TONDALIGAN REDEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY – During a dialogue conducted on May 22, Mayor Belen T. Fernandez assures Tondaligan Blue Beach shed owners that the efforts to boost tourism in the area will eventually help improve their livelihood. The dialogue discussed with stakeholders the boardwalk project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) costing P75 million, and likewise addressed the concerns of the shed owners, particularly those who will be affected by the impending construction of the project. (CIO photo by Jojo Tamayo)

DAGUPAN CITY – Improvements of the Tondaligan Blue Beach in Dagupan City appear to be underway following a fruitful dialogue by the local government with shed owners in the area on May 22.

The dialogue discussed with stakeholders the boardwalk project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) costing P75 million.

This was conducted to address the concerns of the shed owners, particularly those who will be affected by the impending  construction of the project.

Among those who attended the dialogue were City Engineer Virginia Rosario, City Planning and Development Officer Engr. Josephine Corpuz and Bonuan Gueset Barangay Council headed by incoming Punong Barangay Noel Bumanglag.

Also present were District Engineer Edita Manuel, Department  of Environment and Natural Resources representative Mario Banda and members of the Bonuan Blue Beach Homeowners’ Association.

During the dialogue, Mayor Belen T. Fernandez assured the shed owners that the efforts to boost the tourism in the area will eventually help improve their livelihood.

“The shed owners and the entire barangay will benefit from the expected tourism bonanza as tourists will soon be continuously flocking our beach,”she said.

Mayor Fernandez also urged the residents and shed owners to cooperate in maintaining the areas’ cleanliness, with the national government actively helping to improve all tourist spots in the country.

“The country is improving all of its tourist spots. Maiiwan po tayo dito kung hindi po tayo gagalaw.” said Fernandez.

The discussion yielded positive result with the shed owners expressing their support for the redevelopment of Tondaligan Blue Beach as the changes that could happen will surely have positive impact on their business.

Jennifer Mabanta, one of the shed owners in the area, said she is in favor of the changes that will happen in Tondaligan.

“We’re pleased to see the improvements happening to the beach. We will always support Mayor Fernandez’ initiatives as we know it will help not just our beach, but our families and livelihood, as well.” said Mabanta.

The first phase of the one-kilometer  boardwalk will be constructed starting from the vicinity of the old water tank and may possibly extend up to Bonuan Binloc.

Other projects soon to begin in the area are the construction of the Mayor’s Pavilion, improvement of the Japanese Garden and the construction of the MacArthur Park, which will be located at the vicinity of the giant “jackstones” by the beach.

A joint project of Mayor Fernandez and 4^th District Rep. Christopher De Venecia, the Tondaligan Park redevelopment has actually begun with the ongoing construction of the Children’s Park and two new shower and comfort rooms. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

MORE YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES – Mayor Belen T. Fernandez stresses the importance and value of hard work to SPES beneficiaries when they received their allowances from the city on May 24. The Special Program for the Employment of Students is a joint project of DOLE and Dagupan Public Employment Service Office, which aims to help poor but deserving students pursue their education by providing income through their employment during the summer vacation. Each student received P5,172 each from the local government as its 60% contribution after working 20 days in offices under the local government. The remaining 40% of their stipend will be provided by DOLE. (CIO photo by Jojo Tamayo)

DAGUPAN CITY – The city of Dagupan, through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO), awarded stipends or allowances to 50 students who worked under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on May 24.

Each student received P5,172 each from the local government as its 60% contribution to the program after working for 20 days in different city government offices for works that were in line with their respective learning strands or college courses.

The remaining 40% of the stipend will be provided by DOLE soon.

Aside from their 20-day work in different offices, the students also participated in career coaching and health learning events.

A joint project of DOLE and LGU Dagupan, SPES is conducted yearly to help poor but deserving students pursue education by providing them income through their employment during the summer vacation.

The program is open to all qualified high school, college and technical vocational students between ages 15-25.

PESO Manager Jocelyn Siapno disclosed that the most slots opened for students in Central Pangasinan as determined by DOLE were in Dagupan.

