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Central Luzon Herald, #179 Rizal Street , San Nicolas, Castillejos (2025)

15/10/2025

𝐔𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐀𝐁 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐦 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥, 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐲 𝐧𝐚 𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐝
Isang bagong yugto para sa mga malikhaing Bataeño ang binuksan ng Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), katuwang ang BTN Association sa pamamagitan ng FAB Film Festival (FFF) — ang kauna-unahang lokal na film festival sa Bataan, tampok ang sampung orihinal na short films mula sa mga direktor at production teams ng lalawigan.
Ginanap ang FFF premiere night sa AFAB Administration Building sa FAB, Mariveles, kung saan sabay-sabay napanood ang mga pelikulang sinulat, kinunan, at binuo ng mga napiling finalists. Bago magsimula ang palabas, pinangunahan ng mga opisyal ng AFAB at BTN ang ribbon-cutting ceremony para sa exhibit ng mga opisyal na poster ng kalahok na pelikula.
Sa kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni AFAB Administrator and CEO Hussein Pangandaman na ang Freeport ay hindi lamang lugar ng produksyon at negosyo—ito rin ay puwang para sa malikhaing pagpapahayag. “Ang diwa po ng FAB ay nasa bawat taong marunong lumikha at magtaguyod. Sa bawat produkto, serbisyo, o ideyang nabubuo rito, buhay rin ang husay at dedikasyon ng mga mamamayan nito,” aniya.
Dumalo rin sa aktibidad ang mga miyembro ng AFAB Management Team, kabilang sina Deputy Administrator for Support Services Ma. Lourdes Herrera, Deputy Administrator for Operations Atty. Michael Angelo Paderanga, Office of the Administrator Group Head Atty. Percival Peralta, at Chief of Staff Augusto Kimpo, na nagpaabot ng buong suporta sa mga kalahok.
Ibinahagi naman ng BTN representative na si Mr. Gabriel Guevarra na ito ang “una sa ganitong uri sa Bataan,” at pinuri ang FFF dahil sa open-theme format nito na nagbigay kalayaan sa mga filmmaker na magpahayag ng kani-kanilang kuwento.
Kasama sa panel ng hurado ang kilalang direktor na si Joel Ferrer, na nagpahayag ng paghanga sa galing at puso ng mga pelikula. “Ramdam ko ang puso sa mga pelikulang ito. Sana lumaki pa ang festival na ito at makapagbukas ng mas maraming oportunidad para sa mga filmmaker sa ating bayan,” ani Ferrer.
Ang sampung tampok na pelikula sa FAB Film Festival:
1. Para sa Paborito Kong Putahe by Erika Ann Bautista (Salimpusa Production)
2. Daluyong by Erwin Jericho Arceo (Sine Kundiman)
3. Maiba Taya by Emir Canlas (EC Films)
4. Tayo sa Dilim by Satoru Corilla (BlueSky Productions)
5. Kubli by Billy Oyanib (One Man Films)
6. Isang Kilo by Jeyk Esperanza (Obra Production)
7. Tagahulo by Lemmor Miguel Vitug (Cinemmon Films)
8. As If We Never Left by Marvin Rei Panes (Nostalgia Cartel)
9. Resume by Michael Angelo Cervantes (CAMAC Production)
10. Kuwentong Multo by Dexter Paul De Jesus (Ciete Cinco Creatives)
Sa pagtatapos ng gabi, nagbigay ng mensahe si Atty. Percival Peralta, na pinuri ang mga bawat kalahok sa pagpapatunay na ang FAB, at ang Bataan ay tahanan ng talento, kwento, at pagkamalikhain.
Ang FAB Film Festival Awards Night ay gaganapin sa mga susunod na linggo, kung saan pararangalan ang mga mangungunang pelikula matapos ang deliberasyon ng mga hurado.

