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Investigation ongoing on ‘laglag bala’ modus at NAIA
More lawyers back Poe on citizenship
Duterte: ‘No’ means ‘maybe’
Pope: Bishops who covered up for abuse guilty
Canada: 13th place on global competitiveness ranking
Leni Robredo BIG 4 DOWN is Roxas’ running-mate, says Drilon BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer
Police Director Francisco Uyami, Interior Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento, and PNP Director General Ricardo Marquez present to the press on Friday the alleged brains behind the 2011 killing of journalist and environmental activist Gerry Ortega--former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes (second from left, standing) and his brother, former Coron Mayor Mario Reyes (second from right, standing). The Reyes brothers are among the "Big Five" most wanted on the Palace list of fugitives. NINO JESUS ORBETA / PDI
Search-and-Rescue operations continue
for abducted Canadians, Norwegian, Filipina from Samal Island, Davao del Norte BY CHING DEE Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — Despite reports of hostages seen in Sulu, authorities’ search and rescue operation for the three foreigners
and a Filipina abducted from a resort in Samal Island in Davao del Norte remains focused in the Davao provinces. “Actually, our focus is still in Davao. They are still focused there,” said AFP
❱❱ PAGE 4 Leni Robredo
VW faces daunting financial and technical challenges in fixing software that cheated tests
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MANILA — Camarines Sur Representative Leni Robredo, widow of late Interior Secretary Jesse Rebredo, would be the Liberal Party’s (LP) vice-presidential candidate in next year’s national elections, according to Senate President and LP vice chairman Franklin Drilon. Drilon then confirmed that Robredo would be the running-mate of LP standard-bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II. He was asked in an interview over morning show “Umagang Kay Ganda.” “Sabihin na lang natin na si Congresswoman Leni na ang kandidato natin sa pagkabise-presidente (Let us just say
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Serge explains top bets’ rise, fall in surveys BY LEILA B. SALAVERRIA Philippine Daily Inquirer
than attracting former Poe supporters, the primary reason for the upward trajectory of his numbers was his increased media exposure in the past three weeks.
THE DECLINE in Sen. Grace Poe’s latest survey ratings could be attributed to P-Noy’s endorsement the position she took in support of the President Aquino’s endorsement of Iglesia ni Cristo’s massive street pro- Roxas also helped but only by two or tests against the government recently, three points, Osmeña said. The votes of as well as to lingering questions about supporters of Davao City Mayor Rodriher citizenship, according to Sen. Serge go Duterte—who announced he was not Osmeña. running in 2016— also went to Roxas, Osmeña, a self-styled political strate- the senator said. gist who helped Poe in her Senate camOsmeña believes the standing of the paign in 2013, also said that Liberal Par- candidates will still change in the comty standard-bearer Mar Roxas benefited ing months, depending on the debates, from the slight drop in Poe’s survey rat- for instance. ings, which he said Poe will have to was one of the factors strengthen what had that boosted Roxas’ brought her to the numbers. top of surveys—her While she continpopularity and the ues to remain on top, perception that she Poe dropped three is an honest person— percentage points to “People are despite being a neo27 percent in the latalways for phyte, Osmeña said. est Pulse Asia survey the little man “That is important, on voters’ preferred versus the but she has to reincandidates for Presibig man,” he force that,” he said in dent. said, citing the radio interview. The other contendthe classic Roxas is seen as a ers, Vice President Bible story technocrat, but this Jejomar Binay and about David is not something that Roxas, were not too defeating the resonates with the far behind, with 21 giant Goliath. people, according to percent and 18 perOsmeña. He noted, cent respectively. however, that Roxas Roxas’ rating reprehas since been altersented an 8-percenting his image and age point increase. has launched a more “people-oriented” Defender of INC campaign. faith
Poe received a lot of flak from online and social media commenters when she said that the INC members who massed up to protest the Department of Justice’s handling of a criminal case against church elders were just defending their faith and protecting their rights. She later explained her position, saying that she was just speaking up for the right of everyone to “voice their grievances.” Poe is also facing a disqualification case in the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) where a defeated 2013 senatorial candidate is seeking her ouster on the grounds that she is not a natural-born Filipino for being a foundling with unknown parentage. Her citizenship status has also been complicated by the fact that she gave up her purported Filipino citizenship to take on US citizenship, which she supposedly renounced just before accepting a government position in 2010. As for Roxas, Osmeña said that more
Not underdog
“And that’s the way to do it,” he added. As for Roxas’ attempt to portray himself as the underdog in the race, Osmeña said he could only be considered one because he still ranks third in surveys. But Roxas has the administration’s resources at his disposal, he pointed out. “That doesn’t make him exactly an underdog. He’s an underdog only because he is No. 3 in the ratings, but he’s improving,” Osmeña said. Binay could also be considered an underdog because of the constant stream of criticism that he has had to fend off. According to Osmeña, candidates always want to claim to be the underdog because it gives them a psychological advantage. “People are always for the little man versus the big man,” he said, citing the classic Bible story about David defeating the giant Goliath. “People want to say I am David, but I will win,” he added. ■
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Aquino: Good governance important for future of Filipinos, PHL BY LESLIE D. VENZON Philippines News Agency MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday called on local government officials to push forward his administration’s good governance platform, which is important for the future of each Filipino and the country. In his speech before the 2015 national assembly of League of Barangays of the Philippines held at the Marriot Hotel in Pasay City, the President underscored the need to continue the positive reforms through supporting “Daang Matuwid”. “Sa gabay ng Panginoon at sa patuloy nating pagkakapit-bisig sa Daang Matuwid, sama-sama nating huhubugin ang isang Pilipinas na talagang maipagmamalaki natin at ng mga susunod pang salinlahi (Through the guidance of the Lord and our continuous pursuit for the Daang Matuwid, we will build a Philip-
pines that everyone now and the next generations will be proud of, hand-inhand),” he said. The Chief Executive noted that every Filipino has ability to do what is right and reasonable to achieve desired goals for his country. “Kung gusto pa nating marating ang mas matatayog na pangarap, kailangang nating isulong ang Daang Matuwid. Idiin ko lang: Sa susunod na eleksiyon, di lang anim na taon ang nakataya, kundi ang mismong buhay at kinabukasan ng bawat Pilipino. Kung lilihis nga po tayo sa tuwid at talagang subok sa 2016, walang nakakatiyak na makakabawi pa tayo pagdating ng 2022 (If we want to reach even bigger dreams, we need to push for the Daang Matuwid. I will emphasize: in the coming elections, not only six years are at stake, but the lives and future of every Filipino. If we will stray from the straight and tested on 2016, no one is sure if we can still make up for it come 2022),” he added. ■
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Leni Robredo... that Congresswoman Leni is our candidate for vice president),” the senator answered. Robredo, for her part, has not yet officially declared interest in running for vice president alongside Roxas under the banner of LP. The lawmaker earlier disclosed that she first had to hear her daughters’ opinions regarding her political plans. The LP’s National Executive Council, on the other hand, also has yet to formally nominate its presidential and vice-presidential bids and present its final senatorial line up today. “Si Secretary Mar Roxas ang aming ino-nominate bilang aming kandidato sa pagka-pangulo. At sa ngayon ay ‘yung mga senador, ay lagpas po sa 12. Medyo patuloy ang paguusap, may 15 sa aming listahan,” Drilon ❰❰ 1
Masbate 3rd District Rep. Scott Davies S. Lanete.
Liberal Party standard-bearer Mar Roxas formally asks Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo to be his vice presidential running mate in 2016. Also in the photo is Archbishop Rolly Tirona. FACEBOOK
said. (We will nominate [former] Secretary Mar Roxas as our candidate for president. And to date, about our senators, we have more than 12. Talks
are still ongoing, as we have 15 [names] on our list.) The LP’s announcement of its complete slate for the coming national elections is expected on Monday, October 5. ■
Solon calls on DOLE to address lack of benefits granted to fixed term workers PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY MANILA — Rep. Scott Davies S. Lanete (3rd District, Masbate) has filed a bill urging the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to conduct feasibility studies on how to address the lack of benefits given to contractual workers. “The lack of benefits given to fixed-term employees has been going on for years and DOLE should address this matter,” Lanete said. Lanete, author of House Resolution 2391, said ordinary employees have not been given the full benefit of their labor compared to the profits enjoyed by their employers. He said the globalization of the market has resulted in increased competition among business entities. “This lead to implementation of various devices aimed at reducing the cost of producing goods to enable every business entity to remain competitive,” said Lanete, vice-chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. He said the common worker has seemingly been left forgotten as the competition grew and the quality of goods improved. Lanete said one of the devices or schemes that has been increasingly adapted nowadays is service contract employment. “This scheme, which is now a globally accepted practice, involves the outsourcing of the di-
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rect hiring of employees by service contract employers which is already an improvement of the fixed term employment or contractualization,” Lanete said. Lanete said a service contract employee could not be qualified for a retirement pay since the entitlement for such benefit needs service of employment for at least five years. “Thus, a service contact employee is at a disadvantage compared to other types of employees,” Lanete said. Lanete said there is an urgent and absolute need to remedy this miserable condition suffered by service contract employees in order to tip the scales of justice to a more equitable condition. Lanete said one of the remedies looked into is to accord the service contract employees compensation to include retirement pay consistent with Article 287 of the Labor Code, which they would be receiving had they been hired as regular employees. “Another way or remedy looked into is for employers to provide these service contact employees with lump sum cash incentives at the expiration of their contracts,” he recommended. Lanete said there is no need to pass a law to implement these solutions, as the pertinent provisions of the Labor Code are sufficient to authorize the DOLE to enforce these by virtue of issuing the necessary guidelines. ■
Philippine News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
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‘China just defending vs US in South China Sea’ BY JAYMEE T. GAMIL Philippine Daily Inquirer NOT MUCH has been said about the reason behind China’s land reclamation on disputed islets and reefs in the South China Sea. But a visiting Chinese scholar, in a recent interview with reporters at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, explained that the reclamation was meant more as a defensive measure against increased US presence in the Asia Pacific region. Li Kaisheng, associate research professor at the Institute of International Relations of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and part of a group of Chinese academics on a study tour of the Philippines, said the Chinese reclamation was “a condemnation of international arbitration” proceedings initiated by the Philippines in the United Nations. “Since 2009, [US] President [Barack] Obama suggested a strategic upheaval in the Asia Pacific…that by 2020, 60 percent of the US military will be deployed to the Asia Pacific region,” Li said. “So this is a big pressure on China [since] there is a power competition between China and the United States. So many Chinese people believe the Philippines is a policy tool of the United States [military] strategy. In this case, the Chinese government has to do something,” Li said, explaining China’s “hidden” reason for its island-building in the South China Sea. “Personally, I hope the Philippines is not a pawn in the China-US power competition. But, apparently, now it is. So this is an unfortunate fact for our bilateral relations,” Li said. Li also claimed that other countries, including the Philippines, have also oc-
This handout photo taken on March 17, 2015 by satellite imagery provider DigitalGlobe and released to AFP by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSSI) think tank shows a satellite image of vessels purportedly dredging sand at Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands in the disputed South China Sea. AFP PHOTO / CSIS ASIA MARITIME TRANSPARENCY INITIATIVE / DIGITALGLOBE
cupied internationally disputed islands in the South China Sea. “[Burma] occupied maybe 40, 50 disputed features. Philippines eight islands, Chinese eight islands,” he said. Li suggested that, rather than settling the dispute through international arbitration, which questions China’s claim over nearly all of the South China Sea, the Chinese and the Philippine governments should engage in direct “political negotiations.” “If you look at the history of China’s territorial disputes with other countries, we have so many disputes, not only with the Philippines. But since 1941, China has resolved disputes with more than 10 countries by political negotiations. In some cases, in most cases, it’s China that gives up more,” Li said.
He suggested the two countries put more focus on “cooperation in the economic field.” “On economic issues, we have so many common interests,” Li said, citing tourism, agriculture and infrastructure. Li encouraged both governments to use the Asia Pacific Economic Coop-
DOJ to block Reyes brothers’ plan for hospital arrest BY PERFECTO T. RAYMUNDO Philippines News Agency MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) will block any plans of the camp of former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes and his brother, former Coron, Palawan Mayor Mario Reyes, to be placed under hospital arrest. According to DOJ Secretary Leila M. De Lima, the DOJ prosecutors will vigorously oppose such plans of the Reyes brothers. De Lima said that aside from the fact that there was no basis for that hospital arrest, such a privilege of hospital deten-
tion was being abused by rich inmates. She also said that such a plan of the Reyes brothers was a travesty of justice system in the country. De Lima further said that the DOJ would also oppose any moves of the camp of the Reyes brothers to delay their arraignment, which was set on Friday, Oct. 2, 2015. The Reyes brothers are now detained at the Puerto Princesa City Jail for the crime of murder for allegedly “masterminding” the shooting to death of environmentalist and broadcaster Dr. Gerry Ortega in a public market in the city on Jan. 24, 2011. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
eration (Apec) summit in Manila in November to build goodwill. He also said the Philippines could benefit from applying to be a founding member of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). “I think China is still welcoming if the Philippines wants to be a founding member. If we check China’s plans, the Philippines is not excluded,” Li said. Earlier last week, a US official visited the Philippines for discussions of the South China Sea dispute with local officials. Assistant Secretary William R. Brownfield, head of the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), accompanied by US Coast Guard commandant Adm. Paul F. Zukunft, arrived in the Philippines Wednesday for a two-day visit. In a press conference at the Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, held on Wednesday after a meeting with PNP Director General Ricardo Marquez, Brownfield said he was in the country to follow up on the commitment of Obama to increase and improve maritime law enforcement cooperation in the Southeast Asian region. “Admiral Zukunft and I are concluding a visit that has brought us to Indonesia, Vietnam and now the Philippines,” Brownfield said. ■
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
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Investigation ongoing on ‘laglag bala’ modus at NAIA BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — After receiving multiple reports from passengers about the ‘laglag bala’ (dropped bullet) modus operandi at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), authorities have began a thorough investigation on the new extortion scheme. “The investigation is ongoing. As to the two security screening officers involved, ‘yung isa doon (one of them) was a baggage inspector, the other one was an x-ray operator,” NAIA spokesman David de Castro said in a GMA News report. “Never namin ipagsasawalang bahala [ang ganitong insidente] lalo na we cater to these passengers lalo na at karamihan dito ay turista. We would want to make sure na lahat sila ay secure naman whenever they transit through the airport,” he added. (We will never disregard these kinds of incidents especially since we cater to passengers who are mostly tourists.
NAIA Terminal 3.
We would want to make sure that they all feel secured whenever they transit through the airport.) According to NAIA passengers, a bullet or two would be slipped into a passenger’s baggage before it goes through an x-ray procedure. An airport of-
MATTUN0211 / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
ficer would then ask the victim to pay a certain amount for the personnel to overlook the incident. Passengers who declined to pay were detained for a couple of days under police custody for allegedly concealing a bullet in his checked-in baggage. The alleged airport officers
behind the modus were already relieved from post but investigations on the extortion scheme remained ongoing. “Kami naman po, without formal complaint, agad namin itong inaksyunan. ‘Yun po ay isang pagpapakita na talagang siniseryoso namin at ayaw po
namin itong mga pangyayaring ito,” Office for Transportation Security (OTS) spokesperson Jojo Maliwat said in a different report. (Without formal complaint, we immediately took action over the issue. It shows that we are serious about it and that we abhor these kinds of incidences.) “Basta ang stand namin dito pag nagkamali ang tauhan namin talagang papatawan natin ng kaparusahan ‘yan,” he added. (Our stand here is that if our personnel commit wrongdoings, we will really apply sanctions.) Maliwat, however, asserted that the ‘laglag bala’ modus was only an isolated case and asked the public not to prejudge other airport officers. “Hindi naman natin inilalahat… Pagbigyan lang po natin ‘yung ongoing investigation kasi po lahat naman po ng anggulo dito, tinitingnan natin,” he said. (We do not generalize… Let’s allow the ongoing investigation [to come up with findings first] because we are looking at every angle here.) ■
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Stop the violence, De Lima tells all sides in IP issue BY JEROME ANING Philippine Daily Inquirer JUSTICE SECRETARY Leila de Lima yesterday called on the New People’s Army (NPA), state security forces and other armed groups to stop the acts of violence against indigenous peoples (IP) in Mindanao and respect international humanitarian laws (IHL) and human rights. “[I]t is imperative that military and law enforcement operations are conducted with the utmost concern and attention to IHL and human rights that govern the conduct of combatant forces in an armed conflict. At the same time, the non-state actors involved, the NPA and paramilitary forces alike, must stop the armed actions that have caused countless civilian casualties,” De Lima said in a three-page statement. “These antagonists must cease and desist from inflicting further acts of violence, whether against each other, the government or non-combatant civilians, and instead comply with IHL and observe the basic human rights to life and peace
of the civilian populations in the mountains, especially that of children, women and the elderly,” De Lima said. She said the government viewed with “deep concern” the reported acts of aggression against the indigenous people of Eastern and Northern Mindanao, among them, the Manobo of Davao del Norte, Bukidnon and Surigao del Sur. President Aquino earlier directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate alleged transgressions committed against the indigenous people, many of them living in upland villages. De Lima formed a special joint team from the National Prosecution Service and National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a probe. De Lima noted that several cases had been investigated, resulting in the filing of criminal complaints before the public prosecutor or the proper courts. Policy of peace without impunity
“The government reaffirms its policy of peace without impunity and justice without sur-
Justice Sec. Leila De Lima at the Senate hearing on the Mamasapano Clash. PHOTO COURTESY OF SEN. GRACE POE'S FACEBOOK PAGE
render. The DOJ assures the public that any human rights violation and criminal offense committed will be investigated and prosecuted with determination. The DOJ will thus continue to conduct in depth and objective investigations, regardless of whether the perpetrators are the NPA, paramilitary groups or members of state
security forces,” De Lima said. According to the secretary, there were reports indicating that the violence was inflicted by armed groups of one indigenous tribe against the unarmed civilian population of rival indigenous communities. She also cited initial reports suggesting that the transgressions that resulted in the death
and injury of members of indigenous communities and the destruction of their property involved paramilitary groups. De Lima said the reported involvement of paramilitary groups or private armed groups must be treated with “grave concern,” saying such groups have a “long tradition” of involvement in criminal activities in Mindanao, including vigilante operations, whether in the name of counterinsurgency or tribal retribution. “In the DOJ investigation, we are also going to dig deeper into the links these paramilitary groups have with organized crime,” she said, adding that their reign of terror in hinterland communities must come to an end. The secretary said there was also “no doubt” that both the NPA and its allied organizations, on the one hand, and some elements of the state’s security forces, on the other, have played a role in a situation where the upland communities “are caught in the middle of an armed rebellion and the consequent counterinsurgency operations.” ■
Presidential bets to make pitch to NUP BY DJ YAP Philippine Daily Inquirer LIBERAL PARTY (LP) presidential candidate Mar Roxas and Vice President Jejomar Binay will address 500 members of the National Unity Party (NUP) today in hopes of getting their support for the 2016 presidential race. A third prospective candidate, Sen. Bongbong Marcos, will also speak at the NUP national convention at Sofitel Plaza Hotel in what party leaders described as a venue for the presidential hopefuls to present their platforms of government. Marcos will appear in lieu of Sen. Grace Poe, who reportedly cannot make it to the event. The NUP is a member of the administration-led political coalition. Rival political parties are scrambling to consolidate their forces in the run-up to the
Pres. Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy) flashes the faces of the top three would-be presidential candidates for 2016: VP Jojo Binay, Sen. Grace Poe, and Interior Sec. Mar Roxas, during his last SONA. SCREENSHOT COURTESY OF PCI LIVE STREAM VIA RTVM
deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy next month. So far, only Binay, Roxas and Poe have declared their presidential bids. The support of the NUP, which has a sizable membership in the provinces, draws
prospective candidates, especially in a tight election. Reaffirm allegiance
“More than a show of force, the party’s gathering of our leaders from all over the country will be an opportunity to www.canadianinquirer.net
reaffirm our allegiance to the NUP,” said party chair Antipolo Rep. Roberto V. Puno. The NUP president, Bataan Gov. Albert Garcia, said the convention would help party members evaluate the candidates on their platforms and
“policy positions on major national issues.” Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone of the LP said the backing of the NUP would make a big difference, especially on the local level. “They have a strong presence in local politics. And local officials are at the front lines of an electoral campaign,” he said. The NUP was formed in 2011 after internal discord prompted several members of former President Gloria MacapagalArroyo’s Lakas Party to break away from the group. It has for members at least 27 congressmen, eight governors and nine mayors, according to its official website. NUP vice president Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr., a supporter of Roxas, said the party will choose a candidate “worthy of our support” after the convention. Some 500 NUP leaders from Cagayan to Sulu are expected at today’s event. ■
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Sen. Grace Poe announces her candidacy for the 2016 presidential race.
More lawyers back Poe on citizenship Ex-senator, former CJ assert she is Filipino BY JEROME C. ANING AND DJ YAP Philippine Daily Inquirer
PHILIPPINE PUBLISHING GROUP Editorial Assistant Phoebe Casin Associate Publisher Lurisa Villanueva In cooperation with the Philippine Daily Inquirer digital edition Philippine Canadian Inquirer is located at 400-13955 Bridgeport Rd., Richmond, BC V6V 1J6 Canada Tel. No.: +1 (888) 668-6059, +1 (604) 484-9243 778-889-3518 | Email: info@canadianinquirer.net, sales@ canadianinquirer.net Philippine Canadian Inquirer is published weekly every Friday. Copies are distributed free throughout Metro Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg and Toronto. The views and opinions expressed in the articles (including opinions expressed in ads herein) are those of the authors named, and are not necessarily those of Philippine Canadian Inquirer Editorial Team. PCI reserves the right to reject any advertising which it considers to contain false or misleading information or involves unfair or unethical practices. The advertiser agrees the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of error in any advertisement. Member
MORE LEGAL experts have come to the defense of Sen. Grace Poe against the view of Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, head of the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET), that she is a naturalized and not a native-born Filipino citizen. A lawmaker, however, insisted yesterday that Poe should explain why she abandoned her Philippine citizenship in the first place when she could have lived, worked and raised a family in the United States and still remained a Filipino. “Since Sen. Grace Poe is now running for President no less, she has to deal with the reality that she has put herself and her family under a microscope,” House Deputy Minority Leader Arnel Ty said in a statement. Carpio’s stating his opinion, based on international law, during oral arguments on Sept. 21 on a petition for the ouster of Poe from the Senate has led to calls for his inhibition from the case. But election lawyer Romulo Macalintal, in a statement issued yesterday, said Carpio’s opinion using customary international law (CIL) as basis was not a strong ground for his inhibition. ‘Merely an opinion’
“[The] comment was merely an opinion. It was not yet the decision of the SET. Looking at the positive side of Justice Carpio’s comment, it was to the advantage of Poe that he disclosed what was in his mind, if ever that would be his
final position on this issue. It is now a challenge to Poe’s lawyers to prove otherwise,” Macalintal said. “Who knows, given an argument better than his, Carpio might, after all, be convinced that Poe is a natural-born Filipino citizen under CIL that recognizes the parents of a foundling as citizens of the country where the foundling was found. In other words, Carpio has to be convinced that since the parents of Poe are recognized by CIL as Filipino citizens, then Poe is a natural-born Filipino citizen,” he added.
posed of three Supreme Court justices and six senators, will hand down its decision. Poe was found in a church in Jaro, Iloilo province, after her birth in 1968. She was adopted by movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. and his wife, actress Susan Roces, in 1974. Under questioning by Sen. Loren Legarda, a member of the SET, during the oral arguments, David’s lawyer, Manuelito Luna, admitted that David had no evidence to prove that Poe’s real parents were foreigners.
