MABALACAT - Some 486 employees of the local government have received P20,000 representing bonus for 2009.

Rodrigo De Leon, president of the Mabalacat Government Employees Association (MAGEA), said the workers are thankful to Mayor Marino Morales for releasing the employees' perks.

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"Kahit papaano naging masaya ang aming Pasko at Bagong Taon," he said.

Morales, for his part, said the Mabalacat municipal workers have worked hard to improve public services last year.

The mayor even urged the workers to continue serving the public because the town is currently experiencing a "phenomenal growth" in economy and infrastructure.

Morales lauded the municipal employees for "a job well done."

Morales, meanwhile, delighted some 500 residents from Barangays Dau, Daang Bakal and Quezon Drive during a recent "gift giving" at the Holiday Lodge.

The gift giving is an annual event that allows Morales to reach out to his constituents.

The residents have expressed their gratitude to Morales for continuing the annual holiday tradition. (Reynaldo G. Navales)