors.

End of the game with the final score 81-79 in favor of Aurorans.

Note: Republish with correction.

The way to Aurora

2006-05-25T14:24:00.000+08:00

The road less travelled...
Newly renovated Juan C. Angara airport that handle the air service of SEAIR commercial plane. With 19-seater capacity airplane, this service will initially offer two flights per week, with departures at 8:00 am every Monday and Friday from the Manila Domestic terminal. The flights from Baler Airport back to Manila will be at 9:30 am on Mondays and Fridays. One way fare has been set at P2,500, inclusive of VAT, passenger insurance and other charges. It will be a short 45-minute trip according to SEAIR.

Rough-road, but exciting!!!
An 8-hour bus ride from Manila via Canili-Pantabangan road or Bongabon-Aurora road. You can choose from Genesis Transit in Pasay, D-Liner bus with station in Cabanatuan City and Baguio city, ABC Trans, Papin Bus, Maria Aurora Express or private van with 11 seating capacity.

Akkaw thanks!

2006-05-25T14:13:00.000+08:00

Big thanks to Batangbaler for giving us a little space in their site...

AKKAW RULES !!!

Magic of Erik Mana

2006-05-21T12:22:00.000+08:00

Eric Mana is undoubtly the country’s premiere magician, known as the Stranger and the Mastermind.

A 33 year-old master illusionist that developed his skills from Toronto, Canada He has popularized magic and given it some stature and respectability. His uncanny ability in the genre of magic, known as Mentalism has left skeptics across the country stunned with disbelief. He is also best known as the Philippines’ only premiere magician.

He performed in various invitation from corporate events and various television shows.

Incidentally, Eric Mana was the son-in-law of Municipal Councilor Reynaldo Mapindan of Baler. We wish to see him performed in our own town.

photo courtesy of abante.com.ph

Provincial Offices

2006-05-21T11:31:00.000+08:00

Here's some of the list of Provincial Offices with corresponding contact info:

PROVINCIAL GOVERNORS OFFICE
Gov. Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo
042-209-4211

OFFICE OF THE VICE GOVERNOR
Vice Gov. Annabelle C. Tangson
042-209-4433 vgact@yahoo.com

SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN SECRETARIAT OFFICE
Daisy Q. Jamora
042-209-4291

OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATOR
Alex N. Ocampo
042-209-4355 alex_ocampo4319@yahoo.com

PROVINCIAL TOURISM OFFICE
Caesar Christopher Gonzales
042-209-4373 tourism@yahoo.com

PROVINCIAL GENERAL SERVICES OFFICE
Ricardo Q. Bautista
042-209-4283 pgso_aurora@yahoo.com

PROVINCIAL SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Aida H. Rutaquio
042-209-4294 pswdo_aurora@yahoo.com

PROVL. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Genevieve P. Yanga
042-209-4275 ppd_ppdo@yahoo.com

related links

Multi-millionaire "housemate"

2006-05-18T16:57:00.000+08:00

Angara son sixth richest lawmaker

Green forest & blue ocean

2006-05-18T14:39:00.000+08:00

Overlooking the Cemento Beach atop of Ermita Hill...

Casapsapan Beach, Casiguran Aurora (2)

2006-05-12T17:06:00.000+08:00

This digitally scanned photo was published on May 5, 2005 at Manila Bulletin broadsheet. The pristine white beach of Casapsapan, Casiguran, Aurora serves as background. Tatiane Dzars of the Velvet rope was the model.

view details

"Gawad Kampeon ng Kabataan"

2006-05-10T18:17:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to Board Member Shierwin Taay of the 1st District of Aurora as one of the 10 recipient of Outstanding Legislators for Youth Development of the Philippines.Given by the National Youth Commission in cooperation with the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL). The Search for the 10 Outstanding Legislators for Youth Development was started last December 2005 by the NYC. It sought to recognize legislators who devoted time and effort in drafting and pursuing legislations for youth development as well as to propagate youth rights and welfare in their respective localities. It is also aimed at providing a vehicle for the documentation and replication of good practices in governance that affect the plight of the youth sector.

PIA Information service

Casapsapan Beach, Casiguran, Aurora

2006-05-09T19:26:00.000+08:00

take a look of a paradise found...
Photo courtesy of Ferdie Delos Reyes

Northern Aurora revisited

2006-05-08T16:08:00.000+08:00

A group of journalist from Manila Bulletin make a tour to Northern part of Aurora and what they found was a paradise that is breathtaking. A picturesque landscape of the countryside and they experience the magnificent virgin forests of the Sierra Madre mountain flavored with white sand beach of Casapsapan, Casiguran and more..

View details of article published at Manila Bulletin on May 5, 2006

Basketball: Aurorans & Celebrities

2006-05-05T10:32:00.000+08:00

A Basketball exhibition game initiated by the Provincial Government of Aurora through the leadership of Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo.

