Last July 26, 2010, the Municipality of Villasis, headed by Mayor Dita G. Abrenica , celebrated the 36th Nutrition Month at the Villasis gymnasium with this year's theme:" Sa pagkaing tama at sapat, wastong timbang ni baby ang katapat". A five month Iron  Supplementation Program was launched during the said celebration which aims to decrease the prevalence rate malnutrition in the municipality. This project will benefit a total of 165 malnourished preschool children from all barangays.

           The launching program started with an opening prayer led by Mrs. Lilia R. Raqueza, barangay nutrition scholar (BNS) of San Blas, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and community singing of Himig Villasis. On behalf of the Municipal Health Officer, Dr. Hian Kiat C. Dy, Mrs. Milagros C. Leonin, BNS President and BNS of Poblacion Zone V. welcomed the guests and beneficiaries. Mayor Dita gave a short message wherein she emphasized the importance of proper and adequate food intake.She also stressed the importance of breastfeeding as she herself is an advocate of breastfeeding for she also has breastfed her children. SB Member Arvin B. Castro, chairman, committee on Health and Sanitation, also gave his message. He encouraged all the mothers present to support the said project by bringing their children in the health centers during the scheduled supplementation program.Ms. Jennilee M. Tan, Municipal Assistant Nutritionist discussed the importance of Iron Supplementation and Complementary feeding then gave the guidelines to be followed during the supplementation program. Miss Aniceta Posidio, BNS of Poblacion Zone II gave the closing remarks followed by the distribution of snacks cum socialization. Also present during the program were Brgy. Captains Alex Sison, Ricardo Rama, Leonardo Ruiz, Cesar Manangan, Ramon Montero, Rodolfo Mingarine, Mamerto Bulatao, Jr. and Leon Delos Reyes and brgy nutrition scholars.Below are pictures taken during the program.

              "We are very much thankful", those were the words of the Day Care parents from the 16 Day Care Centers including the 3 newly opened day care center whose 650 pre-school children benefited from the supplemental feeding sponsored by Ms. Jane Abrenica, the ever humble daughter of Mayor Dita G. Abrenica through Ladies Brigade of Villasis (LaB) on July 19,20 & 21, 2010. This is in line with the Nutrition Month celebration with this year's theme "Sa pagkaing tama at sapat, wastong timbang ni baby ang katapat." Photos taken at the different Day Care Centers with Ms. Jane Abrenica, Ma. Lolita Sison, Dra. Rose Loquiao, Brgy. Kgd. Nelda Somera, members of LaB, Pre-schoolers, parents, Day Care Workers, MSWDO Lilibeth M. Abrenica, SWO I Haidee R. Suyat and DCW I Katrina S. Bascos.

              After three months of no socialization, the senior citizens of Villasis resumed their monthly socialization of July 16, 2010(3rd Friday of the month).Group V composed of Brgy. san Nicolas, Zone V, Bacag, Tombod hosted the program. Mr. Lito Villareal, Executive Vice President of FSCAV and officer-in-charge welcomed the participants. Our beloved Mayor Dita G. Abrenica gave inspirational message emphasizing on the importance of gathering such as socialization for elderly as a venue for bonding and something to look forward. OSCA head, Alfonso R. Ragasa also gave message. Photos show different activities undertaken during the affair such as dancing, parlor games and dance contests. There were almost 900 senior citizens in attendance.              

              As food for work component of the house repair/construction of houses damaged by typhoon Pepeng, the Habitat for Humanity gave relief goods for the 44 affected families. Shown in photo Mayor Dita G. Abrenica, assisted by MSDWO Lilibeth M. Abrenica during thedistribution on July 5, 2010 held in Brgy. Lipay.                        

              A Tree Planting activity was conducted last July 6, 2010 at the Municipal Sanitary Landfill, Sitio Bugkol Brgy. Capulaan, a joint project of the LGU-Villasis and Philippine Dental Association-Pangasinan Chapter, 250 ilang-ilang seedlings were planted around the sanitary landfill.

               In attendance (pictures below) were Mayor Dita G. Abrenica, SB Members: Paz Rafanan, Rolly Morden and Cheryll Tan, Pangasinan Dental Society Officers, Mun. Department Heads and employees and Lab Members.

              Yesterday, July 12, 2010 was the launching of the "Gulayan sa Paaralan", an LGU-Villasis initiated program. Free assorted Hybrid Seeds such as; tomato, eggplant, kankong, patola, upo & pechay were distributed to all elementary and high schools in Villasis.

               During the SY 2010, there will be a search for the Best in School Gardening (Gulayan sa Paaralan) with the following prizes;

                From August-December 2010, the Municipal Agriculture Office Personnel will monitor and evaluate all the public schools in Villasis (Elementary and High School). Prizes come from the LGU's funds.

              The new administration under Mayor Libradita Go-Abrenica resolves to fullfill her campaign promise to put priorities on the health care of her constituents.

            As soon as she took her seat as the Local Chief Executive of the town, she conceptualized the “Gamutan sa Barangay” program which aims to impose health services rendered to the people.  Under this program, Rural Health Unit Personnel composed of one (1) Doctor, hired as Health Consultant, one (1) Casual Nurse and three (3) Volunteer Nurses go to barangays (Monday-Friday, 8:00 Am – 5:00 PM) and provide free consultation and medicines to the people especially the poor and the needy.  In a month, the team serves each barangay two times (as per schedule posted at the barangay health center). So far, six (6) barangays have already been served:

              July 5 -           Barangay Puelay                -           118 patients/beneficiaries
                   6   -           Barangay Amamperez        -           152 patients/beneficiaries
                   7   -           Barangay Barangobong      -           127 patients/beneficiares
                   8   -  AM  Barangay Unzad                 -           85 patients/beneficiaries
                           PM   Barangay La Paz                 -           102 patients/beneficiaries
                   9   -          Barangay Lipay                   -           52 patients/beneficiaries
                  12  -          Barangay Bacag Centro       -           112 patients/beneficiaries
                  13  -          Barangay Piaz                      -           172 patients/beneficiaries
                  14 -           Barangay Caramutan           -            118 patients/beneficiaries
                  15 -           Barangay San Blas               -           133 patients/beneficiaries
                  16 -           Barangay Labit                     -           68 patients/beneficiaries
                                    Barangay Barraca                -           92 patients/beneficiaries
                  17 -           Barangay Capulaan              -           168 patients/beneficiaries  
                  20 -           Barangay Tombod               -             82 patients/beneficiaries
                                    Barangay San Nicolas         -             93 patients/beneficiaries
                  21 -           Barangay Bacag West          -             81 patients/beneficiaries
                                   Barangay Lomboy                -             68 patients/beneficiaries
                  22 -           Barangay Unzad                  -              88 patients/beneficiaries
                                   Barangay Lapaz                   -              30 patients/beneficiaries
                  23 -          Barangay Lipay                    -              24 patients/beneficiaries
                  26 -          Barangay Puelay                   -             49 patients/beneficiaries
                  27 -          Barangay Amamperez           -            131patients/beneficiaries
                  28 -          Barangay Barangobong         -              92patients/beneficiaries

                          This is a continuing program of our Municipal government funded by the town’s coffers.  Furthermore, a Blood Analyzer Equipment and Pulmo Aide (DeBelviss) Nebulizer were purchased for the use of our Municipal Laboratory.