15/10/2025

GET AHEAD OF THE HOLIDAYS AT SM SUPERMALLS
It’s officially Christmas season in the Philippines—and yes, we’re starting early! From the moment the “-ber” months roll in, homes are already dressed in twinkling lights, and families are making lists of gifts and holiday must-haves. It’s a good thing SM Supermalls has everything you need to get a head start on your Christmas prep!
Whether you’re hunting for festive décor or shopping for the perfect presents, SM’s wide selection of affiliates and tenants makes it easy (and fun!) to kick off the holidays ahead of time. Here are some go-to spots worth checking out on your next mall visit:
Deck your space with ornaments and decor from SM HOME
There’s no Christmas without décor, and SM Home is where you’ll find it all—sparkling lights, festive wreaths, Santa figurines, and ornaments in every color scheme you can imagine. While you’re at it, pick up holiday-ready fashion pieces so your whole family can shine at reunions and Christmas parties.
Create a cozy Christmas haven at OUR HOME
Transform your living space into a warm holiday retreat. At Our Home, you can deck out your sala with stylish furniture, chic accents, and seasonal touches that set the scene for those picture-perfect holiday moments.
Give the gift of self-care with WATSONS
Your fave go-to spot for self-care is packed with beauty bundles, skincare sets, and wellness essentials—perfect for those who deserve a little pampering this season. It’s also a great place to curate your own holiday gift packs.Give the gift of self-care with Watsons
Put together festive Christmas baskets at SM MARKETS
Make your holiday gifting even more special with thoughtfully prepared Christmas baskets. At SM Markets (SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and SaveMore), you’ll find everything you need—from pasta, ham, wine, and queso de bola to chocolates and imported treats—to create the perfect holiday bundle for your family and friends.
Spark joy with toys from TOY KINGDOM
Make Christmas morning magical for kids (and kids at heart!) with Toy Kingdom’s wide selection of dolls, action figures, building blocks, and collectibles. It’s the happiest place for ticking off every child’s Christmas wish list.
Christmas, made easy at SM!
Getting a head start on your holiday prep means less stress and more time for the things that truly matter—celebrating with the people you love. At SM Supermalls, Christmas is always within reach, whether you’re decorating your home or shopping for gifts.
So why wait? Start your Christmas preparations now, and make every moment of the season extra merry and bright. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow on social media to know more about their holiday deals and promos.

15/10/2025

SM SUPPORTS CENTRAL LUZON MEDIA ASSOCIATION'S
MANGROVE TREE PLANTING
SM Olongapo Central proudly participated in the 3rd Mangrove Propagation organized by the Central Luzon Media Association Zambales-Olongapo chapter led by its president Dante Salvaña, aimed at promoting environmental conservation and raising awareness about the importance of coastal ecosystem.
Held at Binictican Mangrove Area, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the event was supported by the local media, government representatives, and private sectors.
SM employees, along with volunteers from partner organizations, planted 200 mangrove propagules. Through its participation, SM reinforces its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and a proactive partner in building a sustainable future.
Aside from the local and private sectors SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Aliño was also present during the activity and expressed his gratitude to everyone who came, he also mentioned the aim of SBMA to become the first carbon-neutral economic zone in the Philippines. (30)

13/10/2025

🚨 SALE ALERT! 🚨

The most awaited shopping spree of the season is here! 🥳
Get ready for the at SM City Cabanatuan this October 17 • 18 • 19! 🎉

🛍️ Enjoy up to 70% OFF on amazing finds from your favorite brands!
🚗 Plus — get the chance to WIN a brand-new Suzuki Jimny 5-Door GL MT!

Mark your calendars, tag your shopping buddies, and see you at SM City Cabanatuan for three days of unbeatable deals and endless fun! 😍🛒

Sheen
Sheen
Makikisuyo po sana ako sa inyo. Last 3daysale na po natin this year. Naghahabol lang po ng sale target.

10/10/2025

Shop-tastic Savings at SM City San Fernando Downtown’s 3-Day Sale!

