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Security heightened as Pope Francis visits PHL Manila, Philippines | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – President Benigno Aquino urged the Philippine people on Monday to be alert against panic, stampedes or any attempts to sow chaos during this week’s visit by Pope Francis. Aquino said the large number of people trying to see or get close to the pontiff could be a source of danger, even to Pope Francis himself. He cited the millions expected to attend the mass which the pope will say in Manila’s central park on Sunday. “There is no doubt that in a

large gathering like this, there is a possibility of chaos even without the threat of terrorism, and an even greater possibility if someone plans to cause chaos,” Aquino said in a televised message. “This shows the danger and the threat when so many participate in these events.” Citing previous attacks against Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict, he urged the public not to impede Pope Francis’s convoy. “If someone blocks the convoy by trying to get near the holy father and the convoy stops, what See SECURITY, page 3

Pope urges respect for human rights By Jean-Louis De La Vaissiere/Claire Cozens

Colombo, Sri Lanka | AFP | Tuesday 1/13/2015 – Pope Francis urged respect for human rights as he began a two-nation Asia tour in a windswept Sri Lanka Tuesday, bearing a message of peace and reconciliation after a decadeslong civil war. His visit, days after the surprise election of a new president, is focused on unity in a country struggling to heal the wounds of a 37-year conflict that pitted troops against Tamil separatists. The Argentine pope’s second

visit to Asia will also take in the Philippines, a bastion of Christianity in the region, where he is set to attract one of the biggestever gatherings for a head of the Catholic Church. But in mostly Buddhist Sri Lanka, which has seen a rise in religious violence in recent years, he is focusing on the role of the Church in a diverse society. “The great work of rebuilding must embrace... promoting human dignity, respect for human rights, and the full inclusion of each member of society,” the pope See HUMAN RIGHTS, page 3

Policemen won’t wear adult diapers for Pope visit MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – Policemen who will secure the areas where Pope Francis will pass by won’t be wearing adult diapers, the Philippine National Police said Monday. PNP spokesman Gen. Wilben Mayor said there is nothing in the agency’s standard policies directing policemen to wear adult diapers even in situations or events where they need to be on their jobs full time. He said the issue was never discussed in previous meetings for

Pope Francis’ visit. The use of adult diapers became a subject of ridicule when the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) asked its traffic enforcers to wear them during the Black Nazarene feast. MMDA Assistant General Manager for Operations Emerson Carlos defended the directive, saying adult diapers have been used in major historical events. “These diapers are actually being used regularly as standard See POLICEMEN, page 3

Geraldine Sy, of the Doll Joy Gallery Museum in Pasig City, displays Pope Francis dolls on Monday at the gift shop. The dolls, measuring 30 centimeters tall, is one of many Pope Francis souvenirs being sold ahead of the visit of the pontiff to the Philippines this week. (MNS photo)

Potential terrorist threats in Mindanao Palace: Terminal fee integration into cited in US worldwide caution MANILA, Jan 10 (Mabuhay) land of Mindanao, particularly in airline tickets to – The United States on Satur- Central Mindanao,” it said. cautioned its nationals in “Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and push through Feb. 1 day the Philippines against travel the Abu Sayyaf Group, have cells

MANILA, Jan 10 (Mabuhay) – After a delay of several months, the integration of terminal fees into airline ticket prices will finally push through on Feb. 1, Malacañang said Saturday. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the arrangement was initially supposed to start Jan. 15 but the Manila International Airport Authority delayed it two weeks. See TERMINAL FEE, page 3

to parts of Mindanao due to the threat from the Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah. In a worldwide alert, the US noted the JI and Abu Sayyaf have cells in Southeast Asia with JI being linked to Al Qaeda and other regional terrorist groups. “There is a risk of travel to the southern Philippines, specifically related to kidnapping threats in the Sulu Archipelago and the ongoing threat of violence on the is-

operating throughout Southeast Asia and JI is linked to al-Qaida and other regional terrorist groups,” it added. Also, it said that over the past year there have been several kidnappings-for-ransom targeting foreigners in Eastern Sabah and in the southern Sulu Sea area. Such incidents may have involved terrorist or insurgent groups based in the Sulu ArchiSee TERRORIST, page 3

DoT urges Americans to visit sunny PHL

Presidential Award winner Roderick Dela Cruz, pictured here with his wife, is a senior engineer with Southern California Edison.

SoCal Edison Fil-Am engineer wins Presidential Award from PHL For the past few years, Roderick Dela Cruz has used his engineering skills to help bring dam safety to his home country Bruno Mars may have a Grammy, but Roderick Dela Cruz is the one who went home with a Presidential Award from the Philippines. In rarefied company, Dela Cruz, a dam safety senior engineer at Southern California Edison (SCE), was one of 33 individuals and organizations, including Broadway singer Lea Salonga, who was recently honored with the international award given to Filipinos overseas for their outstanding achievements. “It’s a humbling experience, especially just knowing that [Bruno Mars] was not selected,” he said. “Just being considered was a humbling experience.” More than 500 individuals and organizations worldwide were

MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – The Department of Tourism (DoT) is enticing Americans in major East Coast cities to make a tropical getaway to the Philippines, placing ads in tour buses with photos of the top destinations as the subfreezing temperatures and arctic blasts affect large parts of the United States. Double decker hop-on-hop-off tour buses wrapped with photographs of popular tourist destinations in the Philippines such as Bohol, Boracay, and Camarines Sur could be seen moving around

nominated for the prestigious biennial award. Recently, 26 individuals and seven organizations were recognized for their contributions to the development of the Philippines and to the welfare of Filipinos everywhere. Dela Cruz was nominated for using his expertise in the field of dam safety to help his native Philippines. After the devastating flooding from Tropical Storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng in 2009, Dela Cruz returned to his hometown of Hagonoy to offer his help. Since then, Dela Cruz, a nineyear SCE employee who specializes in dam safety in the utility’s Hydro Division, has made regular trips to the Philippines to help better prepare the country for future floods. In December, Dela Cruz returned to his native land to accept the award from the president of

Singapore, Singapore | AFP | Friday 1/9/2015 – A Singapore government hospital sacked a Filipino nurse Friday for “offensive” remarks on social media, the latest in a string of foreigners dismissed from their jobs in the citystate for sparking controversy online. Tan Tock Seng Hospital said that the decision to fire Ello Ed Mundsel Bello came after it investigated three of his posts on Facebook and Google Plus that touched upon race and religion. It did not reveal the contents of the posts but described them as “highly irresponsible and offen-

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Singapore hospital sacks Filipino nurse for ‘offensive’ online remarks

President Benigno S. Aquino III with Romblon Lone District Representative Eleandro Jesus Madrona views the works of the sculptors of the province and other products of Romblon being showcased Friday (January 09) after gracing the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital. (MNS photo)

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Jinggoy lawyers block AMLC report MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – The lawyers of detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Monday blocked the testimony of a bank investigator of the Anti-Money Laundering Council, saying the prosecution violated the rules of law. The hearing, the first since the Fifth Division attempted to recuse themselves from the plunder and graft cases of Estrada, was marked by heated exchanges between the defense and the prosecution. The prosecution was set to present whistleblower Merlina Suñas, but the death of Suñas’ mother prevented her from testifying. “We can’t know when Suñas mother will die,” prosecutor John Turralba said. As a back-up witness, the prosecution panel offered an AMLC investigator. However, lawyer Paul Mar Arias, Estrada’s counsel, said the prosecution should not be allowed to present him since the evidence he will present has yet to be stipulated. Arias added that the prosecution surprised them with the AMLC witness, going against a previous agreement that all sides of the case should be informed of the intended witnesses.

“That would not explain why they didn’t inform us who their witness will be, since they subpoenaed this witness last week, “ Arias said. The court, for its part, allowed AMLC witness, Atty. Orlando Negradas to take the witness stand, but only to identify the AMLC report pertaining to the Napoles funds. It also ordered the prosecution and the defense to sit down and mark evidence to resolve the issue. “Identify and stipulate before the clerk of court. So that there will be no more introductory questions,“ Justice Roland Jurado said. Meanwhile, during Negradas’ testimony, he testified that the AMLC investigation on the bank accounts of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles was spurned by media reports, as well as letter requests from both the National Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Ombudsman. Upon finding irregularities and red flags in the bank accounts of Napoles, her children, and several lawmakers, Negradas said his team prepared a request to freeze the accounts, initiate a bank inquiry and file a civil forfeiture case.