                The following medicines were turned over to the Municipal Health Office as personal donation of Mayor Libradita G. Abrenica for the "Gamutan sa Barangay" program:

               Last June 29, 2010, the newly-elected municipal officials who will lead and serve Villasis and its people in the next three years (2010-2013) took their oath at the Villasis Public Auditorium with Hon. Mark O. Cojuangco, out-going Representative, 5th District of Pangasinan as the administering Officer. In attendance were barangay officials, municipal and national employees, teachers, senior citizens, LaB members, BHW’s, CVO’s, relatives and friends of the newly elected municipal officials and visitors.
                Rev. Fr. Diomedes S. Laguerta, the new Parish Priest of Villasis, opened the program with an Invocation, followed by the singing of the Pambansang  Awit and Himig Villasis led by the municipal employees and conducted by Mr. Melchor Perez of DRECMNHS. Mrs. Sheila E. Velasquez, Mun. Local Government Officer IV, gave her Welcome Address then presented the newly-elected municipal officials (2010-2013):

                    Municipal Mayor              LIBRADITA G. ABRENICA
                    Vice-Mayor                     CENTENIELO RIZAL R. COSTALES
                    Sangguniang Bayan Members:
                                                             Mun. Coun. PAZ S. RAFANAN
                                                             Mun. Coun. NICHOLI JAN LOUIE Q. SISON
                                                             Mun. Coun. RODERICK EMMANUEL R. MINA
                                                             Mun. Coun. ROLANDO B. MORDEN
                                                             Mun. Coun. CHERYL Z. TAN
                                                             Mun. Coun.CHERYLL B. SEMBRANO
                                                             Mun. Coun. ARVIN B. CASTRO
                                                             Mun. Coun. ROSARIO L. LIMOS

                The out-going Mun. Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica delivered his message. He sincerely thanked the townspeople of Villasis for giving him 9 years to serve Villasis and its people. He acknowledged with profound gratitude the cooperation and support of the SB Members, Municipal Department Heads and employees, Barangay Officials, PNP Personnel, teachers, National Agencies and NGO’s. He stressed that during his incumbency he had fulfilled his promises and was able to rebuild Villasis as manifested by what is Villasis today, a 1st Class and Debt Free Municipality, despite of the various infrastructure projects his administration had implemented. In closing he said, with the new administration, villasinians can sleep well because Villasis is truly in good hands. I t was such a well-applauded speech.

                The oath taking rites of the newly –elected municipal councillors followed  immediately after the speech of the out-going  Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica, then each of them delivered their short message, thanking their families and supporters. They also expressed their pledge of support to the new leadership.

                Re-elected Vice-Mayor Hon. Centenielo Rizal R. Costales was sworn in by Cong. Mark O. Cojuangco with his whole family witnessing his oath taking. Afterwards he gave his message, also thanking his family and supporters. He promised to give his 100% support to the new mayor.

                The No.1 leader of Villasis, 2nd Lady Mayor of the Town, Hon. Libradita Go-Abrenica was the last to be sworn in by Cong. Mark O. Cojuangco. The First Family led by outgoing Mayor Nato Abrenica, their 3 children and the Mayor’s mother, Mrs. Tesalonica Go witnessed her installation. Afterwards she delivered her inaugural speech. Like the others, she thanked her family, relatives, friends and all those who trusted and voted for her. She gave more emphasis on the continuation of the various developmental programs started by her husband, more importantly the new projects lined up for the implementation by the new administration such as the renovation of the municipal cemetery, agro-industrial project, improvement of health services and other infrastructure projects. The new municipal mayor earnestly requested the support and cooperation of the new set of Municipal Council, Municipal Employees, Brgy. Officials and all Villasinians here and abroad.

                Lastly, the Inducting Officer, out-going Representative, 5th District of Pangasinan, Hon. Mark O. Cojuangco, gave his message. He sincerely thanked the townspeople of Villasis for the three term mandate given to him. He assured the Villasinians that his wife, Mdm. Kimi, newly installed Representative of 5th District, Pangasinan will continue making Villasis her foremost priority. The audience gave him rounds of applause. Truly, the Cojuangco’s are truly loved by the townspeople of Villasis.

                The able emcees were Fe Ibay-Callanta and Mario “MG” Guarin.

                After the oath taking ceremonies, free lunch was served to everyone.

                Below were the pictures taken during the said affair.

          Last June 24, 2010, Mayor Nato invited the LGU Department Heads, Brgy. Captains, DepEd School Heads, NGO's and NGA's for the organizational meeting of Villasis Town Fiesta 2011, before the meeting started, Mrs. Marlene M. Francisco, VTF 2010 Treasurer, presented the Financial Report of VTF 2010 as follows:

VILLASIS TOWN FIESTA 2010

Statement of Income and Expenses

As of June 15, 2010

Balance from VTF 2009

P        4,299.25

First  and Last Canvassing Proceeds (VTF 2010

Gross Proceeds

P 5,704,204.70

Less:

%Commissions on Ads and Cash Votes                                         3,075,287.96

NET PROCEEDS

2,628,916.74

Add: Collections after the Last Canvassing

Sales of Cookbook-101 Ways of Cooking Talong                            P        50,100.00

Advertisements (Net of 10 % Commissions)

33,202.45

Boxes-Auditorium

22,984.00

National Gov't Agencies Contributions

4,650.00

Interest Income

973.47

111,909.92

TOTAL

2,745,125.91

LESS:EXPENSES

Refer attached Statement of Expenses

1,460,573.14

NET INCOME

P   1,284,552.77

LESS

*

Payment of Cofta Chairs (1000 pcs)

244,000.00

BALANCE

P   1,040,552.77

Certified Correct:

(SGD) MARLENE M. FRANCISCO

Noted:

VTF 2010 Treasurer

(SGD) NONATO S. ABRENICA

Municipal Mayor

VTF 2010 Chairman

*The amount of P244,000.00 was donated by Annak ti Villasis of Canada for the purchase of 1,000 pcs. of Cofta Monobloc Chairs, with the condition that said amount would be added to the cash votes of their candidate, Mrs. Reynalda Lagleva-Ramos. This P244,000 was deducted from the total cash votes of Mrs. Ramos before the computation of her percentage. VILLASIS TOWN FIESTA 2010
DETAILED STATEMENT OF EXPENSES
As of June 15, 2010
Particulars			AMOUNT
Souvenir Programs			P       383,100.00
Accommodations-All Days and Nights Activities			307,853.60
Share in Talong Festival Expenses			246,750.00
Printing of Cookbook (101 Ways of Cooking Talong-500 bks @ P250.00)			125,000.00
Stage Decorations			70,000.00
Lights and Sounds (Whole Fiesta)			50,000.00
Luzon Colleges Band			43,000.00
Sports Committee Expenses			28,750.00
Trophies, Certificates & frames			27,022.00
Hotel Accommodation for Artist			24,100.00
Coronation Night Expenses			19,450.00
Expenses/Accommodations-1st and Last Canvassing			18,575.00
Marissa Talplacido-Morning Band			17,000.00
Street Decorations/Buntings			13,126.25
Launching of Talong Cookfest Expenses			12,226.30
Cash Prizes-Brgy Night-Biggest/Earliest Delegation			10,000.00
Cash Prizes-Pinakbet sa Kawa			10,000.00
Video Wire			10,000.00
Various Streamers			7,500.00
Talong Festival Ads-Legacy Broadcasting			6,000.00
Bulbs for Park			5,500.00
Northern Watch- write ups , VTF 2010			5,000.00
Drum and Lyre			5,000.00
Tarpaulins			4,785.00
VIP Pass,IDs -Talong Festival and Cookfest			3,429.50
Painting and Photo Exhibits Expenses			1,823.89
Loss on Exchange Rate			1,781.60
Packaging for Souvenirs			1,071.00
Miscellaneous			2,729.00
TOTAL EXPENSES			P     1,460,573.14
Certified Correct:
MARLENE M. FRANCISCO
	Treasurer

        VILLASIS TOWN FIESTA 2011
         Executive Committee

         It was agreed during the meeting that we will have for the first time, Popularity Contest for Mr. & Mrs. Villasis 2011. Candidates will be couples. Couple-winners will be crowned together.
         Through votation, Municipal Councilor Roderick R. Mina is the Chairman on the Committee on Popularity Contest. The Committee was given up to August 15, 2010 to look for couple-candidates.
          So, we are calling all interested couples/parties to contact Mayor's Office (075) 564-4009 for further details. We hope Villasinian organizations abroad will once again support VTF 2011.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

COMMITTEE ON TALONG FESTIVAL

           Above pictures were taken last June 18, 2010 during the distribution of certified rice seeds to Villasis' farmers with Mayor Nato and Mun. Agricultural Office Personnel headed by MAO Cornelio Atchuela.

