Informer Newspaper Publishing

16/04/2026

Capas reports significantly higher income in 2026
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
16 April 2026

TARLAC — The municipality of Capas pegged a significant increase in its revenue collection for the first quarter of 2026, reaching over P198 million, according to the latest Income Comparative Report (ICR) released by the Municipal Treasurer’s Office.

The report showed that total income from January to March this year amounted to P198,683,829.38 — a notable rise from the P183,254,725.40 collected during the same period in 2025.

The ICR attributed the robust performance to a strengthened and more efficient tax collection system, the digitalization of government processes and what officials described as honest and orderly governance under the administration of Mayor Roseller "Boots" Rodriguez.

The steady increase in local revenue, then, ensures funding for more infrastructure projects, healthcare programs, education initiatives, and other social services for the people of Capas.

In a Facebook post, Rodriguez expressed gratitude to the people of Capas, saying that he is over-joyed to share to Capas residents the accomplishments of the municipality because of their trust and cooperation.

“In every receipt and peso you pay for tax, this is my promise – transparency and good governance. We are showing where your taxes go and your contribution directly converts to significant projects for our town’s progress,” he added.

Rodriguez also underscored that the continued upward trend in local collections is more than just numbers on paper, noting that it is a manifestation of the returning and growing public trust in government, specifically in Capas.

He said these improvements set the stage for more development programs across the town.

“Thank you so much for your support. Together let us push more development Capas for the next generations,” he concluded. With CHI GALOPE

TARLAC — The municipality of Capas reported a significant increase in its revenue collection for the first quarter of 2026, reaching over P198 million, according to the latest Income Comparative Report (ICR) released by the Municipal Treasurer’s Office.

14/04/2026

P170M visitors' complex to rise soon in Mt. Samat
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
15 April 2026

THE P170-million visitors complex at the Mt. Samat National Shrine (MSNS) in Pilar, Bataan, broke ground following the commemoration of the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, and the project is expected to create jobs and enhance heritage tourism in the province.

Communities, veterans’ families and tourism stakeholders underscored the complex’s role in creating jobs, strengthening local enterprises and deepening public appreciation of Filipino heroism.

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza), through the Mt. Samat Flagship Tourism Enterprise Zone (FTEZ), is advancing the project as part of efforts to improve visitor services and stimulate economic activity around one of the country’s most important historical sites.

Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III said the development will directly support local livelihoods and enterprises, saying that the project will open opportunities and strengthen tourism.

“It allows us to welcome more visitors in a way that is organized, meaningful and sustainable. We are not just preserving the past. We are making it relevant to the present — and more importantly, beneficial to our communities,” said Garcia.

Designed as a flagship infrastructure initiative, the visitors complex will feature three facilities — a tourist assistance center, a visitors’ center and a multipurpose administration building — that are expected to improve the overall visitor experience while encouraging complementary investments in the area.

Tieza Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid noted the facilities are targeted for completion by June next year with a possible inauguration aligned with the celebration of Independence Day.

“We expect these to be completed by June next year, and it is possible that their inauguration and opening will coincide with the celebration of Independence Day,” said Lapid.

The tourism assistance center will serve as a gateway facility equipped with orientation rooms, souvenir shops, a cafeteria, function spaces and a commercial hub to provide a seamless experience for local and international tourists.

The visitors’ center, on the other hand, will offer curated exhibits and interactive displays to deepen historical understanding, alongside hotel-type accommodations for added convenience, while the multipurpose admin building will support operations and host meetings, events and other activities.

Tieza said it continues to carry out its mandate as the infrastructure, investment and asset management arm of the Department of Tourism, advancing projects that promote economic growth while safeguarding national identity.

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), steward of the MSNS, emphasized the importance of preserving the site’s dignity while making it more accessible and meaningful to the public.

PVAO Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu emphasized the importance of maintaining balance by preserving the site’s dignity while opening it to deeper engagement and protecting its memory while keeping it relevant and alive.

“We are not simply building structures. We are building continuity. To our veterans and their families, this is for you. Your story will not fade. It will be strengthened, preserved and shared,” he added.