President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Vice President Jejomar Binay during the reception line for the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12, 2015). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (MNS photo)

VP Binay camp still optimistic of public support despite record-low satisfaction rating MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – The camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday remains optimistic of the people’s trust in him despite the record-low decline in his satisfaction rating in the fourth quarter of 2014 based on a recent Social Weather Stations survey. Lawyer Rico Paolo Quicho, Binay’s spokesperson for political affairs, said “the result of the recent SWS (Social Weather Stations) survey clearly indicates that Vice President Jejomar C. Binay has still the continued trust and full support of the Filipino people.” “(This was) despite the intensified campaign of lies and pattern of deceit waged by his political detractors in the Senate to discredit his accomplishments and track record as a proven public servant,” Quicho said in a press statement. A survey conducted by SWS from November 27 to December 1, 2014 showed that Binay’s net satisfaction rating fell to a +44 (65 percent satisfied, 20 percent dissatisfied), or an eight-point decrease from a +52 (70 percent satisfied, 17 percent dissatisfied) in September. The result was a downgrade from a “very good” in the third quarter to a “good” in December. But Quicho maintained the survey showed that out of 18 surveys conducted since September 2010, Binay attained an excellent rating eight times, very good nine times, and good once. He added the survey was the same with the one released in December which showed that the people see the Vice President as among the top contend-

ers to succeed President Aquino in 2016, garnering 37 percent of the votes. He said the Vice President was grateful that the people still judge him by his work despite the intensified smear efforts against him. Quicho also said Binay was optimistic that “the misinformation being peddled against him that affects public perception will soon end with majority of the Filipino people realizing that surmises and conjectures cannot be the substitute for the truth.” “The Vice President remains firm that the allegations being hurled against him are baseless and bereft with any merit, which would not stand in an impartial and fair judicial scrutiny,” he said. He further said Binay remains “focused and committed to fulfill his objective to promote the welfare of the poor and further address the growing needs of the Filipino people.” Binay has been accused of profiting from the allegedly overpriced construction of Makati City Hall Building II and Makati Science High School, bid rigging, and receiving kickbacks during his stint as Makati mayor. Two plunder complaints against Binay have been filed with the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the construction of the Makati City Hall Building II and the Makati Science High School. He was also accused of owning a 350-hectare estate in Rosario, Batangas, a log cabin in Tagaytay Highlands, and maintaning his interest in several companies through dummies.

The Vice President has repeatedly denied the accusations, insisting that allegations are part of the operation to diminish his chances of winning in the 2016 polls. As early as 2010 when he won the post, Binay has expressed readiness to seek the presidency in the next elections. (MNS)

Alcala says he won’t go on leave over alleged garlic cartel MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala shrugged off calls to take a leave of absence, while the National Bureau of Investigation completes its probe into his alleged links to a garlic and onion cartel. Alcala denies allegations he has ever given his blessing for the approval of any import permit, adding importers have the most to gain from the controversy. “Hindi ko pwedeng irekonsidera ko yan, kasi mismo Malacanang po, si Secretary Coloma nag-statement, pati NBI nagsabi walang naman pong konkretong ebidensiya linking me.... Sana wineweigh nila ano ang nagawa ng kagawaran sa ating mga magsasaka,” he said. Alcala is eyeing libel charges against whistleblower Elizabeth “Lilybeth” Valenzuela, who quoted former Bureau of Plant Industry director Clarito Barron as telling importers they must have Alcala’s blessings to be issued import permits. He also hopes to seek an audience with Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian to explain the issue. “Wala po akong ni katiting na pinipirmahan para sa import permit. It’s not within my mandate, hanggang sa bureau director lang ng Bureau of Plants... Hindi lang ako ang kagawawran na may ganitong situation, na lahat is under me... Kung mga smuggler na nagpupuputak, mas maawa tayo sa ating magsasaka,” Alcala said. Alcala noted Barron, a distant relative of his wife and two members of the BPI have been moved to a special division, pending the NBI probe into the alleged garlic cartel. He said they will also look into reports garlic importer Lea MatabangCruz acquired 67 percent of garlic import permits from 2010 to 2014. “Before hindi po online, now ito na yung kaso. It’s up for her to prove na hindi siya yun... Dapat makasiguro kami na ito’y sa kanyang lahat kasi, kung hindi ano naman magagawa namin... We have to check also yun po bang mga grupo na nag-aaakusa are they doing the same o hindi? Kung mapatunayan na ganoon may malaking pagkakasala yan and the department is here para patawan sila ng kaparusahan,” he said.

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5.5 million in PHL parade ahead of papal visit By Joel Guinto

Manila, Philippines | AFP | Friday 1/9/2015 – More than five million barefoot devotees paraded a centuries-old icon of Jesus Christ through Manila Friday in a loud, heaving paroxysm of religious fervour ahead of Pope Francis’s visit to Asia’s bastion of Christianity. In fervent displays of devotion, huge crowds of men, women and children chanted “Viva!” (Long live!) and twirled white handkerchiefs at the Black Nazarene, with some hurling themselves at the supposedly miraculous statue for good luck. “The Lord is my healer,” Lina Javal, 58, declared after waiting in line for hours to kiss the life-sized ebony statue, showing an AFP reporter the healed incision from throat surgery she underwent last month. “It’s an extraordinary feeling, it’s like the

TERRORIST From page 1

pelago of the Philippines, it said. “In addition to incursions on the coastal and island resorts themselves, criminal or terrorist bands may attempt to intercept boats ferrying tourists in the area,” it said. The US State Department, in updating its worldwide caution, cited recent terrorist attacks, “whether by those affiliated with terrorist entities, copycats, or individual perpetrators” that it said “serve as a reminder that US citizens need to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.” Also, it noted that on September 22 last year, the US and regional partners commenced military action against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). In response to air strikes, ISIL called on supporters to attack foreigners wherever they are. “Authorities believe there is an increased likelihood of reprisal attacks against U.S., Western and coalition partner interests throughout the world, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia,” it said. “Kidnappings and hostage events involving US citizens have become increasingly

TERMINAL FEE From page 1

“MIAA announced that beginning Feb. 1, terminal fees will be integrated into airline tickets... My information tells me it was supposed to be Jan. 15 but they moved it two weeks later,” she said on governmentrun dzRB radio. Last Oct. 31, a Pasay City court issued a temporary restraining order against a plan to integrate the terminal fee into the prices of plane tickets.

FIL-AM ENGINEER From page 1

the Philippines. “It was a great experience,” said Dela Cruz, who attended the event with his parents. “My parents were ecstatic, so proud. They never imagined that this would happen.” Joining the SCE engineer in the honor were 12 other Americans and awardees from France, South Korea, Australia and India. Among them were Cristeta Comerford, the first Asian and woman executive chef of the White House, serving Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and Robert Lopez, a Grammy-winning composer of the hits songs from Walt Disney’s “Frozen.” Dela Cruz’s work in the Philippines has had a lasting impact in the country. Legislation that he helped spearhead calling for a national dam safety program is now with the House of Congress.

POLICEMEN From page 1

operating gear for soldiers belonging to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the United States Army to fight Talibans in Afghanistan since 2012. Even the Buckingham Palace guards,” Carlos said. He said the Beijing police also used adult diapers during the 2008 politics to ensure

HUMAN RIGHTS From page 1

said on his arrival in Colombo. Human rights are a hugely contentious issue in Sri Lanka, which has alienated the international community by refusing to cooperate with a UN-mandated investigation into alleged wartime mass killing of civilians. “The process of healing also needs to include the pursuit of truth,” said the pope, who was greeted at the airport by new President Maithripala Sirisena.

SECURITY From page 1

was a moving target becomes a stationary target,” he said. “I ask you, do you want history to record that a tragedy involving the pope happened in the Philippines?” he asked the population of the largely Catholic nation. Aquino warned that even one person breaking the security cordon could trigger a stampede, saying “There might be some people who may want to get a ‘selfie’ (with the pope).” National police carried out a “dry run” to prepare for the pope’s arrival in the country on Thursday, his first visit to Asia’s bastion of Catholicism.