          This Certified Rice Seeds Subsidy Program of the Department of Agriculture is for the 2010 Wet Cropping(Main Crop) Season. Villasis is allocated with 3,500 bags in different varieties: PSB Rc18, PSB Rc82, NSIC Rc160. Under the 50:50 scheme the actual Price/bag is P1,200.00; P600.00 subsidized by the government (D.A.) and P600.00 as farmer's equity.

          As of today, June 25, 2010, 2000 bags have been actually delivered to Villasis.

            Congratulations to the people of Villasis for the peaceful, clean and honest elections last May 10, 2010 .

           The true will of Villasinians has been expressed and it was a landslide victory of Mayor-elect Dita Abrenica and re-electionist Vice-Mayor Centenielo Costales. Yes, they overwhelmingly emerged as winners to lead the Villasinians to a better and brighter future as the fullfill their campaign's battlecry "Ituloy ang pag-asenso, serbisyong may puso". Yes, together with the 3 re-elected municipal councilors and 5 newly-elected municipal councilors and the people of Villasis they will join their hands for a fresh start to a journey to the road of more progress and developments in Villasis. Below were pictures taken during the proclamation of the new set of Municipal Officials last May 12&13, 2010.

Republic of The Philippines
COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS
May 10, 2010 National & Local elections
Province : PANGASINAN
City/Municipality:VILLASIS
No. Of Clustered Precincts Reported: 55
Total No. of Clustered Precincts: 55
No. of Registered Voters: 42215
No. of Voters Actually Voted: 30563
Total Valid Ballots Counted: 30563
NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
PRESIDENT of PHILIPPINES		VICE-PRESIDENT of PHILIPPINES
1. AQUINO, Benigno Simeon III C.	9859	1. BINAY, Jejomar C.	11509
2. ESTRADA EJERCITO, Joseph M.	8557	2. ROXAS, Manuel A.	10548
3. VILLAR, Manuel Jr. B.	7043	3. LEGARDA, Loren B.	5882
4. TEODORO, Gilberto Jr. C	2431	4. FERNANDO, Bayani F.	704
NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
SENATOR of PHILIPPINES		PARTY LIST of PHILIPPINES
1. BONG REVILLA, Ramon, Jr. B	19645	1. ABONO	14548
2. MARCOS, Ferdinand, Jr. R.	19267	2. C.A of SENIOR CITIZENS in the Phil.	1096
3. ESTRADA, Jinggoy E.	18789	3.ALLIANCE TRANSPORT SECTOR	920
4. DEFENSOR SANTIAGO, Miriam P.	16750	4. CIBAC	603
5. ENRILE, Juan Ponce	14992
6. DRILON, Franklin M.	13337	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
7. CAYETANO, Pilar Juliana S.	13231	MEMBER, HOUSE OF REP-PANGASINAN
8. SOTTO, Vicente III C.	12076	1. COJUANCO, Carmen S.	19587
9. DE VENECIA, Jose III P.	11970	2. DEMETRIA, Demetrio G.	7273
10.LAPID, Manuel M.	10506	FAO-ILAN, Martin T	1149
11.RECTO, Ralph G.	9543
12.OSMENA, Sergio III D.	9124	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
		PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR OF PANGASINAN
NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED	1. ESPINO, Amado, Jr. T.	23863
MEMBER, SP 5th District-PANGASINAN		2. AGBAYANI, Victor Aguedo E.	4872
1. ARBOLEDA, Clemente, Jr.B	14315
2. UY, DANILO C.	13814	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
3. VILLAR, Dionisio, Jr. A.	13747	VICE GOVERNOR OF PANGASINAN
		1. CALIMLIM, Jose F Jr. Z.	17147
NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED	2. LAMBINO, Oscar B.	8587
MAYOR OF PANGASINAN-VILLASIS		3. MAGNO, Julius A.	454
1. ABRENICA, Libradita G.	20218
2. RAFANAN, Ismael R.	9432	NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
3. RABE, Isagani M.	207	VICE-MAYOR OF PANGASINAN-VILLASIS
4. ORDOÑO, Victoriano F.	82	1.  COSTALES, Centenielo Rizal R.	19869
		2. MORDEN, Judith M.	9222
NAMES OF CANDIDATES/POSITION	VOTES GARNERED
MEMBER-SB OF PANGASINAN-VILLASIS
1. RAFANAN, Paz S.	17879
2. SISON, Nicholi Jan Louie Q.	16438
3. MINA, Roderick Emmanuel R.	12589
4. MORDEN, Rolando B.	12517
5. TAN, Cheryll Z.	12402
6. BASCOS, Cheryl J.	12188
7. CASTRO, Arvin B.	12103
8. LIMOS, Rosario L.	11495
9. CACAPIT, Richie V.	10988
10.CHAN, Jimmy Boy O.	10620
11.RACADIO, Mario Cesar M.	10310
12.LOPEZ, Emma Ruth B.	9545

 (Courtesy of Northern Watch by: Virgilio Sar. Maganes)

          Villasis-Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica debunked criticisms that fielding his wife Libradita Go- Abrenica in the mayoralty race is a case of dynasty and perpetuation of his family's rule in the town.

          "How come that they (critics) brand this as dynasty when we are not running at the same time.I will be finishing my nine-year term as mayor on June 30, 2010 and my only wish is to finish the projects i have started. This can only be materialized if my wife will succeed me. This is happening in almost part of the country, so why can't i replicate it in my town," Abrenica said.

           Under the 1987 Constitution, dynasty has been viewed as those politicians with one or more next-in-kin holding elective positions at the same time. However, Congress up to this time has not passed any anti-dynasty law.Among the projects which he started are the Gawad Kalinga Namnama Village in Piaz village which will benefit 100 homeless indigent families, the improvement of the municipal cemeteries and the construction of Livelihood Training Center to upgrade the skills of the youth of the town.

         Abrenica further said that he is only asking only for three more years to complete the projects he started and then he will "leave politics for good" in the hands of the next leader in town.

        "Dita has her own brand of leadership. With my administration, she has been helping me by organizing the Ladies Brigade of Villasis (LAB) which spearheaded several social activities like supplemental feeding and medical-dental missions," Abrenica said.

         He wished that his political rivals will resort to high level campaign and confine issues on their platform of government. Meanwhile the Team Abrenica has almost completed its campaign in every barangay of the town.

        "It's refreshing and heartening to see the outpour of support from our town mates," Dita said. Abrenica has incumbent Vice Mayor Centenielo Rizal R. Costales as team mate and both are running under the Nationalist People's Coalition-Biskeg na Pangasinan (NPC-BnP).

       The councilors running under their team are: Louie Sison, Emma Ruth Lopez, Arvin Castro,Cheryl Bascos, Sonny Soriano, Paz Sison- Rafanan, Rolly Morden and Rose Limos.