Prejudgment
Human rights
For former Sen. Rene Saguisag, however, Carpio must inhibit himself from the disqualification suit because the magistrate had already “prejudged” the case with his pronouncement. “I don’t think Justice Carpio should continue on the [SET], having sadly and openly prejudged the case. I think he should have waited until all arguments are in before concluding that Grace is naturalized, not natural-born, which Chief Justice Roberto Concepcion defined as ‘one born a citizen,’” Saguisag said in a statement. “It seems to me his startling imprudent and egregious prejudgment allows him no wiggle room,” Saguisag said. The SET heard oral arguments on Sept. 21 on the petition brought by defeated senatorial candidate Rizalito David, who questioned Poe’s qualification to hold public office, as she is allegedly not a natural-born Filipino. The parties in the case have until Oct. 6 to submit their final arguments and positions, after which the SET, com-
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Poe, being a foundling, is considered a natural-born citizen under the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which states that the right to a nationality is one of the most fundamental human rights, according to Saguisag, a human rights lawyer and advocate. Under the UDHR, Saguisag said, a foundling “may be the weakest of minorities deserving of special case and assistance, not special discrimination.” “Being a pulot (foundling) or ampon (adopted) used to be a traditional vilification modern thought now looks askance at. The UDHR’s Article 15 says: ‘Everyone has the right to a nationality,’” Saguisag pointed out. From birth
He added: “Grace should not be denied that right. And nationality should attach at birth, not a day, week, month, a year later, an unmanageable standard. When was she naturalized, assuming she needed to be? Naturalized from what other
Philippine News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
nationality? Naturalization implies a change in nationality. Or assumed two citizenships,” he said. Saguisag also supported the opinion that the burden of proof could not be shifted to Poe, who enjoys the presumption of being a natural-born citizen. “When will we stop vilifying foundlings? They have parents, [although] unknown. It seems to me to put the burden on David in this seeming case of first impression is legally tenable, intellectually respectable and psychologically satisfying,” he said. Retired Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban also disagreed with Carpio and agreed with Macalintal that Poe is considered a natural-born citizen under the generally accepted principles of international law, which form part of the law of the Philippines. In his column in the INQUIRER, Panganiban cited Article 2 of the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, which says: “A foundling found in the territory of a Contracting State shall, in the absence of proof to the contrary, be considered to have been born in the territory of parents possessing the nationality of that State.” He recalled that the the 1935 Constitution, which was the country’s basic law in 1968 when Poe was born, provides that the Philippines adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the nation. “[S]he—a foundling who was found in Iloilo, Philippines—is deemed to have Filipino parents. Perforce, she is natural-born since her presumed parents, specifically her father, are accorded Philippine citizenship,” Panganiban said. Panganiban also said it was actually Poe’s parents who acquired Philippine citizenship pursuant to international law. “She derived her citizenship from her presumed Filipino father; thus, she is a citizen from birth without having to do anything to acquire or perfect her Philippine citizenship,” he added. The 1935 Constitution provides, among other things, that those whose fathers are citizens of the Philippines are considered Filipino citizens. Burden of proof
Panganiban said Poe’s biological father may be proven to be actually a foreigner, “but the burden of proof belongs to those who challenge her natural-born status.” “Unless such proof is presented, her parents continue to be presumed Filipinos. Thus, she retains her natural-born citizenship,” Panganiban said. Although the Philippines is not a signatory to the 1961 convention, Panganiban said it was still bound by its provisions because they had become “generally accepted principles of international law, which … are as binding as statutes passed by Congress.” Apart from the 1961 convention, he said, foundlings are also protected by
the 1930 Hague Convention on the Conflict of Nationality Laws and the 1948 UDHR, which states that the right to a nationality is one of the most fundamental human rights. Macalintal said it would be up to Carpio to decide whether to inhibit. According to him, the Supreme Court, in a previous case, stated that members of electoral tribunals, may, as their conscience dictates, refrain from participating in the resolution of a case where they sincerely feel that their personal interests or biases will stand in the way of an objective and impartial judgment. In another case, the Supreme Court reminded judges accused of biases due to reasonable circumstances that they should conduct a careful self-examination and then exercise their discretion in a way that the people’s faith in the courts of justice is not impaired. “Thus, no one could force Justice Carpio to inhibit from Poe’s case. Only his conscience and sound discretion could make the final decision,” Macalintal said. Explain to voters
In his statement, Ty said Poe should explain to the voters why she gave up her Philippine citizenship and acquired US citizenship. “Voters deserve a straightforward answer from the senator, on the question as to the specific circumstances that compelled her to seek and acquire US citizenship, and surrender her Filipino citizenship,” he said. “This is a perfectly legitimate question that is of great public interest,” he said. Ty made the statement in reaction to reports that Poe continued to use her US passport in her travels abroad even after she had renounced her US citizenship. According to INQUIRER legal commentator Oscar Franklin Tan, the matter is legally irrelevant “There are many Filipinos who have lived and worked in America for years, but have been content on staying on as permanent US residents, or so-called green card holders,” Ty said. Based on a cursory review of US immigration rules, Ty said, both US citizens and foreigners who are US green card holders enjoy long-term rights to live, work and even raise families in the United States. “The significant difference, as far as many Filipino voters are concerned, is that when you acquire American citizenship, just like what Senator Poe did, you have to swear absolute loyalty to the US and its Constitution, and categorically reject your Filipino citizenship,” Ty said. “Assuming Senator Poe wanted to work and live in America, and raise a family there, which she actually did, she could have accomplished all these as a US green card holder, without necessarily becoming an American citizen— without necessarily abandoning her Filipino citizenship,” he said. ■
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Escudero supports Comelec-proposed presidential debate BY JELLY F. MUSICO Philippines News Agency
tober 12-16. “The debate will allow the people to get to feel the true sentiment, the sincerity of the candidates up close and personal. MANILA — Senator Francis ‘Chiz’ Es- You know us, Filipinos, we prefer to meet cudero on Monday supported a plan of people personally before we pass judgthe Commission on Elections (Come- ment on them,” Escudero said. lec) to hold debates between and among Escudero said debates “could be the the national and local candidates in the ultimate equalizer in this day and age 2016 eletions. of social media and massive advertiseEscudero said through debates, the ments and advantageous for candidates voters will be able to know the charac- without huge campaign kitty like us.” ter of the candidates, particularly those “Besides, nothing but a heated debate running for higher could bring out the posts including prestrue character in a ident and vice presicandidate. Is the candent. didate so callous as “The debate will alThe debate will to really feel for the low the people to get allow the people people? Is the candito feel the true sentito get to feel the date so irritable and ment, the sincerity true sentiment, could be sent spiralof the candidates up the sincerity of ing out of control close and personal. the candidates with a fit of bad temYou know us, Filipiup close and per when confronted nos, we prefer to meet personal. You with contentious ispeople personally know us, Filipinos, sues? Or is he able to before we pass judgwe prefer to meet stay calm and collectment on them,” Escupeople personally ed?,” he added. dero said. before we pass He proposed that Recently, Escudero judgment on the Comelec debates announced his canthem. should be like Facedidacy as vice presibook, Twitter and dent of ‘independent’ Skype—”all rolled presidential aspirant into one, but with a Senator Grace Poe. major twist. It’s got So far, other declared presidential as- to be on stage and televised nationwide.” pirants are Vice President Jejomar BiAccording to Escudero, debates on nay of the United Nationalist Alliance the local level should also be able to (UNA) and Manuel ‘Mar’ Roxas II of the ferret out the good and bad qualities of ruling Liberal Party (LP). the candidates because “they would be Senator Antonio Trillanes IV was the made to face up to the people.” first to declare intention to run for vice “Those times when you just see the lopresident with or without the blessings cal candidates on the podium and on the of the Nacionalista Party (NP). posters and billboards and not see them The Comelec has set the filing of Cer- again until the next elections should end tificates of Candidacy (CoCs) from Oc- with these debates,” he said. ■
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Philippine News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Aquino to lead LP’s presentation of candidates for president, VP – Drilon BY JELLY F. MUSICO Philippines News Agency
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III.
MALACAÑANG PHOTO BUREAU
MANILA — President Benigno Aquino III will lead the Liberal Party’s National Executive Council (NECO) meeting and its presentation of presidential and vice presidential candidates on Wednesday, a ruling party’s stalwart announced on Monday. LP vice chairman and Senate President Franklin Drilon said the LP had yet to decide on its 12-man senatorial slate but the running mate of LP standardbearer Mar Roxas would be announced at the Club Filipino in San Juan. “The president will be there
Multiple graft charges filed against Landbank, SSS officials BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — Former Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and Social Security System (SSS) executives are facing multiple graft complaints filed before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the anomalous P9-billion Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) block sale. Former SSS officials facing graft charges are chairman Thelmo Cunanan, vice-chairman Romulo Neri, Victorino Balais, Donald Dee, Sergio Ortiz-Luiz, Sonny Matula, Marianita Mendoza and Fe Tibayan Palileo. Also facing graft charges are Landbank officials Albert Balingit, Patricia Rualo-Bello, Cyril Del Callar, Carel Halog, Ombre Hamsirani, Eduardo Nolasco, Gilda Pico, George Regalado, Marianito Roque, Margarito Teves and Roberto Vergara. According to the Ombudsman’s investigators, Cunanan and the other SSS executives approved a P5.669-billion stock purchase agreement of its Meralco shares of stock to Global 5000 Investment Inc. in 2009.
as the chairman of the party. He will preside over the business meeting of the NECO, after the business meeting, we will have the presentation of the presidential and vice presidential candidate of the party. The President will be there, as chairman of the party,” Drilon explained in a media interview before Monday’s Senate session. When asked to name Roxas’ possible running mate, Drilon advised the media to just “wait for it.” Earlier, Drilon identified Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos as among the possible vice presidential bet of the ruling party. Drilon sees ‘dead heat’ race
Lawmaker doubts BBL passage this year, says still in period of debates BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer
LandBank of the Philippines.
The block sale, however, ‘was not in accordance with sound business practice as it has the effect of giving P4.535 billion loan to Global 5000’ wherein the company only had a capital of about P62.5 million. Noting that Global 5000 was only established a year prior the sale, the former SSS officials approved the deal despite the firm’s questionable financial capacity and lack of proven record, waving ‘voting rights to Global despite the lack of full payment and actual transfer of ownership.’ The LBP officials also approved the block sale within 10 days without any negotiations,
URBAN WIKI
giving ‘unwarranted benefits, advantage or preference’ to Global 5000. The key executives are then facing probe for the alleged violation of sections 3(e) and 3(g) of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The former SSS and Landbank officials, for their part, have earlier defended their block sale, asserting that they observed ‘due diligence and transparency in the transaction.’ Global officials Joselito Campos, Jr., Rhodel Gandingco, Consuelo Lagao, Roberto Ongpin and Iñigo Zobel are also under investigation. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
for president in the 2016 now that Roxas, Senate Grace Poe and Vice President Jejomar Binay considered as statistically tied based on the recent surveys of Pulse Asia and Social Weather Station (SWS). “It’s a dead heat race. Statistically tied, it’s plus minus three. It’s the start of Roxas’ surge in surveys. The race is on,” he said. Drilon said the LP would continue to present Roxas “as the rightful successor of President Aquino to continue the principle of Daang Matuwid.” “Of course, we will not present a candidate who will not win. We are confident that we can make a distinction between Secretary Mar and his opponents,” Drilon said. ■
MANILA — Zamboanga City Representative Celso Lobregat said Friday that the ‘moving timeline’ for the deliberations of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) would derail its passage in the House of Representatives. “The first deadline was in June, before the adjournment of the second regular session. The second is before we go on our first recess on October 10, but that is no longer possible because we will tackle the 2016 budget starting on Monday. So December 16 before the Christmas break is the new deadline,” Lobregat said in a Philippine Star report. Noting that they were still in the period of debates, the lawmaker doubted the draft BBL’s passage this year. “After that, we go to the period of amendments. We will tackle all provisions one after the other. The amendments will be subject to debate… Then there is the turno en contra be-
fore we vote on second reading. After that comes the third and final reading vote,” he said. Should the Congress fail to approve the BBL this year, Lobregat disclosed that the next Congress would continue its deliberations and passage. Still hopeful
The Malacañang, for its part, remained hopeful that the proposed BBL will be approved in its December 16 deadline and believed that it was indeed possible. “Kung ito ay maisasabatas kahit na sabihin nating Disyembre na nga, ay meron pa rin namang sapat na panahon para makapag-appoint ang Pangulo ng mga kasapi ng Bangsamoro [Transition] Authority at mayroon pa ring sapat na panahon para magdaos ng isang plebisito,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a press briefing. (If this will be made into law even by December, there is still enough time for the President to appoint members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and there is still enough time to hold a plebiscite.) ■
Philippine News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
Duterte: ‘No’ means ‘maybe’ BY JODEE A. AGONCILLO Philippine Daily Inquirer IT WAS not really a firm “no” but a plea for more time. “I am asking for more time. But I promise you, I will not abandon you,” Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said in a text message read by retired Gen. Hermogenes Esperon before about 6,000 supporters gathered at the Quirino Grandstand yesterday to convince him to run. Esperon said Duterte, who was in Zamboanga working, would be reconsidering an earlier announcement he made that he had no interest in running for President. What he wanted was to be given more time to decide about a presidential bid, Esperon told the crowd of supporters from various groups all over the country. Pointing to the rainbow as a sign of hope, Duterte’s supporters cheered and clapped their hands, seeing it as a sign that Duterte
would respond to their call. Duterte has been consistent in saying that he will not run for President. He told a press conference on Sept. 7 that he would retire from public life in 2016. “I believe it’s no longer my time. I will retire after my term,” he said. In the June Social Weather Stations voter preference survey, Duterte ranked fourth, just a percentage point behind Liberal Party standard-bearer Mar Roxas. Also seen at the event were lawyer Raul Lambino, former spokesperson of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo; former chair of Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption Dante Jimenez and singer Victor Wood who led the public in chanting “Run, Duterte, Run!” According to tourism police officer Elmer Roseo, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy was also there, bringing with him 1,500 members of his sect to the rally. A million-signature campaign was also launched yes-
terday to show support for Duterte. “Duterte is good. Davao City is the fifth safest city now because of him,” said Esperon, the Davao mayor’s friend for almost 26 years. “We need a major surgeon who can do a major surgery in terms of the country’s state of crime and poverty … and that’s Duterte,” Jimenez said. “Ninety percent of our barangays are infested with drug lords,” he said. “We need a stronger penalty, death penalty for violators … only Duterte can enforce that,” Jimenez said. “Grace Poe is OK but needs more ripening,” said the anticrime crusader. Alysa Alip, 16, was one of about 30 Muslim students from Taguig Alidaya who participated in the rally. “Our teachers told us that Duterte really care and understand the plight of Muslims,” she said. Ram Samar, head of the Duterte for President movement in Bicol, said Duterte was the only govern-
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Davao City Mayor Rodrigo ‘Rody’ Duterte.
ment official he knew who had “no mark of corruption.” “I can remember him daring the public that he will resign if he robbed the government of even as small as a peso. That’s how credible Duterte is,” Samar said. Lambino praised Duterte for his discipline and style of leadership and for showing what real people empowerment is. “Duterte is our only hope for a changed government. Our old Presidents have not changed the system. It was only Duterte who did and the only person we know who could,” he said. Manuel Serra, Jr., secretary general of the PDP in the Davao region, said Duterte need not worry about funding. “He won’t spend a bit in the campaign period. We believe in him and we will support him all the way,” he said. A clear program
“The fruit of the pudding is in the eating. We have already seen how Duterte works,” said lawyer Vitaliano Aguirre III, head of the Brotherhood for
RDUTERTE.COM
Duterte, a multisectoral group of about 2 million members nationwide that support Duterte for President. “We have seen how he has transformed Davao from a killing field into one of the most peaceful cities in the world,” he said. Aguirre, who likes Duterte for his clear program against crime and poverty, said he could not choose from the three politicians who earlier declared their presidential bids. “Duterte has a clear program for crime prevention and reduction and he proposes federalism as a better form of government, just like in Indonesia,” he said. Although Duterte earlier declared he had no interest in running for politics, citing his family and lack of funds as reasons, Aguirre said he had a “moral obligation” to the public. “He cannot refuse the call of the people” he said, adding that he was confident that Duterte would soon announce that he will run for President. ■
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Philippine News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Don’t talk to Philip, you may be shocked, says Virgie Torres
Solon calls on DOLE to address lack of benefits granted to fixed term workers
BY JERRY E. ESPLANADA Philippine Daily Inquirer
BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer
nila International Container Port, confirmed the official’s disclosure. Contacted by phone, Torres had admitted going to the BOC Intelligence Group (IG) office on Aug. 20.
BUSINESSMAN PHILIP Sy has remained elusive after he recently figured in a controversy at the Bureau of Customs (BOC), along with former Land Help a friend Transportation Office (LTO) However, she said she was chief Virginia Torres, involv- only trying to help Sy, whom ing the latter’s alleged attempt she described as a “friend,” to negotiate the release of over and that she had no idea she 60 shipments of smuggled Thai was dealing with shipments of sugar worth over P100 million. smuggled sugar. The INQUIRER has repeat“I reprimanded Philip, I edly tried but failed to reach Sy didn’t know it was smuggled for comment. The businessman sugar. I was told by Philip it was is said to be a “player” at the general merchandise,” she said. BOC. But she later admitted in Torres, howother media inever, advised this terviews that reporter not to the smuggled bother contactsugar shipments ing Sy to get his belonged to her side of the story. Jerry Ponce, and that she was In a text mesa customs looking for a lesage, she said: employee, gal way to have “Wag na, baka confirmed that them released. magsalita pa yun Torres tried Jerry Ponce, a kung magkano to negotiate customs employbinigay niya... the release of ee, confirmed baka mabigla ka the illegally that Torres tried (Don’t bother, he imported to negotiate the might reveal how shipments. release of the ilmuch he shelled legally imported out... you might shipments. be shocked),” In an affidasuggesting that vit, Ponce, the money may have BOC operations changed hands at the BOC. officer assigned to the agenTorres also claimed that cy’s Warehousing Monitorgrease money was paid by Sy ing Audit office, stated that he through a “Jenny Munar.” came to know Torres through The ex-LTO official did not a friend early this year someprovide other details about Mu- where in Pampanga. Torres nar and the alleged recipients of hails from neighboring Tarlac the bribe. Instead, she clammed province. up, saying “no talk na lang ako. Customs Deputy Commis(I’ll not talk anymore.)” sioner Jessie Dellosa earlier A customs official, who asked confirmed to the INQUIRER not to be named for lack of au- that the controversial former thority to speak to media, said: Department of Transportation “Are we talking about the same and Communications assistant Jenny who has allegedly made secretary had visited the IG oflots of money collecting ‘tara’ fice “to appeal her case.” from traders and brokers using Dellosa, a former Armed the names of some customs of- Forces of the Philippines chief ficials?” of staff, said that while one of “Tara” is the customs term his staffers politely listened to for a bribe paid for the prompt Torres’ plea, “the fact that the release of misdeclared or un- shipments were in violation of dervalued shipments. the law cannot be overlooked.” At least two bureau insiders, The IG is currently investiincluding a source at the Ma- gating the case. ■
MANILA — Rep. Scott Davies S. Lanete (3rd District, Masbate) has filed a bill urging the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to conduct feasibility studies on how to address the lack of benefits given to contractual workers. “The lack of benefits given to fixed-term employees has been going on for years and DOLE should address this matter,” Lanete said. Lanete, author of House Resolution 2391, said ordinary employees have not been given the full benefit of their labor compared to the profits enjoyed by their employers. He said the globalization of the market has resulted in increased competition among business entities. “This lead to implementation of various devices aimed at reducing the cost of producing goods to enable every business
entity to remain competitive,” said Lanete, vice-chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. He said the common worker has seemingly been left forgotten as the competition grew and the quality of goods improved. Lanete said one of the devices or schemes that has been increasingly adapted nowadays is service contract employment. “This scheme, which is now a globally accepted practice, involves the outsourcing of the direct hiring of employees by service contract employers which is already an improvement of the fixed term employment or contractualization,” Lanete said. Lanete said a service contract employee could not be qualified for a retirement pay since the entitlement for such benefit needs service of employment for at least five years. “Thus, a service contact employee is at a disadvantage compared to other types of employees,” Lanete said.
Lanete said there is an urgent and absolute need to remedy this miserable condition suffered by service contract employees in order to tip the scales of justice to a more equitable condition. Lanete said one of the remedies looked into is to accord the service contract employees compensation to include retirement pay consistent with Article 287 of the Labor Code, which they would be receiving had they been hired as regular employees. “Another way or remedy looked into is for employers to provide these service contact employees with lump sum cash incentives at the expiration of their contracts,” he recommended. Lanete said there is no need to pass a law to implement these solutions, as the pertinent provisions of the Labor Code are sufficient to authorize the DOLE to enforce these by virtue of issuing the necessary guidelines. ■
We’re no party-poopers, says LP BY LEILA B. SALAVERRIA Philippine Daily Inquirer THE LIBERAL Party (LP) had nothing to do with the withdrawal of an invitation to Senators Grace Poe and Francis Escudero to attend the province of Tawi-Tawi’s foundation day celebration today, according to Senate President Franklin Drilon, the party’s vice chair. Drilon, in a radio interview, said the LP did not make it a practice to bar political rivals from the bailiwicks of its members. He said candidates not with the administration party visited his home province of Iloilo almost every day. Healsonotedthattherehavebeen many accusations leveled against the LP, but they were not true. Poe and Escudero, who together are running for president and vice president, respectively, in next year’s elections, earlier www.canadianinquirer.net
President Benigno S. Aquino III endorsed the 2016 presidential bid of Mar Roxas, in a gathering at the historic Club Filipino on July 31, 2015. PCDSPO
said they were disinvited from Tawi-Tawi’s Kamahardikaan Festival for “political reasons.” The invitation had come from Governor Nurbert Sahali and Rep. Ruby Sahali, who are both LP members. “We understand that it must have been very difficult for them to withdraw the invitation. But in spite of this, we express our heartfelt appreciation for all
their efforts,” the senators had said in a joint statement. They were invited to the event on July 20, two months before they officially announced their plans to run for higher office as an independent team. Poe will be up against LP standard-bearer Mar Roxas who, before she declared her run for the presidency, had asked Poe to be his running mate. ■
Philippine News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
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People’s needs, not surveys, guiding her, says Grace Poe BY LEILA B. SALAVERRIA Philippine Daily Inquirer WHILE SURVEYS are a useful tool to check if an aspirant seeking public office is doing the right thing, Sen. Grace Poe said her inspiration is the people’s needs and aspirations. Poe continued to top recent surveys on the voters’ preferred presidential candidate, ranking first in the third-quarter public opinion survey by independent pollster Pulse Asia, in a poll that nevertheless showed a decline in the number of voters who would choose her as their bet. Liberal Party standard-bearer Mar Roxas, 58, was the only candidate who improved in the survey of 1,200 respondents done nationwide from Aug. 27 to Sept. 3 and commissioned by the commercial broadcaster. “Surveys help us check if we’re on the right track, but we derive our inspiration from the
needs and aspirations of our countrymen, with or without surveys,” Poe said in a statement. She said she was “honored and humbled” by the Pulse Asia results. “My sincerest gratitude to the people for their unwavering trust and support,” she said. Poe got 27 percent in the latest Pulse Asia survey, down from the previous 30 percent. She was followed by Vice President Jejomar Binay with 21 percent and former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas with 18 percent. The release of the Pulse Asia results followed a Social Weather Station (SWS) survey that put her in a statistical tie with Binay, who used to be the frontrunner. These polls were completed weeks before the Sept. 16 announcement of her plan to run for president in next year’s election.