Holy Spirit is entering my body,” said the clerk from nearby Laguna province. The mammoth procession, estimated by the Philippine Red Cross at 5.5 million people, crawled at a near-snail’s pace along Manila’s old quarter as devotees risked life and limb for the privilege of pulling the fat rope that moved the float forward. City officials and the Philippine Red Cross said a man died from heart attack and more than 600 others were treated for various injuries as the crowd wriggled past trash-strewn streets in light rain and overcast skies. The procession is expected to last well into the night. “I pray that the Nazarene continues watching over my grandson, that he is kept healthy,” Manila laundrywoman Imelda Santiago, 62, told AFP. prevalent as ISIL, al Qa‘ida and its affiliates have increased attempts to finance their operations through kidnapping for ransom operations. ISIL, al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) are particularly effective with kidnapping for ransom and are using ransom money to fund the range of their activities. Kidnapping targets are usually Western citizens from governments or third parties that have established a pattern of paying ransoms for the release of individuals in custody,” it said. Also, it said extremists may use conventional or non-conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests. Such targets may include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, shopping malls, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays, it said. “U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Extremists have targeted and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services. Pro-overseas Filipino worker groups had assailed the Integrated Terminal Fee, saying it would violate Republic Act 10022, the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995, which exempts migrant workers from paying terminal fees. Other passengers exempted from paying the terminal fee are pilgrims endorsed by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, athletes endorsed by the Philippine Sports Commission, and those authorized by the Office of the President. (MNS) “Roderick’s award is an important opportunity to highlight not only the progressive work of the Dam and Public Safety group, but the company as a whole as how we can make a difference through the knowledge and experience used here at SCE,” said Michael Cruz, Roderick’s manager at the utility. Dela Cruz, a civil engineer, credits the utility for steering him toward the dam safety arena and providing him with the experience and knowledge to be able to help his home country. Currently, there are 81 dams as part of SCE’s hydroelectric systems. “The award is representative of what we believe in as a company,” he said. “Its values, not only to strive for excellence as a company, but to also provide support to those beyond our own customers.” This story first appeared on the Edison Newsroom. continuous order. He said astronauts at the US National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) wore diapers during space shuttle launches. The use of the adult diapers was ordered so that the MMDA employees won’t have to leave their posts during the Traslacion. Mayor said, however, that it will be up to the individuals if they would be more comfortable in using adult diapers. (MNS) Sirisena has promised an independent domestic inquiry into the allegations of wartime rights abuses under his predecessor Mahinda Rajapakse. His new Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said before the election his government would also ensure a South African-style truth commission. Only around six percent of the 20-million-strong population is Catholic, but the religion is seen as a unifying force because it includes people from both the majority Sinhalese and minority Tamil ethnic groups. Security will be a major issue throughout the pontiff’s Asia trip, but Philippine Church officials have said he will not travel in a bulletproof “popemobile” because he wants to be closer to his flock. Organisers say cellphone signals may be blocked and have called on the public not to bring backpacks to the mass. Traffic enforcers will be equipped with adult diapers to ensure they do not leave their posts. Although officials have said there is no reported terror threat against Pope Francis, they are on alert for any attempt to disrupt his visit. In the past, the Philippines has been hit by numerous bomb attacks blamed on Muslim extremists, although these usually take place in the south.

She carried the two-year-old boy, who is blind in his right eye, to the parade, shielding him from the rain with a blanket. Many Filipinos believe the statue holds miraculous healing powers and make lifetime vows to join the annual parade, often wearing T-shirts emblazoned with an image of Christ crowned in thorns. “The brand of religious devotion that we see in Filipino Catholicism is based on a very strong desire of the majority of our people for a more immediate and direct access to divine help or power,” Manuel Vic-

tor Sapitula, a sociology professor at the University of the Philippines, told AFP. “That is why it is sought through physical touch, sound, bodily experience, or any combination of these,” he added. Extreme piety The Philippines is also host to some other forms of extreme piety, including ritual crucifixion of more than a dozen devotees at a farming village north of Manila each Good Friday, when male penitents wearing black masks and crowns of thorns also whip their backs bloody with strips of bamboo.

SINGAPORE From page 1

sive to Singapore and religion”. “We have dismissed Mr Ello Ed Mundsel Bello from our hospital immediately for his... comments made in 2014 while in our hospital’s employment,” Tan Tock Seng said in a statement on Facebook. “They have distressed members of the public and our hospital staff... His conduct goes against our staff values of respect, professionalism and social responsibility.” Police are currently investigating a separate post on Bello’s Facebook page this month in which he described Singaporeans as “loosers (sic) in their own country”. Bello lodged a police complaint saying his Facebook account was hacked after the post went viral. The hospital said its decision to dismiss Bello was independent of the police investigation. Anti-immigrant sentiment is on the rise in Singapore, with many complaining that foreigners compete with them for jobs, housing, medical care as well as space on public transport.

In June last year, a Philippine independence day celebration in Singapore was scrapped after organizers faced online abuse and threats. Also last year, British wealth manager Anton Casey was fired from his job and fled the city-state following his Facebook remarks deriding public transport commuters as “poor” people. Furious Internet users had lashed out at Porsche-driving Casey, whose wife is a former Singapore beauty queen. In 2012, a Malaysia-born Australian woman, Amy Cheong, was also dismissed from her job in Singapore and left the country due to angry public reaction to a racial rant she made on Facebook. Singaporeans make up just over 60 percent of the 5.4 million population, with its low fertility rate forcing the government to rely heavily on migrant workers. Singapore’s leading activists groups last year warned of a surge in “widespread use of racist, aggressive and militarised rhetoric” against foreigners on social networks.

DOT URGES From page 1

Washington, DC, New York, Philadelphia and Miami in the past couple of weeks, according to a statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC said the ads are part of the “Visit the Philippines Year” campaign of the Tourism Department. “This harsh weather presents the perfect opportunity for Americans to travel to the Philippines and experience the beauty and warmth the country has to offer,” Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia Jr. said. “Our American friends will also find it easier to head off to Manila when Philippine Airlines starts its regular flights from New York in March,” he added. Ambassador Cuisia said the bus wraps that showcase warm Philippine beaches will definitely catch the attention of Ameri-

cans who are experiencing one of the coldest winters in recent history. Josh Levee, General Manager of City Sights, the bus tour company carrying the Philippine tourism ads, agreed saying: “In this weather, it is definitely enticing.” Vector Media’s Jordan Perlmutter said tens of thousands of people see the Philippine tourism ads wrapped around City Sights double-decker buses in New York’s Times Square, Washington’s Jefferson Memorial, Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell, and Miami’s South Beach, among others. “Double-decker bus wraps are iconic media forms and are the largest ads roaming the country,” Perlmutter said. Vector Media undertook the tourism promotion campaign in cooperation with 360i, a New York-based advertising company. (MNS)

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Cuisia: ‘International law is the great equalizer’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippines said its move to seek arbitration before an international tribunal underscores its desire to define its maritime entitlements in the South China Sea in a peaceful manner. “We have always been asked why we have resorted to arbitration. Our answer is simple. International law is the great equalizer,” Ambassador Cuisia said in his remarks during a reception he hosted on Wednesday night for Washington-based journalists led by National Press Club President Myron Belkind. “By taking the legal route, we are showing the world that States have other viable options to resolving disputes other than in an asymmetrical negotiation where the big and militarily strong nation will dominate the smaller nation in the negotiating table,” Ambassador Cuisia said. He said Manila sees the arbitration case as a model for other smaller States in a similar situation to consider the dispute settlement mechanisms under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) or the United Nations Charter as a way of resolving disputes in a peaceful manner. It could be recalled that the Philippines filed an arbitration case in 2013 as part of its efforts to clarify its maritime entitlements in the South China Sea and formally submitted its memorial to the Arbitral Tribunal at The Hague on 30 March 2014. China, which had laid claim to practically the entire South China Sea, had indicated that it will not participate in the proceedings but it nonetheless published on December 7 its position paper on the arbitration case and submitted the same to the tribunal. Ambassador Cuisia said Washington presented its own study on China’s maritime claims that supports the Philippines position on the need for peaceful clarification of maritime entitlements in the South China Sea. “Studies such as the one produced by the US contribute to the substantive international literature that supports the primacy and utility of UNCLOS in the determination of maritime entitlements and the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes,” he said. Ambassador Cuisia added that the recent statement issued by Vietnam on the arbitration case is helpful in terms of promoting the rule of law and in finding peaceful and nonviolent solutions to the South China Sea claims based on international law.