 (Courtesy of Northern Watch by: Virgilio Sar. Maganes)

          There’s a local newspaper (Northern Star with unknown address) circulating lately in the town of Villasis with a headline portraying Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica to have hidden relief goods during the onslaught of the flood caused by Typhoon Pepeng last October 2009. These relief goods are allegedly being used now in the political campaign of his wife Libradita Go-Abrenica (Dita) who is running for the town’s mayoralty.

           In that news article, it was said that during the Christmas season, the relief goods were given as prizes in the raffle draws of the Ladies Auxilliary Brigade (LAB) headed by Dita and some were distributed to the people of San Blas and Puelay villages last February 3, 2010. The two villages were allegedly favored by the Abrenicas according to the said report.

           Vice Mayor Nielo Costales and some of the councilor candidates were even quoted to have said that they had to resort to the giving of relief goods to ensure their winning in the May 10, 2010 elections.

           The news item was absurd and malicious, according to the municipal social welfare officer Lilibeth Montero-Abrenica, who is the custodian of the relief goods. She said that once entrusted to her office, Mayor Abrenica has no control over the disposal of the relief goods but only to supervise them as to what areas these were distributed.

           “There were no bodegas in the municipal hall to keep the relief goods. The picture was taken just at the lobby, so we were not hiding them. Those were supposed to be used as preemptive relief operations for Typhoon Quedan victims, but luckily the typhoon was not that strong as expected,” Ms. Abrenica said.

           She said that even the dates mentioned were distorted. There was no relief operations last February 3, 2010.

           The political gimmick must be instigated by the camp of the political rival, observed many Abrenica supporters.

           “The news article was written to portray that the Mayor Abrenica has interest over the relief goods but in fact all goods donated to the municipality have been accounted for. Some supporters said that those relief goods coming from other donors did not pass through the municipal government but were directly distributed to the flood victims,” the social welfare officer further said.

           I talked with Vice Mayor Costales to get his reaction over the news item and he said that he was not interviewed by any newsman from that newspaper. “ That writer is crazy and deserves no attention,” he said in disgust.

          Well, this is a case of black propaganda. The news writer who is hiding his identity through an alias Mario D. Paareglo (di paareglo?) should have gathered real facts and data. Media people are purveyors of truth and information. Those being used politically have no place in the journalism profession. The basic elements of writing news are “ accuracy, accuracy and accuracy”. In like manner, readers of news articles must also be wary of what they are reading. They should digest the fact and not to be conclusive of their contents.

          I am not saying here that the political propaganda has been initiated by the rival camp of the Abrenicas. I know for sure that they won’t dip their fingers into such kind of gimmickry which Mayor Nato called, “ Cheap!”

           Political gimmicks are appearing now in many ways. Out of this world slogans are visible in every candidate’s pamphlets, calendars, tarps and infomercials over televisions and radios.

           Personally, I find these sloganeering cheap political ploys. Why don’t they write their platforms of government? Why don’t they sell themselves according to their advocacies? And speaking of advocacies, I have yet to read from the political materials of candidates about helping the environment- the ecology and how to mitigate the climate change. These are the advocacies needed now. It’s not sports, not health, not other services. Basic services are already a part of every administration’s programs and operations.

         Well, fellas let’s get out from politics for a while. We are now experiencing the effect of El Niño. There will be drought and water will be scarce. Water is life. This summer season, we have to conserve it.                    

 (Courtesy of Northern Watch by: Virgilio Sar. Maganes)

     VILLASIS- Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica led the groundbreaking of the Don Anacleto Obedoza GK Villasis Namnama Village in Piaz village here on February 18.

           Abrenica was assisted by the municipal officials, barangay village heads, municipal employees and the provincial officers of Gawad Kalinga-Pangasinan headed by Ricky Castillo.

           The GK Village sprawled on a 1.8 hectare- lot donated by expatriates Mr. and Mrs. Pete Montilla of Virginia, USA. It will have 100 houses, fishpond, social hall and food production area for the homeowners.

           During the brief program, Ricky Castillo oriented the crowd on the various activities of Gawad Kalinga. He said that the town is the fourth site of GK villages in the province with two sites in Sta. Barbara, one in Dagupan City and soon the fifth site in Alaminos City .

           He lauded the efforts of Mayor Abrenica and the Sangguniang Bayan members led by Vice Mayor Centenielo Rizal Costales for expediting the improvement of the village site.

           The swift actions of the local officials, Castillo said, are inspiring which has motivated them more to pursue similar projects in the future.

           He further explained the various support programs of GK village. He said that it is a holistic approach anchored on “ Bagong Bahay, Bagong Buhay, Bagong Bayan”.

           Mayor Abrenica for his part commended the GK officials for their assistance. He hailed the Montilla couple who donated the site.

           Abrenica further said that the would-be homeowners will be screened as they should belong to the indigents of the town.

           Juanito Abongan, 49, married with three children and one of the future homeowners could not contain his happiness upon seeing the time capsule being lowered during the groundbreaking ceremonies.

           “ Tumalna metten ti biag min ta maaddaan kamin ti balay,’ he said. (Our life will be peaceful for we will now have a house of our own).

           Henry Obedoza, 42, married with four children and also a future homeowner said that he is thankful to the Abrenica administration for the project in their barangay. Obedoza and his family used to live in a shanty along the Agno River .

           Abongan and Obedoza are among the 100 future homeowners of the GK village. They will undergo 14 days of values formation seminar ( 14 Sundays) which will start on February 21. Homeowners shall also render 400 hours of work as their equity to the cost of their housing units.

           Also in attendance were Jon Ramos, GK Coordinator for North and Central Luzon , Bing Castillo and Fr. Jessel Collado, Assistant Parish priest of the town who led the blessing of the site.

           The caretakers of GK Villasis Namnama Village are: Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica, Arnulfo Sapurna, Project Director, Emma Floresca, Fe Ibay-Callanta, Engr. Vladimir Torres, Heidi Ramat-Suyat, Jennilee M. Tan, Virgil Maganes, David Obedoza, Cipriano M. Guarin, Vivian Morden, Carmelita Molina, Engr. Danilo Osias, Lilibeth Montero-Abrenica, Dr. Hian Kiat Dy, Supt. Jeff Fanged and Mr. and Mrs. Pete Montilla.

                         Last January 15, 2010, Villasis celebrated its 6th Talong Festival and once again it has caught the attention and fancies not only of Balikbayans, but local residents and people from nearby towns.

                Villasis went under water last October, drowning around 50 hectares of eggplant, but the devastation did not stop the local government to prepare for a more different and elaborate celebration.

                The festival opened on Friday with the 5:30 in the morning live coverage of ABS-CBN’s Umagang Kay Ganda, one of the highlights of the festival was the launching of the Cookbook on 101 Ways of Cooking Talong, a compilation of different ways of cooking eggplant concocted mostly by residents during the past talong cookfest (2006-2009).Madam Dita Go-Abrenica, the town’s First Lady, always chairs the Talong Cookfest, one of the most significant activities of the Talong Festival. According to Mdm. Dita all the recipes in the cookbook are simple and doable and were kitchen-tested before they were included in the cookbook. The cookbook is sold at P350.00 each and is really a part of the fund raising activities of the town fiesta 2010.

                “Pinakbet sa Kawa” is another feature of the festival, a contest of cooking the tastiest and innovative pinakbet recipe which was participated by the 21 barangays in Villasis. Aside from eggplant, other vegetable crops such as okra, ampalaya, green chili, squash and other vegetables are being promoted wherein Villasis is known for as the “Vegetable Bowl of Pangasinan”. After the judging of “Pinakbet sa Kawa”, everyone was invited to partake of this favorite Ilocano dish.

                Street Dancing competationwas one of the spectacular activities during the festival. There were 11 contingents: 7 high schools and 4 elementary schools (2 from Villasis I and 2 from Villasis II). Most of the participants wore colorful eggplant-inspired costumes during the street dancing competitions.