The neophyte senator earlier said she was looking forward to the results of surveys conducted after her declaration of her candidacy, where she had shared her plans and her position on several hot issues. She is running with Sen. Francis Escudero, who has ranked second to her in surveys on the voters’ preferred vice president. Poe has been facing challenges in her candidacy, with the primary obstacle being the disqualification case lodged against her at the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET). Rizalito David, a losing senatorial candidate, has sought to unseat her as senator for supposedly not being a naturalborn Filipino, since she was a foundling whose parentage is unknown. If the SET rules that she is not natural-born, she would be unable to run for president. But Poe’s camp has main-
Sen. Grace Poe celebrated her birthday with Gawad Kalinga in their "Goodbye Gutom: Hunger Ends where Caring Begins" feeding program at GK Sitio Pajo, Baesa, Quezon City, Sept. 3, 2015. FACEBOOK
tained that she is presumed Filipino, and that those claiming otherwise shoulder the burden of proof. The elections will be closely watched by investors, who fear
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the political succession in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies could derail gains made during the Aquino government. ■ With a report from Reuters
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Philippine News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Ortega lawyer asks DOJ to rule on petition BY TARRA QUISMUNDO Philippine Daily Inquirer THE LAWYER for the family of Gerardo “Gerry” Ortega has called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to resolve the family’s petition to reconsider the decision of a panel of investigating prosecutors to dismiss murder charges against former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes and his brother, former Coron Mayor Mario Reyes, the primary suspects in the 2011 slaying of the journalist and environmental activist. In a statement, lawyer Alex Avisado urged Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to pursue proceedings on the petition for review despite her department’s pending plea for the Supreme Court to uphold the arrest warrant issued against the Reyes brothers after a second panel found probable cause to put them on trial. Earlier this week, De Lima said she could not act on the Ortega family’s petition for review because this may affect the DOJ appeal in the Supreme Court. Avisado does not agree. “By acting on the petition for review, it does not mean that she (De Lima) no longer believes in the strength and merits of the (DOJ) appeal (at the Supreme Court),” Avisado said. “It simply means that due to
Reyes brothers undergo booking procedure after HK arrest.
the exigencies of the times, pendency of the case for five years and her coming resignation, the [ justice] secretary needs to act and act fast in order to prevent an impending miscarriage of justice—the dismissal of the case by the [Supreme Court] due to a technicality,” he added. De Lima is expected to step down as justice chief after she declares her candidacy for senator in the May 2016 elections. The Reyes brothers were arrested on the resort island of Phuket in Thailand on Sunday. They arrived in Manila early
yesterday and Malacañang said it was “imperative” that the murder charges against them be pursued. “[The] repatriation of the Reyes brothers should lead to the forward movement in legal proceedings that would hopefully ensure that the ends of justice will be met. Applicable rules on detainees will be applied to them,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement. Asked later what happens to the case after De Lima leaves the DOJ to run for a seat in the Sen-
PNP-PIO PHOTOS
ate, Coloma replied: “Regardless of who occupies the position of justice secretary, it is imperative that the case be pursued.” The first DOJ panel that investigated Ortega’s Jan. 24, 2011 shooting dropped murder charges against the Reyeses for insufficient evidence. De Lima later formed a second panel, which found probable cause to indict the Reyeses, leading to the filing of murder charges against the brothers in January 2012. The Court of Appeals, however, nullified the creation of
the second panel, invalidating the indictment and issuance of arrest warrants for the Reyes brothers. The DOJ elevated the case to the Supreme Court to ask that the second panel resolution be upheld. The Reyeses had been tagged as masterminds of the assassination of Ortega, who criticized Palawan officials for alleged misuse of the provincial government’s earnings from the Malampaya gas field in the province. The gunman, Marlon Recamata, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2013. “We believe that the higher demands of substantial justice should compel the [ justice] secretary to adopt a different position in order to avoid any suspicion that she could be protecting the Reyes brothers as the former counsel of Gov. Joel Reyes,” Avisado said. Joel Reyes was a client of De Lima when she was still an election lawyer, a fact that she had divulged to the Ortega family. “With due respect, Secretary De Lima does not need to withdraw the appeal that is pending before the [Supreme Court]. If she resolves the petition for review, the appeal before the [Supreme Court] will just be rendered moot and academic,” Avisado said. ■ With a report from Nikko Dizon
APEC urged to specify targets in reducing food waste PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY ILOILO CITY — Member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) are being urged to identify their specific targets in reducing food waste. A research fellow from Taiwan, Dr. Ching-Cheng “Emily” Chang, said each APEC member should define the targets it wants to meet, as well as the strategies it will use to reduce food wastage, which the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization estimated at US$ 1 trillion in 2014. Chang is in the Philippines for the APEC Food Security
Week and High Level Dialogue on Food Security and the Blue Economy. To start identifying the specific needs, targets, objectives, and strategies, Chang emphasized the need to “recognize the diversity” of the region and each of the 21 APEC members. “It is highly unlikely to have uniform targets for each economy,” she added, maintaining that the APEC dialogue can come up with benchmarks and best practices to guide economies in crafting their specific targets. Food loss or food waste refers to economic losses arising from difficulties during food production to harvest, including the disposal of food due to overbuying.
Executive Director Rex Bingabing of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization explained how different economies suffer from food waste. He said developed countries experience food waste because “they buy more than they could eat” while developing countries, like the Philippines, suffer from food loss due to problems in food production to food processing to food harvest. The type of economic loss from food production “depends on the economy”, Bingabing added. Chang said the APEC decided to focus on food production and its losses “because the problems of small-scale procedures www.canadianinquirer.net
SHUTTERSTOCK
in this region make tracking post-harvest losses a very difficult task, which translates to difficulties in markets, policies, and strategies to address this.”
She stressed that both the government and the private sector must work hand in hand to help small-scale food producers prevent food wastage. ■
Philippine News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
15
Search-and-Rescue... spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla, without elaborating so as not to compromise the operation, but assured that they have “good leads” arising from their investigation. Around 800 members of elite Army troops and the police force, including personnel from the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard are currently in hot pursuit of the unidentified gunmen. Recently, Philippine authorities have found a boat allegedly used by the kidnappers to take a group of hostages to a port on Jolo, where the main base of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) is located. The port is about 500km away from Holiday Ocean View Resort where two Canadians, a Norwegian, and a Filipina were abducted on the evening of September 21. Officials would not say if the discovery of the abandoned vessel could be pointed to possible Abu Sayyaf involvement in the abduction of Canadian tourists John Ridsdel, 68, and Robert Hall, 50, as well as Norwegian resort manager Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56, and Hall’s Filipina girlfriend Marites Flor. Until now, military personnel said there’s still no group who demanded ransom and claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. “The group behind [the kidnapping] is not yet confirmed, they pointed to possible Abu Sayyaf involvement, it’s easy to say but based on the evidences gotten by the military and police investigators, it’s still unconfirmed,” Padilla said. ❰❰ 1
Duterte’s plea
Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte announced in a press conference that the three foreigners and a Filipina were brought by the kidnappers to Sulu. Duterte also said the kidnappers are allied with the ASG. “Whether or not the people who kidnapped the foreigners
Norwegian resort manager Kjartan Sekkingstad, Canadians John Ridsel and Robert Hall, and Hall’s Filipina girlfriend Marithes Flor were abducted from a resort in Samal Island in the evening of Sept. 21. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PIO AND HOLIDAY OCEAN VIEW RESORT
here are regular Abu Sayyaf members, that I could not tell you. But they were passed on to a group which is known there as Abu Sayyaf or at the very least allied with the Abu Sayyaf,” Duterte said to members of the media Monday night. Padilla said they asked Duterte to introduce their investigators to his sources so they can confirm the information about the transfer of the hostages. “We have requested Mayor Duterte over the weekend to share information with us so we can validate the source,” Padilla said in an interview with a local radio program. On Friday, Duterte said he’s ready to provide assistance to the government to rescue the four hostages. The Davao City Mayor also asked the cooperation of both the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to hasten the search and rescue operations and to identify the kidnappers. Duterte, known for his toughness against criminals, pleaded to the abductors to “not hurt” the hostages. “I appeal to our Moro broth-
ers, the Abu Sayyaf, because we are friends and you know me— don’t hurt the victims. Feed them,” Duterte said. According to Duterte, the ambassadors of Norway and Canada have asked him to “take a more proactive role in the negotiation.” Duterte also said he is willing to go to Sulu to speak with the kidnappers if needed. “I could go there… I am doing it for my fellowmen and because I am from Mindanao. They know me because I am from Mindanao. In Davao, we have all the Moro tribes,” he said. In an interview on GMA News TV’s primetime show “State of the Nation,” Duterte even offered himself in exchange for the hostages. “I’ll offer myself as an alternative, if you want it. I’ve done that before. I will offer myself as a hostage… If they will release the prisoners, I’ll be glad to join them in the forest to enjoy their company,” Duterte said to host Jessica Soho. Travel advisories released
The recent kidnapping incident is now taking its toll on
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Davao Region’s tourism industry.  In fact, Canada and United Kingdom has issued travel advisories against traveling in several areas in Mindanao following the abduction. Both foreign governments advised their citizens against traveling to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and its vicinity, including Zamboanga Peninsula and the provinces of Sarangani, Lanao del Norte, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat effective September 22. Davao City was excluded from both advisories. Canada and the UK cited “serious threat of terrorist attacks and kidnapping” as basis for the issuance of its respective travel advisory. Roberto “Robby” Alabado III, DOT regional director, said these advisories would affect the tourism industry in the region. “We respect the advisories issued by the Canadian and UK governments because they are just concerned about their citizens’ welfare and safety. But we
appeal that hopefully these advisories will be reviewed especially when the kidnapping incident is solved,” Alabado said. “Hopefully, there will be a reassessment of the situation after stringent measures on security by our local task force groups and as well as the undertakings by various tourism stakeholders to protect and secure our tourists in the region,” he added. Continuous coordination with the Canadian and Norwegian Embassies regarding efforts to rescue the foreigners is still ongoing. According to Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Nicolas Doire, “Canada is pursuing all appropriate channels to seek further information.” “Norwegian authorities, in close cooperation with Philippine authorities and other affected countries, are currently working to verify the information about the incident,” said in a statement released by the Embassy of Norway. ■
Opinion
16
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
AT LARGE
Music and diplomacy By Rina Jimenez-David Philippine Daily Inquirer BEIJING — Over the last year or so, commented Rao Huihua, deputy director of the First Bureau of the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee, officials have sensed a shift in Filipino attitudes toward China. Where before Filipino officials visiting this city said “they were looking forward to better trade with China,” said Rao, in the months between, they have felt increasing “suspicions” of Chinese intentions in the region. This may be the reason for the party’s invitation to the local Association of Women Legislators, led by Rep. Gina de Venecia, to visit China once more with a delegation of 14 congresswomen and get a better understanding of Chinese social and foreign policy. Over 10 days, the congresswomen were brought to Guangzhou, Kunming and this city to better understand China’s policy of outreach to its neighbors (the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road” and the “One Belt, One Road Initiative”), its efforts at social amelioration and eradication of rural poverty, and steps the state has taken at modernization. Rao also expressed interest in the coming elections in the country, say-
ing she hopes that a change in govern- Rao, we were treated to a lunch host- native Mongolia, impressing us with ment will bring with it “new opportu- ed by Chen Fengxiang, vice minister his powerful voice and felt rendition. nities and better communication.” of the CPC Central Committee InterMusic is indeed a universal lanThe “piedra china” or Chinese national Department. guage, and one that can move, touch stones, ballast material used in ChiChen, who had said in a previous and maybe even change minds and nese junks that were converted into visit that the Chinese look on Fili- hearts! cobblestones in Intramuros, were pinos “as family members,” spoke of *** the centerpiece of Representative the friendship he personally shared ON our final day, we paid a visit to the De Venecia’s response. She said that with former Speaker Joe de Venecia, Beijing Foreign Studies University, like the stones that were creatively through their work in the Interna- founded in 1941 and offering more reused to pave streets, relations be- tional Conference of Asian Political foreign language programs than any tween Chinese and Filipino officials Parties. China, he added, “attaches other institution in China. Today, it and people could be strengthened great importance to visits of Filipino offers more than just language studand built by “building blocks” like delegates,” looking forward to hear- ies and offers students a chance to friendly exchanges learn international and counterweights business, journalRelations between Chinese and Filipino officials and “to keep the ark of ism and diplomacy people could be strengthened and built by “building blocks” like Sino-Philippine and international friendly exchanges and counterweights “to keep the ark of Sinofriendship friendly.” relations. Philippine friendship friendly.” Indeed, the conIts 1,900 students gresswoman added, occupy a modestshe had filed last year a proposal ing the impressions of the visitors,” sized campus and there are extensive in Congress to create a Philippine- and reiterating that China seeks to pre- and post-graduate programs to China Council “to be composed of establish “good neighborly relations” prepare its graduates for employpeacemakers, economic experts, his- with countries in the region. ment, including coordination with torians and representatives from the As the meal drew to a close, the human resource officers of private academe and civil society” to meet Filipino women, clad in our Cora firms as well as government miniswith their Chinese counterparts and Manimbo-designed modern Fili- tries such as foreign affairs. “create space for bilateral and even piniana, shared the Filipino ditty One interesting feature of the unimultilateral diplomacy” and perhaps “Ang Pipit” and the Chinese ballad versity is the “Business Incubator,” a “resolve the causes of conflict.” BUT “The Moon Represents my Heart,” network of student-run enterprises if formal and informal talks cannot with Chen and Rao joining us since where students can train in the nittydo the trick, then perhaps relations the second song is apparently very gritty of entrepreneurship. The incuof a more personal or cordial nature popular. And then Chen surprised us bator includes a bookstore, a coffee would be more effective. After the all when he volunteered to return the shop and a shop selling university“informal discussion” with Madame favor by singing two songs about his themed accessories such as t-shirts,
mugs, key chains and other such paraphernalia. At once, our group pounced on the merchandise, buying up, it seemed, the entire supply of merchandise on display, most popular of which was the stuffed parrot wearing a mortar board, the university mascot. *** AFTERWARD, enjoying our free coffee and cheesecakes, pairs or small groups of students chatted us up. They were apparently practicing their English, but also wanted to know our impressions of China, and what Filipinos back home thought of their country. The two young men who sat down to talk with us seemed eager to take on the challenges of entrepreneurship, not unlike the many other Chinese we encountered throughout our threecity travels who engaged in their trades with eagerness and alacrity. “I hope to read about you someday and what a great success you have become,” I told the pair, and they seemed genuinely pleased and encouraged. This may be what “peopleto-people diplomacy” is all about— the sharing of thoughts, ideas and, more important, feelings. The larger geopolitical issues may dominate our consciousness for now, but the personal relations will be the ones to long endure. ■
ANALYSIS
Poe’s 20-point platform tightens race By Amando Doronila Philippine Daily Inquirer CANBERRA—On Sept. 16 at the University of the Philippines’ alumni house, Sen. Grace Poe spelled out a 20-point program of government that she would put in place if she were elected president in May 2016. Her declaration of her candidacy threw the presidential election into a three-cornered race among herself, Vice President Jejomar Binay, and former interior secretary Mar Roxas. Of the three, only Poe has laid down a platform. The latest survey, by Pulse Asia, for the third quarter of this year, showed that while she continued to be the voters’ No. 1 preferred presidential candidate, there was a decline in the number of voters who would choose her. On the other hand, Roxas, the Liberal Party standard-bearer endorsed by President Aquino, was catching up. He was the only candidate who improved his ratings in the survey commissioned by ABS-CBN and conducted from Aug. 27 to Sept. 3. According to the survey, Poe got 27 percent, down from the previous 30 percent. She was followed by Binay, with 21 percent, and Roxas, with 18
percent. The release of the Pulse Asia was marginal. With only 35 percent in winning as the gap narrows between results followed a Social Weather September saying they believe that Bi- him and the former frontrunners. Stations (SWS) survey that put her in nay is one of the best leaders to succeed Now, the Liberal Party is talking about a statistical tie with Binay, who used President Aquino, Binay slipped to a tight race among the three contendto be the frontrunner. third place. On the other hand, the in- ers, and how well they run their reThese polls were completed weeks creased support for Roxas and Poe may spective campaigns can spell the difbefore Poe announced on Sept. 18 her have eaten into Davao City Mayor Ro- ference between winning and losing. intention to seek the presidency. drigo Duterte’s rate. From 20 percent Based on the recent survey reThe SWS survey first published by in June, preference for Duterte fell to sults, Poe and Binay are 2 percentBusinessWorld on Sept. 20 showed 16 percent in September. age points of each other, while Roxas that Poe further improved her lead as The list has grown narrower and is not far behind in the survey of the preferred presidential aspirant, shorter as the elections come closer. Sept. 2-5. Poe was the choice of 26 while Roxas leaped to second place. Coming in at fifth place was Sen. percent of 1,200 respondents, while Poe now has a preference rating of Francis Escudero (from 4 percent in Binay was preferred by 24 percent, 47 percent, which is five percent- June), followed by Sen. Ferdinand and Roxas by 20 percent. The ratings age points higher of Poe, Binay and than in June. Roxas Roxas were “not staOsmeña continues to believe that a presidential snatched the second tistically different,” endorsement carries little weight for a candidate, saying that spot from former according to the Filipino voters like to decide for themselves. frontrunner Binay. SWS research staff. The SWS survey apSenate President peared to show that Roxas benefited Marcos Jr. (5 percent), former presi- Franklin Drilon, vice chair of the Libfrom the President’s endorsement of dent and now Manila Mayor Joseph eral Party, noted that Roxas’ was on him on July 31. The survey was con- Estrada (3 percent), and Sen. Miriam an upward trajectory in the surveys ducted on Sept. 2-5. The preference Defensor Santiago (2 percent). while his rivals’ numbers seemed to for Roxas jumped to 39 percent from The volatility of the survey results have struck a plateau or gone down. only 21 percent in June. elicited cheers in the ruling Liberal Drilon ventured to say that it was At the time, Binay was enjoying a Party, which had been stricken by per- only a matter of time before Roxas 34-percent preference rate, coming sistent doubts over Roxas’ “winnabili- overtakes his opponents, noting that in at second to Poe. While more than ty” given his lackluster showing in the a few months ago, another survey a third of the 1,200 respondents still surveys. Now, Roxas supporters are showed Roxas as being the choice of backed Binay, the increase in his rating more optimistic about his chances of only 4 percent of the respondents.