Aquino calls for global cooperation vs terror Aquino calls for int’l cooperation vs terrorism, climate change MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday called for international cooperation on global issues, including terrorism and climate change. In his toast during the annual New Year Vin d’Honneur, Aquino said countries “can no longer look at complex issues and situations with a parochial mindset.” “We can work together: each person and each country doing its part to collectively solve all these issues,” the President told government officials and diplomats at the Malacañang Palace. He cited recent “selfish and senseless acts of violence” in other countries, such as Pakistan, Australia and France, to emphasize the need for global cooperation to combat terrorism. The southern part of the Philippines remains to be threatened by groups such as the Abu Sayyaf, which has supposed links to regional terrorist networks. Aquino also emphasized the need to unite to address climate change, noting that the Philippines experiences the impact of “increasingly erratic weather patterns.” “Whether in combating climate change and its effects, or in fighting inequality, or in taking a stand against terrorism and instability: the time to act is now,” he said. In 2013, Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) cut a swath of devastation across central Philippines, leaving 6,300 people dead and displacing over 1.4 million families. Just last month, Tropical cyclones Ruby (Hagupit) and Seniang (Jangmi) also devastated parts of central Philippines and Mindanao. (MNS)

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US admits mistake to miss Paris unity rally By Jérôme Cartillier

Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – The White House admitted Monday it should have sent a senior official to the massive rally against terrorism in Paris, as President Barack Obama came under fire for failing to travel to France. “We should have sent someone with a higher profile to be there,” White House press secretary Josh Earnest said. Washington was represented at the event by the US ambassador to France, Jane Hartley. Earnest said Obama would have liked to have gone himself, but suggested that the security requirements and short planning time had prevented it. “The security requirements around a presidential level visitor or even a vice president level visitor are onerous and significant,” he said. “In a situation like this they have a pretty significant impact on the other citizens who are trying to participate in a large public event like this.” About 1.5 million people flooded the streets of the French capital Sunday to memorialize the 17 people killed in attacks in Paris that began last week with a massacre at satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo and ended with a hostage standoff at a kosher grocery. French President Francois Hollande was joined at the march by 50 world leaders, including the Israeli prime minister and the Palestinian president, in a display of unity that made headlines worldwide. ‘You let the world down’ Yet the failure of Obama, his deputy Joe Biden or a senior cabinet official to join the rally angered many US commentators. Many accused Obama of letting down ally France. Secretary of State John Kerry said Monday he would travel to Paris after wrapping up his tour of South Asia. Adding to the sense of dismay among some American pundits and lawmakers, US Attorney General Eric Holder had been in Paris for a meeting on terrorism, but even he did not join the rally. CNN journalist Jake Tapper, one of the television news channel’s main anchors covering the attacks in Paris, spoke of his “shame” at the lack of high-

ranking US representation. “I say this as an American – not as a journalist, not as a representative of CNN – but as an American: I was ashamed,” Tapper wrote in a blog on CNN’s website. The tabloid New York Daily News issued a blunter indictment of the no-show in a front-page headline addressed to American officials: “You let the world down.” ‘Not about us’ US officials pointed out that Kerry was on a longstanding trip to India that made it impossible to attend. Washington officials also say that the security circus surrounding any trip by a US president or vice president may have risked deflecting attention away from the spirit of Sunday’s occasion. “For once this is not about us,” a US official said. Yet the explanations failed to stem the tide of criticism, particularly from Obama’s Republican foes. “Our President should have been there, because we must never hesitate to stand with our allies,” said Republican Ted Cruz. Marco Rubio, who like Cruz is seen as a possible Republican challenger for the White House in 2016, also criticized the absence but said he understood the argument that presidential security may have been disruptive. “I thought it was a mistake not to send someone,” Rubio said. “There are a plethora of people they could have sent. I think in hindsight, I would hope that they would do it differently.” Privately, French officials played down the alleged snub, and the French embassy in Washington insisted that Paris was fully satisfied by their ally’s response. “As far as the reactions of the US authorities are concerned, we have been overwhelmed and very moved by them since the beginning of the crisis,” the mission spokesman told AFP He thanked the United States for “numerous public statements by President Obama, Secretary Kerry (in French !), multiple phone calls at the highest level and, of course, the signature of our condolence book here at the embassy by the president.”

Palace advises Pinoys: Make ‘GMRC’ part of baon to papal events MANILA, Jan 10 (Mabuhay) – Aside from snacks and medicine, Filipinos who want to attend the public events during Pope Francis’ visit may want to bring one more item: good manners and right conduct. Malacañang suggested this Saturday as it noted the crowds during this year’s papal visit could be bigger than those in 1995 when now-Saint John Paul II visited the country. “Hindi lang yung kaunting snacks at gamot at maliit na first aid kit, pati ang good manners and right conduct,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said on government-run dzRB radio, referring to what Filipinos should bring. Valte also said the Palace will issue advisories and tips this coming week, in the days leading to the pope’s visit.

Pope Francis is due to arrive Jan. 15, and will stay in the Philippines until Jan. 19. He will take part in events in Metro Manila and Leyte. “Hindi maliit ang crowd na expect namin. Beginning Monday, we will be releasing materials or advisories in different visual forms,” Valte said. Such materials will aid those who want to participate in papal events, she said. “Ang spiritual preparations nasa Catholic Church, sa government we want those to attend any of the papal events na handa sila, dala nila ang kanilang maliit na first aid kits in clear plastic bag, alam nila where the portalets or exits are,” she said. The government will also come out with advisories on road closures and flights starting Monday, she added. (MNS)

Pope slams ‘deviant forms of religion’ after Paris attacks By Ella Ide

Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Pope Francis on Monday slammed “deviant forms of religion” following deadly attacks by Islamist militants in France last week and dubbed the “neverending spread of conflicts” around the world a third world war. “Losing their freedom, people become enslaved, whether to the latest fads, or to power, money, or even deviant forms of religion,” he said, laying the blame on “a culture of rejection” which leads to “the breakdown of society and spawning violence and death.” “We see painful evidence of this in the events reported daily in the news, not least the tragic slayings which took place in Paris a few days ago,” he said in his yearly speech to the members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See. The 78-year-old was speaking after France’s bloodiest attacks in half a century, which left 17 people dead. He pointed to “chilling repercussions” from con-

flicts in the Middle East and “the spread of fundamentalist terrorism in Syria and Iraq.” “Religious fundamentalism, even before it eliminates human beings by perpetrating horrendous killings, eliminates God himself, turning him into a mere ideological pretext,” he said. Not for the first time, Francis called for “a unanimous response... within the framework of international law” to the so-called Islamic State and also urged the Muslim community to “condemn all fundamentalist and extremist interpretations of religion.” The pope has spoken before about the spread of conflicts around the globe being effectively a sort of third world war, and in this speech, known as his “State of the World” address, he repeated the claim of “a true world war fought piecemeal”. He called on the world to remember August 6, 1945, the day the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, the day “humanity witnessed one of the most horrendous catastrophes in its history.”

People’s direct participation in funding charitable institutions sought

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MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) – Two party-list lawmakers have filed a bill seeking to provide for people’s direct participation in funding charitable institutions and other development oriented civil society organizations through a percentage of their personal income tax. House Bill 5113, authored by Reps. Cresente C. Paez and Anthony M. Bravo (Party-list, COOP NATCCO), also aims to give individual tax payers the discretion to allocate five percent of their income tax to their preferred charitable institutions or other civil society organization that are eligible. The bill refers to charitable or civil society organizations as those charitable institutions and other non-profit and non-government organizations (NGOs), including foundations, civic organizations, people’s organizations (POs), community organizations, sectoral organizations, cooperatives, micro-finance institutions and social enterprises, duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Housing and Land use Regulatory Board (HLURB) or formal accrediting bodies approved for the purposes of this law. Paez said the 1987 Constitution is believed to be

among the first of its kind in the world to recognize NGOs and POs as partners in development. It goes on in stipulating and defining their roles in society. He added that the Philippine Development Plan (2011-2016) also highlights the role of these volunteers in pursuing the vision of inclusive growth and President Benigno Aquino’s vision of a Social Contract with the Filipino people. “The phenomenal contribution Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) includes its representation of the citizenry. It is the negotiating force between bureaucratic power and those who have none (poor), or between those who have the power to make decisions within the formal structure of policymaking and those who lie outside of it,” Paez said. Bravo said CSOs have expanded to include community empowerment, empowering through self-organization and raise public awareness on significant issues such as rape, sexual harassment and rights for women and children. “They also engaged in agricultural development by helping farmers and fisherfolks obtain access to agricultural services or by participating in the crafting of policies on the countryside. CSOs also serve as the watchdog over government agencies that implement various public services and promote public good,” Bravo said.

