To celebrate Mayor James “Bong” Gordon’s upcoming 62nd birthday on October 2, city government officials and employees have organized various service activities to be held simultaneously at the Rizal Triangle Covered Court on September 30, 2009, 10 am.
At the said event, five hundred (500) patients can avail of free medical and dental consultations from the City Health Office while one hundred (100) patients will benefit from the free tooth extraction of the Dental Services Division. Likewise, the LCDO (Livelihood and Cooperative Development Office) will provide free haircut and will conduct basic livelihood training seminars at the venue. At the same time, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) helpdesk will offer local and international job opportunities in cooperation with POEA-licensed recruitment agencies, business establishments in the city and, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
“Mayor Gordon will celebrate his special day by providing various services that his constituents need, and that is when he is most happy,” said Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon.
Friday, September 25, 2009
City builds first over pass
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice Gov. Anne Marie invite residents to join and witness the ground breaking ceremonies for the city’s first overpass on September 28, 2009 at 9:30 am.
The said overpass will be constructed along Rizal Avenue, in front of Olongapo City Elementary School (OCES) to ensure the safety of pedestrian and to reduce traffic congestion on the main highway wherein buses and motorists to and from Manila and Zambales pass by.
“In addition to passersby, almost 4,000 students of OCES cross the roads along Rizal Avenue everyday and we want to be sure that no one gets hit by a truck or a speeding vehicle. The construction of overpass will lessen the probability of road accidents for the city’s pedestrians,” said Mayor Gordon.
On the same day of groundbreaking for the overpass, the city will also open newly constructed roads at E-6th St., Brgy. Pag-asa and at Mercury St., Brgy. Sta Rita while Lawin St. at Brgy. New Cabalan will be inaugurated on the next day. The said activities are part of Mayor Gordon’s observance of his 62nd birthday on October 3, 2009.
The said overpass will be constructed along Rizal Avenue, in front of Olongapo City Elementary School (OCES) to ensure the safety of pedestrian and to reduce traffic congestion on the main highway wherein buses and motorists to and from Manila and Zambales pass by.
“In addition to passersby, almost 4,000 students of OCES cross the roads along Rizal Avenue everyday and we want to be sure that no one gets hit by a truck or a speeding vehicle. The construction of overpass will lessen the probability of road accidents for the city’s pedestrians,” said Mayor Gordon.
On the same day of groundbreaking for the overpass, the city will also open newly constructed roads at E-6th St., Brgy. Pag-asa and at Mercury St., Brgy. Sta Rita while Lawin St. at Brgy. New Cabalan will be inaugurated on the next day. The said activities are part of Mayor Gordon’s observance of his 62nd birthday on October 3, 2009.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Mayor Gordon leads city business summit
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon led the 2009 Olongapo Business Summit held at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC) last September 15, 2009 with the participation of city and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials, investors, national government agencies and various business organizations in Olongapo City.
The said summit also discussed and explained current procedures and issues related to business processing in the city and at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ).
Due to the success of the event, the city plans to hold a yearly business summit as an avenue of communication between concerned government agencies and the business sector, Mayor Gordon said.
It can be recalled that due to the city’s business-friendly policies, Olongapo was cited as Most Competitive Medium-Sized City for 2007 from the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center and as Best Business One Stop Shop (B.O.S.S) of the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation.
Olongapo also garnered a similar award from AIM in 2005.
The said summit also discussed and explained current procedures and issues related to business processing in the city and at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ).
Due to the success of the event, the city plans to hold a yearly business summit as an avenue of communication between concerned government agencies and the business sector, Mayor Gordon said.
It can be recalled that due to the city’s business-friendly policies, Olongapo was cited as Most Competitive Medium-Sized City for 2007 from the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center and as Best Business One Stop Shop (B.O.S.S) of the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation.
Olongapo also garnered a similar award from AIM in 2005.
City ascertains damages for rehabilitation plans
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. together with Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon held an urgent meeting with the department heads, representatives from the City Disaster Coordinating Council (CDCC), and with community and barangay leaders at the FMA Hall recently.
Mayor Gordon initiated the move to identify the areas affected by the floods and to discern the status of the residents who evacuated from their homes and the extent of damages to public and private properties brought about by the recent calamity.
Barangay leaders from Old Cabalan reported how the Disaster Management Office, together with barangay volunteers rescued residents from the floods while representatives from Barangay Sta. Rita, which was severely hit by the floods, accounted the scope of damages to their constituents such as loss of homes and destruction of other properties.