                Talong Cookfest 2010 was ably handled by Madam Dita with the full support of Ladies Brigade of Villasis, Inc. (LaB) and barangay councils, with Knorr Philippines as the Major Sponsor and balikbayans as judges. As in the past talong cookfests, several talong recipes have been cooked and recipes that are not traditionally cooked took the linerlight such as talong suman, talong hotcake, talong butsi, talong panada, talong calamaris and talong mashi.

               The very popular Talong Festivals culminated with a free concert of Dingdong Dantes, Rachel Ann Go and Arpi and the Multivitamins at 7:00 in the eveningt the new Villasis Public Auditorium which was jampackey thousands of people, headed or Nato & Madam Dita Abrenica other municipal official, balikbayans, local residents and from other places.

               Indeed, Villasis Talong Festival 2010 was more spectacular than the other years,as attested by pictures below.

                                                                                                             posted: January 25, 2010

         This afternoon January 8, 2010 3:00 P.M. at the ground floor of the Municipal Building was the lunching and opening of a Photo Paining Exhibit dubbed as "Reminiscing the Past, Nurturing the Present, Looking Beyond the Future". During the opening program, Mr. Jose R. Sarmiento, Chairman of the Committee on Photo Exhibit, welcomed all the guests afterwhich Vice-Mayor Centenielo R. Costales and the Hon. Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica gave their messages. Both of them lauded the committee on said exhibit for coming up with such activity that brings back nostalgic memories of what was Villasis and its people before. The cutting of the ceremonial ribbon was led by Mayor Abrenica and assisted by the town's First Lady, Mdm. Dita G. Abrenica and the members of the committee, then followed by the public viewing of the Photo Exhibit. After the short program, a cocktail for the guests was held at the venue. Mr. Virgilio Sar. Maganes, the Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Photo Exhibit was the Master of Ceremonies. As shown in these picture other guests were members of the Sangguniang Bayan headed by Vice Mayor Centenielo R. Costales, balikbayans, officers and members of the Retirees Association of Villasis, Inc.(RAVI).

                                                                                                             posted: January 8, 2010

         The much awaited time, December 28, 2009 7:00 P.M. came. Three (3) candidates, Violeta Madayag Menor, Reynalda Lagleva Ramos and Nelpha Velasco Vejano vying for the most coveted title of Mrs. Villasis 2010, their families, relatives friends and sponsors gathered at the newly renovated Villasis Public Auditorium for the Villasis Town Fiesta 2010 Popularity Contest last canvassing. From the initial results of the first canvassing held last October 31, 2009 posted on the board so with the paid advertisements of the candidates, Reynalda Lagleva Ramos was leading the race with P380,269.30 cash votes; second was Nelpha Velasco Vejano with P196,800.00 and Violeta Madayag Menor with P140,583.25.

         There was more tension and excitement when there was a turn of events after the conduct of benefit dance, selling of boxes, and dropping of secret cash votes. Violeta Madayag Menor led the race after her supporters readily captured the box, a sumptous roasted pig for P210,000.00. In the end, Violeta M. Menor, representative of Villasinians in Europe bacame victorious when she garnered a total cash votes of P4,186,793.25. Reynalda L. Ramos, 1st Runner-Up with P865,569.30 and Nelpha V. Vejano, 2nd Runner-Up with P651,842.15.

        Seeing for ourselves the results of popularity contest, we can say that despite the calamity brought by Typhoon Pepeng last year, the spirits of the Villasinians were uplifted. It proves how generous, strong & united the Villasinians are! As Mayor Nato said, the show must go on and as early as today, everybody feels the fiesta fever and hope the 12-day festivities will be different, more memorable and more meaningful fiesta celebration. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

                                                                                                                   posted: January 4, 2010

       Thank you so much to the following who responded to the “Adopt-A-School” Project of LGU – Villasis, in coordination with the Mayor’s wife, Mdm. Dita G. Abrenica:

Items donated:
            30 pcs. Standard Stand Fan
            30 pcs. Sanyo Plastic Cabinets
            7 pcs. Office Tables
            32 rolls x 20 pcs. Manila Paper for Chart
            32 pcs Ink for pilot pen for teachers
Beneficiary: Puelay Elementary School

            Pictures below were taken during the turnover last November 29, 2009 attended by all the teachers headed by the school Principal, Dr. Belen C. Bautista.Lower pictures shows Florina "Beetot" Martinez-Rebosa turning over the items donated, in behalf of his brother, Engr. Marty to Dr. Belen C. Bautista, Principal of Puelay Elementary School.

Indeed, Villasis is so lucky to have sons and daughters who have deep concern for the welfare of their townmates in Villasis.

                                                                                                          posted: December 4, 2009

         After the devastation of typhoon Peping, Villasis is back on its feet, thanks to the municipal and barangay officials and the townspeople who wasted no time in working together for the town's fast rehabilitation. Thanks too, to all the generous donors who came in droves to help the affected families with relief goods consisting of food stuffs, clothings, mineral water, medicines, blankets, mats and hygiene supplies.
       In response to the request of LGU-Villasis,thru the initiative of Mdm. Dita G. Abrenica, the Mayor's wife, UNICEF Philippines distributed last November 17, 2009. 4,389 school bags with school supplies, slippers and water jug to school children of the following 10 most affected schools in Villasis:

       The week before, the Itchon Family of Los Angeles, California headed by Ms. Precy Itchon distributed 101 school bags with school supplies to indigent pupils of Lipay Elementary School.

.                                                                                                                    posted: November 18, 2009

            The Local Government Unit of Villasis led by Mayor Nato S. Abrenica and Vice Mayor Centenielo R. Costales and the Sangguniang Bayan conducted a Medical – Dental Mission for residents of flood-stricken barangays of Lipay and San Blas last November 4, 2009 at the Lipay Elementary School Multi-purpose Hall.

            A total of 613 patients availed of the free medical consultation and medicines. Dental services were provided to 286 patients.

            The medical team was led by Dr. Hian Kiat C. Dy, Municipal Health Officer of Villasis. The members of the team were: Dr. Feliciano U. Nario Jr., Dr. Olivia Limos – Cuevas, Dr. Joy R. Ubaldo, Dr. Joy G. Rojo, Dr. Jonathan Calbayan, and Dr. Emeline Monsanto.

            Dr. June Lopez, Public Health Dentist of Villasis led the dental team with Dr. Rose S. Locquiao, Dr. Arnel Resuello, the 54th Engineering Brigade PA of Camp Abat Dental Services with Maj. Cezar Casanova and Cpl. Neil Borromeo, Dep-Ed Dental Services with Dr. Lynette M. De Nieva and Dr. Maria Eva P. Malapit of Urdaneta General Hospital.

            Mr. Josue M. Abrenica, Public Health Nurse of Villasis led the support staff of the activity together with the RHU personnel: RHMs – Maxima Sison, Lilibeth Oabel, Cynthia Soliven, Honorina Yranon, Rosemarie Nero, Lydia Sepnio, Felomina Nacino and Racquel Mairina; Med. Tech. – Aristotle Rapada and Raquel Padilla; OIC-MNAO – Jennilee M. Tan; RSI – Rosie Sales; Dep-Ed Nurse – Leah N. Bañaga; Volunteer nurse – Yvonne Ordoño; MHO Staff – Alex Vila, Rhea Celis, Mona Shayne Oriel, Liberty Molina, Ronald Peher, and Rolando Mairina.

            The Mayor’s wife, Mrs. Dita G. Abrenica, Municipal Councilors – Rolando B. Morden, Paz S. Rafanan, Emma Ruth Lopez, Jesus R. Limos and Mrs. Rose L. Limos graciously spent their valuable time with the patients extending moral support.