SM City San Fernando Downtown is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated . From October 17 to 19, 2025, discover unbeatable discounts of up to 70% off on a wide selection of products from your favorite stores, including The SM Store, Ace Hardware, Surplus, Watsons, and other mall tenants.

Shop smart and win big: With a single purchase of PHP 1,000, shoppers will receive one raffle coupon on October 17. Double your chances: Earn additional raffle coupons by shopping more on October 18 and 19, boosting your odds to win the grand prize, a brand-new Suzuki Jimny 5-Door GL M/T. Prizes and promotions are available at all participating mall establishments within SM City San Fernando Downtown.

Enhance your tech lineup with exclusive opening deals at Power Mac Center’s pop-up store, running from October 8–12, 2025:

Up to PHP 19,500 off on select MacBook Air models
Up to PHP 11,500 off on select iPhone models
Up to PHP 6,000 off on select Apple Watch models
Up to 20% off on select premium accessories

Don’t miss the season’s biggest deals at SM City San Fernando Downtown’s 3-Day Sale, October 17–19, 2025. We’ll see you there!

For updates and upcoming events, follow us on social media at .

10/10/2025

Be Prepared: How to Make Your Own Go Bag

With the recent earthquakes happening across the country, many people are starting to realize how important it is to always be prepared. Disasters can happen anytime and anywhere, so having a go bag ready can make a big difference for you and your family.

A go bag is an emergency bag filled with basic items you’ll need to survive for at least three days in case you have to leave your home quickly. It’s something you can grab right away during earthquakes, fires, or other emergencies.

Pick the Right Bag

Choose a sturdy, lightweight backpack that’s easy to carry and preferably water-resistant. It doesn’t have to be expensive — just make sure it’s strong enough to hold your essentials. Label it clearly so everyone in your household knows it’s the go bag.

Pack Your Essentials

Here are the most important things to include:

• Water and Food – Bring at least 3 liters of water per person and ready-to-eat food like canned goods, biscuits, or energy bars.
• First Aid Kit – Include bandages, alcohol, basic medicines, and any personal prescriptions.
• Light and Power – Pack a flashlight, extra batteries, whistle, and a fully charged power bank.
• Clothing and Hygiene – Extra clothes, face masks, soap, toothbrush, wipes, and sanitary items.
• Important Documents – Photocopies of your IDs, some cash, and a small notebook with emergency contact numbers.
• Other Items – A blanket, raincoat, lighter or matches, and a small battery-powered radio.

Where to Get Your Supplies
You don’t need to look far for go bag items. Stores inside SM City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter Cabanatuan have everything you need — from backpacks and flashlights to canned goods and medicines. You can find most of these in SM Store, Ace Hardware, Watsons, SM Market, and other mall shops.

If you visit soon, you can buy your essentials little by little until your go bag is complete.

Organize and Maintain Your Bag

Arrange your items in small pouches or zip-lock bags. Keep heavier things like water and food at the bottom, and lighter or often-used items at the top.
Check your go bag every few months — replace expired food, old batteries, and worn-out items.

Know Where to Go

It’s not just about having a go bag — it’s also about knowing where to go during an emergency. Identify safe spots around your home and nearby evacuation areas. If you’re inside a mall like SM City Cabanatuan or SM Megacenter Cabanatuan when an earthquake happens, take note of the emergency exits and open areas where you can stay safe and follow the mall emergency response procedures.

Final Reminder

We never know when a disaster will strike, but preparation can save lives. Start building your go bag today — even a few items at a time can make a big difference. Share this with your family and friends so they can prepare too.

Because when it comes to emergencies, being ready means being safe.