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“Roxas’ zooming trajectory is very evident in all surveys,” Drilon pointed out, adding: “This should be a cause for concern for his opponents because, by all indications, it’s just a matter of time before he gets ahead of them.” He attributed Roxas’ improving numbers to Mr. Aquino’s “very strong commitment” that Roxas would adhere to the principles of “daang matuwid” as the norm of good governance. But this observation of Drilon is obvious political propaganda that should be taken with a grain of salt. Another political strategist, Sen. Serge Osmeña, disagrees with Drilon. Osmeña says Roxas’ numbers cannot be attributed to presidential endorsement but to the publicity about him, as well as to the advertisements promoting his candidacy. Osmeña continues to believe that a presidential endorsement carries little weight for a candidate, saying that Filipino voters like to decide for themselves. Whether the presidential endorsement would decide the outcome of next year’s presidential election in favor of Roxas remains to be seen. But it’s even more uncertain if Poe’s 20-point program will swing the vote for her. ■
Opinion
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
17
LOOKING BACK
Two Lunas, two Mabinis By Ambeth R. Ocampo Philippine Daily Inquirer SOCIAL MEDIA comments on “Heneral Luna” make me smile. Someone posted that the film is a “fair” retelling of a bloody episode in Philippine history. It is actually unfair to Emilio Aguinaldo. As to the casting of Epy Quizon as Apolinario Mabini, right on, I thought, because he resembles the Mabini in monuments. But then someone asked, why is Mabini seated throughout the film? I thought all schoolchildren knew about Mabini being the “Sublime Paralytic” (or “Dakilang Lumpo”). Everyone who comes out of “Heneral Luna” blames Aguinaldo—an oversimplification because history is more complex than our textbooks make it out to be. History is not about memorizing “facts” or reacting emotionally, but being critical of facts and narratives. Aguinaldo is a soft target in a complex story where there are other villains. Some of the villains are not people but flaws in human nature and Philippine society. In 1984 the eminent historian Teodoro A. Agoncillo gave me his take on Antonio Luna, recalling his word war with Vivencio Jose (author of “The Rise and Fall of Antonio Luna”) that appeared on the pages of Solidarity. Agoncillo made two points worth re-
membering: first, that there were two TAA: Hindi! [Jose] suppressed the Mabini denounced Luna and praised sides to Mabini—one pro-Luna and the documents. It’s all right if it is a ques- Aguinaldo. Then in that Guam opus other anti-Luna; and second, that there tion of interpretation, but the trouble ‘La Revolucion Filipina,’ binaligtad. were two Lunas—one who was against is he suppressed. Kahit na kasalanan The historical methodology says the the Philippine Revolution against Spain ni Luna, he is trying to suppress [the document which is not meant for the in 1896, and the other who fought in the documentation]. Example: the letter of public but for private eyes is more auFilipino-American War. Mabini to Aguinaldo denouncing Luna. thoritative than the one for the pubIn my interviews with Agoncillo he Hindi niya binanggit. The letter of Bal- lic eye. Why? Because when you are said: While Aguinaldo is not person- domero [Aguinaldo] to [Emilio] Agui- writing to a friend, more or less you ally involved in the death of either naldo denouncing Luna? Hindi niya are sincere, because what you write Luna or Andres Bonifacio, he should inilagay. Ang sabi lang niya, naiinggit to him is your secret feeling. But be held to account for the behavior lang iyong mga taong attacked. when you write for publicity, [it’s the which he did not orother way around]. der investigated. This is historical Ambeth R. Ocmethodology, and in Because when you are writing to a friend, more or less you ampo: Do you think Guam Mabini was are sincere, because what you write to him is your secret feeling. But he tried to cover up? writing for publicity when you write for publicity, [it’s the other way around]. TAA: That was to justify [himself ]. Aguinaldo’s misAt that time he was take. Granted, Luna was assassinated. ARO: Mabini wrote later, Noong already bitter against Aguinaldo. Why did he not order the investiga- bandang huli, kung hindi pinatay si... Why was he bitter against Aguinaldo tion of those people who assassinated TAA: That is the superficiality of toward the end? Because Aguinaldo Luna? That was his responsibility. I’m these people. Mabini is inconsistent. did not follow his advice. He was too not pro-Aguinaldo or pro-Bonifacio. I Firstly anti-[Luna] later pro-[Luna]. intransigent. So, in using the two judge a person on the basis of the docu- You should study [the sources and Mabinis, you have to exercise your ments available. If the time comes that the motives]. If you are really criti- critical thinking.” I am proved wrong and other docu- cally minded, why is this fellow now What I did not know at the time ments are shown, then I’ll accept it. anti-Aguinaldo? You should try to was that Luna denounced the RevoConclusions are not final, because no- discover why. lution of 1896. This Agoncillo did not body can say that I have exhausted all “In historical methodology, it says take lightly, and he roared: my sources. No! Ang anti-Aguinaldo that the more private a communica“Minamana mong sabihin na si si Vivencio Jose, masyadong pro-Luna. tion is, the more authoritative it is. In Luna was the leader of the revolution This is the kind of thinking I do not like. a letter, in 1899, to Galicano Apacible against Spain? P-ñeta! Since when did ARO: [But that is your interpretation.] whom he called Canoy and Calvo, Luna fight against the Spaniards? He
never fought the Spaniards, tapos sasabihin niyang leader? As a matter of fact, Luna was a traitor to the Revolution of 1896! Alam mo, I will write an essay on Luna and Aguinaldo. I will write an essay kung bakit maraming nagalit kay Luna, and I’ll justify, sapagkat Luna not only did not join the Revolution of 1896, he was [also] a traitor! Nagturo yan a! Nagturo! Pero inilagay ba ni Vivencio Jose iyan? Wala! Maraming hindi inilagay si Vivencio roon, either because of ignorance or ibig niyang palakihin si Luna. As a matter of fact, I do not consider Luna a hero. How did he become a hero? He never won any battle, papaano mo sasabihing hero iyan? ARO: Unrealized kasi ang role niya in Philippine history eh. TAA: He never won a battle! Um! Pagkatapos sasabihin ni Vivencio, kung sinunod daw si Luna, yung guerilla warfare. Noong panahong sinasabi niyang maggegerilya, hindi maaari ang guerilla eh because the Americans were still weak at the time, papaano gegerilyahin iyan? Pangalawa, there was no preparation for guerilla warfare. Hindi niya ina-analyze. All that he wants is to justify all the things that Luna did.” History has left us with two sides of Mabini, two sides of Luna. ■
PUBLIC LIVES
Truth in political advertising By Randy David Philippine Daily Inquirer ONE OF the readers of my column, Abel Manliclic, raised an interesting point when he wrote to ask if claims made in political advertisements are covered by the same truth standards to which commercial ads are subjected. He then rattled off the incredible achievements that one probable senatorial candidate claims for himself in his political ads. Is there an agency in charge of safeguarding truth in political advertising? I had not quite thought about this issue until then. All I could tell Abel was that I was sure political advertisements were not under the jurisdiction of the Advertising Standards Council, the industry’s own agency that is in charge of reviewing all commercials shown on Philippine media platforms. Republic Act No. 9006, or the Fair Election Act, gives the Commission on Elections ample regulatory powers over political advertising. That much is clear. But I am not sure if there is an office or task force within the Comelec that explicitly monitors political advertisements, not just to determine if candidates are keeping within their time limits but, more importantly, to ascertain
whether they are being truthful in ing the falsehoods that litter political find some guidance in Niklas Luhtheir political ads. ads. That task, in my view, might be mann’s dissection of the power of My hunch is that this is not among borne by civil society organizations, advertising in modern society: “After the Comelec’s top priorities. If Come- particularly those engaged in educat- truth comes advertising. Advertising lec officials do not feel obliged to stop ing the voting public and in raising is one of the most puzzling phenomthe kind of premature campaigning the level of political discourse. Such ena within the mass media as a whole. that has proliferated in the margins of groups need to prove their credibility How can well-to-do members of sothe law, neither would they be inclined by transcending partisan lines and ciety be so stupid as to spend large to scrutinize the factual assertions be- by investing in painstaking research amounts of money on advertising in ing made in political advertisements. to come up with incontrovertible order to confirm their belief in the If not the Comelec, who then? information with which to confront stupidity of others? It is hard not to In other countries, fact-checking is factual claims made in political ads. sing the praises of folly here, but it oba regular function of the media. There Having said this, I am not entirely viously works, albeit in the form of the are people in print and broadcast me- sure if this is the best way to deal self-organization of folly.” (Luhmann, dia who specialize The Reality of the in spotting the most Mass Media, 2000) The complex techniques that today’s advertising gurus employ flagrantly false or This brings us to usually bypass “the cognitive sphere,” leaving no time or space for exaggerated claims a related issue in the questioning, fact-checking, or attentive reflection. made by politicians, current presidential be these in their ads race that we might or in their unguarded statements. In with the insidious side of political more usefully observe—namely, how the United States, for example, this is advertisements. As any advertising the promoters of the three leading almost a sport. But what is fascinat- professional might tell us, the whole presidential contenders make use ing is that, because people know bet- purpose of any promotional mate- of a wide range of advertising techter than to expect truth from politics, rial might be no more than to plant niques to maintain the positive imthe object of fact-checking is seldom the name of a politician or the brand age of their respective principals. just to tell the real score. It is rather to of a consumer product in the public “More and more advertising is based satirize, ridicule or to expose the pre- mind. Audiences themselves take for nowadays,” writes Luhmann, “on the tentiousness of some politicians who granted that not everything they read motives of the people targeted being routinely spout such claims. or hear in an advertisement is true. made unrecognizable. Thus, they will Since the media in our country are And so any effort to dispute the truth recognize that what they are seeing is among the biggest earners from polit- claims of such advertisements might advertising, but not how they are beical advertising, I honestly do not ex- only be counter-productive. ing influenced.” The complex techpect them to take the lead in counterAs baffling as this may be, we may niques that today’s advertising gurus
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employ usually bypass “the cognitive sphere,” leaving no time or space for questioning, fact-checking, or attentive reflection. The name of the game is to remind the public of that one particular name that deserves special attention, and to prevent that brand from slipping out of the public’s memory. “Memory, which remembers things but actually prefers to forget them, is continually being re-impregnated.” This process entails the unending interplay between “redundancy” and “variety,” or between familiarity and novelty. The brand “Ducati,” for example, will always be associated with the best in Italian motorcycles. But, every year, the company sees to it that it introduces something “new” and “different” – a faster or unique model—to seed the memory of this iconic marque. In this way, the brand never becomes boring. The selling of politicians is no different. The continuity of the representation is hardly what is important. Indeed, we may note that advertising pays little attention to “intertextuality.” On the contrary, Luhmann observes, “The law of interruption operates here, in the hope that the memory of what has just been seen will immediately be activated in this way.” ■
18
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Canada News
B.C. to lead country in growth, but job creation stuck in second gear BY DIRK MEISSNER The Canadian Press VICTORIA — Premier Christy Clark’s promises to transform British Columbia into Canada’s top job-creating engine appears to be stuck in second gear, even as the provincial economy is predicted to surge. Clark’s unfulfilled economic goals, with a focus on the liquefied natural gas industry, are expected to fuel debate as B.C. politicians return to the legislature Monday. The premier’s four-year-old plans set lofty and ambitious goals and aimed to place B.C. among the top two Canadian provinces for economic and job growth for 2015. Recent Statistics Canada economic data indicates B.C. is poised to lead Canada or be near the top when it comes to economic growth, ranging between two per cent and 2.9 per cent. But job growth, measured at 0.7 per cent last August, puts B.C. in fifth place among the
provinces for job creation. The survey forecasts the jobs plan is the government “The information we have at creation of more than 315,000 was so myopic in their thinkthis time is looking like we are jobs through economic devel- ing, so focused on LNG, that going to be in the top three,” opment. It also includes the they ignored a whole range said Greg Kyllo, a parliamen- prospect of creating 100,000 of other critical sectors,” said tary secretary with the Minis- jobs connected to the liquefied Simpson. try of Jobs, Tourism and Skills natural gas industry. B.C. Business Council viceTraining. “We’ve created a little But Simpson said the jobs president Jock Finlayson said over 92,000 jobs his organization since the jobs supports the plan was creg o v e r n m e n t ’s ated.” attempts to deOpposition The real problem with the jobs plan velop an LNG inNew Democrat is the government was so myopic in dustry. jobs critic Shane their thinking, so focused on LNG, “But LNG is Simpson said that they ignored a whole range of for tomorrow,” Clark’s jobs plan other critical sectors. he said. “It’s not hasn’t delivered there today.” and B.C. is falling Finlayson said behind the other the government provinces. plan is also sputtering on LNG, has a limited capacity to influ“The jobs plan has been anae- missing its target of one LNG ence job creation and should mic at best,” he said. “We’re plant in operation by 2015 and relax that focus and instead probably sixth or seventh in three more running by 2020. look at working with business the country in terms of job creThere are currently 20 pro- sectors, including technology, ation.” posals for LNG plants in B.C., forestry and resources. A B.C. government labour- with the $36-billion Petronas“If I were developing an ecomarket outlook released last backed Pacific NorthWest LNG nomic-development strategy year projects almost one mil- project near Prince Rupert in for B.C. it wouldn’t be centered lion job openings by 2022, with the planning stages, but none is around jobs to be candid. It about 700,000 of the openings a operational. would be looking at what I deresult of retirements. “The real problem with the scribe as which sectors do we www.canadianinquirer.net
want to encourage growth.” He said worldwide economic factors in the past four years have hurt job growth in B.C., including a drop in commodity prices. The economy in China has lost steam and the value of the Canadian dollar has dropped from parity with the U.S. dollar to about 75 cents, he noted. “These are all some pretty big adjustments,” Finlayson said. “Globally, the mining industry has gone into the tank. It’s difficult to imagine a lot of growth taking place in a sector like mining. Natural gas prices are plumbing the depths and our traditional export market in the U.S. is drying up.” But B.C. Finance Minister Mike de Jong, who admitted recently that B.C.’s job growth is under-performing, said the province is heading towards another surplus budget and is poised to lead the country in economic growth through 2016. “We are, by any measure, proving to be remarkably resilient,” he said. ■
Canada News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
19
Harper Conservatives hope to have big free trade agreement this week BY ALEXANDER PANETTA The Canadian Press WASHINGTON — The Conservative government hopes to reach an agreement before the weekend that would establish the world’s largest free-trade zone, allowing a final sprint toward election day with the 12-country pact in hand. If all goes according to plan, the government will reveal details later this week of the Trans-Pacific Partnership at briefings in different cities including Atlanta, Ottawa, and Montreal, which is hosting Friday’s French-language election debate. Should the negotiations in Georgia conclude successfully, Conservative Leader Stephen Harper will take the debate stage heralding a new freetrade deal covering 40 per cent of the global economy. The government expresses optimism the deal might be sealed during a two-day round of talks for which Canada’s trade minister departs Tuesday. Ed Fast leaves the campaign trail in his British Columbia riding to join the three-dozenmember Canadian delegation already in Atlanta. Ministeriallevel talks begin the next morning. “We are certainly going down there with (hope there) could be a deal,” said Max Moncaster, a spokesman for Fast. “But a lot of difficult issues remain, and we’re committed to resolving those with our TPP partners.” That note of caution under-
scores the sense of disappointment still fresh in negotiators’ minds following the last round. Harper had also planned to make a triumphant announcement on the eve of his election call, but those plans were scuttled during the late-July round in Maui. The Canadian delegation felt blindsided by an unforeseen irritant on auto manufacturing. Sources in two countries say the American and Japanese sides worked out a drastic change that would affect vehicle manufacturing on this continent. The other North American parties were only informed later. One source said the Americans first told the Mexicans they’d agreed to practically slice in half the regional-content requirement for tariff-free vehicles from the NAFTA levels. The Mexicans broke the news to the Canadians. “Our officials were, like, ‘No, that’s not going to work,”‘ said a Canadian source, speaking on anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss the talks publicly. Officials identified positive signs since that July disappointment — they cited minor progress on auto manufacturing and dairy at subsequent talks in Washington and San Francisco. Other countries have asked for greater access to Canada’s tightly managed dairy sector, with sources saying those initial demands were multiple times higher than the increased import quotas in the CanadaEurope trade deal. One source said other coun-
tries have inched away from their initial request. But a New Zealand official said agriculture remains far too protected. Mike Petersen, that country’s envoy for agriculture, said several countries including Canada haven’t gone far enough. “We have yet to see the major players offer the step up to what is required to meet the goals of TPP,” Petersen said. “This issue is clearly shaping up as being pivotal to the success or otherwise of these talks in Atlanta.” The federal government faces pressure at home, too. The dairy industry has a strong presence in dozens of Central Canadian ridings. Ontario and Quebec’s agriculture ministers are heading to Atlanta to shadow their federal counterpart, accompanied by representatives from the dairy sector. Quebec Agriculture Minister Pierre Paradis said there’s concern his federal counterpart could be pressured to give up too much. “We want the minister, who left the federal campaign to go down there, to feel that this is a big deal,” said Paradis, referring to federal-provincial meetings. The battle over automobile production could be epic. A union representing auto workers predicts production would shift to non-TPP countries like China with new regional-continent rules, and would exacerbate the longterm decline of Canadian auto manufacturing. Unifor plans to fight the government in a dozen swing rid-
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PM Stephen Harper meets Vaughan locals.
ings in southern Ontario with a strong presence of auto workers. Unifor has previously run ads against the Harper Tories. It wants the government defeated, and wants the opposition parties to back away from any bad deal. The union president noted that the deal’s full text probably wouldn’t even be released before Canadians vote. “This government thinks they’re going to close the deal, they’re going to have a photoop to say, ‘Look, we just signed a deal,’ without any intention of sharing the details with Canadians,” said union leader Jerry Dias. “They’re not going to get away with it. They’re going to have to tell the dairy farmers what’s in the deal. They’re going to have to tell the auto-parts companies what’s in the deal.” Some Canadian auto compa-
nies favour the deal. Ontariobased Martinrea International Inc. pays taxes in Canada, has 2,500 employees in Canada, but also has 14,000 workers worldwide. The auto-parts company says a TPP would help it grow — including in Canada. But if Canada misses out on TPP, it says, the car companies it supplies will simply shift operations to countries within the zone. “How can we walk away from one of the largest free-trade agreements in the world — where we have an opportunity to participate and then don’t?” said company chairman Rob Wildeboer. The debate could continue for months, as parliaments in different countries decide whether to ratify the deal. ■ With files from Julien Arsenault
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Canada News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Canadian official for U.N. Filipina student in Canada watched Syrian refugee crisis dies after drinking ‘slow burn’ in Lebanon smoothie on campus BY TAMSYN BURGMANN The Canadian Press VANCOUVER — When the daily queue of weary Syrians outside the United Nations refugee agency in Lebanon swelled to the thousands, Canadian Ninette Kelley realized the crisis could stretch endlessly. The official from Toronto began her post as representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in May 2010, catering to 10,000 Iraqis. By the time her mission concluded last June, she was the overseer of the largest such UN operation in the world with an intake of 1.2 million Syrians. Lebanon, which is smaller than Vancouver Island, had a population of about four million people before the civil war next door displaced millions of Syrians. Kelley compared Lebanon’s acceptance of enormous waves of people with Canada absorbing nine million refugees. “We were registering, in Lebanon over a two year period, more refugees every single week than Canada receives in a year,” she said, tallying about 10,000 new arrivals weekly. “I would describe it as a very slow and steady burn.” The expat had been working to mitigate the crisis since April 2011, years before a drowned Syrian toddler washed ashore a Turkish beach. The photograph of little Alan Kurdi, whose family had aspired to come to British Columbia, ignited global empathy for the suffering masses. Migrant relief has been announced by some countries, like Canada and the U.S., but some European countries have instead closed their borders. Kelley was on the ground before the civil war began, unexpectedly gaining responsibility for international assistance to a country that has become “completely overwhelmed.” The global public’s sense of urgency feels greater now than ever, Kelley said, but she emphasized the brutal conflict is already in its fourth year. “The fact that it may not have
BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer
Flags of the United Nations.
hit the television sets in Canada does not mean there was not great need and great destitution prior to this time,” she said from New York, where she now directs the UNHCR Liaison Office. Her comments come just days after the federal government announced it is speeding up processing of Syrian refugees on home soil. Resettlement of 10,000 people is slated to occur in a tightened time frame, fast-tracked about 15 months from three years. “The news on Canada is definitely very, very good news,” Kelley said. “But it’s part of a broader package of measures that UNHCR is advocating for in the developed world.” The agency is urging all national governments to share the burden that’s been mainly covered by countries with far fewer resources, she said. That includes exerting more political pressure on the regime, pledging more humanitarian funding and easing refugee entry procedures. Kelley heard many stories from refugees waiting in the lineups, but she was particularly struck by the despair of a mother of seven children. The
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woman’s family had been prosperous selling fruits and vegetables until they were driven from their home in Damascus. “I asked her how she continued,” Kelley said. “She quoted me an Arabic expression, the meaning of which is, ‘We live for lack of death.’ I shall never forget that.” Though she’s not following Canada’s federal election campaign, Kelley said voter opinion matters at the ballot box. “It was precisely the public that spurred on greater engagement by the country into resettling, (tens of thousands of ) Vietnamese ‘Boat People’ to Canada,” she said. The Liberals and New Democrats have been clamouring for the government to accept more refugees, but the Conservatives have said refugee applications must be balanced with proper security screening. Screening is legitimate, Kelley said, but she addressed the national security element of the debate by pointing out 80 per cent of the Syrian refugees are women and children. “I believe that (screening) can be done in an effective manner that does not put countries at risk.” ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
to peanuts and I have an allergy to dairy products.’ She knows that. She tells them,” Valentin added. ANDREA MARIANO, a firstMariano was rushed to Kingsyear student at Queen’s Uni- ton General Hospital when she versity, experistarted feeling enced a severe discomfort but allergic reaction she died after a and anaphylaxis couple of days. after drinking a All her life The 18-yearsmoothie she orshe has old student, dered on campus been very who had always on September 15. particular been meticulous “She had orabout about her allerdered a smoothletting gies, also did not ie. All her life she whoever bring her autohas been very it is that is injector with her particular about preparing on that day of letting whoever her food school. it is that is preknow. Taking into acparing her food count Mariano’s know,” Andrea’s death, several cousin Hedeluniversities in laine Valentin Canada started said in a Global News report. reviewing and enforcing strict“To say, ‘I have an allergy to er food safety and food allergy peanuts, I am deathly allergic policies and practices. ■
New Democrats repeatedly demand the resignation of B.C. children’s minister THE CANADIAN PRESS VICTORIA — British Columbia’s Minister of Children and Families Stephanie Cadieux has weathered repeated calls in the provincial legislature to resign over the death of an 18-year-old male in government care. Alex Gervais fell from the fourth-floor window of an Abbotsford hotel on Sept. 18, and his death drew attention again to the ministry that has been battered by controversies during Cadieux’s tenure. A B.C. Supreme Court judge ruled in July the ministry showed “reckless disregard” when it didn’t investigate children’s claims that their father
had sexually abused them, noting the man even molested his daughter while she was in foster care. New Democratic Leader John Horgan questioned whether Cadieux has the skills to lead the ministry and asked her to resign, a request that was repeated by two more NDP members. Cadieux ignored the demands, saying instead she is committed to her job and since November 2014 her ministry has increased its front-line child-protection social workers by 110. She says any policies coming from the examination of Gervais’s death will be incorporated by the ministry. ■
Canada News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
21
B.C. government, teachers work out a lesson plan for new curriculum BY DIRK MEISSNER The Canadian Press
PHOTO FROM JUSTIN TRUDEAU’S FACEBOOK PAGE
NDP tables climate change plan, Conservatives criticize Trudeau ahead of debate THE CANADIAN PRESS OTTAWA — Two of the three major political parties tried to score domestic political points on Sunday, one day ahead of a major foreign policy debate by the leaders. New Democrats released their plan to address climate change, one that would allow provinces to opt out if their efforts to minimize carbon emissions are as good or better than those of the federal government. Tom Mulcair says the money raised by the federal government through putting a price on carbon would go to the provinces for reinvestment in additional measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the federal
Conservatives attempted to pull a one-two political punch on the Liberals, accusing Justin Trudeau of making excuses for criminals and measuring economic growth through deficits. Veteran cabinet ministers Tony Clement and Julian Fantino held an event in Vaughan, Ont., picking apart comments Trudeau made in a weekend interview with Global Television’s The West Block. Fantino attacked the Liberal proposal to do away with mandatory minimum sentences in a series of tough comments that at times turned into a tirade, where he said criminals don’t take advantage of the “great services” in prison for rehabilitation and career offenders who are kept “isolated and insulated” don’t reoffend when they are released. ■
VICTORIA — Education Minister Mike Bernier says the government will spend $1 million to train British Columbia’s teachers on the new school curriculum, costing students four days of instruction over the next three years. As part of their collective agreement, teachers have six professional development days a year, of which the education ministry decides the topic for one of those days. But under the training program announced Monday, students will lose the equivalent of two additional days of class time this year, as teachers spend 10 hours learning how to phase in the lessons over the next three years. Next year, teachers will take five hours of non-classroom time and devote one professional development day to new curriculum training. The new curriculum is set to be fully implemented in the 2017-2018 academic year, when teachers will train five hours and devote another professional development day to the new program. The government has already announced it would dedicate one of the six professional development days this year to aboriginal education, which is part of the new curriculum. The government’s new curriculum aims to transform students’ interests into academic success, highlights collaboration and critical thinking, while
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also focusing on the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. Aboriginal perspectives will be taught at all grade levels, and students will learn about the residential school system. They will also learn about history of South Asian and Chinese immigrants, including the Chinese Head Tax. Teacher, trustee and superintendent organizations attended the news conference. Bernier called the gathering of nine separate B.C. education organizations in support of the new curriculum “historic,” as some have been long-time government adversaries. “B.C. teachers want to see the new curriculum succeed and that’s why we are here today,” said Jim Iker, president of the B.C. Teachers’ Federation. A strike last year by the province’s 40,000 public school teachers resulted in a late-September start to the school year. The five-week strike ended with teachers and government
signing a six-year contract. Bernier said teacher-training sessions will occur locally and in larger provincial settings. He said local school districts and teacher associations must manage their training time, which amounts to two school days this year. “We will be leaving it up to the local school districts and the teacher associations to determine how to spread out that time throughout the year,” he said. “In all cases, we will be making sure parents get adequate warning if there are going to be any changes within the classroom.” Iker said the $1-million training fund and the two days of non-instructional time is “so crucial to a successful rollout.” Schools have the option this year of starting to implement the new curriculum up to Grade 9. Bernier said while the training program is valued at $1 million, the time it will take to train teachers over three years is worth $100 million. ■
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World News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Pope: Bishops who covered up for abuse guilty of wrongdoing BY NICOLE WINFIELD The Associated Press ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE — Pope Francis has defended his words of consolation to U.S. bishops over the priest sex abuse scandal but says — for the first time — that those who covered up for abusers are guilty of wrongdoing. In a wide-ranging press conference en route to Rome from his first-ever visit to the United States, Francis also declared conscientious objection a “human right,” explained his admiration for American nuns and discussed his own star power, which was fully on display during his six-day, three-city tour. He also invented a new Italian word to describe the exuberant reception he received in New York City: “stralimitata” — roughly, “beyond all limits.” On his last day in the U.S., Francis on Sunday met with five survivors of sexual abuse and issued a warning to bishops that they would be held accountable if they failed to protect their flocks. “Those who covered this up are guilty,” he said. “There are even some bishops who covered this up. It’s something horrible.” While the Vatican has cracked down on priests who rape and molest children in recent years, it has long been accused of turning a blind eye to the bishops who moved abusers around rather than report them to police. Francis has agreed to create a tribunal in the Vatican to prosecute these bishops for abuse of office and has accepted the resignations of three U.S. bishops who mishandled abuse cases. Francis defended his words of consolation to U.S. bishops in Washington earlier in the week, saying he wanted to acknowledge that they had suffered too. Advocates for victims had denounced his praise as tonedeaf. “The words of comfort weren’t to say ‘Don’t worry, it’s nothing.’ No, no, no. It was that ‘It was so awful, and I imagine that you have wept so much,’” he said. On Sunday, Francis directed his attention to the victims
of abuse themselves, meeting with five survivors, including people who had been molested not only by priests but also abused by family members or educators. He apologized to them that often their accusations weren’t taken seriously, and promised to hold bishops accountable. Francis said he understands how a victim or a relative of a victim could refuse to forgive the priest who abused. “I pray for them, and I don’t judge them,” Francis said. He recalled that in his previous meeting with survivors of sex abuse, in July 2014, one told him that her mother had lost her faith and died an atheist after learning that a priest had violated her child. “I understand this woman. I understand, and God who is better than me understands,” Francis said. “And I am sure that God received this woman. Because what was groped and destroyed was her flesh, the flesh of her daughter. I under- Pope Francis and his retinue traveled from East Harlem to Midtown Manhattan by way of Central Park where thousands stand. I cannot judge someone had gathered to see him pass by. who cannot forgive.” A KATZ / SHUTTERSTOCK In another issue pressing on the American church, Fran- York, a bit ‘beyond all limits.’” Francis denied the change es. A separate Vatican investicis was asked about the case of “In Philadelphia, very ex- would facilitate divorce, say- gation into the quality of life of Kim Davis, the Kentucky coun- pressive. Different ways, but ing it merely simplified the America’s sisters similarly endty clerk jailed for several days the same welcome.” church’s process for determin- ed up thanking them for their after she refused to issue marHe said he was also impressed ing if a marriage was valid. selfless service. riage licenses to gay couples by the piety of Americans and Francis once again proFrancis on two occasions despite the Supreme Court’s gave thanks there were no inci- nounced his admiration for during the trip gave the sisters ruling making same-sex mar- dents during the trip. American nuns, saying they had public recognition and thanks. riage legal nationwide. Davis “No provocations, no chal- worked “marvels” in education He also visited with one group said such marriages violate her lenges,” he said. “They were all and health care in the United of nuns, the Little Sisters of the Apostolic Christian faith. well-behaved, normal. No in- States and were simply “great.” Poor, who have challenged the Francis said he didn’t know sults, nothing bad.” “The people of the United Obama administration’s health the case in detail, but he upheld Conservative American com- States love their sisters,” Fran- care insurance mandate. conscientious cis said. “I don’t After speeches in Congress objection as a huknow how much and at the United Nations, and man right. they love their deeply moving gestures visiting “It is a right. priests, but with the homeless, immigrants, And if a person And I am sure that God received this they love their prison inmates and schoolchildoes not allow woman. Because what was groped nuns. And they dren, it was suggested to Franothers to be a and destroyed was her flesh, the are great. They cis that he had become someconscientious flesh of her daughter. I understand. I are great, great thing of a “star” in America. objector, he decannot judge someone who cannot women.” Francis dismissed the idea, nies a right,” forgive. His praise was saying power is a passing thing, Francis said. noteworthy, giv- and that true power is to serve Francis said en the Vatican others. he was surprised under his prede“I must still go forward on by the warmth of the welcome mentators had been deeply crit- cessor had launched a crack- this path of service because he received in the U.S. despite ical of Francis’ priorities prior down on the largest umbrella I feel like I haven’t done all I criticism from conservatives to the trip, blasting his eco-fo- group of U.S. sisters, accusing can,” he said. over his environmental and cus as flawed and even criticiz- them of straying from orthoAnd besides, he said, stars economic messages. ing his decision to streamline doxy and not emphasizing doc- eventually fade away. “In Washington, it was a the church’s annulment pro- trine enough. Under Francis, “Being a servant to the serwarm welcome, but a bit more cess by saying it amounted to a the takeover ended two years vant of God is beautiful. And it formal,” Francis said. “In New “Catholic divorce.” early without any major chang- doesn’t fade away.” ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
World News
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
23
Afghan police: Taliban seize half of strategic northern city BY RAHIM FAIEZ AND LYNNE O’DONNELL The Associated Press
Millions of Muslims commemorate the sacred ritual of hajj in Saudi Arabia ISWAN NAWI / SHUTTERSTOCK
India, Pakistan say some 1,100 killed in Saudi hajj disaster BY ZARAR KHAN The Associated Press ISLAMABAD — Saudi Arabia has given foreign diplomats some 1,100 photographs of the dead from last week’s hajj crush and stampede, Indian and Pakistani authorities said, an indication of a significantly high death toll than previously offered by the kingdom. Saudi officials could not be immediately reached for comment Monday night about the discrepancy in the toll of the disaster in Mina. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, a lawmaker in Pakistan’s governing PML-N political party who is leading his country’s response to the disaster, said Saudi officials gave diplomats “1,100 photos” of the dead. Chaudhry told journalists during a news conference broadcast nationwide on Monday night that the photos could be viewed at Saudi embassies and missions abroad. “This is the official figure of martyrs from Saudi officials given for the identification process,” Chaudhry said. His comments echoed those of Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj from Sunday. “Saudi authorities have released photos of 1,090 pilgrims who have died in (the hajj) stampede,” Swaraj wrote on Twitter. Indian diplomats and gov-
ernment officials declined to immediately discuss or elaborate on Swaraj’s tweet Monday. Saudi authorities have said that at least 769 people died when two large waves of pilgrims converged on a narrow road last Thursday during the final days of the annual hajj in Mina near the holy city of Mecca. Survivors say the crowding caused people to suffocate and eventually trample one another. Iran, Saudi Arabia’s regional Shiite archrival, has criticized the kingdom over the hajj disaster and daily protests have taken place near the Saudi Embassy in Tehran. Iranian state media also have suggested that the death toll in the disaster was far higher, without providing any corroboration. Iranian state television has said 169 Iranian pilgrims died Thursday, while more than 300 remain missing and 100 were injured. The hajj this year drew some 2 million pilgrims from 180 countries, though in previous years it has drawn more than 3 million without any major incidents. Able-bodied Muslims are required to perform the fiveday pilgrimage once in their lifetime, and each year poses a massive logistical challenge for the kingdom. ■ Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Aya Batrawy in Mecca, Saudi Arabia; and Katy Daigle in New Delhi contributed to this report.