Based on the reports gathered in this meeting, Mayor Gordon tasked concerned departments such as CSWDO, DMO, PUD, Engineering, ESMO, CPDO to lead the city’s rehabilitation.
It can be recalled that the city declared a state of calamity last week after the barrage of monsoon rains in addition to high tide causing floods as high as 10 feet, leaving mounds of mud and destroyed properties in the city.
Meanwhile, Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Gordon led the additional relief-operation for the flood-stricken families at the Rizal Triangle Covered Court after the meeting.
City expects to attract more tourists in the coming months
The city government announced the upcoming Olongapo City Tourism Events for October to December 2009 at the recently held Business Summit at the Olongapo City Convention Center.
Lorela S. Montoya of the City Tourism Office presented the details of the planned tourism projects to the attendees of the business summit: Olongapo City officials led by Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and Olongapo City First Lady and Zambales Vice Gov. Anne Marie, SBMA officials led by Administrator & CEO Armand C. Arreza, representatives from national government agencies, members of the city council, barangay officials, bankers’ group, and managers and owners of small/medium/large scale business in the city.
For the last three months of 2009, the following tourism activities are charted:
• BINIBINING OLONGAPO 2009
TALENT PRESENTATION
October 3 (Oriental Paradise Casino, SBFZ)
A NIGHT OF FASHION
October 7 (Casino Filipino, Olongapo)
PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT TRAINING ON ORAL COMMUNICATION
October 10 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
PRE-JUDGING
October 17 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
Bb. OLONGAPO MOTORCADE
October 23
GRAND PAGEANT NIGHT
October 24, 2009 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
• SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
October 27-30, 2009
REGISTRATION / BILLETING
WELCOME DINNER AND SOCIALS
October 27, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
PLENARY SESSION
AWARDING CEREMONIES OF OUTSTANDING SK
October 28, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
PLENARY SESSION (Guest of Honor: H.E. President Gloria Arroyo)
OPEN DEBATE with the Presidentiables
DINNER and REUNION of KB and SK
October 29, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
• OLONGAPO MARDIGRAS 2009
October 29, 30 and 31
Metro Olongapo Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in cooperation with the City Government of Olongapo and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)
• OLONGAPO CITY FIESTA 2009
October 23 (FMA Hall)
First Canvassing – CHINESE NIGHT
November 13 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
Second Canvassing – KOREAN NIGHT
PRESENTATION of City Fiesta Candidates
November 27 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
Third Canvassing – INTERNATIONAL NIGHT
December 11 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
CORONATION NIGHT
December 23 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
CITY FIESTA GRAND PARADE
December 30
QUEEN’S BALL
December 31 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
• ANNUAL PACIFIC ISLANDS LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CONFERENCE
February 2010
Host: Olongapo City
Venue: Olongapo City & Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ)
Attendees: 1,500 – 3,000 Pacific Islands Leaders
‘Continuous and dynamic tourism projects lead to business and economic growth,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. at the said conference. “Tourism means jobs because when the business sector is growing so are the demand for more workers,” he also explained.
Meanwhile, the city implements the guiding policies of City Ordinance No. 29 (series of 2006) otherwise known as the “Olongapo City Tourism Code” that recommends the creations of the Tourism & Promotions Department and Barangay Tourism Councils in the city, rehabilitation of parks and plazas, organizing of culture of excellence seminars and the upgrading of accreditation and classification requirements for tourism establishments in the advocacy to promote Olongapo City together with the Subic Bay Freeport Zone as center of visiting attractions in the northern part of the Philippines.
Lorela S. Montoya of the City Tourism Office presented the details of the planned tourism projects to the attendees of the business summit: Olongapo City officials led by Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and Olongapo City First Lady and Zambales Vice Gov. Anne Marie, SBMA officials led by Administrator & CEO Armand C. Arreza, representatives from national government agencies, members of the city council, barangay officials, bankers’ group, and managers and owners of small/medium/large scale business in the city.