Siapno also added that the program hopes to help the students earn money which they can use to buy their school needs when classes open.

“The stipend or allowance that they will receive today will help in paying for their enrollment in the coming school year,” said Siapno during the awarding of the stipend.

Meanwhile, in her message, Mayor Belen T. Fernandez stressed the importance and value of hard work as she related her own working experiences before becoming the mayor.

“The youth today will serve as the example for the future generations. I look forward to working with you in the future. Wala akong ibang hangarin kundi makita ko kayong lahat na maasenso balang araw,” said Fernandez.

Corollary to this, Jerwin Ildefonso, an MBTF scholar under the local government and also SPES beneficiary, expressed his gratitude to the mayor and the local government for continuously providing opportunities to the youth.

“You have given us the opportunity not only to learn from our supervisors in our different departments but to also help our families. You opened the door for us and I can say that I am beyond blessed to be a scholar of our honorable city mayor,” said Ildefonso.

Ildefonso also called on his fellow youth to be active in making their own opportunities despite their circumstances, saying: “We shouldn’t wait for the opportunity to knock on our doors. We should start our initiatives and find a way to help ourselves and our families.” (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

FOR DIFFERENT DAGUPAN SCHOOLS – Mayor Belen T. Fernandez (center, left), Councilor Dennis Canto (center, right), Punong Barangay Joseph Maramba of Bonuan Boquig (center, right from the 2nd row) are shown with school principals after they received site development plans for various infrastructure projects to be built, during the Division Kick-Off Ceremony of Brigada Eskwela at Bonuan Boquig National High School, Dagupan City on May 29. As its contribution to the nationwide initiative, the city of Dagupan also turned over office supplies for 1,360 public school teachers, including school supplies to be distributed to all Dagupeno students from Grades 1-4. On the same day, the city also turned over P4.5M-worth of construction materials to more than 30 public elementary and high schools all over the city for the rehabilitation of their classrooms and facilities. Also in photo are Asst. Schools Division Supt. Dr. Lourdes Servito (far left), Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong (2nd from left), Kgd. Imelda Gonzales (far right), BBNHS Principal IV Medarlo De Leon and others. (CIO Photo by Arriz Fruelda)

DAGUPAN CITY – Brigada Eskwela was formally launched in Dagupan during a Division Kick-Off Ceremony at Bonuan Boquig National High School on May 29.

Among those present were Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, City Councilor Dennis Canto, Bonuan Boquig Punong Barangay Joseph Maramba, Dagupan PNP P/SUPT. Jandale Sulit, Fire Chief Inspector Georgian Pascua of BFP Dagupan and the Department of Education (DepEd) Dagupan family as headed by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong.

With the theme: “Pagkakaisa Para sa Handa, Ligtas at Matatag na Paaralan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan”, this year’s Brigada Eskwela focuses on the unity and partnership of all education stakeholders in rehabilitating all schools in time for the opening of classes.

The event also featured a trade fair from the stakeholders, which featured several booths designed to earn proceeds which will be donated to the nationwide initiative.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, in her message, affirmed the city’s full support to the nationwide campaign.

“Today, we renew our faith that it is only through local and community action that we immediately address the needs and challenges of our public school, students and our teachers. Our children deserve nothing less but the best community and environment for their learning and success for the future. This is an important day to reflect on our national journey because with Brigada Eskwela uniting all of us, we can look forward for the best of our children of Dagupan.”

The city turned over school and office supplies such as pad papers, notebooks, ballpens and pencils during the event as its continuous support for Brigada Eskwela. These will be distributed to all Dagupeno students from Grades 1 to 4 while the office supplies will be for the use of 1,360 public school teachers in the city.

Site development plans for upcoming educational infrastructures were also signed and turned over to school principals during the event.

These are the Malued Elementary School’s three-storey Special Science building, Lomboy Elementary School’s three-storey school building, multi-purpose covered court gymnasiums for Pugaro Elementary School and Juan P. Guadiz Elementary School as well as a new building for BBNHS.

