Informer Newspaper Publishing

17/03/2026

ARMYs, the comeback excitement is here at SM City Tarlac! ❤️

We’re celebrating the BTS comeback TO THE MAX at SM City Tarlac! ✨ If you know the fanchants, the choreo, and every BTS song by heart… this is your sign. 🫶
👀 The ARIRANG era is almost here. ❤️‍🔥🔥

Join the ARMY Fan Fest on March 22, 4PM and enjoy fun games, exciting prizes and an ALL OUT Listening Party of the new album with your co-ARMY! 🎤✨

𝗔𝗗𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗦 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘! 🥳 Register via the SM Malls Online app or click this link👉🏼 https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/SMTLEVENTS

Tag your ARMY besties, drop a 💜 in the comments, and save the date! 📆 Experience the fandom celebration at your most loved SM City Tarlac! 😍

13/03/2026

Happening now: SM City Tarlac 3day sale opening salvo. Hurry and shop now till March 15,2026.

12/03/2026

Farm input packaging firm renews Clark lease
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
12 March 2026

COEX, Inc. renewed its 25-year lease with the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

Operating in Clark since 2001, COEX manufactures co-extruded bottles used for fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides which are essential farm inputs requiring safe and compliant packaging to maintain product integrity and effectiveness.

Its barrier packaging solutions help prevent contamination and leakage, ensuring that agricultural chemicals reach farmers in proper condition.

CDC President and Chief Executive Officer Agnes Devanadera welcomed the company’s continued presence in the freeport, noting that sustained investments contribute to both economic activity and national development goals.

“As we grow together, a lot of other people benefit from this. Your decision to come to Clark and renew your place in Clark is something that we value,” she said.

Devanadera emphasized that CDC remains committed to supporting industries that align with the food security and agricultural resilience priorities of the Marcos administration.

COEX President and CEO Willie Haw Go underscored the company’s steady growth and its role within the broader agricultural ecosystem.

From initially serving as a local supplier to a global biotechnology company, the firm has gradually expanded its production capacity over the past 25 years.

“That’s our role in the system: we provide the proper packaging [for the agricultural industry]. So, through the years, we have slowly improved, the capacity has improved, thank you to the support of CDC, we’re able to do this gradually,” he said.

The lease renewal signaled investor confidence in Clark as a stable and strategic location for manufacturing operations that support key sectors such as agriculture.

It also highlighted the often unseen but crucial role of packaging in securing farm inputs, ultimately contributing to stable food production and supply nationwide.

CDC officials from the Legal Affairs, Administration and Finance, Business Enhancement, Investment Promotions, and Communications divisions were also present during the renewal ceremony.

COEX Inc. has renewed its 25-year lease with the Clark Development Corp. (CDC).

11/03/2026

Soybean sorter improves grain quality, market value
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
12 March 2026

THE use of soybean sorter promoted by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) is helping farmers produce cleaner grains, improve product quality, and increase the market value of their harvest.

PHilMech Agricultural Mechanization Division Researcher Donald Mateo said that only about five percent of the country’s soybean requirement is locally produced partly due to lack of postharvest technologies.

“One of the issues we identified is the lack of technical support for postharvest handling, which discourages farmers from continuing soybean production,” he said.

“During our field visits, some farmers also said younger people are reluctant to work with soybeans because the crop can cause skin irritation, and these challenges have contributed to the decline of soybean production in the Philippines,” Mateo added.

This prompted PHilMech researchers to develop a soybean sorter that can improve grain cleaning and sorting to support soybean farmers.

Mateo explained that farmers often experience price deductions when soybeans contain dirt, w**d seeds, and damaged grains, making proper cleaning and sorting essential before selling their produce.

“The main benefit is immediately felt by farmers because when the product is clean, buyers no longer deduct from its price since dirty products are usually discounted in the market, allowing farmers to earn better and become more confident in selling their produce,” he emphasized.

The soybean sorter cleans, sorts, and grades grains by separating them according to size while removing impurities through perforated screens and a blower system that filters out unwanted materials.

Two people can operate the machine and can process around 700 to 850 kilograms of soybeans per hour, significantly faster than manual sorting methods such as slanted plywood boards locally known as “paligid.”

Mateo explained that unlike mungbean or monggo, which matures in stages and requires multiple harvesting, soybean pods mature almost simultaneously once the plant turns yellow and leaves fall, allowing farmers to harvest the entire plant at once.

He added that the sorter separates soybeans into different size grades while removing impurities and w**d seeds, although it cannot distinguish fermented or discolored grains, and uniform grain size is important for processors to ensure consistent roasting quality.

PHilMech also promotes youth participation in agricultural mechanization through its Youth for Mechanization advocacy while continuing to showcase technologies that help uplift and ease the workloads of Filipino farmers across Central Luzon.