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UTREACH City Attorney files first-ever lawsuit for memory card music piracy

President Barack Obama listens to Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn. while meeting with a congressional delegation aboard Air Force One en route to Knoxville, Tennessee, Jan. 9, 2015. Also attending, left to right, Ted Mitchell, Undersecretary of Education; Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn; James Kvaal, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Council, and Rep. John “Jimmy” Duncan, R-Tenn. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

Obama calls for stronger personal data protection Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – US President Barack Obama said Monday he will introduce legislation to beef up and standardize personal data protection on the Internet. “Right now, almost every state has a different law on this, and it’s confusing for consumers and it’s confusing for companies – and it’s costly, too,” Obama told the Federal Trade Commission, the US consumer protection agency. Highlighting the countless transactions that people make online, Obama quipped that “Secret Service does not let me do that. But I know other people do.” “If we’re going to be connected, then we need to be protected,” he said, adding that the problem “costs us billions of dollars.” The new legislation would require companies to

inform their clients within 30 days of a breach, and would include a consumer bill of rights to better help customers control how their data is shared. Meanwhile, the proposed Student Digital Privacy Act would prevent sale of students’ personal data to third parties for any purpose besides education. Obama also highlighted a pledge made by 75 businesses that promised not to sell information for student-targeted advertising. “I hope Congress joins us in this national movement to protect the privacy of our children,” Obama said, calling the problem a bipartisan issue. Obama delivered his speech Monday as a group declaring sympathy for Islamic State jihadists hacked US Central Command’s YouTube and Twitter accounts in a propaganda jab at the US military.

Fed worries about international risks to US economy By Veronica Smith

Washington, United States | AFP | Wednesday 1/7/2015 – The Federal Reserve worried about foreign risks to the US economy but could raise interest rates despite weaker-than-desired inflation, according to the minutes of the last meeting published Wednesday. “Many participants regarded the international situation as an important source of downside risks to domestic real activity and employment,” said the minutes of the December 16-17 meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). The potential for weaker US economic growth would rise “particularly if declines in oil prices and the persistence of weak economic growth abroad had a substantial negative effect on global financial markets,” the minutes said, “or if foreign policy responses were insufficient.” The outlook for growth in the eurozone, Japan and China has dimmed and slumping oil prices are battering the economies of Russia, Venezuela and other oil-exporting countries. The final 2014 meeting of the Fed’s policy arm came amid a plunge in oil prices since June that has further deepened, more than halving the value of crude oil to below $50 a barrel currently. The sharp fall in oil has roiled financial markets, especially in the first trading days of the year, as investors worry about weaker demand in a slowing economy and a global oil supply glut. But the FOMC, in its December discussion of when to start raising the federal funds rate, pegged near zero for six years to support the recovery from deep recession, saw a boon from lower oil prices. A few participants said the effect was likely to be positive on overseas employment and economic growth. For the US economy, several participants expected slower economic growth abroad to curb the US economy, mainly through lower net exports. “But the net effect of lower oil prices on US economic activity was anticipated to be positive.” The policymakers saw “broad-based improvement” in the labor market since their October 28-29 meeting, with solid gains in job growth, a small reduction in the unemployment rate and increased hiring. But despite the labor gains and the economy growing at a “moderate” pace, “most participants saw no clear evidence of a broad-based acceleration in wages.” Inflation running well below the Fed’s longer-term 2.0 percent target was expected to rise gradually to the comfort zone as officials expected the labor market would continue to improve and the “transitory” effects of lower oil prices and other factors would fade. “The risks to the outlook for economic activity and the labor market were seen as nearly balanced.” Rate tightening track The policymakers indicated that the Fed may raise rates even though inflation remained below target. “With lower energy prices and the stronger dollar likely to keep inflation below target for some time, it was noted that the Committee might begin normalization at a time when core inflation was near current levels, although in that circumstance participants would want to be reasonably confident that inflation will move back toward 2 percent over time,” the minutes said. The central bank’s preferred inflation measure, the personal consumption expenditures price index, was up 1.2 percent in November from a year ago, while core PCE increased less than 0.1 percent. “The Fed is determined to tighten, though several participants urged for more data-dependent criteria so that investors would get away from a conviction the hike will be in the middle of the

year. The Fed may hike rates even if headline inflation runs well below target for a time,” said Chris Low of FTN Financial. According to the minutes, “most participants” agreed to adding language in the FOMC statement about being patient in deciding to raise interest rates, saying it indicated the process was unlikely to begin “for at least the next couple of meetings.” That suggested the first rate hike could come earlier than expected, perhaps as soon as April, after the January and March meetings, said Omer Esiner of Commonwealth Foreign Exchange.

LOS ANGELES – City Attorney Mike Feuer today announced that his office has filed a civil lawsuit seeking to stop memory card music piracy in downtown Los Angeles. The lawsuit is believed to be the first civil enforcement action for memory card piracy by a prosecutor in the United States. “”Music piracy undermines one of L.A.’s signature industries, robbing our workforce of precious jobs, depriving our city of needed tax revenue and frustrating artists’ creativity,” said Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer. “My office is committed to aggressively rein in this serious crime.” “Criminals know that it’s easier than ever to load thousands of songs on a digital storage device like memory cards and sell them for a significant profit. This is no petty crime – it’s illegal for good reason: it threatens music business jobs and damages the important cultural and economic footprint of the music community throughout Los Angeles,” said Marcus Cohen, Vice President, Anti-Piracy Field Investigations, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). “That’s why actions like this by the LA City Attorney’s Office are so important. It helps send a strong message to would-be criminals that this type of illicit practice won’t go unpunished. We appreciate the efforts of the office and thank them for their great work.” Defendant Leopoldo Lara, 29, is named in the lawsuit alleging unfair business practices including the repeated sale of counterfeit and pirated music and mov-

ies on CD’s and DVD’s. Recently, Lara began selling music and video games on memory cards, small portable electronic data storage devices. The lawsuit is seeking stay-away orders for Lara from the entire Fashion District as well as injunctive terms designed to prohibit future counterfeit sales. Lara has been allegedly selling counterfeit and pirated goods in the Fashion District of downtown Los Angeles since at least 2003. Law enforcement has documented more than 20 incidents involving Lara including arrests, four convictions, and 10 cease and desist letters. Lara has allegedly sold or possessed for sale, at least 11,838 counterfeit and pirated items with an estimated retail value in excess of $280,000. Memory cards sold in downtown Los Angeles can store 800 songs or more and are more difficult for law enforcement to spot than CDs and DVD’s. The City Attorney’s Office is proud to have one of the only counterfeit abatement units in the United States utilizing both criminal and civil abatement lawsuits. In the past year, the City Attorney has successfully prosecuted and filed against chronic counterfeiters including securing a $3.9 million judgment and permanent injunction against a downtown merchant for the sale and possession of counterfeit goods. The judgment was the largest amount ever secured by the City Attorney’s Office in a counterfeiting case, and the second multi-million dollar judgment against a counterfeiter in 2014.

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US media criticize Obama for missing Paris rally Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – US President Barack Obama faced sharp criticism from some American media on Monday over not attending a huge Paris solidarity rally in the wake of deadly Islamist attacks. “You let the world down,” blared the front page of the New York Daily News. Numerous world leaders came to Paris Sunday to lead a march in support of victims of Islamist attacks killed during three bloody days in France. The violence began with a gun attack on the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo and ended up leaving 17 people dead. Millions turned out on Sunday in the biggest protests in French history that included around 1.6 million people rallying in the capital. But Obama was not among the leaders who walked arm in arm at the head of the procession in Paris, with Washington represented by its ambasUnder this new law, any eligible California resident will be able to apply for a driver’s license, regardless of immigration status, beginning January 1, 2015. An AB 60 license will have a visible distinguishing feature and cannot be used for certain federal purposes, such as to enter restricted areas of federal facilities.

Immigrants snap up new California driver licenses Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Tuesday 1/6/2015 – Nearly 30,000 motorists applied for driving licenses in California on the first weekend of a new law offering them to people in the United States illegally, officials said Monday. Thanks to the 2013 bill approved by Governor Jerry Brown, California last week became the 10th state in the nation to issue them to undocumented immigrants. Under the AB60 law, anyone who can show they are California residents – such as through bills or rental agreements – can now apply for a license, regardless of immigration status. On Friday 17,200 people applied for the AB60 driver’s document, while over 11,000 did so on Saturday, said Department of Motor Vehicles spokeswoman Jessica Gonzalez. Opponents fear the law will encourage immigrants to come

to the United States, and worry some might use false names to register for a license, thereby creating national security concerns. Advocates say it means more drivers will get car insurance and will make the roads safer. Until now, immigrants in California without legal authorization risked heavy fines or vehicle seizures for driving without a license. Many do anyway, as much of the huge West Coast state lacks comprehensive public transit. California has the largest undocumented immigrant population in the United States, about 2.45 million. They must still provide proof of identity, such as a passport. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles expects some 1.4 million people to request a license. Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Vermont and Washington state already have similar laws.

sador to France Jane Hartley. “As an American, I do wish that we were better represented in this beautiful procession,” said CNN’s Jake Tapper from the rally in Paris. Attorney General Eric Holder was in Paris but did not walk with the world leaders while Secretary of State John Kerry was on a visit to India. Obama and Vice President Joe Biden had no events on their public schedule for the day. Kerry announced he would visit France later this week and he downplayed criticism of the administration. “This is sort of quibbling,” Kerry told reporters in India. “The relationship with France is not about one day or one particular moment,” said the top US diplomat. Political-insider magazine Politico wrote a story about the administration missing the rally under the headline: “Barack Obama’s French kiss-off.”