On the same day, the city also turned over P4.5M-worth of construction materials to more than 30 public elementary and high schools all over the city for the rehabilitation of their classrooms and facilities in line with the city’s thrust in ensuring and maintaining a clean and safe learning environment for the children of Dagupan.

“Our collective goal as a community is to make Dagupan one of the happiest, safest, healthiest and progressive cities in the Philippines and what better way to show this than coming together and working to make our schools and their immediate environment the most conducive, appealing, cleanest structures for learning and education for our children, “ added Fernandez. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – Fourth District Representative Christopher De Venecia, accompanied by Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, personally visited the Malimgas Public Market on June 6 to meet with the city’s vendors and to find out the effect of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion or TRAIN Law on them and their families.

De Venecia disclosed that some unforeseen extraneous variables have affected the new tax reform law, which thus necessitates further study.

To gather more information on its effect on the public, De Venecia personally talked with the city vendors in order to gather data and insights from stakeholders affected by the tax reform law.

Learning more about how the TRAIN Law affects consumers can help determine its merits and demerits, which can then help lawmakers determine whether the tax reform law should be amended, suspended or modified, he said,

“Pinag-aaralan mabuti (yung effects ng TRAIN Law), so that the best solution will be brought on the table,” said De Venecia.

In the same occasion, Mayor Fernandez expressed her relief that even with the numerous attempts at bringing fish kill produce from the coastal towns of Anda and Bolinao into the city, no vendors have tried to obtain and sell the contaminated fish to Dagupeno consumers.

This is due to Fernandez’ immediate dialogue with the city’s fisherfolk, vendors and fishery stakeholders on June 4 in the wake of the fish kill incidents in the neighboring coastal towns.

Fernandez also led an inspection in the market regarding plans for its improvement. These include the improvement of the drainage system, flooring upgrading as well as repainting. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – The Dagupan City government, represented by City Agriculturist Emma Molina and City Health Officer Dr. Ophelia T. Rivera, filed formal complaints before the City Prosecutor’s Office against suppliers and truck and van drivers who recently attempted to bring fish that died from the fish kill into the city on June 6.

The complaints were filed against Artemio Carolino, Jr., Andy Credo, Isagani and Nancy Rirang, Perfecto Cacho, Richie Cano and Lorence Espinocilla, all of Anda and Alaminos, Pangasinan for violations of  Article 12, Section 37 of the Food Safety Act of 2013, the Sanitation Code, Article 40 of the Consumer Act of the Philippines and Section 73 of the Fisheries Code of Dagupan City.

These were immediately filed after the City Agriculture Office, together with the Dagupan PNP, apprehended several vehicles containing an estimated 25 tons of spoiled and contaminated bangus that were already unfit for consumption on June 3 and 4.

The confiscated produce was found to be in various decomposition stages as the fishes have developed allergens which put to risk the health of the consumers.

The apprehended drivers also failed to comply with the City Ordinance No. 1768 as they could not present auxiliary invoices issued by Municipal Agriculture Offices at the source before they can transport fishery products.

Meanwhile, the local government has increased its surveillance efforts 24/7  on vehicles transporting fishery products into the city in the wake of fish kill incidents in Anda and Bolinao.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez held talks with Consignation Market operators and vendors to ask for their cooperation by refusing to sell any product originating from the fish kill-affected towns as these could risk both the lives of Dagupenos as well as the bangus industry.

City Agriculturist Emma Molina is now urging all fishery stakeholders to learn from this incident by being honest in the pursuit of their livelihood.

“Gawin na lang nating tama. Maging honest tayo at kung alam nating makakasira sa kapwa natin, hwag na nating gawin. Kung gusto nating kumita nang maayos , gawin natin ito nang malinis para mas marami pa yung darating na blessings.” said Molina. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – More than 50 Grade 9  students from the public and private schools attended a leadership training seminar held at the city plaza starting June 11 till June 14.

This is in preparation for the  “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” (MYK), the city’s program which allows young students to serve as young city officials who will perform the duties of their elder counterparts for two weeks.