For the last three months of 2009, the following tourism activities are charted:
• BINIBINING OLONGAPO 2009
TALENT PRESENTATION
October 3 (Oriental Paradise Casino, SBFZ)
A NIGHT OF FASHION
October 7 (Casino Filipino, Olongapo)
PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT TRAINING ON ORAL COMMUNICATION
October 10 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
PRE-JUDGING
October 17 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
Bb. OLONGAPO MOTORCADE
October 23
GRAND PAGEANT NIGHT
October 24, 2009 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
• SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
October 27-30, 2009
REGISTRATION / BILLETING
WELCOME DINNER AND SOCIALS
October 27, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
PLENARY SESSION
AWARDING CEREMONIES OF OUTSTANDING SK
October 28, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
PLENARY SESSION (Guest of Honor: H.E. President Gloria Arroyo)
OPEN DEBATE with the Presidentiables
DINNER and REUNION of KB and SK
October 29, 2009 (Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center)
• OLONGAPO MARDIGRAS 2009
October 29, 30 and 31
Metro Olongapo Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in cooperation with the City Government of Olongapo and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)
• OLONGAPO CITY FIESTA 2009
October 23 (FMA Hall)
First Canvassing – CHINESE NIGHT
November 13 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
Second Canvassing – KOREAN NIGHT
PRESENTATION of City Fiesta Candidates
November 27 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
Third Canvassing – INTERNATIONAL NIGHT
December 11 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
CORONATION NIGHT
December 23 (Rizal Triangle Covered Court)
CITY FIESTA GRAND PARADE
December 30
QUEEN’S BALL
December 31 (Olongapo City Convention Center)
• ANNUAL PACIFIC ISLANDS LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CONFERENCE
February 2010
Host: Olongapo City
Venue: Olongapo City & Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ)
Attendees: 1,500 – 3,000 Pacific Islands Leaders
‘Continuous and dynamic tourism projects lead to business and economic growth,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. at the said conference. “Tourism means jobs because when the business sector is growing so are the demand for more workers,” he also explained.
Meanwhile, the city implements the guiding policies of City Ordinance No. 29 (series of 2006) otherwise known as the “Olongapo City Tourism Code” that recommends the creations of the Tourism & Promotions Department and Barangay Tourism Councils in the city, rehabilitation of parks and plazas, organizing of culture of excellence seminars and the upgrading of accreditation and classification requirements for tourism establishments in the advocacy to promote Olongapo City together with the Subic Bay Freeport Zone as center of visiting attractions in the northern part of the Philippines.
Business Incentives for Barangay Micro-Business Enterprises (BMBEs)
Pursuant to the policies of Republic Act 9178 otherwise known as the “The Barangay Micro-Business Enterprises (BMBEs) of 2002, the city government is encouraging business owners to register as BMBEs to avail of tax incentives.
“Duly-registered BMBEs are given tax incentives to encourage the formation and growth of barangay micro-business enterprises that utilize the Filipinos’ own entrepreneurial talents and resources,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr.
According to the implementing rules of the said act, the Office of the Treasurer of each city or municipality shall register BMBEs and issue a Certificate of Authority (CA) to enable the BMBE to avail of incentives provided that only one CA shall be issued for each BMBE.
“An enterprise can be considered as BMBE if it is barangay based, meaning, if the majority of its employees are residents of the city and if the principal operations of business is also confined within the territorial jurisdiction of the city,” explained Marcelino Andawi, Olongapo City Treasurer. “Moreover, the principal activity of a BMBE must include the application of a particular skill or use of raw materials predominantly sourced from Olongapo,” Andawi added.
Andawi also stressed that aside from being barangay based, a potential BMBE must be micro-business in nature and scope whose principal activity is for livelihood as determined by the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council or by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as priority area for development or government assistance.
On the other hand, applicants of BMBE must not be a branch, subsidiary, division or office of a large scale enterprise and an enterprise’ policies must not be under the mandates of a large scale business or by person(s) who are not owners or employees of an applying BMBE.
The City Treasurer’s Office requires registrants of BMBEs to submit the following documents:
Registration as a business entity or enterprise from the appropriate government agency such as SEC registration for corporations, DTI for sole proprietorship and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) permit for cooperatives;
Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN);
Certificate of registration from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR);
Mayor’s permit
Sworn affidavit executed by the sole proprietor or President of the Enterprise, as case may be, that the enterprise is barangay based and micro-business in nature and scope;
Pictures of the place of business and its assets;
Copy of Loan contracts, if any, and duly-notarized certification of amortization payments on the loan; and
Income Tax Return (ITR) with proof that it has been duly filed with BIR, including attachments, if any (for existing business only).