and security of residents,” he said. The Taliban launched their spring offensive earlier this year with a major assault on Kunduz that government forces managed to repel with the aid of reinforcements. Since then the Taliban are believed to have regrouped and allied with other insurgents. Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said the target of the assault was the
“caught by surprise” in what appeared to be a “big failure” of security and intelligence. “They were expecting a big attack but couldn’t defend the city.” KABUL, AFGHANISTAN — Strategically located Kunduz, The Taliban seized more than capital of the province of the half of the strategic northern same name, is one of Afghanicity of Kunduz on Monday, instan’s wealthiest cities. The cluding a hospital, a courthouse breadbasket province, which and other government buildborders Tajikistan and is at a ings, in an assault by hundreds crucial central Asian crossroads, of insurgents is a major prowho are now ducer of grain locked in fierce and other food. battles with govThe fall of Kunernment forces, Security forces in Kunduz were duz would mark police said. prepared for an attack, but not one the first time Sayed Sarwar of this size, and not one that was the Taliban have Hussaini, the coordinated in 10 different locations seized a major spokesman for at the same time. city since their the provincial pogovernment was lice chief, told The overthrown in Associated Press the 2001 U.S.-led that the insurgents overran more city’s main prison and police invasion. It would raise major than half the city after launching headquarters. concerns over whether the govcoordinated early morning at“Security forces in Kunduz ernment can secure Afghanitacks. The city’s fall would mark a were prepared for an attack, stan without the aid of U.S. and major loss for the government as but not one of this size, and not NATO troops, who shifted from it struggles to combat the insur- one that was coordinated in 10 a combat to a supporting role at gents without the aid of U.S. and different locations at the same the end of last year. NATO combat troops. time,” he said. “Right now inA senior U.S. defense offiThe deputy spokesman for tensive gun battles are going cial, speaking on condition of President Ashraf Ghani de- on inside the city. Part of the anonymity in order to discuss scribed the situation in Kunduz city is under the control of the an ongoing military operation, as “fluid.” Zafar Hashemi said Taliban, including the markets, said the U.S. military was aware the president was “in constant shops and a number of govern- the Taliban had taken control of contact with the security and ment buildings.” a hospital and a number of govdefense leadership to provide Analyst Faheem Dashty ernment buildings in the city, them with guidance.” said Afghan security and in“Our first priority is the safety telligence agencies had been ❱❱ PAGE 24 Afghan police
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World News
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
VW faces daunting financial and technical challenges in fixing software that cheated tests BY TOM KRISHER The Associated Press DETROIT — Volkswagen faces daunting challenges in fixing software that enables cheating on diesel engine emissions tests, a task that’s becoming more urgent because of growing anger from customers. The company has set aside $7.3 billion to pay for the scandal. But experts say it’s likely to cost much more as VW tries to comply with U.S. clean air regulations while appeasing diesel owners who paid extra for the cars, thinking they could help the environment without sacrificing performance. “We understand that owners of the cars affected by the emissions compliance issues are upset,” VW said on a consumer website launched Sunday. The company asked for patience and said it would address the issue as fast as it can. A spokeswoman wouldn’t comment further. But experts said VW will have to strike a careful balance to appease government regulators, make customers happy and avoid emptying the company cash box. A cheap remedy of software fixes likely would hurt performance and gas mileage, further antagonizing customers. A more expensive fix that adds a treatment system wouldn’t hurt performance, but it would cost thousands per car and by one analyst’s estimate,
could total more than $20 billion including vehicles in the U.S. and Europe. That’s in addition to a potential $18 billion fine in the U.S. and the cost of numerous class-action lawsuits alleging that VW’s cheating reduced the value of its customers’ cars. The scandal broke on Sept. 18, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board accused VW of installing secret software on 2-litre four-cylinder diesel engines that turned on pollution controls for lab tests and shut them off during real-world driving. As a result, 482,000 Jettas, Beetles, Golfs and Passats from the 2009 to 2015 model years belched out 10 to 40 times as much ozonecausing nitrogen oxide as U.S. law allows. A few days later, VW admitted the same “defeat device” that switched the pollution controls on and off was on 11 million cars worldwide. Germany says 2.8 million cars there are affected. Software in the main engine control computer figured out when the cars were being tested on a treadmill-like device called a dynamometer that the EPA used for verification and turned the controls on. With the pollution controls on, the cars are less efficient and won’t accelerate as fast, the two main reasons why people bought the VW diesels, said Matt DeLorenzo, managing
editor and a diesel expert for Kelley Blue Book. VW could change the software and leave the controls on to satisfy the EPA and California regulators. But that would anger customers and likely would force VW to compensate them for the reduced mileage, just as Hyundai did when it got caught with inflated fuel economy estimates, DeLorenzo said. “If it’s really sluggish and doesn’t get out of its own way, that’s a bigger issue (to customers) than fuel economy,” DeLorenzo said. “People notice that big of a change in performance.” The other option is to add a diesel exhaust treatment system that’s used by other manufacturers and even by VW on larger diesel engines. The treatment involves adding a tank of a chemical called urea, which enables the cars to separate nitrogen oxide into harmless ni-
trogen and oxygen. That would cost $2,000 or more per car, DeLorenzo said. Engineers would have to find room for a tank to store the blue urea fluid, which has to be refilled about every 7,500 miles, DeLorenzo said. And VW probably would have to compensate customers for years of urea cost, which is about $13 for 2.5 gallons. VW probably tried to avoid urea systems in the beginning because their cost would have driven Jetta and Golf prices above competitors, especially gas-electric hybrids, DeLorenzo said. Now, adding it after the fact will cost even more, he said. The scandal has forced Volkswagen to tell U.S. dealers not to sell cars with the suspect diesel engines. VW said on Sunday that it’s working to get government approval to sell 2016 models with updated engines “which we believe do not have any of the is-
Mansoor, has yet to be fully resolved, but seems to have had little impact on the battlefield. Hundreds of gunmen stormed the city at around 3 a.m. from several directions, officials said. Kunduz Governor Omar Safi was not in the city at the time, they said. The United Nation’s Assistance Mission to Afghanistan said all staff had been evacuated from its Kunduz office. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack on his Twitter account, saying the fighters were entering hospitals around the city hunting for wounded government troops. He advised
residents to remain indoors. Abdul Wadood Wahidi, spokesman for the Kunduz governor, said earlier that three police officers had been wounded and “more than 20 bodies of Taliban fighters are on the battlefield.” He said reinforcements from neighboring provinces had already arrived in Kunduz city, with more on the way from other cities, including the capital, Kabul, and Mazar-i-Sharif. Mohammad Yusouf Ayubi, the head of the Kunduz provincial council, said city residents were “greatly concerned” about the situation. “The Taliban are trying to take control of Kun-
duz city and this is why they have launched their attacks from different directions using their full power,” he said. Artist Hussain Daoudi, an eyewitness to the assault, described “the sound of bullets and blasts almost everywhere in the city.” Local officials say the Taliban have expanded from their southern heartland and joined forces across northern Afghanistan with other regional insurgent groups, including the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. The Taliban have seized a number of rural districts in recent months, even if only tem-
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sues the government has identified in other vehicles.” The 2015 and 2016 models have a new version of the 2-litre diesel engine that probably runs cleaner and could need just a software change to comply, DeLorenzo said. But on older models from 2009 to 2014, the fix may be more difficult. Mike Jackson, CEO of AutoNation, the largest dealership chain in the U.S., said he was told by VW that it will take hardware and software changes to fix the older models. The EPA says it may take VW a year to develop a fix. Before the 2009 model year, U.S. diesel emissions standards weren’t as strict, so those cars likely passed the tests without a defeat device, DeLorenzo said. Whenever the fix comes, it’s possible that owners might not get it done if it hurts their cars’ mileage and performance, and the EPA can’t force people to take their cars in for repairs. The agency only has authority over automakers, not car owners. The EPA says some states require proof that emissions recalls have been fixed before license plates are renewed. And the possibility of failing emissions inspections in states that require them apparently won’t be an issue because of the cheating software. “The defeat device was specifically designed to ensure that vehicles would pass inspection,” the agency says on its website. ■
Afghan police... and that both sides — the Taliban and government forces — had sustained a significant number of casualties. Early indications were that the Afghan forces were in position to throw back the attackers and regain control of the city, the official said. The Kunduz assault highlighted the resiliency of the Taliban following the revelation earlier this year that their reclusive longtime leader Mullah Mohammad Omar died two years ago. A bitter internal dispute over the appointment of his successor, Mullah Akhtar ❰❰ 23
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porarily, but Kunduz marks their first major advance into an urban area. Afghan forces have been largely on their own since the U.S. and NATO concluded their combat mission at the end of last year, shifting to a training and advising capacity. The local security forces have held their ground and repulsed a number of major attacks while taking their heaviest casualties since the 2001 invasion. ■ Associated Press National Security Writer Robert Burns in Washington contributed to this report.
World News
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Russian lawmakers 16 Turkish workers kidnapped give Putin OK to in Iraq are released use troops in Syria BY NATALIYA VASILYEVA The Associated Press MOSCOW — The upper chamber of the Russian parliament has voted unanimously to let President Vladimir Putin send Russian troops to Syria. The Federation Council on Wednesday discussed Putin’s request for the authorization behind the closed doors. Sergei Ivanov, chief of Putin’s administration, said in televised remarks that the parliament voted unanimously to approve the request. Ivanov said the authorization is necessary “not in order to achieve some foreign policy goals” but “in order to defend Russia’s national interests.” Putin has to request a parliamentary approval for any use of Russian troops abroad, according to the constitution. The last time he did so was before Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in March 2014. The Kremlin announced Wednesday that President Vladimir Putin has sent a request to Russia’s upper chamber of parliament asking lawmakers to authorize using the Russian army abroad. The Kremlin’s statement did not specify where Putin was
considering sending the troops but said the request was made “in line with recognized principles and norms of the international law.” Valentina Matvienko, chairman of the Federation Council, the upper chamber of parliament, was quoted earlier in the day as telling the lawmakers they would be considering the request on Wednesday. The chamber cut its live web broadcast in order to consider Putin’s request. It was not immediately clear when the vote is expected. Putin has to request a parliamentary approval for any use of Russian troops abroad, according to the Russian constitution. The last time he did so was before Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in March 2014. Putin’s request comes after his bilateral meeting with President Barack Obama on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, where the two were discussing Russia’s recent military buildup in Syria. The Kremlin reported that Putin hosted a meeting of the Russian security council at his residence Tuesday night outside of Moscow, saying that they were discussing terrorism and extremism. ■
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at the opening of the 70th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization in New York on Sept 28, 2015. DROP OF LIGHT / SHUTTERSTOCK
BY SUZAN FRASER AND SINAN SALAHEDDIN The Associated Press
BAGHDAD — Sixteen Turkish workers kidnapped from a construction site in Baghdad and held for nearly a month were released on Wednesday, Turkey’s prime minister and Iraqi officials said. Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said through his Twitter account that the workers were handed over to the Turkish ambassador in Iraq and that they were all in good health. He did not provide information on the circumstances of his release. In Baghdad, the spokesman for the city’s military command, Brig. Gen. Saad Maan Ibrahim confirmed the release and said the Turkish workers were now inside the Turkish Embassy. The men, employed by Turkish construction company Nurol Insaat, were part of a group
of 18 Turkish workers snatched in Baghdad’s Shiite-dominated Sadr City on Sept. 2. After their abduction, a video from a previously unknown militant group showed the hostages and demanded Turkey halt the flow of militants into Iraq, stop the passage of oil from Iraq’s northern Kurdish region via Turkish territory and lift what was described as a “siege” on Syrian cities. The brazen abduction laid bare serious security gaps in the heavily guarded Baghdad. Then, two of the kidnapped workers were released later in September in the southern city of Basra, a predominantly Shiite area of Iraq. Davutoglu thanked “Iraqi friends” who had worked toward the men’s release, without elaborating. “Preparations are underway to ensure their return home as soon as possible,” he said. Ibrahim told The Associated Press that the 16 workers were found Wednesday in the town
of Musayyib, about 40 miles (60 kilometers) south of Baghdad. An Iraqi national was kidnapped along with the Turks. Gunmen stormed the site on Sept. 2 as the workers were sleeping in caravans, breaking down doors and disarming the guards before taking the workers away. Baghdad has been torn by violence for over a decade now, with roadside bombs, suicide attacks and assassinations occurring almost daily. While kidnapping for ransom has continued, abductions on the scale of the one that seized the Turkish workers have been almost unheard of in the past few years. Iraq’s most recent turmoil has stemmed from the emergence of the extremist Islamic State group, a splinter of Iraq’s al-Qaida branch, which blitzed across the country to seize a third of Iraq’s territory last summer. ■ Fraser reported from Ankara, Turkey
Serial child rapist disputes computer evidence in B.C. sentencing hearing BY GEORDON OMAND The Canadian Press VANCOUVER — The judge in the sentencing hearing of a child serial rapist is grappling over allowing access to the man’s computer that police say was full of child pornography. B.C. Supreme Court Justice James Williams said the stakes are high for Ibata Hexamer and has called a hearing next week to determine the admissibility of the computer evidence in the sentencing process. Hexamer pleaded guilty in 2013 to four counts of sexual assault and two counts of confinement involving six victims aged six to 14, one of which dates back to 20 years. Prosecutors want Hexamer to be designated a long-term or dangerous offender for his crimes. “If Crown succeeds in having Mr. Hexamer designated a dangerous offender the consequences for him are great,” www.canadianinquirer.net
said Williams on Monday. “He could spend the rest of his life in prison.” Hexamer’s lawyer, Gary Botting, said police should not have been allowed to access his client’s computer, which allegedly contained thousands of images of child porn. Williams took issue with Botting’s decision to raise such objections so late in the process, after a forensic psychologist had already completed a psychiatric assessment. He called the move “an astounding proposition.” “I will say this quite pointedly: the manner in which the defence has dealt with this issue is unfortunate in the extreme,” said Williams. The sex assaults started in 1995 and ended in 2009, after Hexamer attacked a six-yearold girl in Surrey, B.C. He threatened to stab the little girl with a knife before forcing her 12-yearold brother and his 15-year-old friend to lay on the ground in the woods and look away while he sexually assaulted her.
Hexamer pleaded guilty in 2012 to six of the original 23 charges on the condition that the Crown drop the remaining 17, Botting said in an interview outside the court. He added that Hexamer bargained for a 15-year sentence and that prosecutors agreed not to pursue dangerous-offender status. Botting said his client applied to change his guilty plea earlier this year and fired his previous lawyer, Donna Turco, after she allegedly accepted a deal without Hexamer’s consent that didn’t include the dangerous-offender condition. In June, the judge dismissed Hexamer’s bid to alter his plea. Hexamer, who’s in his 40s, is a former DJ and political campaign organizer, with experience working on a municipal election campaign in Vancouver and for the NDP in Vancouver-Centre for the 2006 federal election. He has cycled through five lawyers since his arrest in late 2010. He remains in custody and his sentencing will continue on Oct. 8. ■
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
FASHION
JAKI PENALOSA Filipino designs showcased in Milan, Rome and London
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FRIDAY
Immigration
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
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Canada inches up to 13th place on global competitiveness ranking THE CANADIAN PRESS GENEVA — Canada has moved up two notches to 13th position in the latest Global Competitiveness Report issued Wednesday by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum. The report says Canada improved its ranking mainly because of a lower budget deficit based on 2014 data and a more favourable assessment of its financial market development.
It says Canada’s competitiveness is also built on such areas as “highly efficient labour markets” and a sound banking system, but cautions that exposure to a potentially overvalued housing market could become a risk in the near future. The WEF says that in order to counter the effects of lower energy prices, “Canada should continue to foster innovation at the company level.” The report says Canadian company spending on R&D is ranked 26th and its capacity to
innovate is 23nd. Overall, says the report, global economic growth remains low and unemployment “persistently high” despite efforts to re-ignite a recovery in the seven years since the beginning of the world financial crisis in 2008. The agency says the recovery has been “less robust, more uncertain and taken longer than many expected,” suggesting a “new normal” of subdued economic growth, lower productivity growth and high unemployment.
It adds that recent geopolitical shocks — from the crisis in Ukraine to conflicts in the Middle East, terrorism and the migrant crisis — have added to the world’s economic difficulties. Switzerland remains No. 1 on the list, a position it has held since 2007. Singapore is second in the annual ranking, followed by the United States, Germany and the Netherlands. The bottom five consists of Burundi, Sierra Leone, Mauritania, Chad, and last-place Guinea. ■
Prime Minister Abe pledges more aid for refugees, but says Japan won’t take them in BY MATTHEW PENNINGTON The Associated Press JAPAN’S PRIME minister said Tuesday that his nation needs to attend to its own demographic challenges posed by falling birth rates and an aging population before opening its doors to refugees. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced at the U.N. General Assembly that Japan is ramping up assistance in response to the exodus of refugees to Europe from the Middle East and Africa. He said Japan will provide $1.5 billion in emergency aid for refugees and for stabilization of communities facing upheaval. But speaking to reporters later Tuesday he poured cold water on the idea of Japan opening its doors to those fleeing. He said Japan first needed to attend to domestic challenges which he proposes to tackle under a revamped economic policy that aims to boost GDP to a post-war record level, while bolstering the social security system to support families. “As an issue of demography, I would say that before accepting immigrants or refugees we need to have more activities by women, by elderly people and we must raise (the) birth rate. There are many things that we should do before accepting immigrants,” Abe told a news conference, according to the official translation of his comments. He added that Japan would “discharge our own responsibility” in addressing the refugee crisis, which he described as helping to improve conditions that cause the exodus. Abe earlier told the world body that Japan would provide $810 million this year for emergency assistance of refu-
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
gees and internally displaced persons from Syria and Iraq, triple what it gave last year. Abe said Japan is also preparing about $750 million for stabilization efforts in the Middle East and Africa. Japan prides itself on being a good global citizen. It is one of the largest aid donors in the world. Last year Japan gave $181.6 million to the UNHCR, the United Nations’ refugee agency, making it second only to the United States in generosity. But it has offered very few if any resettlement places for refugees from the civil war in Syria. According to Ministry of Justice data, it accepted just 11 asylum seekers out of a record 5,000 applications last year, although Japanese officials say most of the asylum applicants were from other Asian countries and were already living in Japan.