09/10/2025

The Freeport Area of Bataan Now Fully Powered by Renewable Energy

The Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) is now fully powered by renewable energy, following the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan’s (AFAB) completion of a clean and diversified power portfolio. By combining solar and geothermal sources, AFAB has secured a sustainable energy framework that provides both reliability for industries and accountability to the environment.
At the core of this transition is a 6-megawatt rooftop solar facility spread across 14 factory buildings within the Freeport. This on-site generation directly supplies daytime electricity to enterprises, reducing grid dependence and avoiding transmission losses. By producing power where it is consumed, AFAB ensures that locators benefit from efficient and environmentally responsible operations.
To meet the Freeport’s higher energy needs during peak hours, AFAB draws additional supply from the 20-megawatt Mariveles Solar Plant of Citicore Solar Bataan Inc. in Barangay Alas-Asin, Mariveles. This external capacity strengthens the Freeport’s renewable portfolio while maintaining consistency of supply during periods of heavy demand.
For continuous 24-hour operations, AFAB relies on the Tongonan Geothermal Power Plant in Leyte, a 600-megawatt facility that delivers stable baseload electricity. Geothermal energy balances the variable nature of solar generation, ensuring that industries inside the Freeport operate without disruption.

This shift means that industries inside the Freeport can operate with a stable and predictable energy supply while lowering costs linked to transmission losses and fuel price fluctuations. For investors, it signals that the FAB is not only equipped with modern infrastructure but is also adapting to the changing requirements of global trade, where low-carbon operations are increasingly valued.
The renewable framework also lessens the Freeport’s exposure to power interruptions, giving locators the confidence that their production schedules and long-term plans are backed by dependable supply. By integrating rooftop solar, utility-scale solar, and geothermal baseload into one system, AFAB shows how an economic zone can reduce reliance on fossil fuels without compromising industrial performance.
This development strengthens the FAB’s position as a competitive manufacturing and logistics hub in Bataan while contributing to broader efforts to expand renewable energy use in the Philippines. It demonstrates that clean energy can serve as the backbone of an active industrial zone, rather than an afterthought, and that sustainable power solutions can directly support jobs, productivity, and investment.

09/10/2025

NEW POP-UP STORE ALERT

Your next Apple destination is officially open at SM City San Fernando Downtown! Visit Power Mac Center's pop-up store and enjoy exclusive opening deals:

Up to PHP 19,500 off on select MacBook Air models
Up to PHP 11,500 off on select iPhone models
Up to PHP 6,000 off on select Apple Watch models
Up to 20% off on select premium accessories

Promo valid from October 8–12, 2025. Power Mac Center Pop-up store at SM City San Fernando Downtown, Third Level near Quantum — your premier destination for all your Apple needs.

For the latest promos and updates, follow on all social media pages.

09/10/2025

BCDA, Philippine Volcanoes strengthen youth development with rugby program in New Clark City

BCDA The Rugby Clinic 2.jpeg
BCDA officers and employees, members of the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU), the national rugby team, and youths from Sitio Tilik, and Sitio Telapilu, Brgy. San Roque in Bamban, Tarlac and Brgy. Sta. Lucia in Capas, Tarlac. BCDA photo

New Clark City, Tarlac — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recently teamed up with the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) and the national rugby team, the Philippine Volcanoes, to inspire young members of the communities in Tarlac by hosting a rugby clinic in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.

Themed “Empowering Youths, Celebrating Heritage,” the activity gathered around 30 youths from Sitio Tilik and Sitio Telapilun, Brgy. San Roque in Bamban, and Brgy. Sta. Lucia in Capas in a rugby clinic held at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium. Teaching them are members of the Philippine Volcanoes who excitedly introduced rugby as a sport through group activities that inspired the young to embrace an active lifestyle and appreciate the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

The initiative marked the second time BCDA has partnered with the rugby national team, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots sports and youth development.

In welcoming partners and guests, BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet highlighted the Authority’s commitment to its stakeholders and to building a strong foundation for the future of sports in the Philippines at New Clark City–home to the National Academy of Sports.

“By hosting this event, we give greater meaning to what New Clark City is to us. This metropolis fuels an enabling experience, a nurturing place for learning, dreaming and realizing these dreams. A sustainable development that is meant to benefit all,” Macasaet said.