Interested BMBE registrants may visit the City Treasurer’s Office at the ground floor of Olongapo City Hall or call 222-2607 for application inquiries or email the said office at treasury_gapo@yahoo.com.
“Duly-registered BMBEs are given tax incentives to encourage the formation and growth of barangay micro-business enterprises that utilize the Filipinos’ own entrepreneurial talents and resources,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr.
According to the implementing rules of the said act, the Office of the Treasurer of each city or municipality shall register BMBEs and issue a Certificate of Authority (CA) to enable the BMBE to avail of incentives provided that only one CA shall be issued for each BMBE.
“An enterprise can be considered as BMBE if it is barangay based, meaning, if the majority of its employees are residents of the city and if the principal operations of business is also confined within the territorial jurisdiction of the city,” explained Marcelino Andawi, Olongapo City Treasurer. “Moreover, the principal activity of a BMBE must include the application of a particular skill or use of raw materials predominantly sourced from Olongapo,” Andawi added.
Andawi also stressed that aside from being barangay based, a potential BMBE must be micro-business in nature and scope whose principal activity is for livelihood as determined by the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council or by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as priority area for development or government assistance.
On the other hand, applicants of BMBE must not be a branch, subsidiary, division or office of a large scale enterprise and an enterprise’ policies must not be under the mandates of a large scale business or by person(s) who are not owners or employees of an applying BMBE.
The City Treasurer’s Office requires registrants of BMBEs to submit the following documents:
Registration as a business entity or enterprise from the appropriate government agency such as SEC registration for corporations, DTI for sole proprietorship and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) permit for cooperatives;
Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN);
Certificate of registration from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR);
Mayor’s permit
Sworn affidavit executed by the sole proprietor or President of the Enterprise, as case may be, that the enterprise is barangay based and micro-business in nature and scope;
Pictures of the place of business and its assets;
Copy of Loan contracts, if any, and duly-notarized certification of amortization payments on the loan; and
Income Tax Return (ITR) with proof that it has been duly filed with BIR, including attachments, if any (for existing business only).
Interested BMBE registrants may visit the City Treasurer’s Office at the ground floor of Olongapo City Hall or call 222-2607 for application inquiries or email the said office at treasury_gapo@yahoo.com.
ALAY LAKAD prepares for its next run
Led by Chairman Abner Santos of Lions Club International, District 301-D1, this year’s lead non-government organization, the 2009 Alay-Lakad Executive Committee (Execom) has lined-up this year’s activities in the aim to solicit funds to support the foundation’s social projects, particularly, the scholarship grants for the Olongapeño youth.
Aside from the Bingo Social Game to be held on October 7, 2009, 6 pm at the Plenary Hall of the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC), the foundation has already started the distribution of the tickets and selling of souvenir t-shirts and stickers while donation boxes are standing by the banks and business establishments in the city for the whole year to aid in the solicitation of funds for the foundations’ projects.
Moreover, the “Alay-Lakad” is set to kick-off on October 11, 2009 with an approximate of 3,000 participants expected from different government and non-government organizations to be led by Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon.
The fun-run will assemble and start at
Aside from the Bingo Social Game to be held on October 7, 2009, 6 pm at the Plenary Hall of the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC), the foundation has already started the distribution of the tickets and selling of souvenir t-shirts and stickers while donation boxes are standing by the banks and business establishments in the city for the whole year to aid in the solicitation of funds for the foundations’ projects.
Moreover, the “Alay-Lakad” is set to kick-off on October 11, 2009 with an approximate of 3,000 participants expected from different government and non-government organizations to be led by Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon.
The fun-run will assemble and start at
Monday, September 14, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
MAYOR GORDON TELLS RESIDENTS TO BRACE-UP VS FLOODING
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. has advised the public to store foods and necessary supplies as part of measures against prolonged rainfall and flooding brought by monsoon rains the past few days.
“According to weather forecast, we will have more rains for the next two days and its better if we prepare for the worst situations. We are advising the residents to cooperate, be alert and stay indoors to avoid accidents,” said Mayor Gordon.
In this connection, the City Disaster Coordinating Council (CDCC) conducted an urgent meeting with all its attached agencies, officials, and with the 17 barangays of Olongapo to get an up-to-date situationer from different areas in the city.