Several discussions about transformational leadership, public morality, the city’s challenges, and parliamentary procedures were tackled during the seminar.

An election will be held after the leadership training. Those who will be elected, along with the appointed young officials, will take their oath of office during the city’s celebration of its 71^st Founding Anniversary called “Agew na Dagupan” on June 20.

A total of 57 students are expected to serve as city’s young officials on June 18 to 29.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, in her message, expressed her hopes that her initiatives for the youth will create a positive effect among them, saying: “If I do something good to the youth, they will do the same to others when they grow up. What’s important is that you are passionate and compassionate as you have a say in the future of the city.”

Fernandez also urged the students to help with the city’s program on mental health as depression is one of the challenges that the youth are struggling with, which is tagged as one of the leading causes of suicide.

“I don’t want the youth to commit suicide. We already took measures in resolving bullying cases before. Now, we want to (address) the problems of depression. You can help since you are part of the youth. Let us know if you find your friends or classmates showing symptoms of depression, we will send our help.” said Fernandez. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

120th INDEPENDENCE DAY – Mayor Belen T. Fernandez (6th from right), Councilor Joey Tamayo (5th from right), Councilor Jigs Seen (4th from right) and 2017 MYK young city mayor Jilian Kaye Madison Fernandez (7th from right) lead the ceremonial release of balloons and doves during the Independence Day Celebration at CSI Stadia on June 12. Also present were Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong (6th from left) and Kapuso Stars Andre Paras (5th from left) and Joyce Pring (4th from left). (CIO photo by Jojo Tamayo)

DAGUPAN CITY – In commemoration of the Filipino courage and sacrifice, the city joined the whole nation in celebrating the country’s 120^th Independence Day on June 12, starting with the offering of wreaths at foot of the monument of the national hero Jose Rizal at the City Plaza.

The simple rites were led by Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, Councilor Joey Tamayo and city department heads, together with officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) headed by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong.

Also present were Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Director Melinda Buada, P/Supt. Jandale Sulit of PNP Dagupan, Fire Chief Inspector Georgian Pascua of BFP and active members of Knights of Columbus, Knights of Rizal, Masonic Lodges No. 158 and No. 56, Girl Scouts of the Philippines and Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

Afterwards, a commemorative program was held at CSI Stadia with public school teachers of the city joining. The event was held in partnership with DepEd Dagupan and GMA-7 Regional TV.

With Kapuso talents in attendance, stars André Paras and Joyce Pring led the singing of the national anthem. Contestants of the “The Clash” also performed during the program.

On the theme: “Pagbabagong Ipinaglaban Alay sa Masaganang Kinabukasan”, Mayor Fernandez, in her message, paid homage to early Filipinos’ sacrifices which paved way for the nation’s progress.

“The clamor for change didn’t happen overnight. It was born out of lesser, smaller and unsuccessful revolts and pocket rebellions across the country. But the spirit of change that early Filipinos sought and fought for was already there; the right to self determination, the inherent right to be free and the right to self government – by the Filipinos and for the Filipinos. The glorious blessing of the past is not lost on us. Today, the city joins the nation in protecting, embracing and enhancing the freedom we have won through the years.”

While the battle for the country’s independence had been won years ago, the fight against other oppressive factors still continue up to this day, Fernandez said.

 “The evils we fight are no longer foreign domination or oppressive invaders – the enemy is hopelessness, apathy, indifference and fear. Dagupenos continue to fight many oppressions taking place in any forms. We continue to wage battles against poverty, disease, ignorance, economic injustice against many evils that continue to pervade in our communities,” added Fernandez.

Fernandez also disclosed the city’s continued efforts in liberating Dagupenos from these kinds of struggles.

“We (the city of Dagupan) are winning the war today, because we have better opportunities for everyone. We have better schools and opportunities for education and training, better opportunities for employment and livelihood. We have better healthcare and infrastructures; better policies for people with disabilities and better opportunities for the old and the young. Every Dagupeno is a great Filipino at heart and it is no wonder we lead the nation in winning many battles for our country, “ added Fernandez.