THE use of soybean sorter developed by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) is helping farmers produce cleaner grains, improve product quality, and increase the market value of their harvest.

10/03/2026

107 Central Luzon CBOs win P35M in contracts to combat hunger
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
11 March 2026

A TOTAL of 107 community-based organizations (CBOs) in Central Luzon were awarded P35 million in contracts last year under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The initiative was aimed at connecting local producers to institutional markets and buyers while boosting food security in the region.

EPAHP is a sustainable anti-hunger initiative rather than a short-term aid program, according to DSWD Region 3 Policy and Plans Division OIC Paula Marie Lascano.

“This is not a dole out mentality. EPAHP empowers cooperatives and farmers’ organizations by linking them directly to institutional markets such as DSWD centers, LGUs [local government units], and the BJMP [Bureau of Jail Management and Penology],” she said.

The program aims to ensure steady supply of fresh, nutritious food for government-supported programs such as supplemental feeding, residential care facilities, and other social welfare initiatives, while improving the livelihoods of small producers.

“We want to improve the quality of life so that their income will also increase. Once there is sustenance, the time will come when they won’t need the help of DSWD,” Lascano explained, noting that participation of barangays and LGUs is crucial to organize groups and reach target beneficiaries.

EPAHP Regional Program Coordinator Maynard Cezar cited the technical support provided to CBOs to ensure quality and compliance with government procurement standards, noting that EPAHP focuses on both livelihood and employment opportunities.

The city government of Balanga, for example, awarded ₱3.2 million worth of contracts through negotiated procurement to local CBOs, demonstrating the program’s impact at the community level.

“We ensure that our CBOs are capacitated technically in their production, product quality, financial capacity, bookkeeping, and legal readiness so they can qualify as government suppliers,” he said.

“We link farmers, fisherfolk, and small vendors to the market. Even the government has demand for fresh produce, and our CBOs are now supplying supplemental feeding programs and residential care facilities,” Cezar added.

Piloted in 2016 and institutionalized in 2019 through a national memorandum of understanding spearheaded by DSWD, EPAHP continues to strengthen food and nutrition security, improve livelihoods, and empower communities in the fight against hunger. With CHI GALOPE

A TOTAL of 107 community-based organizations (CBOs) in Region 3 (Central Luzon) were awarded P35 million in contracts last year under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (Epahp) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

10/03/2026

A NEW FLAVOR OF CELEBRATION AWAITS AT SM CITY TARLAC

The excitement continues at SM City Tarlac, with the opening of Kyu Kyu Ramen’s 99th store --now serving authentic, flavorful ramen at Level 3, giving shoppers another dining destination to enjoy.

Serving delicious, satisfying, and budget-friendly ramen without compromising authentic taste, Kyu Kyu Ramen also offers a cozy ambiance that is perfect for barkada hangouts or family get-togethers.

Don’t miss this max out experience and visit Kyu Kyu Ramen at SM City Tarlac and treat yourself to a satisfying meal.

09/03/2026

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06/03/2026

SM Reinforces Safety Measures During the 5th Nationwide Fire Drill

SM City Tarlac, SM City Dagupan, SM City Urdaneta, and SM City Rosales, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection, successfully conducted the 5th Nationwide Fire Drill on March 3, 2026, reinforcing the mall’s commitment to safety and preparedness.

The Fire Brigade Teams of SM City Tarlac and the Pangasinan Malls demonstrated their expertise in evacuation procedures and firefighting operations, skillfully using fire extinguishers and fire hoses during the drill. At the same time, the SM Emergency Response Team highlighted their preparedness and efficiency in providing first aid to mock victims.

Through its continued support for this activity, SM aims to strengthen the preparedness of frontliners during emergencies and ensure the public receives timely and relevant information in times of disaster.

05/03/2026

🚨3 DAY SALE ALERT! 🚨

🔥It’s time to go ALL OUT for the biggest and much-awaited 3 DAY SALE at SM City Tarlac happening on March 13, 14 and 15, from 10am to 9pm! 🛍️✨

Enjoy up to 70% OFF on fashion fits, beauty must-haves, home finds, and much more! 🤩🛒 Plus, get a chance to win a brand-new SUZUKI DZIRE GL CVT HYBRID! 🚗💨

📆 Mark your calendars and Gala to the MAX at your most loved SM City Tarlac! 😮‍💨🛍️

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-249576, Series of 2026.

05/03/2026

A Grand Tribute to Women at SM Supermalls
Shop, connect, and celebrate empowered women at your most-loved mall

This Women’s Month, SM Supermalls turns the spotlight on the women who live and love boldly. These trailblazers max out every moment and embrace every experience that makes them come alive. To celebrate women, SM Supermalls has lined up activities from glow-ups, cafe hangouts, wellness deals, and a whole lot more. Enjoy all these at your most-loved SM Supermalls!