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Some argue that increased immigration could help arrest a shrinking population, which is currently 126 million.
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Abe says he is determined to ensure that in 50 years the Japanese population has stabilized at 100 million. ■
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Community News
Commission on Filipinos Overseas accepts nominations for migration and media awards AMBASSADOR PETRONILA Garcia recently announced that the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) now accepts nominations for the 2015 Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) awards. Conceived in 2011 by the CFO for the celebration of the month of Overseas Filipinos and International Migrants’ Day in the Philippines in December each year, MAM awards recognize the significant role of the media in information dissemination and advocacy of news and concerns related to migration and development. Eligible for the awards are works by any individual, government and private media outlets, institutions and practitioners in the fields of print, radio, movie and television, advertising and internet based in the Philippines and abroad.
Entries must have raised public awareness on issues on Filipino migration, advocated the cause of Filipinos overseas, and promoted a positive image of Filipinos overseas. The six categories are: Print Journalism Award for best print media; Radio Journalism Award for best radio program; Television Journalism Award for best television program; Film Media Award for best films and videos (full-length or documentary); Interactive Media Award for web-based publications ; and Advertisement Award for best print, radio or TV commercial/advertisements on issues concerning migration. Garcia enjoined media to submit nominations to the MAM awards secretariat at mamawards@cfo.gov.ph on or before Oct. 15. ■
JULIUS TIANGSON, candidate for the new electoral riding of Mississauga Centre, invited people for a weekend barbeque at his campaign office at 3610 Mavis St., Mississauga. Friends and supporters from outside of his riding dropped by to give their support. Members of the Philippine Press Club of Ontario (PPCO) also attended this historic event. ■
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Mosaic builds stronger Filipino community PINOY CONNECT is a place where the Lower Mainland Filipino community brainstorms ideas to support each other and then work to bring these ideas to fruition. “Pinoy Connect got its start through the efforts of Filipino staff working under the Settlement Programs. They realized that a lot of Filipinos find it difficult to access services that are only available during the weekday, thus it was decided to run Pinoy Connect on Sundays. We continue to shape our offerings based on community feedback”, says Joy Jhocson, a settlement worker at Mosaic. Activities are offered for free due to government funding and volunteer support. “Our volunteers, who assist with ESL conversation circles, basic computer skills classes and more, are so passionate and in touch with the community. They bridge us with other community groups and advise us on how to improve our services for fellow kababayans,” Jhocson said. As a venue for kababayans to
share their experiences in a safe and non-judgmental environment to help them cope with their day-to-day experiences at work or at home, Pinoy Connect offers individual appointments, workshops, ESL conversation circles, computer skills classes and a pro bono legal clinic. Pinoy Connect offers support on a wide range of settlement issues, including Permanent Residency applications, employment law, work permit renewals and tenant rights. Staff are trained
to address specific needs, such as those of Temporary Foreign Workers, youth, women, seniors and the LGBTQ community. Pinoy Connect has worked with various organizations, such as I-Remit, the Philippine Consulate and faith groups like the Couples for Christ Migrants Ministry to reach out to more Filipinos. Community organizations can also send requests to Pinoy Connect to deliver workshops and activities. ■
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. announces new chair THE S.U.C.C.E.S.S. 42nd an- provided over 140,000 client- reached their maximum terms nual general meeting (AGM) services in settlement, health, of services and retired from the was successfully held on Sept. counselling, family support, board. 27, Grace Wong, a senior execu- children and youth, women, “Under the vision and strative in education, was elected seniors, membership and vol- tegic directions of the board, chair to lead the 16-member unteer, employment and busi- we continue to strive for exboard in 2015-2016. Nelson ness and economic develop- cellence in our services, supKwan, Donnie Wing, Jessica ment. Close to 78,000 clients porting newcomers to get setChan and Janet tled in Canada Ku s h n e r - K o w while meeting were elected the needs of the the vice chairs. communities The board also This year, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. has achieved through our inwelcomes Bonsignificant milestones in expansion tegrated services nie Teng, a new of existing services and innovation of locally, nationmember from new programs to meet the changing ally and internathe legal field. needs of newcomers. tionally,” added “This year, Choo. S. U. C. C. E . S. S. E s t a b has achieved siglished in 1973, nificant milestones in expan- participated in the events and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is one of the largsion of existing services and group activities organized by est social service agencies in innovation of new programs S.U.C.C.E.S.S. British Columbia. It is a charito meet the changing needs of Meanwhile, Choo welcomes table organization providing newcomers. This is an excit- the appointment of Grace Wong services in settlement, language ing time for our organizational to the Board. She also acknowl- training, employment, family growth and development as edged outgoing chair Doug Pur- and youth service, business and well,” said Queenie Choo, CEO die and three other board mem- economic development, health of S.U.C.C.E.S.S. bers Derrick Chow, Terry Yung care, housing, and community In 2014-2015, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. and Kenneth Kwan, who have development. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
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FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
Pint sized cancer patient lives out dream BY CHRIS PURDY The Canadian Press EDMONTON — Six-year-old cancer patient Mable Tooke first learned about Spiderman in hospital and he quickly became her favourite superhero because, of course, they both have radioactive blood. So when Mable got to choose anything from The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, she dissed Disneyland and was set on spending a day swinging around Edmonton and fighting crime with the webbed wonder. After she woke up Monday morning, she watched a spoof TV newscast in which Edmonton police called on SpiderMable to help save the city and rescue kidnapped Edmonton Oilers Captain Andrew Ference. Her mother, Lisa Tooke, said Mable had to watch the news story twice because she wasn’t sure if it was about her. “At first that disbelief in her eyes and then a slow smile appears and then a big grin and then a ‘Let’s go!”‘ Elizabeth LoPresti with the wish foundation said the elaborate event was the biggest the organization has ever pulled together. Ference, several police officers and Mayor Don Iveson all took part in the ruse, along with Spiderman himself, who acted as Mable’s sidekick for the day and chatted
with her about his life in New York City. LoPresti said Mable’s idea may have stemmed from a similar event held for Batkid, a five-year-old leukemia patient named Miles Scott, whose mission to save San Francisco in 2013 touched hearts around the world. Dressed in her own caped-costume and mask, SpiderMable was whisked around the city by limo and joined Spiderman in various adventures, which included zip-lining through the waterpark at West Edmonton Mall to rescue the feline superhero Black Cat. “We’re going to get some superhero training and then we’re going to track down Mysterio and catch him.” She added that the experience was “pretty cool” but taking lots of energy. Mable has been undergoing regular chemotherapy since she was diagnosed with leukemia in 2013. While her prognosis is good, Mable’s mother said the special day gave her a much-needed boost. “She’s getting close to the end of her treatment. It’s become such an incredible drag.” Her father, Neil Tooke, was astounded by the scale of the event and said he wasn’t sure if Mable knew it was all a game. “I don’t know if she believes it or not but she’s going along with it.” He hopes the day helped her “forget about the hospital, forget about procedures, just be a kid again.” ■
Max’s Restaurant in Scarborough, Canada Opens! The 4th Max’s branch in Canada celebrated its official Grand Opening this Friday, September 25th, giving away 25 free chicken to its first 25 customers! It is located on Markham Road, Scarborough, in a city that probably many will consider as the heart of the province’s Filipino community. Max’s Scarborough is located where numerous Filipino establishments can be found within 10-20 km radius, in the city where the popular outdoor event ‘Taste of Manila’ takes place, and is literally across the Iglesia ni Cristo where many Filipinos go to church. It is also just about 5 minutes from Scarborough Town Centre where many of our Kababayans shop and work. One can almost say that Scarborough could be the “Filipino Town” in Ontario, much like Winnipeg in Manitoba. “Our first Max’s branch in Canada opened in Toronto, Ontario, the 2nd in Vancouver, British Columbia and the 3rd in Edmonton, Alberta — all within only 4 years of operations. Now we return
to where we started, in the province of Ontario, to cater to the increasing demand of Filipinos for authentic Philippine Cuisine that they grew up with and love from their homeland, Philippines.” According to Marc H. San Juan, Sr. Marketing Manager for Max’s Group, Inc., International. “We are so excited to have opened our 2nd branch here in Ontario. The reception at our Toronto branch was remarkable, and now, more so, here in Scarborough where you know you feel just right at home. Everywhere you drive or walk in this city, you see and meet Filipinos smiling back at you!” Says Clyde Pacis, Franchise Owner. Max’s Scarborough is at 707 Markham Road, Scarborough, Ontario M1G 1W4. For reservations, contact (416) 431-4960. Follow Max’s Toronto & Scarborough on Facebook to get updates at facebook.com/ maxsrestauranttor. Visit www.maxschicken. com for more information. Also follow us on Instagram at @MaxsFriedChicken.
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Entertainment
Susan Roces: Sheryl is entitled to her opinion BY MARINEL R. CRUZ Philippine Daily Inquirer
Tony and Olivier Award-winning singer-actress Lea Salonga. S_BUKLEY / SHUTTERSTOCK
Lea Salonga posts about ‘kababawan’ in Twitter; netizens react BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA – Singer-actress Lea Salonga’s recent Twitter post on ‘kababawan’ (shallowness) earned the ire of several netizens who reacted negatively. Lea’ controversial post read, ‘Okay lang sa akin ang kababawan, pero hanggang doon na lamang ba tayo?’ (Shallowness is okay for me, but is that all we desire?) She also placed the hashtag ‘NagtatanongLangPo’ (JustAsking) in the said post. Not mentioning anything particular in her Twitter post, the singer later on clarified that she was not pertaining to the popular loveteam ‘AlDub’ in her post over the weekend.
Netizens, however, assumed that that she was referring to the AlDub phenomenon, where millions of Filipinos have become fans of Alden Richards and Yaya Dub’s (Maine Mendoza) loveteam in Eat Bulaga’s kalyeserye segment. Other Twitter users, on the other hand, defended the actress, saying that she did not mention anything about ‘AlDub’ in her Twitter post. Meanwhile, Eat Bulaga mainstay host Joey de Leon also reacted to Lea’s controversial post, saying ‘Hindi naman pala daw AlDub pinatatamaan ni Lea. Baka naman ‘yung kabila? Nagtatanong lang po.’ (So Lea’s not pertaining to AlDub after all. [She] may be referring to the other show? Just asking.) ■
“THAT’S HER opinion. I have nothing to say about that.” This was the reply given by actress Susan Roces when asked by newsmen for her reaction to her niece Sheryl Cruz’s controversial remark regarding her daughter Grace Poe’s presidential bid. Roces, through her talent manager Dolor Guevarra, told the INQUIRER they had not spoken to Cruz since she made public her opposition to her cousin running for the country’s highest post. “The only thing we know about her (Cruz) is that her talent manager, Rams David, has decided to resign. We also don’t know why,” Guevarra said. Cruz, who campaigned for Poe when the latter ran for senator in 2013, told the INQUIRER in a separate interview on Tuesday that Poe’s “popularity cannot be translated to capability.” She also refused to undergo DNA testing to help determine her cousin’s parentage and, subsequently, her citizenship. (Cruz’s mother, actress Rosemarie Sonora, and the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos had been rumored to be Poe’s biological parents.) Mother’s defense
“Grace is ready to take on any challenge related to her work,” said Roces in defense of her daughter’s decision to run for president. Roces said Poe “picked politi-
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Ms. Susan Roces (in blue) with daughter Sen. Grace Poe (left). FACEBOOK
cal science as her course in college. This means she is ready to face whatever concerns there are in relation to her job.” Poe is Roces’ adopted daughter with the late Action King Fernando Poe Jr., who also ran for president in 2004 but lost. As a mother, Roces said she wished nothing but for her only child “to be able to fulfill her dream.” The senator topped the recent survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations that asked Filipino respondents to name three people they believe should succeed President Benigno Aquino III. “I’m thankful for the result of the survey,” Roces told the INQUIRER at the media gathering for her latest drama series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” on ABS-CBN. Roces added: “A mother is never prepared for anything
like this. The recent turn of events caught me by surprise. But as a parent, I make my child’s interest my priority.” Seeing how dedicated the senator is to her work, Roces said she decided to “simply pray for Grace. I will always be here for her, ready to offer any help that I can give. Right now, however, I think I will be most helpful by keeping quiet.” Roces said Poe and her family showed their support for her latest project by attending “Ang Probinsyano’s” special screening recently at the TriNoma Mall in Quezon City. It is based on the 1997 film of the same title that starred the elder Poe. The latest version, which features Coco Martin in the lead role, will premiere on TV on Sept. 30. It also features Maja Salvador and Bela Padilla, and is co-directed by Malu Sevilla and Avel Sunpongco. ■
Entertainment
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Sisterly advice, concern for P-Noy
His sisters would not think twice needling him about his weight, but would avoid political talk BY BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR. Philippine Daily Inquirer WHEN PRESIDENT Aquino met with INQUIRER editors and reporters for the “Meet the INQUIRER Multimedia” forum last Sept. 8, the Chief Executive tackled various topics: from Mamasapano to slow Internet connection. But the foremost question on INQUIRER Entertainment’s list involved the presidential sisters, particularly controversial celebrity Kris Aquino. Just how much influence do sisters Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris have on presidential decision-making, especially when it comes to cultural and show business issues? Resident expert
The President admitted that when it comes to “entertainment and cultural” matters, “there is no discussion because Kris seems like the resident expert.” He explained, however, that his sisters “normally do not
interfere… unless something comes up.” He recalled a recent text message from sister Pinky, commending him for the smooth traffic situation (then again, the forum was set the morning of the infamous “carmaggedon,” but that’s another story). “Pinky texted me: ‘ Uy, there’s vast improvement. I am headed south and it’s like Sunday traffic,’” the President related. “Sometimes there are concerns that are brought to their attention so [these issues] would be channeled to me.” He said that his sisters “tell me the successes. They’re like sounding boards… additional eyes and ears.” He recounted that when his mother Corazon became president in 1986, the Aquino children were told to go back “to their private lives” away from the government. Alas, they would frequently get involved, too, he said, “if there were coups, flash floods, volcanic eruptions like Pinatubo.” He clarified, however, that “malasakit (concern) should
sistant): ‘It’s been four days. The dressing is made of all-natural ingredients—no preservatives—so you should throw it away.’” AlDub phenomenon
President Benigno Aquino (center) with his sisters. @WITHLOVEKRISAQUINO / INSTAGRAM
not be confused with pakikialam (meddling).” It’s all about “helping versus interfering,” he pointed out. In a poignant peek into his relationship with his siblings, the President described Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris as “typical sisters,” who would naturally express concern if he had been losing too much weight. “Some-
times I would make cariño (show affection)… Pinky has this Caesar salad dressing that I love. I would remind her if it took a long time for her to send it to me. She actually has a calendar and only sends it every six months.” Apparently, the dressing gets spoiled easily. “She would tell Yolly (his yaya or personal as-
In a show-bizzy twist, the President was also asked his opinion on the raging AlDub phenomenon of the noontime show “Eat Bulaga.” He declined to reveal whether he watches “Eat Bulaga” on GMA 7 or rival “It’s Showtime” on ABS-CBN, home network of sister Kris. He quipped that if he answered the query, “a lot of people might get mad at me.” Ever so diplomatically, he said that he usually watches shows on cable, History Channel, National Geographic Channel, Discovery and Discovery Turbo. He conceded, however, that he was aware of the AlDub craze: “I saw a picture…isn’t that about someone who kisses a TV screen. I read about it in your newspaper.” Thank you, Mr. President. ■
Dingdong, Marian’s baby shower Women’s rights group for daughter Maria Letizia Gabriela unhappy with ‘It’s Showtime’
BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — Family and friends threw a ballerina-themed baby shower for Kapuso actress Marian Rivera, who is now seven months pregnant with her first baby, Maria Letizia, with husband Dingdong Dantes. Earlier that day, Dingdong posted in his Instagram account a photo of Marian and captioned it, ‘Someone is excited for today’s baby shower. (I am too.)’ The celebration was held at Marriot Hotel in Pasay City. Present in the baby shower were Dingdong’s manager Paolo Luciano, Kapuso actress Bettina Carlos, opera singer Ana Feleo, stylist Liz Uy, TV personality and dermatologist Dra. Bicki Belo, hair stylist Bambbi Fuentes, among other celebrities and personalities.
BY CHING DEE Philippine Canadian Inquirer
Blooming mom-to-be Marian Rivera-Dantes poses for a photo during their starstudded, ballerina-themed baby shower @THEREALMARIAN / INSTAGRAM
Also present were GMA executives Triple A President Rams David, Senior Vice President for Entertainment Lilybeth Rasonable, Vice President for Entertainment Marivin Aray-
ata, Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Magno and Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching Sy. Marian is expected to give birth on November. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
WOMEN’S RIGHTS group Gabriela showed their displeasure over noontime show It’s Showtime’s treatment of Angelica Jane Yap, or more popularly know as Pastillas Girl. In a letter addressed to It’s Showtime‘s executive producer Mark Rejano and the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), Gabriela Secretary General Joan May Salvador cited that the noontime show appears to be “pimping” Yap to suitors and airing it on national TV as a form of entertainment. The letter reads: We wish to inform you that we have been receiving complaints
regarding exploitation of women in relation to your serye “Pastillas Girl” since it aired this month in Showtime. Concerned citizens wrote us and tagged us in their Twitter posts alleging that the show seems to be pimping the said Pastillas Girl to various interested men. As an organization dealing with the protection and advancement of women’s rights, we cannot dismiss such complaints. We have been consistent in out statement that competition to sell the show and the ratings war should not be done at the expense of women. In the interest of fairness, we would like to give you an opportunity to respond to such allegations publicly. As of posting, neither the MTRCB nor It’s Showtime have issued their response. ■
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Entertainment
OCTOBER 2, 2015
Paul Bettany: ‘I’m English, so I tend to sound evil’
The actor on playing the Marvel character Vision, and bulking up by bingeing on chicken BY FRAN KATIGBAK Philippine Daily Inquirer PAUL BETTANY, now in his 40s, remains a vision to behold. AsiaPOP Comicon-goers were captivated by more than his portrayal of a second Marvel character, Vision, an omnipotent synthetic humanoid, for which the entertainment and publishing conglomerate bent one of its rules—that an actor can only ever play one Marvel superhero—to accommodate the British actor who had already voiced J.A.R.V.I.S. (Tony Stark/Iron Man’s computerized AI servant). Bettany exuded a cool, engaging persona at the comic convention. He wore relaxed denim trousers, basic shirt, loose cotton blazer, accessorized by a summer scarf and tinted spectacles. Very English, just like his charming wit and eloquent way with words. Yes, words; the actor expressed his distaste for emojis and exclamation marks. “I think they’re a sign of weakness,” he said. “I would never use an emoji, and when my friends send texts with emoji, I dress them down for such nonsense. An exclamation point... means you were worried your sentence wasn’t clear enough that you were trying to be funny. So make your sentence funny, don’t add a smiley face. Just stop it, stop it, stop it.” On family. “The Marvel stuff is the only thing [in my career] my kids have ever been interested in, so that’s slightly humiliating. My 4-year-old daughter is in love with Robert Downey Jr. I was trying to get her to send a video message that said ‘I love the Vision more than you.’ Instead I had to send him one where she says, ‘I love you! I love you! I love you more than my daddy.’ It was a very bad and dark moment for me.” “I had a meeting with Robert de Niro, and it got delayed. Now, I’ve got to look after my boy while Jennifer (Connelly, his wife) was away working. I had this two-hour window. By the time I walked into the meet-
Christina Aguilera connects with roots on hunger relief effort trip in Ecuador BY MESFIN FEKADU The Associated Press
English actor Paul Bettany recently visited the Philippines. FEATUREFLASH / SHUTTERSTOCK
ing, I had one of those baby carriers and had conducted this audition with De Niro, wearing a baby.” On being told his career’s over. “I was sitting on the sidewalk of Sunset Boulevard, having just come out of a meeting in the building behind me and having been told that my career was over—by a producer. My phone rang. It’s Joss Whedon. He said, ‘Do you wanna be a superhero in the next Avengers movie?’ And I’m like, ‘Yyyesss.’” “It’s the first time in my life I’ve had the security of knowing that I’ve got a couple of movies to make in a number of years.” On career choices. “I don’t have a dream role. I love great writing. When I read great writing I fall in love with it, so I’ve never have a plan in that way. I’m also a natural blond and an actor, so I tend to be bad at making plans.” “I love bits of all of them (his movie roles). I’m really proud of ‘Master and Commander’ (where he played naturalist and warship doctor Stephen Maturin). And then these darker characters, like in ‘Gangster No. 1’ (as a scheming, ambitious young gangster, a role that kicked off his career).” On his personality. “I’m not sure how many evil traits I have. I’m English, so I tend to sound evil. It’s just one of the hangovers from a colonial past.” On bulking up for film roles. “Frankly I feel terrible because I’ve decimated the chicken population of America (where
he is based with his family). It’s just eating protein all the time and really focusing on not eating the things I really like to eat, like cheese, potatoes and bread, though half my reason to live are those things.” On his concept of traveling. “For me it’s about eating, knowing where to eat in local places. I slip past my security and go off on my own. I tend to sort of meet people through food.” On career beginnings. “I recently made my first film as a director, called “Shelter,” starring my wife and Anthony Mackie, about homelessness on the streets of New York City… [In real life] an apartment got sold for US$100 million while 60,000 of its citizens were seeking shelter every night, with 20,000 of those children. This is [happening] in a city with more billionaires than any other city on earth. “I do find myself thinking about how fortunate I am all the time. I was a street performer; if didn’t make money I would go to bed hungry. Looking at the world right now, we will be judged on how we treat the needy.” Thoughts on the Marvel universe. “It’s an extraordinary creation. America’s a very young country and it’s created its own mythology. It’s fun and yet great things can be spoken about using it as a template. They [the superhero films] are beginning to talk about the fact that the more defended we are, the more conflict there is.” ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
FRIDAY
wanted to go visit where my dad comes from, the culture, you know, not having sort of a consistent relationship at all NEW YORK — Christina Agu- in my life with him and not reilera has visited Haiti, Rwanda ally knowing him as I’ve gotand Guatemala on relief effort ten older through the years as trips, but last week in Ecuador well. You know, there’s a hisshe not only offered support to tory there. But, you know, it is struggling and hungry children a part of my blood and a part — she also connected with her of my heritage and a part of my roots. people,” she said. “And I would Aguilera’s father is from Ec- look at the faces and I would uador. The trip marked the first sort of ... sometimes feel like I time the 34-year-old singer, saw a resemblance. I think it’s who was born in New York, had important and I think it’s good visited the country. to know where you come from “This particular trip was sort and sort of get to know your of extra-special roots.” for me because Aguilera said it is my blood “it felt that much and heritage. better to me that My father was I was in a place born in Ecuador I think it’s that I felt so conand my grandfaimportant nected to and ther was born in and I think it’s was able to give Quito, which is good to know back to.” the city I stayed where you She’s filmed in. And we would come from a public service drive out in the and sort of announcement fields which get to know to raise hunger were hours away your roots. awareness that by car and into will be released the farmland next month. and sort of refuYum! Brands gee areas where Inc., the parent people are strugcompany of Pizgling,” Aguilera za Hut, Taco Bell said in an interview with The and KFC, said its eight-year-old Associated Press on Monday. World Hunger Relief initiative “This was a really interest- has raised $600 million in cash ing and raw way to go about it. and food for the United NaIt wasn’t like I vacationed there tions’ World Food Programme in one of the more beautiful and other organizations. spots such as Galapagos Islands Her trip included visiting or things like that. I went into schools and providing lunch the fields and got to meet the for children who have to travel women and children there who far to get to school. “It takes are really trying to survive,” she these kids 45 minutes walking said. by themselves, alone, up a hill,” Aguilera has been a volunteer she said. global spokesperson for Yum! “It’s really hard for these kids Brands’ World Hunger Relief and I couldn’t wait to come since 2009. She has visited back and tell my own kids these Rwanda, Haiti and Guatemala. stories to ... better appreciate She chose to visit Ecuador what they have,” the mother of this year from a list provided to two said. “These kids, they just her, Aguilera said. were the most well-mannered, “I definitely had always sweet-natured, little kids.” ■
33
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
Lifestyle
A grand time at the Singapore Grand Prix Fast cars, glitzy parties, huge concerts and big surprises–this is Formula One, Singapore-style BY PAM PASTOR Philippine Daily Inquirer “COME ON, Kimi, keep the pace! I need everything you’ve got! Everything!” a fan sitting behind us on the Padang Grandstand cheered Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen on. Formula One cars whizzed past, Ferrari-Red Bull-Ferrari, sparks flying, too fast to be captured by our lenses. It doesn’t matter if you’re not really into the sport, if you’re in Singapore during Grand Prix Season, it’s inevitable: you will catch F1 fever. Now on its eighth year, Singapore Grand Prix still remains the only night race on a street circuit in the 13th leg of the 2015 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar. And it really lived up to its theme “One Stop Non-Stop.” At the 2015 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix, the action really doesn’t end—inside and outside the Marina Bay Street Circuit. There is plenty of fun for everyone— F1-obsessed or not. “It’s not just the race that people are coming to,” said Lionel Yeo Singapore Tourism Board’s chief executive officer. Adrenaline-charged
Each night, regardless of which team or racers they’re rooting for, fans come together for incredible entertainment and memorable nights out. We kicked off our adrenalinecharged weekend by watching the racers practice from the comfort of the Singapore Suite, drinking W Hotel’s Singapore Slingshot, a cool twist on the classic cocktail—a killer mix of gin, Benedictine, bitters, pineapple and a cherry popsicle served in iconic Tiger beer cans. When practice was over, Pharrell Williams hit the Padang Stage wearing a giraffe shirt. “Singapore, who came here to party?” Pharrell asked as the crowd cheered. Then he per-
CHEN WS / SHUTTERSTOCK
formed a song that was perfect for the sweltering evening— Nelly’s “Hot in Here.” The crowd buzzed in electric anticipation of his hit “Happy.”