Mayor Fernandez, together with 2017 MYK (Manlengkor Ya Kalangweran)  young city mayor Jilian Kaye Madison Fernandez, city councilors, and department heads and guests, led the ceremonial release of balloons and doves after the program, culminating the celebration. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – Mayor Belen T. Fernandez and Alaminos City Mayor Arthur Celeste joined a meeting with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) – Region I at CSI Stadia on June 14, to discuss plans for a Tri-City Tourism Promotions Program.

Also present were Assistant Secretary – Regional Development Office Mercedita Sombilla and Assistant Regional Director Donald James Gawi of NEDA, DOT Regional Director Martin Valera, Engr. Roland Suni of the City Assessor’s Office and members of the City Planning and Development Office headed by Engr. Josephine Corpuz.

Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto of San Fernando City, who was unable to attend the meeting, was represented by their OIC City Planning Officer in that meeting

With the three cities triangulating the Lingayen Gulf, the initiative aims to study the possibility of introducing ferry services to the tri-cities and how it would boost the tourism between them.

The program’s study also aims to encourage travel movements and to link tourism resources and activities within the areas.

The tri-ferry system is a proposed solution that would help decongest the heavy flow of traffic found in the principal cities, which are all connected by their shared road networks.

Feasibility studies will be conducted to assess the likelihood of establishing a tri-ferry system between the cities, with NEDA funding the studies.

After a fruitful dialogue, both Mayor Fernandez and Mayor Celeste expressed their support for the initiative.

Celeste said:  “We have the potential to make this possible. The most important thing for us to do in the meantime is to conduct feasibility studies.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Fernandez disclosed that that tri-ferry system can help solve the national government’s problem in terms of mobility. She also added that the implementation of the initiative may be possible now due to the advancements brought by time.

“This was a vision ten years ago. Maybe it was not applicable before, but this time it could work. I hope it could be implemented this time because the times have changed,” said Fernandez. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

WASTE TO WORTH FACILITY — Mayor Belen T. Fernandez (center) leads the groundbreaking ceremony of the Waste to Worth facility that will be constructed at Sitio Bliss in Bonuan Binloc. The $11M-worth Waste 2 Worth facility, to be built by Sure Global at no cost to the city, will finally provide solution to the 50-year waste problem of the city. The facility, the third only in the country, will have three major unit operations which will be for material recovery and for converting food and plastic wastes into diesel and natural gas. Also present are Punong Barangays Joseph Maramba of Bonuan Boquig (left), Noel Bumanglag of Bonuan Gueset (2nd from left), Joshua Gonzales of Bonuan Binloc (3rd from left), MYK Young City Engineer Catherine Villanueva (3rd from right) and SURE Global President and CEO Jill Boughton (2nd from right). (CIO photo by Arriz Fruelda)

DAGUPAN CITY – A Waste 2 Worth Facility, that can convert plastic wastes into diesel fuel and food wastes into methane gas for cooking, lighting, among others, will soon be established at Sitio Bliss in Bonuan Binloc following a groundbreaking ceremony of the project on June 18.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, Sure Global Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jill Boughton, staff of Procter and Gamble Philippines, Punong Barangays Noel Bumanglag of Bonuan Gueset, Joseph Maramba of Bonuan Boquig, and Joshua Gonzales of Bonuan Binloc led the ceremony signaling the start of the construction of the facility.

Also present were 2018 Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran officials headed by Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez and Department of Education officials.

The $11M-worth Waste 2 Worth facility, to be built by Sure Global at no cost to the city, will finally provide solution to the 50-year waste problem of the city. This will be the third waste to energy facility in the country.

In her message, Mayor Fernandez said the facility “will end half a century of monstrous wastes that no leadership or administration have achieved to solve since we became a city in 1947. ”

“The Waste to Worth project shall be a legacy we shall be leaving our children and for the future generations to come,” added Fernandez.

Fernandez also urged all stakeholders to continue working together in handling the waste problem in the city.

