Central Luzon Balita

30/08/2025

Cleanest countries named in 2024 global index

Estonia ranks as the world’s cleanest nation in the 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), followed by Luxembourg, Germany, Finland, and the United Kingdom.

The EPI, developed by Yale and Columbia universities, measures air quality, water, climate action, and biodiversity across 180 countries. Estonia topped the list with its renewable energy use, green transport, and forest protection.

Luxembourg scored high in water and biodiversity management, Germany excelled in wastewater treatment, while Finland and the UK stood out for sanitation and emission cuts.

Also in the top 10 are Sweden, Norway, Austria, Switzerland, and Denmark—long admired for renewable energy and strong environmental policies.

The index shows that economic growth and environmental care can go hand in hand. For the Philippines, the rankings highlight the need to act on pollution, plastic waste, and renewable energy to build healthier, safer communities.

30/08/2025

Billions in Pampanga flood funds tied to politics

Nearly half of Pampanga’s ₱15B flood control budget from 2022–2025 went to just 10 contractors—many linked to political families—raising corruption fears.

Records from sumbongsapangulo.ph, the Palace complaints portal, show that while 96 firms got projects, the top 10 cornered more than ₱7B.

Leading the list is Sto. Cristo Construction with ₱1.7B, followed by Three-in-One Construction with ₱1.2B, and Ferdstar Builders with ₱892M. Ferdstar’s owner, Ferdinand Beltran, also sits in Congress under the Magbubukid Partylist, sparking conflict-of-interest concerns.

Other major winners included firms tied to the Sagum, Gonzales, Beltran, Lingat, and Ducut families—names long connected to Pampanga politics.

Insiders say bidding rules under RA 9184 are often bent. “On paper there’s competition, but in reality, only favored contractors win,” a former DPWH officer said.

Governor Lilia Pineda and Mayor Vilma Caluag both denied involvement, saying local governments were left out of project planning.

Yet floods remain. In July 2024, monsoon rains submerged Guagua, Masantol, Minalin, and San Simon in waist-deep waters. “Every year, there are projects. But every year, we’re still underwater,” a barangay captain lamented.

For Kapampangans, it’s no longer just about infrastructure—it’s about justice. Billions flow into flood control, but ordinary people still wade through floodwaters while politically connected firms profit.

30/08/2025

Filipino Tourist Dies After Disneyland Ride in Hong Kong

A Filipino tourist tragically lost consciousness while on a ride at Hong Kong Disneyland and later died, authorities confirmed this week.

The incident happened inside one of the park’s attractions, where the victim reportedly became unresponsive during the ride. Park medical staff and emergency responders immediately tried to revive the tourist before rushing them to a nearby hospital, but efforts were unsuccessful.

Hong Kong Disneyland expressed condolences to the family and assured that it is cooperating with authorities in the investigation. The specific ride involved has been temporarily closed for safety checks.

The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong said it is coordinating with the victim’s family to provide assistance and repatriation support.

While theme park accidents are rare, experts advise visitors with pre-existing health conditions to take extra caution and carefully review ride safety guidelines.

This incident has raised concerns among Filipino tourists, as Hong Kong Disneyland remains one of the top travel destinations for families from the Philippines.

30/08/2025

Ready ka na ba makipag wasakan!

30/08/2025

Filipinos mark National Press Freedom Day on August 30, honoring journalists’ courage while facing threats, disinformation, and calls for stronger media rights.

Filipinos mark National Press Freedom Day on August 30, honoring journalists’ courage while facing threats, disinformation, and calls for stronger media rights.

30/08/2025

Tarlac Steps Boldly Into the Future with AI and Digital Innovation

TARLAC — Harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, the Province of Tarlac is making significant strides toward becoming a model “Smart Province” in the Philippines.

In a recent gathering, experts showcased cutting-edge AI applications in healthcare, smart cities, defense, and cybersecurity—underscoring the importance of building digital awareness and preparing communities for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Governor Christian Yap highlighted that Tarlac’s digital push is not only about adopting technology, but also about empowering communities and ensuring safer, faster, and more meaningful public services. “Together, we are expanding digital awareness, empowering communities, and driving the province toward a smarter, more connected tomorrow. Let’s keep the momentum going,” Yap said.

The initiative reflects Tarlac’s commitment to aligning with global innovation trends while ensuring that every Tarlaqueño benefits from inclusive and future-ready governance.

29/08/2025

Polish Air Force F-16 Crashes at Radom Air Show Rehearsal; Pilot Killed

Radom, Poland | August 28, 2025 – A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet from the Tiger Demo Team crashed at Radom Airport during rehearsal for AirSHOW Radom 2025, killing pilot Major Maciej “SLAB” Krakowian.

The jet struck the runway during a maneuver, burst into flames, and slid across the airfield. No ground casualties were reported.

Polish officials, including Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, called the tragedy “a great loss for the Air Force.”

The airshow, set for August 30–31, has been cancelled. Investigations are underway by the aviation accident commission and prosecutors.

29/08/2025

“Ang Panginoon ay kalakasan ng aking puso at aking bahagi magpakailanman.” – Awit 73:26

Kahit gaano kahina ang katawan at isip natin, palaging sapat ang lakas na nagmumula sa Diyos. Siya ang hindi kumukupas na sandigan.

👉 Ikaw ba, saan ka kumakapit kapag dumadating ang panahon ng panghihina?

29/08/2025

BRIDGING POINT - AUGUST 29 , 2025

29/08/2025

Media relations builds trust and connection. In a time of fake news and noise, how do you want to be known—through rumors or through truth?

Media relations builds trust and connection. In a time of fake news and noise, how do you want to be known—through rumors or through truth?

29/08/2025

VG Estelita Aquino Leads Narra Roots Project 🌳

Narra Roots for Resilience: Sama-samang Pagtataguyod ng Ligtas na Tarlac

28/08/2025

Statement | We stand with colleagues in Gaza

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines condemns the targeted killing of Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif
and his colleagues who had been staying in a tent that the Israeli military bombed.

Also killed in the attack were Al Jazeera correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh and camera operators Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa.

That journalism is a dangerous profession especially in a conflict zone is no reason to wave away the journalism community's anger and disgust at the murder of our colleagues.

The Israeli military's claim that Al Sharif headed a Hamas cell and was involved in rocket attacks to justify the killings and to further restrict reporting from within Gaza has comparisons to similar tactics used to intimidate, discredit and harass journalists, activists and rights defenders on our own shores.

We join the condemnation of the killings and the solidarity for our colleagues.

As with cases of threats and attacks in the Philippines, we urge Filipino journalists to continue reporting on the situation in Gaza, including pressing representatives of the Philippine and Israeli governments on the issue, and covering local developments like protests and similar actions.