Women’s Wednesday Sale: Sweet deals every week
Every Wednesday this March, you can expect exclusive deals for your midweek glow-up! Whether it's to upgrade your wardrobe or replenish your beauty kits, SM Supermalls has lined up Hump Day deals all for you! Gather your shopping barkada and turn Wednesdays into a celebration of style and self-care.

Head on over to Christy Ng at SM Megamall to elevate your shoe and bag game with stylish and contemporary finds. Beyond the Vines at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia offers cutesy tops and bottoms perfect for any occasion. For fitness enthusiasts, Oysho offers an array of activewear for your high-octane lifestyle!

LOOK at SM North EDSA has a plethora of beauty finds from global favorites to local brands. If you’re looking for a specific brand that fits your skin type, LOOK may just have it for you.

Meanwhile, Creed at The Podium and SM Aura offers masterfully crafted fragrances that blend heritage and sophistication. The scent you’ve been looking for might be at this specialty shop!

Women’s Wellness Sale: Reward yourself with some R&R
After securing your wardrobe and beauty hauls, why not go for a treatment and a massage? Head to your most-loved SM Supermall for sweet wellness sales to help you rest, recharge, and feel your best. Treat yourself to rejuvenating facials, soothing body scrubs, and relaxing massages at wellness hubs across SM Supermalls.

Enhance that natural beauty at Belo Megamall through specialized facial and skin-tightening treatments. At the Foot Zone at SM North EDSA and SM Fairview, soothe and relieve your tired feet. Meanwhile, Sundrops Day Spa at SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Megamall offers hand, foot, and body care services to refresh your senses. Indulge in a well-deserved afternoon of pampering and feel renewed from head to toe.

Women’s Fitness Fridays: Inhale the lovin’, exhale the bad vibes
End the week with an energizing workout and sweat it all out through dance sessions and community workouts. Every Friday this month, you can sign up for workout sessions to take your fitness journey to the max! Invite your friends, show up in your activewear, and turn your Friday into a fun-filled fitness adventure!

Join fellow health buffs at Electric Studio — the country’s first indoor cycling boutique — for energetic, music-driven spin workouts! At Barre3 at The Podium, a full-body workout that seamlessly blends ballet barre technique, Pilates strength work, and yoga-inspired balance and flexibility will improve your posture and balance.

Beauty Cafe: Brewed connections and confidence
Hang out with the girls for a cup of coffee and plenty of conversations. The Beauty Cafe is a space for you to bond, boost your confidence, and create lasting memories. It’s where laughter flows as easily as the coffee, and every visit feels like a quick respite from the everyday hustle.

Womenpreneur Market: For women, by women
Discover great finds from brands founded by women, for women. From cutesy clothes, unique accessories, to other great finds, the Womenpreneur Market is where businesswomen from across the Philippines showcase their creativity, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. Thoughtfully made and purpose-driven, great finds have been prepared by women — all for you!

This Women’s Month, make every moment count and celebrate the power of women at SM Supermalls. From great deals and wellness treats to empowering meetups and women-led brands, there’s something special reserved for every kind of woman. So gather your barkada, plan your midweek glow-ups, add to your shopping lists, and prepare your stories. Max out your March and celebrate boldly and confidently, only at SM Supermalls, your most-loved mall.

26/02/2026

Look: National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Engr. Eduardo Eddie G. Guillen and Tarlac Governor Christian Yap welcomes Senator Sherwin Gatchalian during his visits in Balog Balog Multi Purpose Dam Phase 1 & 2 at San Jose Tarlac. Consultation with farmers also happened in Tarlac Recreational Park (TRP).

26/02/2026

New Clark City opens TESDA-accredited hospitality training center
By JERRY M. HERNANDEZ
The Manila Times
26 February 2026

NEW CLARK CITY, Tarlac – The newly built Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-accredited off-campus hospitality training center in the province is eyed to strengthen the province’s hospitality and tourism workforce.

Located at the Athlete’s Village in New Clark City, the center was inaugurated by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with the provincial government of Tarlac.

The facility will be managed by the Tarlac Center for Learning and Skills Success and will offer industry-aligned, TESDA-certified Technical Vocational Education and Training programs.

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua Bingcang said the initiative supports the economic agenda of the Marcos administration by promoting inclusive growth and workforce development.

Through a facility use agreement, BCDA has opened key training spaces to prepare more skilled workers for the province’s hospitality and tourism industry.

Governor Christian Tell Yap noted that the training center represents more than just a program.

“Through trainings in hospitality and tourism, we are strengthening the skills of every Tarlaqueño to find nice jobs and better future,” he said.

The center has also welcomed its first batch of trainees, marking the start of expanded opportunities for skills development and employment in Tarlac.

NEW CLARK CITY, Tarlac — The newly built Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda)-accredited off-campus hospitality training center in the province is being eyed to strengthen the province’s hospitality and tourism workforce.