“It is my duty to caution everyone that building this project alone will not solve the problem. We need to prepare for the bigger challenges that lie ahead. We shall need everyone working together. We need to work on education, advocacy, technical research and policy undertakings that would enhance the capability of this facility when it begins operation,” said Fernandez.

Meanwhile, SURE Global W2W Chief Executive Officer Jill Boughton disclosed that the facility will have three major unit operations which will be for material recovery and for converting food and plastic wastes into diesel and natural gas.

Aside from the converted diesel fuel to be sold at a cheaper rate, there is a plan to retrofit some 300 tricycles so that they can run on natural gas produced by the facility.

“It’s safer than what they have right now, and cheaper, so it’s a win for them.” said Boughton.

When asked why Dagupan was chosen for the project, Boughton credited it to Mayor Fernandez’s persistence.

“Dagupan chose us just as much as we chose them, and your mayor was unbelievably persistent. She saw a vision, I have to admit that I didn’t even have at the time, that we can do something for Dagupan. And after I saw your trash dump, I realized we have to do something for the city. Since then, it has become my favorite project. If we can do it in Dagupan, we can do it anywhere. This is probably the most replicable one we have been working right now in the country,” Boughton said.  (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – The city of Dagupan, in cooperation with the City Schools Division of the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, held a simple ceremony in honor of Dr. Jose P. Rizal on his 157th birth anniversary on June 19.

The ceremony formally opened with an offering of wreaths at the foot of the monument of the national hero led by Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez.

DepEd officials headed by Schools Division Superiintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong, Dagupan PNP officials, city officials, 2018 “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials headed by Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez and active worshipful masters and members of Alfonso Lee Sin Masonic Lodge No. 158 and Pangasinan Masonic Lodge No. 56 joined  the event.

As a tribute to the national hero, Very Worshipful Master Michael Camilo Datario discussed what may have become Rizal’s wife, Josephine Bracken, after his death.

“I choose to deliver this tribute to Rizal on Josephine Bracken because no matter how harsh history had judged Josephine Bracken, she remained to be Rizal’s last true love. Truly, our worth as a person is measured not only of what we have become, but how we have allowed and helped others become,” said Datario.

Young City Schools Division Superintendent Zsa Irah Ibanez, who represented her counterpart Dr. Lorna Bugayong, said that anyone can be a hero if one utilizes their gifts and knowledge for the betterment of society.

 “Gamitin natin ang karunungan upang maging kapaki-pakinabang  sa bayan. Kapag taglay natin ang karunungan, tinutukoy ni Dr. Jose Rizal, madali nating maaangkin ang mga salitang maka-Diyos, makatao, makalikasan at makabansa, ” said Ibanez.

Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez, in his message, looked back on the hero’s sacrifice and called upon Dagupenos to replicate his deeds.

“Every day, we must remind ourselves of this brave and courageous man who died for our country – this man who bought freedom with the price of blood. He is a hero who left us with a legacy to live up to and the responsibility to carry on. And I hope we choose to be like him. It is not enough to read his stories and absorb its literature. Let us listen to his words that speak to us from a century before and choose to rise up like our forefathers once did, and serve our country, “ said Fernandez.

With the MYK officials in full attendance, Mayor Fernandez hoped that in remembering the life of the national hero, the youth can learn to become better leaders.

“We would like to project to our children that they will be the future leaders (of the city) just as Rizal had always believed that the youth will be leading the future generations, so we have to (train them). As we celebrate the birth of Rizal, I believe that the children can learn something from the tribute today. I have always wanted the youth of Dagupan to become models that would inspire others like Jose Rizal,” saId Fernandez. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

NEW PERSPECTIVES – Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez (center) and Mayor Belen T. Fernandez (right) lead the installation of business plates into authorized fishing structures on June 19. In the same occasion, all “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials were able to experience an Island Tours Cruise which enabled them to have a closer look at the thriving aquaculture industry of the city as well as the development of the river system. Upon seeing the river and meeting with the fisherfolk firsthand, the youth officials were given new perspectives in fulfilling their duties as young city officials of Dagupan. (CIO photo by Jojo Tamayo)

DAGUPAN CITY – More than 60 “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials took a trip around the city’s river through the Island Tours Cruise on June 19.