From the initial report received by the CDCC, an approximate of two hundred and eighteen families (218) or a total of three hundred seventy three (373) individuals from West Bajac-Bajac, East Bajac-Bajac, New Ilalim and Old Cabalan evacuated from their homes. Out of this evacuees, two hundred (200) families were brought to Old Cabalan Elementary School and the remaining eighteen (18) families were temporarily housed at the Olongapo City National High School (OCNHS).
Moreover, according to CDCC, two (2) patients were reported to have been given first-aid namely: Ignacio dela Peña, 48 years old, who accidentally stepped-on a nail and the 70 year-old Carlito Esterllado who suffers from cough and colds. The said patients who are both residents of West Bajac-Bajac are staying at the Olongapo City National High School evacuation site.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) oversees the needs of the evacuees while the City Health Office (CHO) is in charged with the medical welfare of the flood victims.
On the other hand, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) donated 43 boxes of canned goods and 3 sacks of rice to support the city in providing for the needs of its residents in times of calamities.
Meanwhile, Mayor Gordon together with Disaster Management Office Head, Angie Layug made the rounds to inspect the city’s 17 barangays and monitor the latest updates on their situations.
GMA CONFERS AWARD TO OLONGAPO TEACHER
Accompanied by Mayor James “Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. and some DepEd Olongapo officials, Eva Imingan, Teacher II from Nellie E. Brown Elementary School (NEBES) Olongapo City received a medallion of recognition from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at the conferment ceremonies of this year’s Metrobank Foundation Ten Most Outstanding Teachers at the Malacañang Palace last September 5.
Also distinguished by Dr. George S.K. Ty, Chairman of Metrobank Group and Metrobank Foundation, Aniceto Sobrepeña, President of Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Teresita Leonardo de Castro, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Jeslie Lapus, Secretary of the Department of Education and Emmanuel Angeles, Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education, the said event recognizes the efforts and commitment of the country’s top mentors.
Imingan is chosen by the Metrobank Foundation as one of the bests due to her passion and dedication as an educator. As an English teacher for ten years, Imingan considers that her biggest responsibility is to promote reading and comprehension. In order to achieve this, she conducted researches on reading difficulties and has developed improvised teaching devices called the Reading Remediation Series. This technique uses teaching materials such as big books, charts and flashcards that helped improved the reading comprehension of her students. Imingan also spearheaded the establishment of the Extensive Reading Center (ERC) at NEBES where wide varieties of reading materials and learning tools are made available to students and teachers. This model teacher also reached out to the families of students with reading difficulties and her efforts to pursue the progress in reading and comprehension of students resulted to better performance of NEBES in the division, regional and national achievement tests for elementary schools. In fact, NEBES bagged the “Best School Award in Reading” for SY 2006-2007 from the DepED Division Office in Olongapo City.
“ I am so proud that an Olongapeño teacher is chosen as one of the country’s finest educator because Teacher Imingan does not only represent the labors and accomplishments of her school and co-teachers but also the struggle for excellence of her hometown,” said Mayor Gordon.
The Search for Outstanding Teachers represents the Metrobank Foundation's commitment to promote a culture of excellence in education. Since 1985, the foundation has awarded more than 200 exemplary elementary, high school, and college teachers from all over the country.
Also distinguished by Dr. George S.K. Ty, Chairman of Metrobank Group and Metrobank Foundation, Aniceto Sobrepeña, President of Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Teresita Leonardo de Castro, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Jeslie Lapus, Secretary of the Department of Education and Emmanuel Angeles, Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education, the said event recognizes the efforts and commitment of the country’s top mentors.
Imingan is chosen by the Metrobank Foundation as one of the bests due to her passion and dedication as an educator. As an English teacher for ten years, Imingan considers that her biggest responsibility is to promote reading and comprehension. In order to achieve this, she conducted researches on reading difficulties and has developed improvised teaching devices called the Reading Remediation Series. This technique uses teaching materials such as big books, charts and flashcards that helped improved the reading comprehension of her students. Imingan also spearheaded the establishment of the Extensive Reading Center (ERC) at NEBES where wide varieties of reading materials and learning tools are made available to students and teachers. This model teacher also reached out to the families of students with reading difficulties and her efforts to pursue the progress in reading and comprehension of students resulted to better performance of NEBES in the division, regional and national achievement tests for elementary schools. In fact, NEBES bagged the “Best School Award in Reading” for SY 2006-2007 from the DepED Division Office in Olongapo City.
