Manoma

DON'T blame Mabalacat City Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales for dreaming big. This time he envisions the city to become the Makati, North of Manila or Manoma. Tall order, it may seem but given the one-tracked mind of the mayor, this dream may not be hard to realize.

He has a timetable: 20 years but given his resolve, this may be trimmed down a few years.

Manoma, Makati North of Manila. Geographically, it may seem awkward but development strides might shortern or constrict the distance.

Infrastructure will initiate the transformation. Investments follow and then migration. There should be careful planning and zoning and a master development plan should be put in place.

Next, the image of Mabalacat City should be enhanced. Investors are sensitive to a fault and they come in droves once they see some "sparks" of development.

The neighboring cities can also assist: Angeles City can share part of its traditional investors, if not territory to beef up Mabalacat City's clientele. San Fernando can refer some of its locators who are looking for new investment opportunities. Clark may also expand eastward and northeastward as its investment hub becomes constricted.

Dreams are nurtured and cultivated. Time will let them grow.

--oo0oo--

A good time was had by employees of the Mabalacat City government last Wednesday evening as they had a thanksgiving party at the Lot Only, Xevera, Tabun, Mabalacat City. Emceed by Bernie Relles who is showing prowess he singlehandedly carried the program, first by holding parlor games and then breezed through the main portion of the program. Attending the event were the City Mayor Boking Morales, Vice Mayor Christian C. Halili, Councilors Rox Pena and Benny Jocson. ABC President and Dau
punong barangay Dr. Oscar R. Aurelio came but left immediately. A raffle of prizes consisting of appliances, bags of rice and cash prizes ensued.

A sumptuous dinner courtesy of Jun Magbalot followed.