On board two uniquely designed tourist boats, one styled like that seen on a Chinese pagoda and another on an American steamboat, the youth leaders were able to have a closer look at  the thriving aquaculture industry of the city as well as the development of the river system.

The experience  also enabled the youth to feel not just the situation of the river but also to see for themselves the city’s marginal fisherfolk and their livelihood.

In that occasion, Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez, together with Young City Vice Mayor Iris Javert Jovellanos and the Young City Councilors and officials, joined Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, City Agriculturist Emma Molina and One-Stop Business Center Officer Randolf Ubando in installing business plates in authorized  fish cages.

The young officials were also able to sample fresh oysters from the river.

Following the Island Tours Cruise, Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez and Young City Agriculturist Aaliyah Kyla Solomon accompanied Mayor Fernandez and Punong Barangay Marcelino Fernandez of Barangay Lucao during a consultation with the fisherfolk at the barangay hall.

The fisherfolk who successfully obtained their Aquaculture Lease Agreements were also issued their business permits that would allow them to operate their fishing structures.

The river’s rehabilitation is one of Mayor Belen T. Fernandez’s main priorities in the city, as she already dismantled over 900 illegal fishing structures and subsequently effected the rearrangement of authorized fishing structures, contributing greatly to the river’s improvement.

Seeing  the river and meeting with the fisherfolk firsthand, the youth officials  were given new perspective in fulfilling their duties as young city officials of Dagupan. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – The city, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), marked the celebration of the 71st Agew na Dagupan on June 20 in commemorative rites held at CSI Stadia.

Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, together with Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong and Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez, opened the celebration with the laying of wreaths at the foot of the statue of the late Eugenio Perez at Perez Market site.

Regarded as one of the greatest statesmen-legislators from Pangasinan, Perez is responsible for authoring Republic Act No. 170 or the “Charter of the City of Dagupan”, which gave birth to Dagupan as a city.

RA 170 was signed into law on June 20, 1947 by President Manuel Roxas.

Malacanang issued a proclamation declaring June 20,2018 as a special non-working holiday in Dagupan.

The commemorative program at CSI Stadia was joined by Secretary Francis Tolentino, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs who represented Presidential Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go as guest of honor and speaker.

Dwelling on the theme, “Balon Dagupan Maaliguas, Itanduro Lawas”, Mayor Belen Fernandez in her message, said that the celebration was a way of looking back on the progress made in the city over the years.

“Agew na Dagupan is an opportune time to remember and celebrate our city’s success and progress – especially in the last five years, in social and economic development, investment in infrastructure, education, youth development, livelihood and employment, health care and public safety. I ask you to join me in yet another progressive journey into the future. Let us strive to grow, be strong and let out all efforts to make Dagupan greater than what our forbearers have imagined for the last 70 years.”

Representing the youth and fellow “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials, Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez called on Dagupenos to work together in building towards the future.

“We, as a city, must stand strong together and fight towards our city’s future. We must continue to persevere and strive to be better versions of ourselves each day. We have a vision for Dagupan City, and I believe that that vision has already started to become a reality. This is our home – let’s all make our city a better place to live in.”

Meanwhile, Sec. Tolentino lauded the city’s initiative in honoring its history.

“Dagupan is very lucky to have one of the greatest mayors in the country. This is the first time I’ve attended a public ceremony involving the local government that focuses on honoring their history.”

In the same occasion, Tolentino presided over the induction of all barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan, while Fernandez presided over the induction of the 2018 MYK officials.

At the same time, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Lourdes Servito, together with DepEd officials, unveiled Dagupan history modules during the program.

The first of its kind in the annals of the city, the modules were designed for grade 3 and 7 students and will be integrated into their curriculums.

The city also honored Eugenia Fernandez Escosio of Barangay Carael for being the oldest living Dagupeno at 101.  Escosio received a cash incentive of P5,000.