PRFU President Ada Milby said the rugby clinic builds on last year’s successful engagement with New Clark City communities, where PRFU also conducted grassroots training.

”We just want to bring rugby to more communities. We want to just continue growing the sport, that way, whether you want to play rugby or you want to watch rugby, that there's a place for you to go,” Ms. Milby said.

As part of the engagement, BCDA also introduced the players to its community development initiatives, particularly the Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City. Delivering a lecture on community empowerment and culture integration is AEBC Project Manager and University of the Philippines Professor Florencia Charito Imperial-Sebastian, PhD. Through the AEBC, BCDA, with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 3, continues to empower indigenous communities with sustainable farming practices and long-term livelihood prospects.

The collaboration between PRFU and BCDA underscores their shared vision to foster sports development and community empowerment, while celebrating the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples of Tarlac.

The rugby clinic was held on September 13, 2025, while the Volcanoes were in training at New Clark City in preparation for the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series, a sporting event where the top eight rugby clubs in Asia compete.

Currently the Women’s Volcanoes ranked 11th in Asia following its win against Indonesia at the Hangzhou Normal University in China. Meanwhile, the Men’s Volcanoes ranked 12 after bowing to Thailand in their final match. The next leg of the series in Sri Lanka on October 18–19, 2025. Our national team is also gearing up for the Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand, where the Volcanoes will defend their gold and silver medals in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.

08/10/2025

URC clinches awards affirming its place as among Asia’s best workplaces

Universal Robina Corp. (URC) has clinched a string of awards for its hiring, employee growth and management programs that have made it still among Asia’s top workplaces.

The company – one of the Philippines’ largest – was named one of Asia’s Best Companies to Work for by HR Asia for a third straight year.

It also received top marks from an Asia-based talent and employer branding firm for its recruitment program, and was honored with two more awards for its use of technology and artificial intelligence in human resources management at the HR Excellence Awards Philippines 2025.

URC’s President & CEO Irwin Lee said that these awards “affirm our dedication to fostering an environment where our people feel valued, empowered and connected to a shared purpose”.

In being recognized as one of the best companies in Asia to work for, URC was lauded for its leadership programs that focus on equipping managers with skills to inspire teams, encourage collaboration and adopt agile ways of working.

The company was also cited for supporting employee growth through learning opportunities, innovation initiatives and cross-functional collaboration, alongside its recognition programs designed to celebrate initiative and engagement.

Lee said this recognition reflects the commitment and passion of its workforce and its goal to continue building a workplace “where people are inspired to lead, empowered to grow, and united by a common purpose.”

URC was, meanwhile, handed the Best Recruitment Innovation for Young Talents award by TalentView.

This award recognizes organizations that set benchmarks in attracting, engaging and developing future-ready professionals.

Lee said the honor highlights URC’s efforts to rethink recruitment by focusing on authenticity, purpose and growth for early-career hires.

“Today’s generation of graduates want more than job security. They want opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. This award is a reflection of how URC is meeting that challenge head-on.”

URC has rolled out initiatives such as its Comprehensive High-Impact Internship Program, which immerses students in projects guided by mentors, and the NextGen Leaders Program, a management trainee track designed to prepare high-potential graduates for leadership roles.

It also launched and , campaigns that use social media, school partnerships and campus activations to showcase the company’s workplace culture.