Beyond infrastructure, the initiative reflects the national government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable tourism development in line with Republic Act 9593.

By enhancing facilities at key destinations such as the Mt. Samat FTEZ, Tieza aims to improve visitor engagement, generate local employment, and preserve the country’s cultural and historical heritage for future generations.

THE P170-million visitors complex at the Mt. Samat National Shrine (MSNS) in Pilar, Bataan, broke ground following the commemoration of the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, and the project is expected to create jobs and enhance heritage tourism in the province.

13/04/2026

2nd tranche of wage hike in Region 3 takes effect April 16
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
14 April 2026

CENTRAL Luzon workers in private establishments are set to get second tranche increase of their current rates on April 16, based on the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board III’s (RTWPB 3) Wage Order No. RBIII-26.

Under the said order, an additional P30 to P40 increase to the current rates of workers across the region will be given to them.

It can be recalled that Wage Order No. RBIII-26 provided a total increase of P50 to P80 to daily minimum wage earners in the private sector implemented by two tranches.

The first tranche, amounting to P20 to P40, took effect on October 30 last year.

Non-agriculture sector in the provinces of Tarlac, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Zambales will now have a daily minimum rate of P570 to P600, while the agriculture sector will have a new rate of P570 from P540.

Also, the wage rate of workers in the retail and service establishments rose from P560 to P590.

In Aurora, the P30 increase of the second tranche will raise the daily minimum wage from P530 to P560 for the non-agriculture sector, from P515 to P545 for the agriculture sector, and the sole P40 increase for retail and service sector that will hike the salary rate to P515.

CENTRAL Luzon workers in private establishments are set to get the second tranche of their salary rate increase on April 16, based on the wage order of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Region 3.

13/04/2026

𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐈 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐚𝐜 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞, 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐮𝐳𝐨𝐧’𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐫
The programme is set to equip Tarlaqueños with construction-specific skills to complement the site development, growth, and expansion of Aboitiz Economic Estates’ 384-hectare TARI Estate.

The City Government of Tarlac, Aboitiz Economic Estates, the Aboitiz Foundation, and Aboitiz Construction formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement for a joint skills training programme supporting workforce development and job creation.

TARI Estate, developed and operated by Aboitiz Economic Estates, has partnered with the Tarlac City Government and Aboitiz Foundation to launch a construction skills training programme for Tarlaqueños. The initiative is designed to build a ready workforce to support both ongoing site development and the future requirements of locator operations.

The partnership also highlights Aboitiz Economic Estates’ forward-looking approach to talent development—addressing labour market needs before they become operational constraints.

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Building Workforce Capacity in Step with Demand

The Skills Training Programme positions Aboitiz Economic Estates as an industrial partner that invests in human capital even before operations commence, reducing talent-related risks for incoming locators.

As site development and investor uptake at TARI Estate accelerate, the training initiative creates immediate employment opportunities for local residents in construction and related trades, while simultaneously building a pipeline of skilled workers prepared to support locator operations once these companies begin operations.

For locators, this proactive workforce strategy offers a distinct operational advantage: access to a skilled, locally sourced labour pool reduces hiring friction, accelerates time-to-operations, and lowers the cost and risk associated with talent acquisition in a new market.

For Tarlaqueños, the programme translates ongoing estate development into tangible and immediate livelihood opportunities, with skills training serving as a bridge between current construction demand and long-term employment across manufacturing, logistics, and service sectors.

“Industrial estates today must go beyond land and infrastructure. Building the workforce ahead of demand is critical to ensuring that our locators can operate, scale, and compete from day one. This partnership reflects our commitment to enabling that,” shared Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President and CEO of Aboitiz Economic Estates & Aboitiz Land.

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Positioned as Central Luzon’s Next Industrial Frontier

Positioned as the country’s next manufacturing hub, the 384-hectare TARI Estate in Tarlac City is fast emerging as Central Luzon’s next industrial frontier—reflecting Aboitiz Economic Estates’ commitment to smart, sustainable, and future-ready industrial development.