Winners of “Palyagan na Arawan”, the quiz bee contest on interesting facts about Dagupan, were also awarded during the event, with Wyzelle Velasco of St. Albert the Great School receiving P1,000 for 1st place; Alfred Vergara of St. John’s Cathedral School receiving P700 for 2nd place; and Samantha Ida Olegario of West Central Elementary School I receiving P500 for 3rd place. (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – Two Dagupan History modules were presented to Mayor Belen T. Fernandez during the celebration of the 71^st Agew na Dagupan at CSI Stadia on June 20.

A joint project of the Dagupan City Historical Culture and Arts and the Department of Education (DepEd) Dagupan, the modules are in line with the Republic Act 10533 or the “Enhanced Basic Education Act”, wherein curriculums are encouraged to be flexible enough to schools “to localize, indigenize and enhance their teaching materials”.

The modules are specifically made for Dagupan City, with eight chapters focusing on the city’s history including its facts about its former name Bagnotan,  during the Spanish and American regimes as well as Japanese occupation, the birth of Dagupan as a city, its role in the third republic and its golden age.

Also included are the situations, achievements, and developments found in present-day Dagupan.

The modules were completed under the auspices of Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez as its project director.

Dagupan City Historical Culture and Arts Chairman Atty. Gonzalo T. Duque, OIC Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Froserfina Bravo, SDS Dr. Lorna Bugayong and Assistant SDS Lourdes Servito are the project’s consultants, with the modules being written by DepEd writers and Dagupan City National High School teachers.

Mayor  Fernandez disclosed the modules have been already signed and approved by Secretary Leonor Briones of the Department of Education and is now up for reproduction and distribution to public schools of the city.

Designed for grade 3 and grade 7 students, the modules will be integrated into their curriculum through their history or Araling Panlipunan subjects.

Fernandez also expressed hope that the modules will inspire the youth to continue the city’s legacy.

“Our children will study how Dagupan had progressed from the past up to today. I believe the youth will be inspired by our city’s history and will continue what our forefathers and past leaders have started.” (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY – Five infrastructure projects of Mayor Belen T. Fernandez will soon rise following separate  groundbreaking ceremonies on June 25.

Fernandez, accompanied by this year’s batch of “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials headed by Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Miles Fernandez and  Department of Education (DepEd) officials headed by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong, first led the groundbreaking of about-to-be constructed three-storey nine classroom building of the Calmay Elementary School.

Aside from accommodating more students, the new school building could also serve as a rescue and evacuation center during floods, storm surges and other calamities.

Fernandez also led the groundbreaking of a three-storey Special Science Building at Malued Elementary School, that will soon replace the one-storey building originally constructed in the area.

Meanwhile, three more infrastructures will be constructed at the Tondaligan Blue Beach in Bonuan Gueset, in line with its continuing redevelopment.

First is the addition of a second pavilion in the Mayor’s Pavilion near the Japanese Garden, to be funded partly from the Good Local Governance Incentive Fund won by the city when it bagged its third Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) last year.

A Balon Dagupan Gazebo will also be put up beside the Children’s Playground, a project that will complete the second phase of  the Children’s Park by the beach.

The last infrastructure that broke ground is the soon-to-be constructed new City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) building just beside the Children’s Park.

This will be the second building of the CDRRMO and will serve as covered garage and storage area of all water transportation vehicles such as speed boats and motor boats, and will feature facilities such as a monitoring and communications room.

The construction of a CDRRMO building by the beach also seeks to enforce safety and security in the area with the help of the lifeguards and the Philippine Coastguard.

Corollary to this, two units of Comfort Rooms and a Bath House by the Tondaligan beach were also formally opened during the event.

These units consist of eight comfort rooms, two comfort rooms for persons with disabilities (PWD), six shower and wash areas with separate rooms for males and females.

On the continuous development of the beach, Fernandez disclosed that 36 beach sheds are now operating temporarily, with six stalls to be rented out.

Mayor Fernandez said that the groundbreaking ceremonies were held simultaneously so that the “MYKs will know what the city government is doing.” (Verdelle De Vera/CIO)