06/10/2025

Hermosa "flies high" under Mayor Anne Inton’s first 100 days
By Jonas Reyes

Mayor Anne Adorable-Inton revealed the many projects and programs for the town of Hermosa during her first 100 days as the top elected official of the area, continuing the legacy that her husband and former Mayor Jopet Inton left.
During her first 100 days as mayor, Inton conducted numerous programs in the health sector including medical missions, extended aid to indigent constituents, and expanded free medicine distribution.
For the education sector in Hermosa, Mayor Inton’s vision of “Invest in Education, Build the Nation” included programs such as school supplies and solar led lights distribution, investing in scholarship beneficiaries, and youth development orientations.
The lady chief also focused on livelihood programs such as Ina ng Hermosa Livelihood Program for Hermosa Mothers, and Barista Training Program.
With the theme “One Government, One Community, One Vision,” community engagements during her first 100 days include conducting tree planting, holding coastal cleanups, celebrating civil wedding ceremonies, and implementing community-based child protection protocols.
Mayor Inton also focused on agriculture, infrastructure and public works for the town of Hermosa with her theme “Roads to growth, bridges to progress.” Some of those projects include development of infrastructure such as the Barangay Mabiga Water System and the Sitio Nazareno Farm-to-Market Road.
Major infrastructure developments in Hermosa include a new SCTEX interchange, a 22.7MW solar power project in the Hermosa Ecozone, and initiatives for a provincial-level masterplan for the 1st District.
Mayor Anne presented these and other growth plans, including the development of the ecozone, to the Makati Business Club to attract investors. Other initiatives in the region are a potential conversion of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) into a data center and cybersecurity hub, and a city-wide banking expansion including the opening of a BDO branch in Hermosa.
The official also conducted assistance programs to her constituents, as well as ensuring disaster preparedness.
“Serving with heart, leading with purpose, that has always been my motto. Sa unang isang daang araw ng ating panunungkulan bilang Punong Bayan ng Hermosa, agad po tayong kumilos upang ipagpatuloy ang mga nasimulan at maghatid ng mga programang tunay na makatutugon sa pangangailangan ng bawat Hermoseño.”

06/10/2025

CATCH THE JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL AT (VENUE)

The Japan Foundation, Manila announces the return of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) to Philippine theaters this September 2025! From Metro Manila and Baguio, to Cebu, Clark, and Davao, the much-awaited festival is back with a curated selection of 12 films featuring beloved classics alongside critically acclaimed new releases. Admission is free for all screenings.

Since its inception in 1997, JFF has grown into one of the most anticipated film festivals in the Philippines, attracting around 40,000 audiences every year, and has become the largest Japanese film festival in the world. This year’s lineup offers something for everyone; timeless romances, laugh-out-loud comedies, and monumental blockbusters!

The theme for this year's festival is “Bridg(e)ing”. Films that serve as metaphorical bridges connecting the past with the future, humans with technology, body with spirit, and individual stories with community experiences. This year’s lineup hopes to inspire people to build bridges – rather than walls – and connect with each other.

Opening the festival is the 4K remaster of Love Letter (1995), Shunji Iwai’s acclaimed directorial debut and a timeless masterpiece of romance. Screened in over 20 countries since its release, Love Letter is celebrated for its breathtaking snowy landscapes and the unforgettable line, Ogenki desu ka? (“How are you?”). Its influence and homage can be clearly felt in 18×2 Beyond Youthful Days (2024), a Taiwan-Japan co-production directed by Michihito Fujii.

Audiences can also look forward to a selection of masterpieces spanning genres and generations, including Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai (1956); the animated cult classic Ghost in the Shell (1995); Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away (2001); A Samurai in Time (2024); the live-action adaptation of Cells at Work! (2024); and Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom (2024), among others.

This year’s regional run at SM Cinema begins September 26 until October 5 in SM City Baguio, followed by screenings at SM City Cebu (October 3-13), SM Lanang (October 10-19), and SM City Clark (October 17-26). The festival returns to Manila for screenings at the UP Film Institute, and concludes at SM City Manila (October 17-26).

This year, JFF is expanding its reach by bringing films directly to university campuses. JFF Special Screenings @ Universities will take place in November at selected institutions across parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.

JFF 2025 is supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, JTI Philippines, Theo and Philo Artisan Chocolates and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. For full schedules, ticketing guidelines, and venue details, please visit the official JFF 2025website (http://www.japanesefilmfestph.jfmo.org.ph), follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Central Luzon Herald

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