            The success of the activity can also be greatly attributed to the efficient cooperation of the Lipay Elementary School Faculty and Staff led by the School Head, Mrs. Nelda S. Rabang with Ms. Dolores Limos; Lipay Barangay Council led by Brgy. Capt. Cezar Manangan; San Blas Barangay Council led by Brgy. Capt. Efren Basconcillo; CVOs, BHWs; and all volunteers.

.                                                                                                         

                            posted: November 6, 2009

                     The presentation and first canvassing of Mrs. Villasis 2010 was held last Friday, October 30, 2009 at the Villasis gymnasium at 3:00p.m. In attendance were municipal officials and employees led by Mayor Nato and Vice-Mayor Nielo, barangay officials and DepEd personnel headed by Dr. Josefina G. Robina, Villasis I OIC-Supervisor and Dr.Maria M. Sibolboro, Villasis II District Supervisor.

                The program was started with an opening prayer led by Mr. Catalino M. Guarin, Mayor’s Staff, followed by the singing of Pambansang Awit and Himig Villasis conducted by Mrs. Josie L. Lustina, Mun. Civil Registrar. Vice-Mayor Costales, Vice Chairman, VTF 2010, gave the opening remarks while Mrs. Fe I. Callanta, acting MPDC, introduced the three candidates for Mrs. Villasis 2010. Mrs. Reynalda Lagleva-Ramos of Canada was represented by her sister, Mrs. Teresa Lagleva-Quindara; Mrs. Nelpha Velasco-Vejano of Australia was represented by Mrs. Nydia Mopas-Cacapit and Mrs. Violeta Madayag Menor of Paris, France was represented by B/Kgd. Rosemarie S. Miran.

                After the reading of rules on popularity contest by Mun. Coun. Susan Q. Sison, Chairman-Popularity Contest, VTF 2010, the selling of boxes followed (one box each candidate), then the secret balloting. Below is the result of the first canvassing.

                                                                                                                                                 
            Mayor Nato announced the results and gave the closing remarks. He thanked the presence of everybody, especially the representatives of the candidates.

            Mrs. Vivian G. Morden, Executive Secretary-VTF 2010 was the Master of Ceremonies. Last Canvassing will be on December 28, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. at the New Villasis Public Auditorium.

                            posted: October 27, 2009

                   After typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, hundreds of millions worth of agricultural crops in Villasis were destroyed. Mayor Nato in his efforts to help those devastated by the typhoons, he recently launched the distribution of free assorted vegetables such as pechay, okra and stringbean seeds.

       Below are the pictures taken at Lipay Elementary School during the launching as Mayor Nato distributed free vegetable seeds to farmers, households and school, while MAO staff led by Mr. Cornelio Atchuela, Municipal Agriculturist and barangay council assisted in the distribution.

       This project is funded by the town’s coffers and it will go on until all barangays are benefitted

posted: October 27, 2009

                       Due to numerous calls from Villasinians abroad, please be advised that Villasis Town Fiesta 2010 will go as scheduled, January 8-20, 2010.

            Inspite of the devastation brought by Typhoon Pepeng, with God’s help Villasis will continue to rise and shine. The local government unit under the leadership of Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica and the municipal council is trying to accelerate rehabilitation in all devastated areas. Barangay officials and volunteers continue in the cleaning and clearing up operations in their respective barangays. The Mayor calls on all Villasinians: IBALIK ANG PAG-ASENSO! BANGON VILLASIS! KAYANG-KAYA KUNG SAMA-SAMA!

            We enjoin everyone to come home and support Villasis and its people. Please come and join us in the celebration of Villasis Town Fiesta 2010, and see for yourselves how our town leaders and townmates have been working to overcome recent calamity.

posted: October 23, 2009

The municipal government of Villasis through the municipal agriculture office has started releasing Hybrid Onion Seeds (Red Pinoy Variety) to onion farmers in Villasis particularly in Amamperez, Barangobong and Puelay. These farmers can avail the 20% Discount on cost(subsidy). The actual price of each can (400 grams) of said seeds is P1,155.00. Those who will avail will only pay P924.00/can and the discount in the amount of P231.00 will be shouldered by the municipal government.

As of today, a total of 300 cans of onion seeds have been released to 56 onion farmers. Farmers start sowing seeds on the 1st week of October and expect to start harvesting in January 2010.

Shown in the pictures is Mayor Nato S. Abrenica and personnel of the Municipal Agriculture Office headed by MAO Cornelio Atchuela during the distribution of subsidized Hybrid Onion seeds to onion growers.

posted: October 6, 2009

         September 30, 2009 – Ten public elementary schools in the municipality of Villasis can now ‘text2teach’.
         Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica turned over to the Text2Teach alliance, represented by Mr. Mario Deriquito of Ayala Foundation, a check amounting to One Hundred Thousand pesos, the first of two tranches, representing the local government’s counterpart funds to implement Text2Teach in ten public elementary schools in Villasis, Pangasinan. The check turnover was immediately followed by a turnover of the mobile phones and SIM cards to the recipient schools.
         The event was done at the Villasis I Central School. Heads of the ten schools each received a mobile phone and pre-paid SIM card for their schools. KOlin Philippines International, Inc., the TV-provider of the Text2Teach alliance for the 29-inch colored television sets, delivered the units to the schools a week before the launch. SEAMEO Innotech, a member of the Text2Teach alliance,  will conduct an intensive 3-day teachers’s training on October 1-3, to prepare the teachers on the use of the text2teach technology and videos in the classroom. This will ensure the quality and standard of teaching using the program. More than 50 school heads, teachers and school officials were will be trained.
          Witnessing the event were Department of Education Regional Director for Region I, Dr. Ligaya Soledad Miguel; Schools Division Superintendent for Pangasinan II, Dr. Viraluz Raguindin; Public Schools District Supervisor Dr. Josefina Robina, and Ms. Gloria Aruego, representing PSDS Dr. Maria Sibolboro for Villasis Districts I and II, respectively. For the Text2Teach alliance, Simo Hoikka of Nokia Philippines, Inc.; Jeffrey Tarayao of Globe Telecom; Elcid Pangilinan of Department of Education Central Office; Jocelyn Ilanan of SEAMEO Innotech, and Marisse Catangay of Ayala Foundation, were in attendance.
           Text2Teach uses a 3G-enabled device such as the Nokia N95 8GB equipped with an application called “Nokia Education Delivery”. This allows the teachers to select from 387 education videos on Math, Science and English specifically created for the project, providing a highly effective visual aid for teachers. It is also an opportunity to create an interactive, student-focused learning environment in the classroom. The videos are watched using the 29-inch television sets provided by the project. The lesson plans that come with the teachers’ guides are fully integrated into the basic education curriculum. They were created to meet local education guidelines and standards.
Globe Telecom provides free P150 monthly load allowance for one year to be used for helpdesk concerns and additional P1,000 load if there are new or updated materials to be downloaded through the mobile phones using their 3G network.
            Text2Teach reaching Villasis was made possible by the all-out support of Mayor Abrenica, adjudged by the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) – Pangasinan Chapter this year as the Most Outstanding Local Chief Executive. Through Text2Teach, Villasis hopes to boost the academic performance of its public elementary schools in terms of national achievement level.
            Text2Teach is a private sector-led program that utilizes mobile technology for education. Since 2003, more than a million public elementary school students and more than 1,700 teachers and school officials in 300 schools all over the Philippines are benefiting from the program. And with the partnership of Ayala Foundation, Nokia, the Department of Education, Globe Telecom, and SEAMEO Innotech, Text2Teach is reaching more schools in the country, targeting an additional 250 schools nationwide by 2010.

posted: September 30, 2009

             The 3rd Medical-Dental Mission of the Villasis LGU was successfully conducted at the Amamperez Elementary School Social Hall last September 17, 2009.