“ I am so proud that an Olongapeño teacher is chosen as one of the country’s finest educator because Teacher Imingan does not only represent the labors and accomplishments of her school and co-teachers but also the struggle for excellence of her hometown,” said Mayor Gordon.
The Search for Outstanding Teachers represents the Metrobank Foundation's commitment to promote a culture of excellence in education. Since 1985, the foundation has awarded more than 200 exemplary elementary, high school, and college teachers from all over the country.
Amelia Gordon celebrates her 89th birthday
First-Elected Woman Mayor of Olongapo and First-Elected Assembly Woman Amelia J. Gordon celebrated her 89th birthday last September 4, 2009 at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC).
Senator Richard Gordon and wife Kate, together with Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie led well-wishers who expressed their love and admiration to the acknowledged mother of Olongapo.
“My mother is not only our mother. She is the mother of every men, women, young and old Olongapeños,” said Senator Dick. Mayor Bong on the other hand, led the conferment of Entrepreneurs’ Award from the Metro-Olongapo Chamber of Commerce (OBC) Inc. to the birthday celebrant.
With the theme “Amelia J. Gordon: Enjoying a Full and Long Life, Amelia’s daughters Veronica G. Lorenzana and Barbara G. delos Reyes prepared a presentation wherein child actors from the Olongapo City and Zambales Performing Arts re-enacted the life and accomplishments Madame Amelia.
Amelia Gordon is known for her advocacy to protect and promote the welfare of the needy and abandoned children. She led the formation of Iba-Olongapo Catholic Women’s League, Olongapo City Red Cross, Olongapo City Civic Action Group and Olongapo Boy’s Town and Girls Home, organizations that are helping Olongapeños up to the present. Because of her noble deeds, Amelia received the Dona Aurora Aragon Medal Award, Silver Jubilee Family Award, Silver Medal Award from the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), 1985 Gintong Ina Award Alay kay Inay, 1993 Gold Humanitarian Service Cross Award, 2000 Centennial woman of the Year Award and 2004 Pearl S. Buck International Award.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Inmates take basic massage lessons
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. in cooperation with the Livelihood and Development Office (LCDO) awarded training equipment to Olongapo City District Jail recently in connection with the city’s advocacy to help the reformation of inmates.
Together with LCDO head Aileen Sanchez, Mayor Gordon turned over two (2) massage beds and 45 training kits to Jail Superintendent Alberto M. Balauag and Rev. Edgardro Pabanil.
These donations are in line with the Basic Massage Training being conducted by the LCDO to teach inmates of the benefits of traditional medicines and massage to the body’s healing process.
The said training started first week of July and will end on October 5, 2009. Among the lessons that inmates have learned are the basics in reflexology, hydrotherapy, herbal medicine and natural healing therapies.
Radioactive Sources: Risks Vs. Benefits
A total of 157 attendees from different schools and universities from Olongapo and Zambales benefited from the “Nuclear Safety and Security Awareness Seminar held last August 27, 2009 at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC) thru the efforts of Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) as part of its countywide Nuclear Caravan program in cooperation with the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office.
Lynette B. Cayabo, Science Research Specialist II of the Nuclear Regulations, Licensing and Safeguards Division (NRLSD) of PNRI, discussed the fundamentals of radiation that provided a backgrounder and brief explanation about radiation, its natural and artificial sources, and its effect on the human body depending on the variables of exposure. Cayabo also stressed 3 ways to control the exposure to radioactive sources namely:
a. To minimize time of exposure;
b. To maximize distance from radioactive sources; and ,
c. To provide shielding from radioactive materials
(lead).
On the other hand, Euliania M. Valdezco chief of NRLSD tackled the safety and security of radioactive sources in the Philippines. Valdezco discussed the benefits of radiation to:
a. Medical applications like Cobalt 60 to treat cancer,
blood/tissue irradiation, medical diagnoses,
radiotherapy and others;
b. Electric and nuclear power generation; and,
c. To food technology specifically the use of food
irradiators to create “mutants” such as “seedless”
pineapples and the likes.
Likewise, Valdezco also emphasized the harm and danger that radioactive sources may cause through the misuse of these highly dangerous radioactive sources.
“We are not saying that radioactive sources are not harmful, they are harmful, but they can also be beneficial depending on how we use it,” said Valdezco. The foreseen danger of misuse of radioactive elements is the basis for the resolve for radiation protection on the supposition that the smaller doses of radiation one receive, the smaller are the risks. Thus, the creation of PNRI that oversees to the proper licensing of companies and industries that use radioactive sources.