OC man who medics $2-M sentenced to 57 months SANTA ANA, California – An Orange County man who admitted targeting dozens of doctors and others in schemes that promised large returns on investments in the medical and dental fields and caused victims to lose more than $2 million was sentenced today to 57 months in federal prison. David Rose, 58, of Coto de Caza, was sentenced this morning by United States District Judge James V. Selna. Rose pleaded guilty in July to one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud. According to court documents, over a six-year period that ran through May 2011, Rose solicited physicians to invest in an Irvine company he called M.D. Venture Partners (MDVP) and falsely promised lucrative returns on investments in emerging medical technologies. In a subsequent scheme, Rose used Technology Innovation Partners (TIP) and Millenium Marketing Partners, both of Irvine, to solicit dentists and orthodontists to invest, claiming funds would be

pooled and invested in a company developing ablation technology that would be used to remove wisdom teeth in children without surgery. Throughout both schemes, investor funds were misused, with Rose using victims’ money for personal expenses. According to a plea agreement filed in court, Rose used investor funds to pay $7,500 monthly rent for a house in Coto de Caza, college tuition, an $80,000 Sea Ray boat and shares in the Green Bay Packers. The investigation revealed that no money was invested by either MDVP or TIP. In the MDVP scheme, Rose caused approximately 32 victims to lose more than $900,000, according to court documents. In the TIP scheme, 45 victims lost more than $1.4 million. As part of today’s sentencing, Judge Selna ordered Rose to pay a total of $2,315,394 in restitution. Rose was arrested in May 2013 and has remained in custody since that time.

US Supreme Court turns away an appeal of same-sex marriage ban Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – The US Supreme Court on Monday turned away an appeal by same-sex couples seeking to legally marry in Louisiana, but was silent on challenges to bans in four other US states. The nine justices refused to take up the challenge to the Louisiana ban “before judgement” by a lower court of appeal, which leaves the door open to the court’s taking up the case later. They made no comment on challenges to samesex marriage bans in the other four states, possibly holding off on an announcement until after it meets again behind closed doors on Friday. In these cases, an appeals court has already upheld bans in Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and Ken-

tucky. If the top court does take up those cases, its ruling could impact all 14 US states that currently forbid same-sex marriage. If the court decides to take up any of the cases, it would hear arguments in the spring and hand down a decision by the end of June. Having struck down a federal law defining marriage as between a man and a woman in June 2013, the Supreme Court must now decide whether the US constitution guarantees homosexuals the right to marry. In the United States, where marriage laws fall under state jurisdictions, gay marriage is legal in 36 of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia.

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Health, not money, inspires people to save power Miami, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Telling people how pollution can harm kids’ health inspires them to use less electricity than telling them how much money they could save by cutting back on power use, US researchers said Monday. The study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences centered on people living in 118 apartment units in Los Angeles. Over the course of about four months, residents were given weekly feedback about their energy usage. Some were told how their electricity use compared to a more energy-efficient apartment nearby, and how much money they could save by turning off the lights and using less power.

Another group was given similar feedback, but were also told about how much their energy use contributed to pollutant emissions, and how air pollution can cause childhood health problems like cancer and asthma. A control group received no feedback at all. The apartments that received the health-related warnings began using an average of eight percent less power than the control group. If there were kids in the household, apartment dwellers reduced their electricity use by 19 percent, said the study. Apartments that were told about cost savings from using less energy barely changed their habits at all.

Blueberries everyday could keep high blood pressure at bay (Relaxnews) - Eating blueberries on a daily basis could lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in just eight weeks, according to researchers at Florida State University. “To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effects of blueberries on arterial function as was done in this study, as well as in this study population,” says corresponding author Dr. Bahram H. Arjmandi of FSU. “These findings suggest that blueberries may prevent the progression to fullblown hypertension.” Postmenopausal women were selected for the study because their incidence of high blood pressure exceeds that of men, and participants were considered to be in the early stages of hypertension. Working with 48 participants, the research team randomly assigned them to receive either 22 g of freeze-dried blueberry powder,

the equivalent to approximately one cup of fresh blueberries, or 22 g of control powder. Upon conclusion of the eightweek study, the blueberry group’s collective systolic blood pressure (SBP) was lower by 5.1 percent and their mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was lower by 6.3 percent. Arterial stiffness was measured using non-invasive pulse wave velocity technology, and the blueberry group showed improvement, for which researchers believe nitric oxide is to credit since levels increased from 9.11 to 15.35 micrometers (μM). The placebo group saw no corresponding lowering of their blood pressure, and their nitric oxide levels did not increase. Aortic stiffness was measured using carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) technology and showed no change in either group,

Throwing the ball around just like old times could help improve quality of life for seniors, according to a new study. ©bikeriderlondon/shutterstock.com

Playing catch improves seniors’ balance, prevents falls: study (Relaxnews) – To ward off the ills of aging, seniors should resort to a childhood favorite with a weighted ball, says a research team from the University of Illinois at Chicago. The brain uses two strategies to maintain balance, according to Dr. Alexander Aruin of UIC, starting by activating the muscles in anticipation of jostling that could lead to a fall. “When the perturbation is predictable, for example, if when walking down the street you see someone about to bump into you, you brace yourself,” says Dr. Aruin. While the aforementioned strategy is protective, the second is corrective, according to the study, for the brain also engages the muscles after the jostling has occurred and often leads the body to take a step or change position. Referred to as anticipatory postural control, the ability to maintain one’s balance fades with age, say the researchers, which explains why they are more likely to fall. In one of Dr. Aruin’s corresponding studies, he

observed a group of healthy young adults as they played a game of catch and in another study, he did the same with an older group. His research team recorded electrical activity in the leg and trunk muscles aiming to note the differences between the two age groups in terms of their capacity for anticipatory postural adjustments before and after the game. Both groups showed improvement, and the older group shined in particular because they proved themselves capable of improving on tasks that hadn’t been part of the training instilled during the game of catch. “There was a transfer effect,” says Dr. Aruin. “It tells us that – potentially – what people learn in the training might be helpful with other activities. Dr. Aruin believes his group is the first to study whether a specially designed rehabilitation protocol can improve postural control adjustment and, with that, overall balance, too. His studies, in which he says his participants report having thoroughly enjoyed the games of catch, have been published in the Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology and in Experimental Brain Research.

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Charice looks back at â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;acceptingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2014 Singer Charice shared the lessons she learned in 2014, saying the best thing she learned last year is the true meaning of acceptance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Natutunan ko po ngayong taon ay tanggapin ang mga pagkakamali ko kasi yung mga pagkakamali din na yon ay yun din ang nagturo sa akin at naging way sa kung ano ang mayroon at nangyayari sa akin ngayon. Hindi ko po nire-regret na nangyari lahat yon, kumbaga acceptance lang na lahat yon ay nangyari kasi may ibang plan sa akin si God,â&#x20AC;? Charice said. Charice, who revealed that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lesbian last year, shared that aside from accepting her mistakes, she learned that she could not really please everybody. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parang pini-please ko kasi ang tao ng sobra pero hindi naman pala yun ang nafi-feel nila,â&#x20AC;? she added.