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A Strategic Location at the Heart of Luzon’s Manufacturing Network

TARI Estate, Aboitiz Economic Estates’ 384-hectare masterplanned industrial development in Tarlac City, occupies a strategic position within Central Luzon’s logistics corridor.

Located at the intersection of SCTEX and TPLEX, with proximity to Clark International Airport and Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the estate offers connectivity that supports both domestic distribution and regional trade, while helping ease industrial congestion in Metro Manila.

The estate’s integrated ecosystem extends beyond infrastructure. Reliable power and water utilities, digital connectivity, and professional estate management services are designed to integrate seamlessly with locator operations—reducing operational friction that often constrains business growth.

Dedicated PEZA and Bureau of Customs offices are targeted to be operational within the estate by the first quarter of 2027, further streamlining regulatory and customs processes on-site.

The momentum surrounding TARI Estate is reinforced by Aboitiz Economic Estates’ expanded partnership with House of Investments through Tarlac Terra Ventures Inc., increasing the estate’s total development footprint to 384 hectares. This expansion reflects sustained investor confidence and positions TARI Estate to support rising, consumption-driven demand as manufacturers and enterprises seek to scale within a high-growth corridor.

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Long-Term Impact: Jobs, Growth, and Regional Development

“We are grateful that global enterprises like Coca-Cola and Ajinomoto have chosen Tarlac as a place to invest, bringing jobs and opportunities to our city,” shared Susan Yap.
“Through this joint skills training programme with the Aboitiz Group, we are equipping our community to meet the high standards of these global brands. With the dedication, perseverance, and compassion of the Tarlaqueños, our people are ready to contribute, grow alongside these businesses, and ensure that progress benefits everyone.”

With its expanded footprint and projected potential to generate over 60,000 jobs at full build-out, TARI Estate is positioned to play a major role in shaping the next chapter of industrial growth in Central Luzon.

The Skills Training Programme helps ground that ambition in immediate action—ensuring that local communities are prepared to directly participate in the opportunities the estate is expected to unlock.

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Driving Sustainable Industrial Growth

Aboitiz Economic Estates’ approach is to function as a trusted industrial partner—providing end-to-end solutions that enable businesses to establish operations, scale with confidence, and pursue long-term growth.

As global supply chains continue to diversify and manufacturing decentralizes from Metro Manila, Central Luzon is emerging as a key growth corridor. Through developments like TARI Estate and initiatives such as this skills training programme, Aboitiz Economic Estates is building not just infrastructure, but a complete operating environment where businesses can locate, scale, and grow with confidence.

About Aboitiz Economic Estates
Aboitiz Economic Estates is one of Asia's leading developers and operators of smart and sustainable industrial-anchored townships, with a 2,000-hectare footprint, over 260 industrial locators, and more than 100,000 jobs generated across Southern Luzon and Central Visayas, with ongoing strategic expansions into Central Luzon.
Its portfolio includes:
• The 1,100-hectare LIMA Estate in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas
• The 63-hectare Mactan Economic
Zone 2 Estate in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
• The 540-hectare West Cebu Estate in Balamban, Cebu
• The 384-hectare TARI Estate in
Tarlac City
These economic estates are supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of infrastructure and services managed by Aboitiz businesses, including Aboitiz Land, Aboitiz InfraCapital, AboitizPower, Aboitiz Construction, and UnionBank of the Philinpines.

About TARI Estate
TARI Estate is a 384-hectare PEZA-registered Special Economic Zone in Tarlac City, designed to be the next growth center of Central Luzon.
Strategically located near major expressways, Clark Airport, and key seaports, the estate supports large-scale industrial, commercial, and institutional developments.
At full build-out, TARI Estate is projected to generate over 60,000 jobs, with integrated components such as commercial lots, retail centers, office buildings, residential communities, dormitories,
institutional and hospitality zones, and a future transport terminal-creating a fully connected environment for businesses and communities.
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09/04/2026

An interview with Secretary Vince Dizon of DPWH during his inspection of Concepcion-Bamban bypass road and Estrada bypass road in Capas with RD Arnold Ocampo, Tarlac Governor Christian Yap and Tarlac City Mayor Susan Yap.