To summarize, the seminar pointed out the following key messages:
a. Radiation can be beneficial or harmful
b. Safety and security of radioactive sources are equally
important issues
c. Security measures depend on the risks associated
(ex. low or highly active form of radioactive sources)
d. Effective risk management (training, research and
studies).
Also present at the said event were NRLSD’s Teresita G. de Jesus, Science and Research Specialist II for Inspection and Enforcement, Alfonso Singayan, Science and Research Specialist I for Standards and Development and Science Research Analyst, Johnylen Melendez.
“Thru appropriate training and by the consent of PNRI, Olongapo and Zambales may consider to utilize food irradiation technology to produce globally-marketable “seedless mangoes” and other mango by-products in the future,” said Mayor James “Gordon” Jr. as guest speaker at the said event.
Lynette B. Cayabo, Science Research Specialist II of the Nuclear Regulations, Licensing and Safeguards Division (NRLSD) of PNRI, discussed the fundamentals of radiation that provided a backgrounder and brief explanation about radiation, its natural and artificial sources, and its effect on the human body depending on the variables of exposure. Cayabo also stressed 3 ways to control the exposure to radioactive sources namely:
a. To minimize time of exposure;
b. To maximize distance from radioactive sources; and ,
c. To provide shielding from radioactive materials
(lead).
On the other hand, Euliania M. Valdezco chief of NRLSD tackled the safety and security of radioactive sources in the Philippines. Valdezco discussed the benefits of radiation to:
a. Medical applications like Cobalt 60 to treat cancer,
blood/tissue irradiation, medical diagnoses,
radiotherapy and others;
b. Electric and nuclear power generation; and,
c. To food technology specifically the use of food
irradiators to create “mutants” such as “seedless”
pineapples and the likes.
Likewise, Valdezco also emphasized the harm and danger that radioactive sources may cause through the misuse of these highly dangerous radioactive sources.
“We are not saying that radioactive sources are not harmful, they are harmful, but they can also be beneficial depending on how we use it,” said Valdezco. The foreseen danger of misuse of radioactive elements is the basis for the resolve for radiation protection on the supposition that the smaller doses of radiation one receive, the smaller are the risks. Thus, the creation of PNRI that oversees to the proper licensing of companies and industries that use radioactive sources.
To summarize, the seminar pointed out the following key messages:
a. Radiation can be beneficial or harmful
b. Safety and security of radioactive sources are equally
important issues
c. Security measures depend on the risks associated
(ex. low or highly active form of radioactive sources)
d. Effective risk management (training, research and
studies).
Also present at the said event were NRLSD’s Teresita G. de Jesus, Science and Research Specialist II for Inspection and Enforcement, Alfonso Singayan, Science and Research Specialist I for Standards and Development and Science Research Analyst, Johnylen Melendez.
“Thru appropriate training and by the consent of PNRI, Olongapo and Zambales may consider to utilize food irradiation technology to produce globally-marketable “seedless mangoes” and other mango by-products in the future,” said Mayor James “Gordon” Jr. as guest speaker at the said event.
5th Olongapo Marathon 2009
The City of Olongapo is preparing for the upcoming 5th Olongapo City Marathon 2009. The event will be organized by the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) of Olongapo City in coordination with the Olongapo City Youth and Sports Development Council and the Department of Education.
Mayor Gordon together with Olongapo First Lady Zambales Vice Governor Anne Marie Gordon, city officials, members of the Olongapo City Sports Council, SK Federation Officers, barangay officials and other guests are expected to grace the opening program on October 4, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.
The Fun Run activity will kick off on October 4, 2009 from 5:00 o’clock in the morning onwards with a series of footraces in two (2) categories such as the 5K and 3-K distance for kids ages 12 years old and below.
The event aims to inspire the youth on alternative source of activities rather than engaging in negative influences. Further, it is intended to inspire Olongapeños to be physically fit, discover future champions, sports heroes and new talents in track event.
For details, contact the City YMCA Youth Development Center at 222-9137 or Hubert Magrata at 0921-352-0131.
Mayor Gordon together with Olongapo First Lady Zambales Vice Governor Anne Marie Gordon, city officials, members of the Olongapo City Sports Council, SK Federation Officers, barangay officials and other guests are expected to grace the opening program on October 4, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.