After ending the rift with her mother, Raquel Pempengco, Charice said that she is just thankful that this year she renewed her relationship with her family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walang awkwardness, talagang relax lang, kung may challenges kapag kasama mo sila okay na,â&#x20AC;? she said. When it comes to love, Charice, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now in a relationship with Alyssa Quijano, said she learned to be content. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ang natutunan ko po mag-settle. Kasi everday may natutunan at nare-realize na ganito ang feeling na okay ka na, yung di mo na naiisip ang really mo to be with other, may contentment, yung settled na talaga ang feelings,â&#x20AC;? Charice said. For 2015, Charice is set to tour Asia and Europe. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also set to release an album featuring OPM songs. (MNS)

Cristine Reyes shares pregnancy pics AFTER confirming her pregnancy in November, actress Cristine Reyes shared personal snaps of her growing tummy on image-sharing application Instagram. The 25-year-old is currently on her second trimester and reported that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doing well and can do some light physical activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have dreamy visions of pregnancy... Cute, little bump, the beautiful glow, and the luminosity of serene happiness. In reality however, pregnancy is just like everything else in life.. Messy, uncomfortable, real,â&#x20AC;? she wrote. The actress added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m doing good and can do some light physical activity, fly abroad or travel by land. I just have to support my lower back now with a pillow.â&#x20AC;? Cristine also said that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sometimes impatient and irritable but it helps that she reads a lot of books, listen to music, treats herself to a good meal or spa, watches movies or just meeting up with friends. Although sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bored, the soon-tobe-mom said sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excited to finally meet her daughter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every time my little angel moves around my belly I stop and realize how blessed and lucky I am. It feels good whenever I feel her moving. I would always pray at night that God will bless my little angel to be a healthy and happy baby.â&#x20AC;? Cristine is expecting her first child with Mixed Martial Arts fighter boyfriend Ali Khatibi. (MNS)

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Jake Cuenca opens up on split with girlfriend Actor Jake Cuenca on Monday clarified the message he posted on his Twitter account after it was reported that he has broken up with latest girlfriend Chanel Olive Thomas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the reason for that but I have my shortcomings in my relationship and also my family. So like I said I want to man up and spend more time with my family,â&#x20AC;? Cuenca said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think parang Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m just gonna own up to it, like I said man up. I think 2014 was me being a bit self-centered. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t my typical self na laging inuuna ang pamilya ko at my relationship. So thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something I want to change sa 2015, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the things I want to change in myself. So for my family and loved ones, trust me 2015 will be a better for everyone,â&#x20AC;? he added. Asked of what happened to his relationship with Thomas, Cuenca said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Channel is really an amazing girl. We try to work things out ... pero I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better for us to be really good friends. ... Masaya lang ako na at least na maintain namin ang pagiging magkaibigan and that I will cherish forever.â&#x20AC;? Asked of his birthday wish, Cuenca, who turned 27 on Tuesday, said he just wants more time to be with his family this year.

Charice

Jed Madela in recovery after losing voice Award-winning singer Jed Madela is now â&#x20AC;&#x153;getting betterâ&#x20AC;? after losing his voice last month due to â&#x20AC;&#x153;overuse.â&#x20AC;? The 37-year-old said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The entire November kasi was really busy and feeling ko Superman ako, so nag-everyday (performance) ako and then it (voice) just gave up. Nawala na lang siya.â&#x20AC;? He was advised by doctors to rest his voice for another month before starting work on his new album set for release this year. Recall that Madela had several shows cancelled last month, including an appearance in Lani Misaluchaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;La Nightingaleâ&#x20AC;? concert last Dec. 6, where he was replaced by Martin Nievera. Madela also wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t able to sing at the recent Aliw Awards where he bagged the Entertainer of the Year trophy for the first time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sobrang frustrating that night. Kasi in-awardan ako ng â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Entertainer of the Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; but I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sing, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t entertain,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, it was (humbling).â&#x20AC;? The singer seems hopeful for a better 2015 based on a recent Instagram post: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just realized that

Jed Madela

I spent most of my 2014 doing things for others. I am proud of that. Some showed appreciation, some just walked away. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine. I do things to help and to share. No strings attached. But I guess this year should be my turn. I have given so much to others that I forgot about myself. Looking forward to an amazing 2015!â&#x20AC;? (MNS)

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next for Gretchen Barretto? After playing a psychologist in the drama â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Trial,â&#x20AC;? socialite actress Gretchen Barretto is set to do another movie for Star Cinema and director Chito Rono this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Of course, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very loyal,â&#x20AC;? Barretto told reporters in an interview, although she refused to divulge details about the plot. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ang dami naming pinag-uusapan pero (hanggang) hindi pa talaga nagga-grind, mahirap (magsalita). Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very patient. Nagawa ko ang â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and I look forward to the projects Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m gonna do. But Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m enjoying my time with family and friends. Kakabalik ko lang,â&#x20AC;? she said. Barretto had just arrived from London, where her daughter Dominique is studying. She is also hoping to appear in a TV series. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hopefully may teleserye ako na gagawain. Madami silang sinasabi na â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;okay thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s somethingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pero

Gretchen Barretto

hindi pa siguradong sigurado. So ayaw kong pagusapan kung hindi pa sigurado,â&#x20AC;? she said. (MNS)

Paulo Avelino looks back at â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;inspiringâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2014 Actor Paulo Avelino described 2014 as a very busy year for him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coming from a nine-month break, parang pagbalik ko naman ay dirediretso naman from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Honesto,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; tapos â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sana Bukas Pa Ang Kahapon,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; tapos mayroon pang tumuloy (na bagong show). Sobrang busy,â&#x20AC;? said Paulo Avelino Avelino. Despite his hectic work schedule, Avelino said this year also inspired him to become better. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I met more people at parang in a way I could say na parang nagkaroon ulit ako, na-inspire ulit ako, lalo na magtrabaho,â&#x20AC;? he said. Asked if rumored girlfriend

KC Concepcion also inspires him, Avelino replied: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oo, KC is part, isa siya sa nag-inspire sa akin ngayong taon.â&#x20AC;? Avelino, who has been very vocal about his fondness of Concepcion, said he and Concepcion are â&#x20AC;&#x153;best friendsâ&#x20AC;? who are enjoying time together. (MNS)

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MOTORING ‘Delicious’ Ford GT supercar wows Detroit

The new Ford GT is introduced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. ©AFP PHOTO/GEOFF ROBINS

Detroit, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Ford attempted to land a knockout blow to its rivals at the Detroit auto show in revealing a dazzling new GT supercar on Monday. The glitzy presentation at the cavernous arena named after the boxer Joe Louis was an attempt to grab the headlines at the United States’ premier auto show, where power and luxury have roared back to the fore. Ford had given very little away in the leadup to the first major international auto show of the year, but speculation had been rife that it had something special in mind. And it did not disappoint, unveiling a GT for next year that immediately won glowing approval from car enthusiasts who flooded social media to proclaim what one called on Twitter “delicious.” The new GT, an update to the legendary sports car last produced a decade ago before the US industry plunged into crisis, boasts 600 horsepower and twinturbocharged V6 ecoboost engines. It signals Ford’s readiness to put the years of austerity from the 2008-2009 recession behind it, when things like circuit-ready supercars were seen as expensive excesses in Detroit. Mark Fields, Ford’s chief executive, called the GT a showcase for Ford’s most advanced efforts in lightweight materials, power-andfuel conservation in its engines, and aerodynamics. “We looked at how we were driving innovation through the company,” Fields said. “And we said to ourselves, let’s have a showcase where we can highlight that innovation and technology in a really dramatic way.” The GT will be available late 2016, Fields said, marking the 50th anniversary of the company’s original highperformance racer, the GT40. But Fields was coy when asked if the new GT would be racing at Le Mans or Sebring. “We have nothing else to talk about besides just presenting this great looking car.” Ford had already been in the spotlight in Detroit, snapping up the award for best truck, for the new aluminum F-150, while the Volkswagen Golf was named North American car of the year.

‘Badass luxury’: Acura unleashes NSX supercar Detroit, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Evoking the memory of Formula One legend Ayrton Senna and boasting of G-forces similar to the sport he graced, the $150,000 Acura NSX supercar made its global bow Monday in Detroit. Just two hours after Ford threatened to hog the limelight at one of the world’s top auto shows with its new GT supercar, Acura hit back with the new version of its fabled NSX, and a hybrid version at that. “It’s just badass... in a luxury kind of a way,” Mike Accavitti, Honda senior vice president and Acura general manager, told a throng of reporters at the North American International Auto Show.

Unveiled in a reception more suited to a rock star than a car, the NSX, which boasts horsepower in excess of 550, threatened to bring the annual Detroit extravaganza to a standstill. Originally debuted in the United States 25 years ago and driven by Senna in 1989, the new NSX combines an electric motor at the rear and twin-electric motors at the front with twin turbo-charged V6 engines. “It not only lives up to the legacy of its predecessor, it’s the stuff that our dreams are made of,” purred Accavitti. The Acura NSX will hit the streets later this year and has four driving modes: quiet (running only electric), sport, sports plus and track.

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KITCHENOMICS FAMILY FEATURES

s your winter schedule is sure to be packed with gatherings that bring family and friends closer, have plenty of treats that are gentle on the waist and wallet. Sweet, spicy, salty or with an Asian twist — any way you pop it — popcorn is a satisfying snack suitable for every chilly weather occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or simply enjoying a family movie night, popcorn’s wholesome taste can take on a variety of flavors to please every guest. Plus, popcorn snacks are healthy and whole grain, which means they’re a more nutritious alternative to traditional party nibbles and noshes. Cuddle up to these recipes and more by visiting www.popcorn.org.