            This priority project of Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica and the Sangguniang Bayan of Villasis extended medical services to 477 patients and dental services to 333 patients from Barangobong and Amamperez. This activity was undertaken with the valuable assistance of Vice Mayor Centenielo R. Costales, Mdm. Libradita G. Abrenica, and Amamperez Barangay Council headed by Brgy. Capt. Leonardo Ruiz.

            The medical team is headed by Dr. Hian Kiat C. Dy, Municipal Health Officer of Villasis. Parts of the team are: Dr. Leonardo Guerrero, DOH Representative; Dr. Feliciano U. Nario Jr.; Dr. Josefa Bentayen; Dr. Daphne Gascon; Dr. Emeline Monsanto; and Dr. Rosemarie Arcalas.

            The dental team is composed of: Dr. June Lopez, Public Health Dentist of Villasis; Dr. Rose S. Locquiao; Dr. Arnel Resuello; the 54th Engineering Brigade PA of Camp Abat Dental Services with Maj. Cezar Casanova, Cpl. Neil Borromeo, P2Lt. John Roger Tabuco; Dep-Ed Dental Services with Dr. Arnel Talinio, Dr. Lynette De Nieva, Dr. Roman Ferrer Jr., Dr. Fermin Castillo, Dr. Myrna Elcano, Dr. Dante Baloca, Dr. Emelyn Vidal, and Dr. Herbert Biascan.

            The medical-dental support team is headed by Mr. Josue M. Abrenica, Public Health Nurse; RHMs – Maxima Sison, Lilibeth Oabel, Cynthia Soliven, Honorina Yranon, Rosemarie Nero, Lydia Sepnio, Felomina Nacino and Racquel Mairina; Med. Tech. – Aristotle Rapada; OIC-MNAO – Jennilee M. Tan; RSI – Rosie Sales; Dep-Ed Nurse – Leah N. Bañaga; Volunteer nurses – Krisnadebe dela Peña, Yvonne Ordoño, Katherine Barnachea and Roswyn Mopas; MHO Staff – Alex Vila, Rhea Celis, Mona Shayne Oriel, Liberty Molina, Ronald Peher, and Rolando Mairina; MO – Florida Magno; BHW Federation Pres. – Estela Bautista; Amamperez BHWs and CVOs. Mrs. Jocelyn R. Mina, Principal and the faculty and staff of the Amamperez Elementary School greatly contributed to the success of this endeavor. Mr. Eric Sanchez, Clinical Instructor of UCU and nursing affiliates also helped in the mission.

posted: September 1, 2009
by: Jennilee M. Tan

          The 19th Philippine Councilors League-Pangasinan Chapter Week Celebration spearheaded by its President, Hon. Raul Palisoc Sison, Provincial Board Member, held at Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, Boracay, Aklan last September 2-5, 2009 was indeed an event notable to the Sangguniang Bayan of Villasis. This occasion was highlighted by the Awarding of the Outstanding Sangguniang Bayan/Panlungsod; Sangguniang Bayan/Panlungsod Members and all other Outstanding Municipal/City Officials of Pangasinan and Dagupan City for the Term 2007-2010 last September 3, 2009.

            With an average of 92.83%, the Sangguniang Bayan of Villasis, Pangasinan made it again to the top. With great pride and honor, the Council headed by Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer, Hon. Centenielo Rizal R. Costales, received a Plaque of Recognition as the No. 1 Outstanding Sangguniang Bayan, out of 44 municipalities and 3 Component Cities in the Province of Pangasinan from PCL Pangasinan Chapter President, Hon. Raul Palisoc Sison assisted by Hon. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas, Vice Governor of Pangasinan and Hon. Michael B. Fernandez, PCL National Chairman for having passed eligibly in the criteria set forth by the PCL Pangasinan Chapter together with a prominent panel of evaluators; and in the performance of its duties, functions and responsibilities as a collegial body in enacting measures and ordinances that redound to the general welfare of its constituents in the pursuit of  happiness, peace and prosperity.

            The other PCL Individual Member awardees were Vice Mayor Centenielo R. Costales as No. 1 Outstanding Municipal Presiding Officer of Pangasinan and as a former Sangguniang Bayan Member elected to a higher position as Vice Mayor; Councilor Susan Q. Sison as No. 8 Most Outstanding Sangguniang Bayan Member in the Province of Pangasinan. She also received a PCL Ring for having been successfully and consecutively elected for three (3) terms from 2001-2010. Councilor Jesus R. Limos likewise received a PCL Ring for having successfully and consecutively elected for three (3) terms from 2001-2010. Councilor Cheryl Bascos-Sembrano, Secretary General of the PCL-Pangasinan Chapter was a recipient of a Leadership Award for her commitment and active participation and support to the programs of PCL.

            The workaholic Mayor of Villasis, Honorable Nonato S. Abrenica was also a recipient of an award from PCL as the No. 1 Outstanding Local Chief Executive of Pangasinan for having a good relationship with the Local Legislative Council, fulfilling the Executive-Legislative Agenda thus attaining the development and progress of the municipality and for his active participation and invaluable support to the PCL policies and programs in the Province of Pangasinan. Vice Mayor Costales received the award in his behalf.

            For her invaluable support in the performance of the Sangguniang Bayan duties, functions and responsibilities and contributing her outstanding performance in the legislative work, the PCL Pangasinan Chapter awarded Ms. Leticia U. Corpuz a Plaque of Recognition as the No. 1 or the Best Sangguniang Bayan Secretary in the Province of Pangasinan on the same occasion.

            With these meritorious performances of the Municipal Officials in Villasis, for sure this town will continue rising to greater heights. With their continuous display of unity and teamwork, together they will achieve the extraordinary.

MABUHAY ANG VILLASIS!

posted: September 24, 2009
by: Leticia U. Corpuz

               Above picture was taken last August 27, 2009 at the Villasis Gymnasium during the gift-giving program of Congressman Mark O. Cojuangco to 240 barangay health workers in Villasis. With Cong. Mark is his wife, Mdm. Kimi, Honorable Mayor of Sison, Pangasinan and Mayor Nato and his wife, Mdm. Dita. Cong. Mark said that his gifts (10kilos rice & groceries) to these BHW’s are just his small way of thanking them for their invaluable health services to his constituents in Villasis, and the BHW’s were all thankful to the good Congressman. Cong. Mark endorsed Mdm. Dita for Mayor in 2010 elections as Mayor Nato’s term ends June 30, 2010 for continuity.Mayor Nato also declared Mdm. Kimi as the next Representative of 5th District, Pangasinan, to replace Cong. Mark expecting no opponent in the 2010 elections. The happy barangay health workers applauded and cheered. If given the chance, they will surely continue the projects and programs of their husbands and Villasis will again assured of good governance.

posted: September 1, 2009

       This morning, the Mayor's Action Team, with Municipal Treasurer, Leo R. Ordoñez, Market Supervisor III, Engr. Ronnie V. Cacapit and some market guards surprised market vendors when they went around and inspected the weighing scales of vendors at the vegetable, fish, meat and rice retailers sections. As shown in these pictures the group were able to confiscate 17 under calibrated weighing scales. The confiscated weighing scales were brought to the office of the Municipal Treasurer and owners of these weighing scales have to pay P500.00 as penalty (1st Offense) to protect the consumers, every now and then, the group will conduct inspections at the New Villasis Public Market and Bagsakan. The Mayor's Action Team is headed by former ABC President Felix Ferdinand sison with the following members: Brgy. Capt. Alex A. Sison, Brgy. Capt. Pat R. Mina,former Brgy. Captains Badong Bascos and Dionisio Joaquin and Mr. Conrado Rabang.

