Discern, discuss and debate

FIRST THINGS FIRST. Ideally, before we even think of revising our Constitution, we have to make sure the nation is on firm and steady footing, with poverty levels moored to a minimum.

As it is, we are still confronted with the specter of uncertainty as to where we could get our daily sustenance, our means of decent sur vi val .

And now, we are deeply enmeshed in the lengthy work of charter revision. As dutiful soldiers, members of the Consultative Committee have labored long and hard and indeed finished their task and have submitted the draft for a possible shift to federalism. Is the shift or change really necessary at this time when we are still wallowing in poverty? Is there no other way? Would federalism finally bring an end to our woes or would it be just panacea or temporary relief?

Professor Richard Heydarian, columnist of the Philippine Daily Inquirer wrote thus: Our political system is an oligarchy disguised as a democracy. Our society simply has too many poor, oppressed and marginalized citizens to deserve the label of democracy.

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Bringing recognition and distinction to the city government of Mabalacat is the City Nutrition Action Council headed by Socorro “Cora” Lorena.

On July 31, 2018, at the Philippine International Convention Center the CNAC was recognized.

For this year, the CNAC again was listed in the Consistent Outstanding Winner along with Talavera, Nueva Ecija, Binan City, Laguna, Santa, Ilocos Sur, Vigan City, also in Ilocos Sur, Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya, Tublay, Benguet, the province of Quezon, Caibiran, Biliran, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay, the province of Misamis Occidental and Polomolok, South Cotabato.

Keep up the good work, Mareng Cora and continue to reap awards and recognition for Mabalacat City.

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The City Cooperative Office, city government of Mabalacat, conducted a seminar on Basic Bookkeeping and Accounting for nonaccountants and Financial Recording at Jade Hall Training Center, Xevera on

July 30-31, 2018. Participants included persons handling accounting/ financial matters such as the treasurer/ cashier and accounting staff.

Resource speaker was Ms. Mildred Esguerra, Cooperative Development Authority Asst. Director, Pampanga District.

Councilor Rogelio “Jeng” Yumul delivered the inspirational message. The city cooperative office is headed by Cezar “JC” B. Marucut.