The Fun Run activity will kick off on October 4, 2009 from 5:00 o’clock in the morning onwards with a series of footraces in two (2) categories such as the 5K and 3-K distance for kids ages 12 years old and below.
The event aims to inspire the youth on alternative source of activities rather than engaging in negative influences. Further, it is intended to inspire Olongapeños to be physically fit, discover future champions, sports heroes and new talents in track event.
For details, contact the City YMCA Youth Development Center at 222-9137 or Hubert Magrata at 0921-352-0131.
600 More Recipients of Medical and Dental Aid
Around 600 residents benefited from the medical and dental mission conducted at Jolo St. Tabacuhan, Sta. Rita last August 27, 2009.
This group of beneficiaries was among the many batches of recipients of medical and dental aid from the health programs of Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie.
“The city government provides continuous free medical and dental mission to lend a hand to our needy kababayans,” said Mayor Gordon.
Headed by the City Dentist Dr. Donald Vigo together with doctors and medical personnel from the City Health Office and James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital , the city conducts mobile medical and dental missions at least twice a month to reach the residents of the 17 barangays of Olongapo.
Orozco Again Bags Top Resident Ombudsman Award
Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. extended his commendations for City Legal Officer Atty. Angelito Orozco at the flag raising ceremonies held last August 24, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Covered Court.
This is connection with Orozco’s feat as 2009 “Most Outstanding Resident Ombudsman” given by the Association of Resident Ombudsmen in Government Agencies (AROGA-Philippines).
Atty. Orozco bagged the feat and was also elected as National Executive Vice-President of AROGA by the 228 resident ombudsmen and 104 chiefs of offices of local government units of the Philippines who convened last August 17-19, 2009 at the Grand Men Seng Hotel in Davao City .
Ombudsman Merceditas N. Gutierrez awarded the certificates of recognition to Orozco and presided the oath-taking ceremonies of the newly elected officials of AROGA.
“As a resident ombudsman, we are tasked to study systems and procedures vulnerable to corruption and make recommendations to improve them; report anomalies, irregular acts, unethical conduct or illegal activities committed by the officials and employees of the offices where they are assigned and in the gathering of evidence in the investigations of the same,” Orozco explained.
It can be recalled that Orozco also bagged the same award last year at the 1st National Convention of Resident Ombudsmen held at Baguio City. Atty. Orozco also authored the constitution and by-laws of AROGA-Philippines and served as the Executive Vice President for Luzon of the said organization.
BONGGO, tops OPM chart, again!
Olongapo Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and his Bonggo band once again topped the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) sales chart for the period August 10-16, 2009 according to the Odyssey Music and Video sales report.
With the album, “Deep Inside My Mind,” Bonggo bested nine (9) of the country’s most-listened OPM and most-sought after recording stars including Aiza Seguerra & Willie Revillame, who could only place fifth and 7th behind Mayor Gordon his Bonggo band.
On the other hand, “Deep Inside My Mind” ranked second on the overall category besting numerous local and international albums such as “My Inspiration,” by Charice and “The Fame,” by Lady Gaga.
“The Bonggo band not only aims to entertain listeners but more importantly, we aspire to rpomote pride and loyalty to country and foster Filipino values thru the music we create,” said Mayor Gordon.
Aside from the self-titled carrier single, “Deep Inside My Mind,” the album also contains the following inspirational and patriotic tracks: BongGapo, You Say, Nowhere To GO, Subik, Bayon Kong Olongapo, Give me Feedback, Para sa Iyo and Pasko in duet, solo and group performance.
With the album, “Deep Inside My Mind,” Bonggo bested nine (9) of the country’s most-listened OPM and most-sought after recording stars including Aiza Seguerra & Willie Revillame, who could only place fifth and 7th behind Mayor Gordon his Bonggo band.
On the other hand, “Deep Inside My Mind” ranked second on the overall category besting numerous local and international albums such as “My Inspiration,” by Charice and “The Fame,” by Lady Gaga.
“The Bonggo band not only aims to entertain listeners but more importantly, we aspire to rpomote pride and loyalty to country and foster Filipino values thru the music we create,” said Mayor Gordon.
Aside from the self-titled carrier single, “Deep Inside My Mind,” the album also contains the following inspirational and patriotic tracks: BongGapo, You Say, Nowhere To GO, Subik, Bayon Kong Olongapo, Give me Feedback, Para sa Iyo and Pasko in duet, solo and group performance.
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