posted: August 26, 2009

       Despite of the heat due to electric shutdown last August 20, 2009, the unbeatable and very energetic Senior Citizens of Villasis celebrated their regular monthly socialization. Hon. Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica attended the said event and gave his inspirational message. As shown in the pictures, the elderly enjoyed their parlor games, skit, dancing and singing.

posted: August 26, 2009

                ABONO Party List in cooperation with the Municipality of Villasis launched a three-month Supplementary Feeding Program for undernourished Grades I-III school children, total of 688 beneficiaries, in all 22 elementary schools at Villasis last August 12, 2009 at Villasis I Central School Social Hall. This project aims to improve the nutritional status of school children so that they could become physically and mentally alert at school and at the community. Corn, which will be given by ABONO Party List, will be used as main ingredient for the feeding program.
The launching program started at around 8:30 in the morning with an opening prayer led by Dr. Belen Bautista, Principal of Puelay Elementary School followed by the singing of the National Anthem conducted by Mdm. Gloria Aruego, Principal of Tombod Elementary School and community singing of Himig Villasis. Dr. Josefina G. Robina, OIC-Distict I Supervisor and Principal IV of the host school, gave her welcome address. Mayor Nonato S. Abrenica and Vice Mayor Centenielo Rizal R. Costales, who is also the Municipal Coordinator of ABONO Party List, gave their short messages about the feeding program. Engr. Rosendo O. So, Chairman of ABONO Party List also gave a short message. Ms. Abigail Mina, Grade IV pupil at Villasis I Central School entertained the audience with a song. Briefing on how the feeding program will be conducted and how to prepare the corn was discussed by Mdm. Ventura of Sison, Pangasinan. Dr. Hian Kiat C. Dy, Municipal Health Officer gave the Closing Remarks. The Masters of Ceremonies were Ms. Jennilee M. Tan, Acting Municipal Nutritionist and Mdm. Nelda Rabang, Principal of Lipay Elementary School.
        After the program, the one-month supply of corn for each school was distributed. The Local Government of Villasis will shoulder all the other ingredients. Engr. So also agreed to give weekly supply of fresh eggs to all the schools. Simultaneous to the distribution of supplies was the feeding of the undernourished school children present at the program. Among the schools invited for the launching were the nearby schools to Villasis I Central School which were: Puelay Elementary School, West Poblacion Elementary School, San Blas Elementary School, Barraca Community School and San Nicolas Elementary School. All school heads and some canteen teachers were present during the launching program. Everyone also had a taste of the corn-based menus (Champorado, Mais-caldo, Sopas and Guinataang Mais) prepared for the launching. Snacks were also served to all the guests. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the program will be done by the nutritionist and canteen teachers.

posted: August 26, 2009

       The Ladies Brigade of Villasis, Inc. (LaB) in cooperation with the Municipality of Villasis celebrated Nutrition Month last July 20, 2009 at the Villasis Gymnasium. This year's theme: "Wastong Nutrisyon Kailangan, Lifestyle Disease Iwasan", was ably discussed by the resource speakers headed by the guest speaker Dr. Teoceles Olivar, FPCP, FPCC. This activity was spearheaded by LaB's founder, Mdm Dita G. Abrenica and attended by almost all LaB officers and members who trooped to the gym as early as 7:00 A.M. The program proper started at around 8:30 A.M. with an opening prayer led by Ms. Conchita Vinluan, Zone III Representative followed by the singing of the National Anthem conducted by B/Kgd. Nilda Somera, LaB auditor, and community singing of Himig Villasis. Mdm Dita, the Mayor's wife, gave her welcome address, while Mayor Nato and Vice Mayor Nielo gave their short but inspiring messages. Ms. Jennylee M. Tan, Acting Mun. Nutritionist talked on Proper Nutrition while Dr. Teoceles Olivar talked on Causes and Prevention of Heart Disease. Mr. John I. Sta. Cruz and RHU Personnel led everybody in cardio Exercises dubbed as "Hataw Fitness". Dr. Hian Kiat C. Dy, Mun. Health Officer gave the Closing Remarks followed by Snacks and Socialization. Masters of Ceremonies were Dra. Rosalina Locquiao and Mrs. Rose Limos, the celebration concided with Mdm. Dita's birthday.          

          Last July 15-16, 2009, 599 pupils of the 16 Day Care Centers in Villasis were fed with chicken arrozcaldo with boiled eggs and chocolate drinks by the Ladies Brigade of Villasis, Inc. (LaB). Said activity is the Annual Treat of LaB in observance of Nutrition Month.

          Pictures above were taken during the feeding program with the town's First Lady, Mdm. dita G. Abrenica, MSWDO Lilibeth M. Abrenica and her staff and LaB Officers.

        Mayor Nato and his wife, Dita recently took time out to visit Villasinians in Canada and New York. Last July 1, 2009, a dinner party was held at the Memories in Japan to welcome the First Couple of Villasis, as shown in the pictures. In attendance were the officers and members of Annak ti Villasis of Canada led by its president Ms. Cristy M. Pe Benito and some officers and members of Pangasinan Association of Canada. The Mayor took the opportunity to thank the Pangasinan Association of Canada thru Mr. Willie S. Rafanan, the outgoing president, for donating the administrative building of DepEd Villasis District II located at Bacag Central School. The Mayor and his wife were so happy and excited as this is their first trip to Canada.

          Shown below are pictures taken during the "food trips" hosted by the following Villasinians in Canada: Edwin and Lina Mauricio and Meriales Family, Alex and Reynalda(Lumen) Ramos, Rey and Lita Dirilo, Alma Abrenica-Chopra, Frank and Lilia Tomines and cousins Josie and Susana Organo where the couple stayed. The First Couple also graced the annual picnic and get together party of the Annak ti Villasis of Canada held last July 4, 2009 at the Valley Park, Mississauga, Canada.They were also joined by Mr. Radolf Abrena, father of Aileen May , Ms. Villasis 2009 who came all the way from Los Angeles.  The Mayor delivered an impromptu speech, thanking each and everyone for their very warm welcome, informing them what his administration has accomplished during the past years especially the projects implemented through the proceeds of Villasis town fiestas.  Mayor Nato, assisted by Ms. Cristy Pe Benito, awarded Plaques of Recognition to some Villasinians who have always been active members of their association, the Annak ti Villasis of CanadaHe also thanked their association for sponsoring a candidate for Mrs. Villasis 2010 in the person of Mrs. Reynalda (Lumen)Lagleva-Ramos. He said, he is very grateful that there are Villasinians abroad who are really concerned for the welfare of Villasis and its people. He stressed that what he has achieved for Villasis is the result of the deep involvement of all Villasinians here and abroad.

            Yesterday, June 18, 2009, the Municipal Government of Villasis conducted another Medical and Dental Mission in barangay San Blas, held at San Blas Elementary School. Free medical consultations and dental services were given to more than 600 beneficiaries from barangays San Blas, Caramutan, Piaz, and Lipay. Free medicines were distributed to the beneficiaries. There was also free conduct of ECG (electrocardiogram) courtesy of Dr. Joy R. Ubaldo, while Dr. Yvonne Nacis Somera gave a lecture on cervical cancer. Pictures below were taken during said medical and dental mission. Mayor Nato greeting his constituents and thanking all the volunteer-doctors, nurses, dentists, dental aides, BHWs and barangay leaders. Mayor Nato and his wife, Dita, personally supervised this activity, as part of Mayor Nato's commitment to ensure that the health of the sick and indigent in Villasis are taken care of.