Sweet and Salty Popcorn Party Mix Yield: 14 cups 10 cups popped popcorn 2 cups miniature pretzel twists (or another small pretzel shape) 1 cup pecans 1 cup peanuts 2 cups rice, wheat or corn cereal squares 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup corn syrup 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Preheat oven to 300°F. Place popcorn, pretzels, pecans, peanuts and cereal in very large bowl; set aside. Heat butter, brown sugar and corn syrup in medium saucepan. Stir mixture over medium heat until it begins to boil. Boil 3 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda (mixture will foam). Pour syrup over popcorn mixture in bowl and stir until evenly coated. Pour mixture onto large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking time. Stir mixture a few times as it cools on baking sheet. Store in airtight container.

Asian Popcorn Medley Yield: 8 cups 6 cups popped popcorn 2 cups Oriental rice cracker mix 3 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1/2–1 teaspoon ground ginger (may vary to taste) 1/4–1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (may vary to taste) Preheat oven to 300°F. Mix popcorn and rice cracker mix together in large bowl. In small microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter on high until melted, about 20 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, ginger and oil. Drizzle over popcorn mixture; toss. Spread mixture on baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, stirring once. Allow to cool, serve or store in airtight container.

Cinnamon Chocolate Popcorn Yield: 3 quarts 3 quarts popped popcorn Butter-flavored cooking spray 9 tablespoons powdered cocoa mix (cocoa sweetened with sugar or sugar substitute) 3 teaspoons cinnamon Put popcorn in large bowl and lightly spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle cocoa mix and cinnamon on popcorn. Toss to coat evenly. Spray and toss again until mixture is well coated. Serve immediately.

Blazing Buffalo Ranch Popcorn Yield: 6 quarts, plus leftover seasoning mix 1 tablespoon ranch dressing or dip mix (from 1-ounce package) 1 tablespoon seafood spice mix (or celery salt) 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (or sugar) 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil 6 quarts popped popcorn Cooking spray, optional In small bowl, blend ranch dressing mix, spice mix, garlic powder, powdered sugar and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle with vegetable oil and blend until well incorporated. Place popcorn in serving bowl and spray lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle seasoning mix over popcorn to taste and toss. Store leftover seasoning mix in airtight container for future use.

Coconut-Ginger Popcorn Truffles Yield: 3 dozen truffles 5 cups air-popped popcorn 2 cups miniature marshmallows 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter 1/2 cup shredded coconut 3 tablespoons candied ginger, minced Cooking spray

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter Place popcorn in large bowl. Place marshmallows and 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter in medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until melted; remove from heat. Stir in shredded coconut and candied ginger. Mix well. Spray hands with cooking spray, then scoop up 1 tablespoon of popcorn mixture. Roll mixture with hands to form ball.

Place ball on baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Repeat to make 36 balls. Place chocolate in small, microwave safe bowl. Heat in microwave on high for one minute, until melted. If not completely melted, microwave for another 15 seconds and stir again. Stir 1 teaspoon coconut oil into melted chocolate. Place chocolate in zipperstyle plastic bag and seal. Snip off tiny corner of bag. Pipe chocolate on popcorn balls in decorative pattern. Garnish with extra shredded coconut and extra minced candied ginger, if desired. Place truffles in cool place until chocolate is set.

Asian Popcorn Medley

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Standing ovation at Globes for Paris attacks pledge Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Hollywood’s finest gave a standing ovation Sunday as Golden Globes organizers pledged support for freedom of expression, including in North Korea and over the deadly Paris attack on Charlie Hebdo. “Together we will stand united against anyone who will repress free speech, anywhere, from North Korea to Paris,” said Theo Kingma, head of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), bringing the applauding audience to its feet. A short time later, Oscar-winning actor Jared Leto also paid a moving tribute, even speaking French. “To our brothers, sisters, friends,

and family in France, our thoughts, our prayers, our hearts are with you tonight. On vous aime. Je suis Charlie (“We love you. I am Charlie”), Leto said. Amy Adams also broached the issue backstage, after winning the best comedy/musical actress Globe for “Big Eyes.” “My heart goes out to everybody in Paris and everybody who has been touched by violence,” Adams told reporters. On the red carpet, several stars including George Clooney, Helen Mirren and Kathy Bates displayed the “Je Suis Charlie” slogan that has become a rallying cry in the wake of the deadly gun attack on French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo.

Cuba frees all 53 political prisoners as agreed in deal: US By Nicolas Revise / With Carlos Batista In Havana

Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 1/12/2015 – Cuba has freed all 53 political prisoners agreed to in last month’s normalization deal with the United States, the US State Department said Monday. News of the release comes as US officials prepare to travel to Havana next week for talks to lay the foundation for a historic rapprochement after a half-century of Cold War enmity. “We welcome this very positive development and are pleased that the Cuban government followed through on this commitment,” State Department deputy spokeswoman Marie Harf said. “These political prisoners were individuals who had been cited by various human rights organizations as being imprisoned by the Cuban government for exercising internationally protected freedoms or for their promotion of political and social reforms in Cuba,” Harf said. A senior administration official said earlier that the US Interests Section in Havana had verified the releases. Neither the United States nor Cuba has disclosed who was released, but Harf said the list has been given to US lawmakers. “We fully expect it will be in the public domain,” she said. In Havana, dissident groups and the Catholic Church welcomed the news as a positive step forward, but neither could independently confirm the releases, and state-run media was silent on the matter. Orlando Marquez, the spokesman for the Archbishop of Havana, said that if confirmed, the releases indicated the process toward

normalization was underway. “It reflects a willingness ... to have a direct dialogue without intermediaries, and make progress in the normalization of relations to everyone’s benefit,” he said. ‘Where are the other 12?’ Dissident leaders said late last week that Cuba had released more than 40 dissidents by late Friday, as part of last month’s historic bilateral rapprochement in which Cuba agreed to free dozens of political prisoners as part of the deal to end a five-decade standoff with the United States. The head of the Ladies in White dissident group—which stages recurring protests in the Cuba capital—however took issue with the assertion that 53 political detainees were freed by the government, saying she believes the number is smaller. “We really don’t know who these 53 freed people are,” the group’s leader Berta Soler told AFP, adding that by her count, only 41 dissidents have been released. “Where are the other 12?” she said, calling on both the Havana and US governments to publish lists with the names of those who are supposed to have been freed. Soler added that the freed prisoners were only “conditionally released,” implying they could be re-arrested in the future. “By contrast the three spies freed by the United States are able to walk the street without conditions, even though they have blood on their hands,” said Soler, referring to members of the Cuban Five group sent back to Havana after years of imprisonment in America, as part of the normalization deal reached with Washington.

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12, 2015). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (MNS photo)

PHL condemns attacks in Paris MANILA, Jan 8 (Mabuhay) – The Philippine government on Thursday joined worldwide condemnation against an attack by gunmen on the offices of French magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris. At least 12 people were reported killed in the attacks, the Department of Foreign Affairs noted in a statement. “We are appalled by the senseless attacks that took twelve innocent lives and wounded several others in Paris. We join the French nation and the rest of the world in denouncing this blatant disregard for

human lives and the fundamental right of expression,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. It said the Philippines condoles and sympathizes with the families of the victims. “We condole and sympathize with the families of the victims as they mourn the loss of their loved ones and begin their quest for justice,” it said. Among those killed were the editor and celebrated cartoonists. Police had launched a hunt for three suspects. (MNS)

Highest US officer yet admits guilt in bribery scandal Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Wednesday 1/7/2015 – A US Navy commander pleaded guilty Tuesday to taking bribes including luxury hotel stays, cash and prostitutes in return for classified military information. Commander Jose Luis Sanchez was the fifth of seven charged, and most senior officer so far, to admit guilt in a scandal centered on a Singapore-based company which provides services for the US Navy in ports around the Pacific. In documents filed in federal court in San Diego, the 42-year-old admitted he provided classified ship schedules and other internal US Navy information to Glenn Defense Marine Asia (GDMA). In return the Singapore-based contractor gave Sanchez travel expenses, enter-

tainment and stays at high-end hotels, as well the services of prostitutes in Singapore and elsewhere in Asia between April 2008 and April 2013. “Commander Sanchez lost sight of the Navy’s core values and embraced a lifestyle of greed,” said US Attorney Laura Duffy, adding: “We continue to unearth the full scope of this pernicious fraud and bribery scheme.” “Commander Sanchez sold out his command and country for cash bribes, luxury hotel rooms, and the services of prostitutes,” added Assistant Attorney General Leslie Caldwell. “After today’s guilty plea, instead of free stays at the Shangri-La hotel, Sanchez is facing many nights in federal prison,” added Caldwell.