PhilRice making El Niño risk maps

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), the country’s premier research and development agency, is designing El Niño risk maps to mitigate the impact of the coming dry spell on the harvest of the country’s staple grain.

Upon instructions from Agriculture

Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian, PhilRice will map out all areas of the country that could be hit by the weather phenomenon to guide local governments and regional

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez paid homage Friday to Mabalacat, Pampanga -- the hometown of his mother, the former Ms. Juliette Gomez -- on the 11th anniversary of its cityhood.

The local government honored the Speaker as a “native son” of Mabalacat during a groundbreaking ceremony of the city’s New Government Center.

“Today is not merely an anniversary - it is an affirmation of the continued growth and prosperity of Mabalacat. This city is more than just a place to me. I have been profoundly touched by this city, its people, and its vibrant culture,” he said.

Romualdez, who grew up in his hometown Tacloban City, told Mabalacat government officials and residents that he was “proud” to be one of them, as he once roamed the community during his younger years.

“My connection with Mabalacat runs deep. Our ties can be traced back to the old Gomez-Romualdez house, a testament to our familial connections with this city,” the Speaker said, recalling the pre-war edifice that was built in 1934.

“This house stands as a symbol of Mabalacat’s rich history, our family’s resilience, and the enduring bonds we’ve shared with this city. This house, now known as Tubigan, is more than a building,” he added,

The anniversary celebration was declared a special non-working day by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“I am immensely grateful and moved