ready impressive collection of art. (Claude Monet, Rembrandt and Picasso in one room!) Aston Martin supercars were on display at the Wisma Atria. There were Formula Onethemed games, pub crawls,
“It’s like 17 million people out there. It’s never-ending,” frontman Adam Levine said, who started shedding his clothes throughout the show. “Beautiful place. It’s hot as sh*t too, Hodor isn’t it?” Later that On the way out night, a big treat of the concert for “Game of grounds, people Thrones” fans: raved about the DJ Kristian It doesn’t matter if you’re not really show. “That Nairn, who plays into the sport, if you’re in Singapore was so good,” Hodor in the during Grand Prix Season, it’s we heard these show, spinning inevitable: you will catch F1 fever. words over and at The Podium over again, reLounge at the peated in differRitz-Carlton ent accents. Millenia. At the exGlitzy parties, huge concerts, poolside soirees, pop-up shops clusive Amber Lounge party, special surprises—this is For- and restaurant menus (because champagne flowed freely as mula One fun, Singapore-style. people need fuel, too). At the Apl.De.Ap performed for revelF1 was everywhere. In the Singapore Suite, even the nap- lers that included models, TV lobby of The Fullerton Hotel, a kins had F1 cars on them. personalities, racers and beaurace car covered with orchids ty queens. The after-party at and two adorable bear driv- Maroon 5 Ce La Vi gave a fantastic view of ers greeted guests. Singapore The next night, after the rac- the circuit from the top of MaPinacotheque de Paris at Fort ers burned fuel in the Qualify- rina Bay Sands. Canning Arts Centre had a spe- ing Race, Maroon 5 took over On Sunday night, the highcial exhibition of vintage cars, Padang Stage, playing their hits light of the weekend: the race. specially brought in for Grand as the enormous crowd sang We decided to live dangerously Prix weekend, on top of its al- along. and chuck our earplugs for the www.canadianinquirer.net
full experience. We grabbed our seats at the Padang Grandstand, keeping our eyes on the big screen in front of us and the live leaderboards on our phones, cheering and hollering as the racers roared past us. We gasped as Sahara Force India’s Nico Hulkenberg’s collided with Williams’ Felipe Massa and again when news spread about a man who had wandered onto the track. Enthralling race
“What a fantastic, enthralling race,” the announcer said. Yes, it was. Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel kept the lead for 61 laps, cementing his position as the racer with the most number of wins at the Singapore Grand Prix. He also won in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and set the fastest lap at 1:48.574. After the race, as he rocked the Padang Stage, Jon Bon Jovi said, “I want one of those cars to drive around in Jersey. Maybe Ferrari will give me one.” “It was a hell of a race,” he said. It was a hell of a weekend, too. ■
34
Lifestyle
OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Study finds many early breast cancer patients can skip chemo; gene test helps ID which ones BY MARILYNN MARCHIONE The Associated Press MANY WOMEN with earlystage breast cancer can skip chemotherapy without hurting their odds of beating the disease—good news from a major study that shows the value of a gene-activity test to gauge each patient’s risk. The test accurately identified a group of women whose cancers are so likely to respond to hormone-blocking drugs that adding chemo would do little if any good while exposing them to side effects and other health risks. In the study, women who skipped chemo based on the test had less than a 1 per cent chance of cancer recurring far away, such as the liver or lungs, within the next five years. “You can’t do better than that,” said the study leader, Dr. Joseph Sparano of Montefiore Medical Center in New York. An independent expert, Dr.
Clifford Hudis of New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, agreed. “There is really no chance that chemotherapy could make that number better,” he said. Using the gene test “lets us focus our chemotherapy more on the higher risk patients who do benefit” and spare others the ordeal. The study was sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. Results were published online Monday by the New England Journal of Medicine and discussed at the European Cancer Congress in Vienna. The study involved the most common type of breast cancer—early stage, without spread to lymph nodes; hormonepositive, meaning the tumour’s growth is fueled by estrogen or progesterone; and not the type that the drug Herceptin targets. Each year, more than 100,000 women in the United States alone are diagnosed with this. The usual treatment is surgery followed by years of a hormoneblocking drug. But many women
also are urged to have chemo, to help kill any stray cancer cells that may have spread beyond the breast and could seed a new cancer later. Doctors know that most of these women don’t need chemo but there are no great ways to tell who can safely skip it. A California company, Genomic Health Inc., has sold a test called Oncotype DX since 2004 to help gauge this risk. The test measures the activity of genes that control cell growth, and others that indicate a likely response to hormone therapy treatment. Past studies have looked at how women classified as low, intermediate or high risk by the test have fared. The new study is the first to assign women treatments based on their scores and track recurrence rates. Of the 10,253 women in the study, 16 per cent were classified as low risk, 67 per cent as intermediate and 17 per cent as high risk for recurrence by the test. The high-risk group was given chemotherapy and hormone-
blocking drugs. Women in the middle group were randomly assigned to get hormone therapy alone or to add chemo. Results on these groups are not yet ready—the study is continuing. But independent monitors recommended the results on the low-risk group be released, because it was clear that adding chemo would not improve their fate. After five years, about 99 per cent had not relapsed, and 98 per cent were alive. About 94 per cent were free of any invasive cancer, including new cancers at other sites or in the opposite breast. “These patients who had low risk scores by Oncotype did extraordinarily well at five years,” said Dr. Hope Rugo, a breast cancer specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, with no role in the study. “There is no chance that for these patients, that chemotherapy would have any benefit.” Dr. Karen Beckerman, a New York City obstetrician diagnosed with breast cancer in
2011, said she was advised to have chemo but feared complications. A doctor suggested the gene test and she scored very low for recurrence risk. “I was convinced that there was no indication for chemotherapy. I was thrilled not to have to have it,” and has been fine since then, she said. Mary Lou Smith, a breast cancer survivor and advocate who helped design the trial for ECOG, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, which ran it, said she thought women “would be thrilled” to skip chemo. “Patients love the idea of a test” to help reduce uncertainty about treatment, she said. “I’ve had chemotherapy. It’s not pretty.” The test costs $4,175, which Medicare and many insurers cover. Others besides Oncotype DX also are on the market, and Hudis said he hopes the new study will encourage more, to compete on price and accuracy. “The future is bright” for gene tests to more precisely guide treatment, he said. ■
Don’t get drunk: advice many college kids don’t hear from their doctors, government study says BY LINDSEY TANNER The Associated Press CHICAGO — Government researchers say “deplorably” few college students are warned by doctors about the danger from alcohol and drugs or encouraged to reduce drinking or substance use. Their survey suggests that most doctors ask college students and other young adults about alcohol or drug use at regularly scheduled visits. But many doctors don’t go much beyond that initial question. The study by National Institutes of Health researchers was published Monday in JAMA Pediatrics. Some highlights about the findings: The survey
About 2,100 college students and other young adults across the country were asked in 2012
and 2013 if they’d seen a doctor in the previous year and had been asked and counselled about their drinking, smoking and drug use. Participants had taken part in an earlier government health survey while in high school. In the new survey, most attended college but about one-third were not students.
Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol is linked with nearly 2,000 deaths each year among college students, and many more assaults and date rapes. Why counceling?
Doctors & counceling
Most of those surveyed had a recent doctor visit where they were asked about smoking, drinking and substance abuse. Fewer than half the college students said they’d been counselled about risks of those habits. Only one-third of college students who told researchers they’d been drunk at least six times in the previous month said doctors had advised them to cut down or stop. That advice was slightly less common for college students who were frequent smokers or drug users.
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Non-students were slightly more likely to get that kind of counselling. Lead researcher Ralph Hingson of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism said it’s possible participants didn’t tell doctors the truth about their drinking habits. Even so, physicians’ lack of advice may send a message that www.canadianinquirer.net
heavy drinking is OK, Hingson said. Drinking stats
Overall, 40 per cent of participants told researchers they’d consumed five or more drinks on at least one occasion and 10 per cent had been drunk at least six times in the past month. According to the National
Dr. Tanveer Mir, chair of the American College of Physicians’ Board of Regents, said doctors may assume college students already know about the risks and consequences. Also, physician training often doesn’t emphasize that those problems are preventable and treatable, and physicians may feel that there isn’t enough time in an office visit to address the issue, Mir said. She was not involved in the study. The researchers said efforts are needed to remove those barriers because studies have shown that screening and brief counselling can reduce alcohol misuse. ■
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FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
Travel Stawamus Chief , the second largest granite monolith in the world. XUANLU WANG / SHUTTERSTOCK
Sacred stories of mythical battles just part of summiting B.C.'s Stawamus Chief BY GEORDON OMAND The Canadian Press SQUAMISH, B.C. — The Stawamus Chief on Canada's West Coast is a world-renowned rock-climbing destination known for its beautiful multi-pitch routes and unrivalled crack-climbing pitches. But many visiting outdoor enthusiasts are unaware that the iconic granite monolith also carries the scars of a legendary battle. The region's Squamish people tell of the mythical hero Xwech'taal vanquishing the double-headed sea serpent Sinulhkay before uniting the Squamish Nation. As Sinulhkay fled across the mountain, the creature seared a trail of defeat into the stone, which today is visible as a deep blackened cleft that runs like a scar up and over the mountain's face. “It's a very powerful, sacred mountain that my people have admired for many years,” says Ian Campbell, hereditary chief and elected councillor of the Squamish First Nation. Campbell talks of the legendary transformer brothers creating the Chief out of an enormous First Nations home in which all the spirit animals had gathered for a feast. “We see it in the physical realm as a mountain, but in the spirit realm it's a longhouse,” he said, describing it as a symbol of togetherness. Today, the Stawamus Chief — pronounced stah-WAH'-muss, but known
colloquially simply as the Chief — attracts thousands of visitors every year, both for its premiere rock-climbing offerings but also thanks to its readily accessible hiking trails that climax in rewarding ridge-top vistas. The mountain towers 700 metres over the head of a picturesque, inundated fjord, about 50 kilometres northwest of Vancouver. Looking down from the first of its three rounded granite summits, the slithering Squamish River can be seen reaching the salty waters of Howe Sound, which ripple between shades of teal and aquamarine under a shifting, cloud-covered sky. The initial peak is accessible about 1.5 kilometres from and 540 metres above the trail's starting point, while the two remaining summits are located slightly higher and farther along. The panorama offers a view across the core of the Squamish Nation's territory. To the north, the snow-streaked slopes of Nch'kay — also known as Mount Garibaldi _ angle into the high-ceilinged clouds. Nch'kay played a prominent role in the Squamish Nation's creation story, offering sanctuary to the region's people during the great flood, explains Campbell. The site also provides crucial nesting habitat to the peregrine falcon, prompting periodic closures of certain climbing routes throughout the year. On any given summer day, small coloured specks can be made out dotting the mountain's face, indicating yet an-
other band of climbers who have opted for the more direct, albeit somewhat more challenging, path to the peak. The mountain itself cuts a striking image from afar, visible at the base of the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway as a radiant granite sentinel, standing watch over the sleepy community of Squamish. The monolith is the namesake of the First Nation settlement of Stawamus, located immediately at its foot. Smooth, glacier-polished stone hints at the Chief's formative glacial past, while Smartwool- and Gore-Tex-clad hikers belong to its present. A middle-aged couple from Michigan braved the moss-covered crag and scrambled up the occasional metal ladder and chain to reach the first peak. “You just can't do justice to this place,”
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says David McGreaham, marvelling at the view with his wife Kathy. “This is something I'll remember.” Other visitors come from farther afield. Ludovic Minne of France was about to wrap up two weeks of climbing and hiking in the Pacific Northwest. “Some people told me if you go to B.C. you have to go to Squamish,” says the 25-year-old Frenchman, sitting in the parking lot at the mountain's base, camping stove and breakfast supplies spread out before him — a regular occurrence. “The view is just amazing — really, really beautiful,” he adds in a thick accent, smiling broadly as he describes watching the sunset from the summit the night before. “I’m just happy to be here.” ■
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Business
Lack of access to financing crippling MSMEs
BSP seen keeping rates steady in 2016
BY AMY R. REMO Philippine Daily Inquirer
BY PAOLO G. MONTECILLO Philippine Daily Inquirer
ILOILO CITY — Despite the aggressive pitch made by the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) to boost the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, the local and business community scored the continued lack of access to financing as the biggest hurdle crippling these small firms, putting them at a big disadvantage when competing in the global market. In an interview, Sergio OrtizLuis Jr., president of the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport), claimed that locally, there seemed to be a bias in lending against the MSMEs as most banks “would rather lend to one big company than 20 small companies.” “From my point of view, what we as an MSME need is access to financing. There is a law but it is not being implemented effectively due to the faulty implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9501 or the Magna Carta for MSMEs, which does not seem to be working well as financing has not flowed into the sector over the years,” Ortiz-Luis said. “We hope that the IRR can be repealed and changed. I think there is really a lack of appreciation of the role of MSMEs as the backbone of the economy. There’s no allocation of funds from the budget for MSMEs. If we can just give maybe 10 percent of what we’re giving for the conditional cash transfer, we could do a lot for the MSMEs,” he added. Peter V. Perfecto, executive director of the Makati Business Club (MBC), noted that it was encouraging that Apec governments were looking into a holistic view of supporting both “traditional and tech-driven enterprises and, moreover, recognizing the role governments play in facilitating the growth of businesses through e-commerce, supporting the utiliza-
THE BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will likely put off any plans to raise rates until 2017, Credit Suisse said in a new report, citing the absence of any real threat to the stability of consumer prices and the country’s growth. Amid global jitters over China’s economic slowdown and the US Federal Reserve’s plan to tighten monetary settings, the BSP can afford to keep rates on hold to save ammunition for worse times. Fuel prices are expected to stay subdued for a protracted period while the Philippines’ growth prospects remain secure. “The key difference between the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries is that it has both the policy room to boost growth, and also likely robust growth over the next two years,” Credit Suisse said in a report on the Asia-Pacific region released late last week. This followed the central bank’s decision last Thursday to keep policy settings on hold amid benign inflation and healthy economic conditions. The BSP sees inflation at 1.6 percent by year’s end, before returning to levels within the target range of 2 to 4 percent by 2016 and 2017.
Credit Suisse, for its part, said it lowered its 2015 inflation forecast to 1.4 percent (from 2.2 percent). The 2016 projection went through a similar revision, with infla tion now seen at 2.4 percent (from 3.7 percent). These partly reflect the lower than-expected inflation prints seen in the first half of the year, with inflation falling to a multiyear low of 0.6 percent in August. “Moving forward, our forecast change also reflects a lower assumed path for oil prices, together with more moderate food and electricity price increases from the El Niño impact,” Credit Suisse said. The BSP’s main goal is to protect consumers’ purchasing power by keeping prices stable. The cost of goods in the country is affected either by supply or demand factors. The current lows in inflation are caused by supply-side issues—namely cheap fuel from overseas—that the BSP has no power over. Credit Suisse said the domestic economy was expected to grow by 6.1 percent this year. The bank’s new projection is lower than a previous forecast of 6.4 percent, but still within the government’s new assumption of a 6- to 6.5-percent expansion. “[We] now expect the central bank to keep rates on hold until the end of next year,” the Swiss bank said. ■
Facade of Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
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tion of the Internet by MSMEs, and partnering with large corporations to help MSMEs become part of global supply chains.” “Today, so many small businesses still contend with the challenge of access to finance. This year, Apec is discussing ways in which informal businesses can have more options to apply for loans. There is always room to explore alternative mechanisms to MSME finance and learn how economies can adopt these new financing trends,” Perfecto told the INQUIRER. He added that Apec, as a regional forum, was the venue where these options could be discussed and learned, and hopefully adopted to benefit our communities. “These MSME topics covered by Apec are relevant and timely. With the Asean Economic Community just around the corner, we should strive to learn from best practices, understand what policies would work to enable a healthy MSME environment, and provide for the necessary capacity building assistance that our smaller entrepreneurs need to compete. It is all about building an ecosystem that will ensure that our MSMEs succeed and become key components toward the realization of our vision of inclusive growth,” Perfecto added. Apart from financing, John
D. Forbes, senior advisor at the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham), also pointed out that other ways for the government to support MSMEs included minimizing red tape and making infrastructure, namely power and transportation, more efficient for these enterprises to help lower their business costs. “For example, how can an MSME in Mindanao develop a market in Manila when it faces brownouts and shipping out its products is taxed 12 percent value-added tax on shipping services?” Forbes asked. Dan Lachica, president of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Inc. (Seipi), underscored the significance of MSMEs in the electronics industry supply chain. “If properly developed, MSMEs can help in localizing supply of materials, thereby increasing local value-added content. Industry can help with technology transfer to improve MSMEs’ capabilities but the challenge for MSMEs is access to funds for scaling up and expansion,” Lachica added. Pacific Rim ministers on Friday adopted here the Apec Iloilo Initiative, which seeks to provide “a bigger voice and better opportunities” for MSMEs through increased focus on the potentials of the Internet, the digital economy and e-commerce. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net
Business
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Construction of LNG facility to start in 2016 Lopez firm seeks partners for $1B venture BY RIZA T. OLCHONDRA Philippine Daily Inquirer LOPEZ-LED FIRST Gen Corp. is getting ready to build the $1-billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) regassification and terminal project that will fuel its gasfired power plants in Batangas province. Company president and COO Francis Giles B. Puno said the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for the LNG terminal would be bid out next year. “We’ve short listed the potential contractors (to) five,”
Puno said, adding that the feasibility study for the project has been completed. Site design is underway and site preparation will start next year with the chosen EPC contractor. Puno said First Gen was talking to both local and foreign firms to become partners in the project. “The capex (capital expenditure) is somewhat large. What we’re talking about is about a billion dollars for the LNG terminal. So it’s hard for us to fund alone,” he said. But time is on First Gen’s side because its contract with the Malampaya gas platform con-
sortium, which supplies fuel to its existing gas-fired power plants, will end sometime in 2022 to 2024. The Lopez-led firm’s LNG terminal is expected to be completed by 2021. “We have enough time to build the LNG regassification [terminal] in time for the expiration [of the Malampaya contract],” Puno said. Primarily designed to have pipelines to nearby gas-fired power plants, the LNG terminal will also host trucks that can deliver natural gas to other power stations and industrial parks in the Calabarzon area.
“Once we build the gas terminal, its designed to be able to send lorries, trucks to the industrial partners so we can load LNG in Batangas and send to said parties in Cavite and Batangas and deliver gas to those markets,” Puno said. Tractebel Engineering Pvt. Ltd. of the GDF Suez group is refining the detailed design for the terminal. European and Japanese firms are among those interested in the onshore LNG regassification and import terminal that will be integrated into an existing complex of power plants. The LNG supply contract will
be tendered in parallel with the construction contract. Global suppliers could bid for the supply, Puno said. Earlier, Puno said First Gen was willing to take a 50-percent stake in the project and the rest might be divided among the prospective partners. The Malampaya gas field fuels First Gen’s power plants, which supply about 40 percent of the power needs of Luzon. First Gen wholly owns the 1,000-MW Santa Rita and the 500-MW San Lorenzo natural gas-fired combined cycle power plants. ■
The Latest: Dutch Volkswagen dealers halting sale of diesel cars over emissions scandal THE ASSOCIATED PRESS BERLIN — The latest developments on the Volkswagen emissions scandal. All times local. 9:40 p.m.
Dutch Volkswagen dealers are halting the sale of diesel cars that may be affected by the German automaker’s emissions-rigging scandal. Pon, the Dutch importer of Volkswagens, Audis, SEATs and Skodas, says in a statement that the temporary sales halt applies to 4,100 cars that its dealers still have in stock. The company said Monday the decision comes “in anticipation of full clarity from the manufacturer Volkswagen AG about a solution to the problems with these engines.” Pon says the cars affected all have “Euro 5 diesel engines of the type EA189.” Volkswagen said last week that 11 million vehicles worldwide contain software involved in the emissions-rigging scandal, and later added that 5 million of those were cars were produced by its core VW brand. The group hasn’t yet given a full listing of what cars were involved. 7:45 p.m.
Czech carmaker Skoda Auto,
which belongs to Volkswagen AG, says 1.2 million of its vehicles had the engine that manipulated emissions data. Skoda Auto spokesman Jozef Balaz told Czech public television on Monday that Volkswagen plans to recall all those cars and will cover the cost. Volkswagen previously said 11 million vehicles worldwide contain software involved in the emissions-rigging scandal. The company has set aside $7.3 billion to pay for the scandal.
emissions scandal. Volkswagen said last week that 11 million vehicles worldwide contain software involved in the emissions-rigging scandal, and later added that 5 million of those were cars were produced by its core VW brand. The group hasn’t yet given a full listing of what cars were involved. 11:00 a.m.