08/04/2026

One year of movement—and we’re just getting started.

SM Active Hub celebrates with a nationwide movement for everyone ready to move. Join our Karatedo Event this April 12 • 1PM at the Events Area, Level 2, SM City Tarlac. 🥋🔥

Feel the power of discipline, focus, and strength.

Scan the QR code to register!

Ready to move? 🏃‍♂️
Join the SM Active Hub Community: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ActiveHub

07/04/2026

Students lectured on gender and development at Pampanga forum
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
8 April 2026

ABOUT 80 Kapampangan students from the City College of San Fernando in Pampanga (CCSFP) participated in a gender and development (GAD) forum on Monday regarding safe digital spaces and gender-fair communication.

Organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the forum focused on helping students understand their role in creating respectful, inclusive, and safe environments in schools, online platforms, and future workplaces.

CCSFP President Gloria Bañas urged students to reflect on how their actions affect others, noting that being active on social media doesn’t give them the right to bully or disrespect others.

“In your future workplace, you will meet many people, and one thing you should carry with you is respect for everyone,” she said.

Students were given lecture about Republic Act 11313, otherwise known as the Safe Spaces Act, how to communicate using gender-fair language, and ways to promote safety and respect in both physical and digital spaces.

They shared that the discussions gave them new awareness about the impact of their words and behavior.

CCSFP Vice President for Academic Affairs Melanie Briones encouraged students to use the lessons learned in the forum beyond the classroom.

“Your voices matter. Claim your space—lead with change, lead with courage. If there are challenges, we rise together,” she added.

PIA Regional Director William Beltran cited the importance of continuous commitment to gender equality, saying that GAD is about creating environments that respect everyone—regardless of gender, background, or age.

“We should also support vulnerable groups, such as women with disabilities, who face extra challenges,” he noted.

The forum included interactive sessions, case studies, and question-and-answer portions that allowed students to practice what they learned, preparing them to foster safe and inclusive environments in school, online, and future workplaces.

PIA Pampanga Information Center Manager and Regional GAD Focal Marie Joy Carbungco reminded students that building safe spaces requires effort from everyone.

“Creating safe and inclusive spaces—offline and online—is a shared responsibility. Each of you can make a difference by promoting respect, fairness, and inclusivity in your communities,” she said.

At the outset, students said they were not only informed but also inspired to carry the principles of respect, inclusion, and gender sensitivity into their daily lives, helping to create safer and more equitable spaces wherever they go.

ABOUT 80 students from the City College of San Fernando in Pampanga (CCSFP) participated in a gender and development (GAD) forum on Monday regarding safe digital spaces and gender-fair communication.

06/04/2026

SM City Tarlac Hops Into A Colorful Easter Celebration

Easter became even more exciting at SM City Tarlac, as it welcomed families to a vibrant celebration full of creativity, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Kids unleased their imagination at the Easter Art Lab, bringing vibrant masterpieces to life, while Face Painting corner turned little faces into playful works of art. The Easter Bunny Drip added a splash of creativity, as young participants transformed simple materials into bright, festive creations.

The spotlight shone on the little ones during the Easter Costume Runway, where they confidently paraded in charming bunny outfits and imaginative costumes, filling the mall with energy and delight. Families also gathered at the Bunny Photo Corner in the Mall Atrium, capturing joyful moments and creating lasting Easter memories together.

As the Home of Celebrations, SM City Tarlac brought families and the community together for a fun-filled and memorable Easter celebration, making the holiday truly special for families and mallgoers.

06/04/2026

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01/04/2026

Skip the High Fuel Prices, Charge Your EV This Holy Week at Your Nearest SM

As the Holy Week travel season arrives, and fuel prices continue to rise, electric vehicle (EV) drivers across the country can count on their most-loved SM Supermalls as a convenient recharging stop along their journey. SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, announced that with over 160 EV charging stations available across multiple SM locations nationwide, motorists can recharge their vehicles while maxing out their malling by enjoying the wide range of shopping, dining, and leisure experiences that SM malls offer.

