POCKETS OF DEVELOPMENT will soon spring forth in various parts of Mabalacat City beginning this 2017, if Mayor Marino "Boking" would have his way.
Knowing the mind set of this visionary mayor, he will achieve plans to maximize land developments and the full potentials of areas adjacent to and contiguous with the territorial jurisdiction of this fast-growing metropolis alongside its stake at Clark. For the record, let me reiterate that about 97% of the land area of Clark falls inside the territorial claim of Mabalacat City.
First on the drawing board are the establishments of Korean and Chinese communities, to be known as Korean City and Chinese City, to distinguish them from Angeles' versions.
I've observed that the more progressive cities (like Angeles City) have Korean and Chinese enclaves in them, said Mayor Boking. Almost always, these are the "magnets" for more investments and tourism activities, he adds.
Truly, why not allow these prosperous nations to contribute immensely to our local economy? What would prohibit local officials to invite them to their territories? Allow some legal concessions (read: constitutional limitations) and the floodgates of business prosperity and growth would open with flourish.
In my talk with Mayor Boking Monday morning, he intimated to me his excitement to see the establishment of these Korean and Chinese communities or cities and, according to him, more foreign investors would follow suit. As it is, they are only waiting for the lead of these two groups to set foot in the city.
And what about their safety and security?, I asked. He confidently replied: I will see to it that they will be accorded the proper safety and security measures to ensure their unmolested stay in Mabalacat City. And all our city mates should cooperate so as to make their stay in the city as comfortable as can be.
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Speaking of pockets of development, Willie Y. Feliciano, Mayor Boking's uncle and the TMB chair and traffic czar can contribute a lot in initiating these developments.
Willie has big and wide Korean contacts, one of whom is Lee Byung Duk, Korea's ambassador of goodwill. Lee is the key to massive Korean investments that would be coming to Mabalacat City. Lee commands the respect of the Korean community in the country.
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Angeles City Councilor Joseph PG Ponce, it seems, is fast becoming a prolific local legislator and turn out significant resolutions and ordinances. An exponent of Federalism Councilor Joseph would contribute immensely to its cause.