May 27, 2006 5:00 pm Dr. Juan C. Angara Sports Complex
Ticket price: P 300.00 initially available at Governor's Ofice limited slots only

Celebrity players:
Christopher De Leon, Philip Salvador, Tyron Perez, Jestoni Alarcon, Zoren Legaspi, Tirso Cruz III, Ian Veneracion, Rez Cortez, Carlos Morales, Onyok Velasco, Nino Mulach and James Blanco

Proceeds: People & Empowerment Center for persons with Disabilities in Aurora Province

for details please contact Governors office

Aqua-Farming

2006-05-04T17:57:00.000+08:00

DA-BFAR is aggressively exerting more efforts to turn Aurora province in Region 3 into a centerpiece of aquaculture.

view details

ricefield

2006-05-04T16:31:00.000+08:00

picture almost perfect...

Photo taken by JCS at Sitio Dipagbato, Brgy. Esperanza Casiguran, Aurora

Ermita Hill view deck

2006-05-04T13:23:00.000+08:00

Newly constructed view deck(cottage) found at Ermita Hill, Brgy Zabali Baler, Aurora.Overlooking the bluish pacific ocean on front and green forest at right. Ideal for sight-seeing, picnic, special occasions and relaxation.

Aurora's RH Code of 2005: First in the Country

2006-05-03T18:46:00.000+08:00

‘Poor’ Luzon province enacts RP’s first repro health code
[excerpts from Sunstar Cebu /Sunday, March 19, 2006 ]
National legislators are struggling to implement reproductive health (RH) laws, partly because of the Catholic Church’s opposition, but one province has succeeded in passing the first RH Code in the country.
The province of Aurora in Central Luzon, one of the 20 poorest provinces in the country, passed an RH Code last year, and is working on the implementing rules and regulations.
Aurora Vice Gov. Annabelle Tangson presented her province’s RH Code during the Second Philippine Health and Environment (PHE) National Conference held in Cebu this week.
Tangson is the author of Aurora’s provincial ordinance that provides for the creation of the Aurora Reproductive Health Care Code.
view complete details

Mindanao legislators urged to act on population bill
[excerpts from MindaNews / April 22 2006 / by Walter I. Balane]

DAVAO CITY -- Mindanao officials have to take local actions for the passage of a law on reproductive health and population management, according to Senator Rodolfo Biazon and Bukidnon 1^st district Rep. Nereus Acosta.

Biazon and Acosta encouraged local legislators to follow the example of the Province of Aurora, which passed a Reproductive Health Care Ordinance in 2005, the first in the country, amid strong opposition from local organizations...

Both legislators cited the strong opposition from the Roman Catholic Church as a major hindrance to the passage of the law.

“We cannot just stop and wait for Congress and Senate, we have to do something,” Aurora vice governor Annabelle Tangson said.

Tangson heads the Local Legislators’ League of Population, Health, Environment and Development (3LPHED).

The group launched a signature campaign in support of the bills together with the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD)...

view complete details

Power of Technology

2006-05-03T18:31:00.000+08:00

Power of technology

byEdgardo J. Angara published in Manila Bulletin

Gawad Kalinga Luzon

2006-05-03T18:15:00.000+08:00

Gawad Kalinga builds colorful, durable and secure homes for the poorest of the poor.Through donation from individuals, private and government sectors and partners abroad they can build a coommunity for the poor. Initiated by Couple for Christ hte house are built by volunteers from different sector and occupants as well. The program also provides other physical structures such as pathwalks and drainage systems, water and toilet facilities, a school, a livelihood center, a multi-purpose hall and a clinic. In some areas, other structures such as basketball courts and libraries are also constructed once basic infrastructure needs are set up.

Aurora province are among their most priorities of building shelter for the poor. Initially 2 communities are already build in Caragsacan, Dingalan, Aurora and Diteki, San Luis Aurora. And another village will having its groundbreaking in Dipaculao, Aurora.

Gawad Kalinga Luzon

Doña Aurora

2006-04-28T08:28:00.000+08:00

Commemorating the 67th death anniversary of Doña Aurora Quezon, former first lady of the Philippines and wife of President Manuel Luis Quezon, the pride of Baler. On April 28,1949 as she was on her way to inaugurate the Quezon Memorial Hospital in her home town of Baler, Aurora, her eldest daughter Ma. Aurora, son-in-law Felipe Buencamino III, Quezon City Mayor Ponciano Bernardo and several others were ambushed and killed by renegade members of the Hukbalahap, in Bongabong, Nueva Ecija.

Our Province was name after her, so as this blog was name after its people

Surfing photos from 10th Aurora Surfing Cup

2006-04-22T12:11:00.000+08:00

Photo taken at Cemento Reef, Baler, Aurora on the finals of 10th Aurora Surfing Cup. Photo courtesy of PAIAD Office Provl. Govt. of Aurora

welcome !!!

2006-04-21T12:39:00.000+08:00

this blog will showcase the vast beauty of aurora, its people, places and everything under the sun.

welcome to aurora, province, philippines where nature and culture in symphony.