The growing presence of EV charging infrastructure in SM Supermalls reflects the company’s continuing efforts to support more sustainable mobility options for Filipino motorists. With fluctuating fuel prices, electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly practical alternative for many drivers looking for more efficient and environmentally conscious transportation.

For EV users, the convenience goes beyond simply plugging in. At SM malls, drivers can make the most of their charging time, while having some free time for themselves— whether by enjoying a meal with family, shopping for essentials, or simply taking a break during a long trip.

As part of the larger SM Green Movement, and by making EV charging accessible in familiar community spaces, SM Supermalls helps make sustainable travel more practical,
empowering, and accessible for everyday journeys and holiday road trips alike.

This Holy Week, motorists planning their travels can include SM malls along their route— making it easy to charge up while maxing out the SM malling experience.

For EV drivers on the road this season, the message is simple: plan your mall visit, charge up on the go, and choose SM for a greener, more sustainable trip.

31/03/2026

Egg Hunts, Parades, and More: Easter Comes Alive at SM Supermalls

This Easter, SM Supermalls transforms into a vibrant playground filled with egg hunts, parades, and colorful photo spots until April 5. Whether you’re bringing the kids or planning a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy to the max.

Expect a full lineup of activities, from interactive games and creative workshops to lively performances, delivering a memorable Easter experience for families and friends alike.

After all the Easter fun (or even before you start), take a break and refuel with a satisfying group dining experience at these must-visit spots:

Simmer into richness at Ninepot (SM North EDSA, SM City Clark)
Perfect for group dining, Ninepot brings people together over warm, flavorful broths and customizable sets perfect for sharing.

Indulge in a timeless bowl at Mak’s Noodle (SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia)
Craving something comforting? Enjoy authentic Hong Kong noodles, known for their flavorful broth and signature thin egg noodles—ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal together.

Savor rustic Italian flavors at Osteria Antica (The Podium)
For a more elevated group dining experience, treat the family to refined Italian dishes like the Pompano Al Forno—perfect for special Easter gatherings.

Enjoy steakhouse comfort at Mamou (The Podium, S Maison)
A go-to spot for group dining and special occasions, Mamou serves hearty steakhouse favorites best enjoyed with your loved ones.

Experience Japanese elegance at Hoshino Coffee (SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM City East Ortigas)
End the day with hand-brewed coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes that are perfect for relaxing and sharing sweet moments after a full day.

After a satisfying meal—or even before you start—make the most of your visit with these Easter activities:

Strike your best pose at the Bunny Photo Corner
Snap photos at vibrant Easter setups filled with pastel colors, bunny props, and playful backdrops—perfect for capturing fun family moments and colorful Easter memories.

Walk proudly at the Easter Runway Costume Contest
Dress up in your most creative Easter outfits—bunny ears and all—and strut your stuff at the Easter Runway Show. Kids and families can join in for a chance to win fun prizes.

Hop into the Easter Eggventure Game
Go on a digital egg hunt around select SM Supermalls, where hidden QR-coded eggs unlock points and exciting rewards through the Play at SM website. Make sure to explore every corner for a truly exciting adventure—it’s a fun, high-tech twist on a classic Easter tradition.

Unleash artistry at Easter Art Lab
Let kids get creative at the Easter Art Lab, where they can paint, craft, and bring home their own colorful creations—a fun keepsake from a full day of Easter fun.

March in the Easter Parade
Watch beloved Easter characters come to life in festive parades across select malls. Dance along, interact with mascots, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the whole family celebrates together.

Honor tradition with a meaningful Easter Blessing
For families who want to celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter, select malls will hold Easter Sunday Mass on April 5, offering a quiet moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

Whether you’re dining with loved ones, hunting for eggs, or enjoying a full day of activities, your most loved mall, SM Supermalls is the place to be this Easter. Don’t miss out—plan your visit and make it an Easter to remember.

26/03/2026

In response to the National Energy Emergency, SM Supermalls across the Philippines will shorten operating hours starting March 30.

For more information on your preferred SM branch, refer to https://gosm.link/SMMallsNewNationwideMallHours or real-time updates on the mall’s official social media pages.