3:40 p.m.
A presentation about the car industry by former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn in Hungary has been cancelled. The cancellation was confirmed Monday — when German prosecutors said they were investigating Winterkorn over VW’s emissions-rigging scandal — by the Hungarian subsidiary of Audi, majority-owned by Volkswagen. Winterkorn was scheduled to hold a presentation titled “The future of the car? - Challenges and solutions from Volkswagen’s perspective” on Wednesday at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The university’s website says Winterkorn has been its honorary professor since 2003 and has been holding presentations
SIMONE MESCOLINI / SHUTTERSTOCK
there for years. The Hungarian subsidiary of Audi makes cars and engines for Audi AG and other Volkswagen companies like Seat at its plant in the city of Gyor, northwest Hungary. 12:55 p.m.
German prosecutors have opened an investigation against former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn in the company’s emissions-rigging scandal. Prosecutors in Braunschweig said Monday that the investigation would concentrate on the suspicion of fraud committed through the sale of vehicles with manipulated emissions data. It added that the probe aims to establish who was responsiwww.canadianinquirer.net
ble. Prosecutors have received a number of criminal complaints in the case, including one from Volkswagen itself that doesn’t name any suspects. 12:15 p.m.
Volkswagen AG’s upmarket Audi brand says 2.1 million of its vehicles are among those with the engines affected by the emissions-rigging scandal. Audi said Monday that the engine in question was built into 1.6-litre and 2-litre turbo diesel models in the A1, A3, A4, A6, TT, Q3 and Q5 ranges, news agency dpa reported. The cars involved have engines in the “euro 5” emissions category; those with the newer “euro 6” engines aren’t affected by the
A European environmental organization says it has found some new models of Mercedes, Volkswagens, BMWs and other new cars consume much more gasoline than lab tests claim. The organization, Transport & Environment, said Monday it had found no proof the cars are equipped with the same sort of “defeat devices” installed on diesel-powered Volkswagens to enable them to cheat on emissions tests. But the group called on European Union governments to broaden their probes into the “defeat devices” to cover gasoline cars as well. Transport & Environment said according to its research, the gap between lab test results for fuel economy and realworld performance rose last year to 40 per cent on average, from 8 per cent in 2001. It said the difference for Mercedes A, C and E class models is over 50 per cent. ■
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Sports
Sepp Blatter’s Lance Armstrong settles case lawyer says the with promotions company; pursued FIFA president told on doping evidence since 2005 staff he has done nothing illegal BY JIM VERTUNO The Associated Press
BY ROB HARRIS The Associated Press
Statement from FIFA President Sepp Blatter’s attorney
Statement released Monday by Richard Cullen, attorney for ZURICH — Sepp Blatter’s law- FIFA President Sepp Blatter: yer says the FIFA president “President Blatter spoke to told his staff he has done “noth- FIFA staff today and informed ing illegal or improper.” the staff that he was co-operating Blatter was back at FIFA with the authorities, reiterated headquarters on that he had done Monday, three nothing illegal days after beor improper and ing interrogated stated that he by Swiss inveswould remain as tigators at the [He] reiterated president of FIFA. scandal-battered that he had “On the (UEFA governing body’s done nothing President Michel) headquarters. illegal or Platini matter, A statement improper and President Blatfrom Blatter’s atstated that he ter on Friday torney, Richard would remain shared with the Cullen, said the as president Swiss authorities president “inof FIFA. the fact that Mr. formed the staff Platini had a valuthat he was coable employment operating with relationship with the authorities, FIFA serving as reiterated that an adviser to the he had done nothing illegal or president beginning in 1998. He improper and stated that he explained to the prosecutors that would remain as president of the payments were valid compenFIFA.” sation and nothing more and were Blatter is expected to hand properly accounted for within over power in February when FIFA including the withholding an emergency election is held, of Social Security contributions. triggered by the president’s res“Because of the continuing ignation statement four days investigation President Blatter after being re-elected for a fifth, will answer no further quesfour-year term in May. tions at this time.” ■
AUSTIN, TEXAS — With a payment and an apology, Lance Armstrong has settled a decade-long dispute with a promotions company that sought repayment of more than $10 million in bonuses it paid the former cyclist during a career that was later exposed to be fueled by performance-enhancing drugs. Dallas-based SCA Promotions first pursued evidence of doping against Armstrong in 2005. Although the company paid Armstrong in 2006, the testimony in its lawsuit and arbitration case helped lay the foundation for later doping charges that ultimately got Armstrong banned from the sport and stripped of his record seven Tour de France victories. SCA demanded repayment in 2013 after Armstrong publicly admitted using steroids and other doping methods. Although Armstrong’s lawyers had insisted there was no legal ground for a “redo” on the previous voluntary settlement, an arbitration panel ordered Armstrong to pay a $10 million penalty for lying under oath in the original case. “I am pleased to have this matter behind me and I look forward to moving on. I do wish to apologize to SCA and its (chief executive), Bob Hamman, for any misconduct on my
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Cycling champ Lance Armstrong.
part in connection with our dispute and the resulting arbitration,” Armstrong said in a statement Sunday to The Associated Press. Armstrong did not reveal how much he paid SCA. Company officials confirmed the settlement in a statement, but declined to reveal details or comment further. The SCA dispute was just one of several to hit Armstrong since his admission to doping. He previously settled a similar bonus payments dispute with Acceptance Insurance, which had sought $3 million. Armstrong still faces a fed-
ALEXANDER GORDEYEV / SHUTTERSTOCK
eral whistleblower lawsuit in which the federal government is seeking repayment of more than $30 million the U.S. Postal Service paid to sponsor his teams from 1998-2004. Penalties in that case could reach the $100 million range. The federal case was initially filed by former Armstrong teammate Floyd Landis in 2010. The government joined the case in 2013. Landis, who was stripped of his 2006 Tour de France victory because of doping, is scheduled to be deposed on Monday. The case is not set for trial until 2016. ■
Sports
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
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Local tennis turns new leaf as Lim triumphs BY MARC ANTHONY REYES Philippine Daily Inquirer TEENAGER ALBERTO Lim Jr., dethroned defending champion Patrick John Tierro, 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), yesterday to become the youngest-ever men’s singles champion in the Philippine Columbian Association-Cebuana Lhuillier Open tennis champi-
onships. The 16-year-old boy wonder from Matatalaib, Tarlac, marked a new era in local tennis, bundling out all the hotshots one after another on the way to the title. “I’m so relieved because the pressure was too much,” said Lim. “I was facing the top player in the country (Tierro) and gunning to become the youngest champion.”
He beat Manny Tolentino’s record as youngest champion in 1982 by two months. Lim outlasted Davis Cupper and another “generation-next” player in Francis Casey Alcantara, 7-6 (7-6), 3-6, 6-3, in the quarterfinals before downing eight-time champion Johnny Arcilla, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, in the semifinals. Earlier, top seed Clarice Pat-
rimonio imposed her vast experience on teenaged challenger Maia Balce to prevail, 6-4, 6-3, and claim her first women’s singles title. The 21-year-old Patrimonio, an HRM major at National University and reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player, broke Balce in the seventh game en route to a 6-3 in the first set. It was Patrimonio’s first PCA
title after finishing runner-up in 2011 and 2013, losing both to Marian Capadocia. “I’m very happy that finally a Patrimonio is in the PCA Hall of Fame,” said Patrimonio, who won the champion’s purse of P20,000. Tierro and Lim, who picked up P50,000, earned automatic tickets to the main draw of the 2015 Manila ITF Men’s Futures Leg 2 set Oct. 12. ■
Baseball, softball, karate, surfing, skateboarding and climbing proposed for Tokyo Olympics BY KEN MORITSUGU The Associated Press
Record-holding runner Reid Coolsaet.
(@REIDCOOLSAET / TWITTER
Reid Coolsaet clocks fastest marathon by Canadian in 40 years at Berlin THE CANADIAN PRESS BERLIN — Reid Coolsaet recorded the fastest marathon time by a Canadian in 40 years on Sunday. The 36-year-old from Hamilton crossed in two hours 10 minutes and 29 seconds to finish sixth among a strong field at the Berlin Marathon. He’s now the second fastest Canadian ever behind Jerome Drayton, whose elusive national record of 2:10.09 set in 1975 remains intact. “Very happy with sixth at Berlin Marathon and (personal best),” Coolsaet said. “Feel better about Rio (next summer’s Olympics), as well beating a lot of quality athletes.” Coolsaet was on Canadianrecord pace through the first 25 kilometres. “Then one pacer dropped out, and the other slowed,’’ he said. By 30 kilometres I was too
far behind pace. I was able to pick it up for the last 12.2 kilometres, but it was too late.” Canada’s Dylan Wykes previously held the fastest time behind Drayton—he ran 2:10.47 at Rotterdam in 2012. Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya won in 2:04.01, despite developing problems with his insoles around the 20-kilometre mark. Kenya’s Eliud Kiptanui in second on 2:05:22 and Feyisa Lilesa of Ethiopia in third in 2:06:57. Kipchoge shaved three seconds off his previous personal best time and 41 seconds off the previous fastest mark of the year that he set at the London Marathon on April 26. Conditions were ideal on a cool, crisp autumn morning in Berlin. More than 41,000 runners from 131 countries were registered to run. ■ With files from The Associated Press
TOKYO — Baseball and softball were joined by youth-oriented sports such as surfing and skateboarding as Japanese organizers on Monday recommended the inclusion of five additional sports and 18 events for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Karate and sports climbing were also on the list proposed by the Tokyo organizing committee. Bowling, squash and wushu failed to make the cut from the list of eight finalists. The recommendation will be submitted to the International Olympic Committee, which will make a final decision in Rio de Janeiro in August 2016. Under the “Olympic Agenda 2020” program adopted by the IOC last December, host cities are allowed to propose one or more additional sports for their games. The proposed new events would add 474 athletes to the Tokyo Games, a total that fits within the cap of 500 additional athletes set by the IOC. The IOC has repeatedly stressed that any additional sports must have a strong youth appeal, something which Tokyo organizers sought to address. “This package of events represents both traditional and emerging, youth-focused events, all of which are popular both in Japan and internationally,” the organizing committee said in a statement. “This will serve as a driving force to www.canadianinquirer.net
further promote the Olympic movement and its values.” Twenty-six sports had originally applied for consideration. The eight sports made a short list that was announced in June. Baseball and softball have been out of the Olympics since the 2008 Beijing Games, and their proposed inclusion as a joint bid had been considered a virtual certainty because of the
high popularity of those sports in Japan. “We’ve reached second base,” World Baseball Softball Confederation president Riccardo Fraccari told The Associated Press in Italy. “Now we’ve got to wait until Rio to get home. We’ve done a ton of work over the last few years in terms of unification and tournaments. So it’s a nice acknowledgment for many athletes.” Under Tokyo’s recommendations, the men’s baseball tournament would consist of six teams and 144 total players, while the women’s softball competition would have six
teams and 90 players. Fraccari had proposed an eight-team baseball tournament with two groups of four teams each playing over five days. The smaller number of teams poses a challenge for the governing body. “With six teams we need to analyze what type of format we can arrange,” Fraccari said. “We have to rearrange everything and see what we can propose.” There are still no assurances that U.S. major league players would take part. “We’re in discussions and we have a great relationship with MLB,” Fraccari said. “We have plenty of time to discuss before 2020. The important thing now is this choice and that the IOC confirms it. The rest can wait.” Karate would have eight men’s and women’s events and a total of 80 athletes; skateboarding proposes two street and two park events for 80 athletes; sports climbing has two events in bouldering, lead and speed combined for 40 athletes; and surfing would have two shortboard events for 40 competitors. International Surfing Association president Fernando Aguerre called Tokyo’s announcement “an extraordinary moment for our sport.” “Surfing embodies a cool, playful lifestyle that would add a completely new element to the program,” he said. ■ AP Sports Writer Andrew Dampf in Rome contributed to this report.
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
FRIDAY
Technology
Apple sells 13 million new iPhones in 3 days BY MAE ANDERSON The Associated Press NEW YORK — Apple says it sold more than 13 million iPhone 6s and 6s Plus phones in the three days since its iPhone launch, topping last year’s early sales mark. Apple sold 10 million IPhone 6 and 6 Plus models during their first weekend last year. This year’s results include sales in China, which was included in the initial launch for the first time. Apple said previously that
preorders were so strong that it expected to surpass last year’s record. Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster said results came in at the high end of his expectations for sales of 12 million to 13 million. He estimates China added about 2 million in sales. “Today’s news suggests the iPhone 6 cycle is off to a good start,” he wrote. The new models have more memory and faster processors, along with a new 12 mega-pixel camera, and starts at $649. Apple and wireless service providers are also offering leasing and
monthly installment plans. Cupertino, California-based Apple Inc. says the phones will be available in 40 additional countries beginning Oct. 9 including Italy, Mexico, Russia, Spain and Taiwan and 130 countries by the end of the year. Apple said sales completed by Sept. 26 will be included in Apple’s fiscal fourth quarter results, and sales completed on Sunday, Sept. 27 will be included in Apple’s first-quarter 2016 results. Shares slipped $1.28 to $113.43 in morning trading Monday. ■
The brand new iPhone 6S will set you back about US $649. HADRIAN / SHUTTERSTOCK
BlackBerry takes another swing at better smartphone sales with an Android device BY DAVID FRIEND The Canadian Press WATERLOO, ONTARIO — With its hardware sales still flagging BlackBerry’s chief executive John Chen says he’s found a different way to sell his devices. For the first time in BlackBerry’s history, the company is going to sell a smartphone that runs on somebody else’s programming rather than its own in-house creation. BlackBerry will release the Priv phone later this year, which uses Google’s popular Android operating system. The switch was a controversial decision at BlackBerry, Chen said in an interview Friday with reporters at the company’s Waterloo, Ont. headquarters, but it addresses one of the biggest marketing problems BlackBerry faced: its phones are missing some of the most popular apps and games used by most customers and even businesses. “I am now going to eliminate apps as an excuse not to buy our phone,” Chen said. “We’ll see how it goes.” Amid all of the financial troubles of recent years, Black-
Berry’s lack of apps has been a thorn in its side. Handfuls of popular apps, from dating service Tinder to Candy Crush, were unavailable for years. Chen tried to eliminate that problem last fall in a partnership with the Amazon Appstore, which offers thousands of apps built for the Android operating system. His hope was that Amazon’s store would see its app selection multiply quickly after the launch of the Amazon Fire phone last year. “I was dying for Amazon to be successful with their phone,” Chen said. But when sales of Amazon’s first device failed to ignite, it left Chen in a partnership that wasn’t quite as ideal as he’d hoped—many apps, like Netflix and Snapchat, were still missing from the mix—and BlackBerry sales suggested that customers weren’t swayed by the proposition. BlackBerry hopes the Priv will give it another swing at making a smartphone that competes with the best of them, despite calls from some analysts for the company to shut down its hardware development all together.
Chen has remained a staunch supporter of BlackBerry phones partly because “marquee customers” like government agencies and other power players use the device, he said. But the CEO plans to make an ultimate decision on whether to pull the plug on BlackBerry hardware during the next fiscal year, after the Priv hits the market. “I promise you that I do not like running a business at a loss,” he said. Whether introducing Google’s Android operating system into the mix will improve sales of BlackBerry phones remains to be seen. BlackBerry missed already low expectations on Friday as its second-quarter financial results showed it’s still struggling to turn around the business. The company reported a profit of US$51 million for the three months ended Aug. 29, which was an improvement on the year-earlier net loss of US$207 million. But it fell short of expectations with an adjusted loss of US$66 million or 13 cents per share—deeper than the nine cents per share that had been estimated. www.canadianinquirer.net
Revenue for the quarter dropped 46 per cent from a year ago to US$490 million, which was well below analyst estimates of US$611 million and the $658 million recorded by BlackBerry in the previous quarter that ended in May. BlackBerry phone sales also continued their decline, falling to a dismal 800,000 units around the world, a further slide from the 1.1 million phones sold in the company’s first quarter. Chen has focused on reworking BlackBerry’s operations since he joined in November 2013, with tight cost management and cheaper smartphone production being two major objectives. Strengthening software licensing and services revenues has also been part of Chen’s priorities. He said revenues for that part of its business grew 19 per cent to $74 million during the quarter. The Waterloo, Ontario-based company has issued widespread layoff notices to its workforce this summer. Over the past few weeks, those reductions have centered on deep cuts to its hardware development and manufacturing
business as it puts a lower priority on smartphone development, according to two sources familiar with the cuts. Some of those employees have been told they will lose their jobs in November, one of the sources close to the matter said. The sources both say hundreds of additional jobs have been quietly shed over the summer, affecting software development positions in Ottawa, manufacturing roles in Cambridge, Ontario, and employees at BlackBerry headquarters in Waterloo. Chen told reporters at a media roundtable that it’s “hard to determine” exactly how many employees have been laid off because the figures are complicated by recent hirings in some divisions and the acquisition of other technology companies. “I’m sure there will come up with a net reduction of some sort, but it’s not going to be that big,” he said, declining to get more specific. He noted that when factoring in recent hires BlackBerry has about 3,000 employees across all of its Canadian operations, which is about 500 fewer workers than a year ago. ■
Technology
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
41
Entrepreneur enters hands-free hoverboard market engulfed in patent war BY ROSS MAROWITS The Canadian Press A CANADIAN entrepreneur is stepping into a fierce global patent war as he begins to sell a hands-free “hoverboard” he believes will revolutionize urban transportation. Darren Pereira’s Huuver Company has begun to sell online its brand of self-balancing electric boards called Uuboard (the first two letters of both names have umlauts). A Toronto dealership is in the works. The colourful units that travel up to about 10 km/h have motors that are propelled by movements detected from sensors near the feet. “I think it’s going to change the way we move,” Pereira said in an interview from Toronto. Two gyroscopes are so sensitive they detect small shifts in balance. Lean forward and the device moves forward. Lean back and it reverses. Move to the right and it turns that way. The technology — described by some as mini-Segways without the poles — has drawn the ire of the New Hampshire-
based company that first introduced its self-balancing personal vehicle in 2001. The subsidiary of China’s Ninebot technology last week filed suit in Delaware for patent infringement against Inventist Inc., a Washington state company that sells transportation devices, including Hovertrax and Solowheel. Ninebot said its secondgeneration units, launched in 2006, included patented LeanStar technology. Inventist, however, said it has its own patents for “a twowheel, self-balancing vehicle with independently movable foot placement sections.” It filed suit against Ninebot in China, and last June against Soibatian Corporation for their product, the IO Hawk. Billionaire Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban then partnered with Inventist’s founder, adding firepower to the effort to go after alleged copycats. Pereira, however, says the legal battles won’t deter him from pursuing this business opportunity. “They could go after me but I’m about pushing public trans-
You can be as fly as Marty McFly with Huuver’s hoverboard — if they get the patent, that is. NICHOLAS RUMAS / FLICKR
portation,” he said. Several Chinese factories pump out thousands of units a day under various names including Oxboard, Cyboard, Future Foot, Monorover, Airboard, Freego, Esway and Overoad. The Uuboard sells for $949
and comes with a one-year warranty, but rival products are available for between about $600 and US$1,800. Huuver’s Chinese supplier, Cube Electronics Tech, said on its website they can be purchased directly for up to US$200. While the various models
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look alike and carry similar features, Pereira said they’re not identical. Some are a little slower, sluggish and less durable, he said. Pereira said the Uuboard can work up to nine hours on a 135-minute charge. Weighing 22 pounds, it can carry people between 50 and 350 pounds. The hoverboards can be used on urban bike lanes and sidewalks, but Pereira said he’s been asked to put it away at a Blue Jays game and in some shopping malls. Despite its US$1,800 price tag, the IO Hawk has had trouble keeping up with demand since it entered the U.S. market in February and attracted the attention of celebrities and athletes. Justin Bieber, NBA all-star Stephen Curry, actor Jamie Foxx and Kendall Jenner have all been seen using the device or a slightly cheaper brand, PhunkeeDuck. Rapper Wiz Khalifa was in the news recently when he claimed to be arrested at the Los Angeles airport for riding the device he called a “hoverboard” even though it has wheels that firmly touched the ground. ■
Long term forecast from www.theweathernetwork.com CALGARY
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Events
42
OCTOBER 2, 2015
Bo Sanchez Live in Calgary By Kerygma Grand Feast Calgary WHEN/WHERE: 2 p.m., Oct. 3, at Eagle Event Centre, 3777 Grey Eagle Dr., Calgary, AB MORE INFO: Visit www.ticketbreak.com
CANADA EVENTS
Darren Espanto Canada Concert Tour By Abec Promotions Inc WHEN/WHERE: 6 p.m., Oct. 3, Radisson Hotel, 4440 Gateway Blvd., Edmonton, AB; 6 p.m., Oct. 4, Jack Singer Concert Hall, 205 8th Ave., SE Calgary, AB
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MANITOBA
SASKATCHEWAN
Family & Friend Caregivers’ Forum By the Seniors Hub WHEN/WHERE: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the South Vancouver Neighbourhood House, 6470 Victoria Dr., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Call 604-324-6212 or email at receptionatsvnh@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Eid Al-Adha Celebration By South Vancouver Neighbourhood House WHEN/WHERE: 6 to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 3, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House, 6470 Victoria Dr., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Free. Call 604-324-6212 to reserve your seat. Temporary Foreign Workers Uncontested Divorce Clinic By Law Courts Center WHEN/WHERE: Saturdays from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Justice Education Society at the Provincial Court of BC Room 260 800 Hornby St., Vancouver B.C. MORE INFO: To book an appointment, call/text 778-322-2839 or email: tfw.divorce@gmail.com
ONTARIO
New WelcomePack Canada every Saturday, Filipino Centre Distribution Centre Toronto, 597 Parliament St., Suite ByQUEBEC WelcomePack Canada Inc. 103, Toronto, ON WHEN/WHERE: 1 to 5 p.m., Mon, MORE INFO: For registrations, call Tues, Thu & Fri at the Filipino 416-928-9355. The office, at 597 Centre Bldg., 597 Parliament St., Parliament St., Suite 103, Toronto, Suite 103, Toronto, On is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, MORE INFO: Call (416) 928-9355 NOVA Thursdays and Fridays from 1 to 6 SCOTIA p.m. Tagalog Class By FCT Ely Buendia The Greatest Hits Live WHEN/WHERE: 10 to 11 a.m., in Toronto every Saturday, Filipino Centre By QCode TV Toronto, Toronto WHEN/WHERE: Oct. 2, Downsview Part at the Warehouse Homework/Tutorial Class Event Venue (Keele & Sheppard) By FCT Toronto, ON WHEN/WHERE: 11a.m. to 12 nn,
Seniors Book Club By the Richmond Public Library WHEN/WHERE: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 12 nn, at the Brighouse Main Branch, the Living Rm., 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, B.C. MORE INFO: Seniors ages 55 and older are invited to read books and exchange ideas with likeminded. To register visit any branch of Richmond Public Library, call 604-231-6413 or register online at www.yourlibrary.ca/events Practise Your English at the Richmond Public Library By Richmond Public Library WHEN/WHERE: 10 to 12 nn, up to Dec. 11, the English Corner, Richmond Public Library, Brighouse (Main) Branch, 2nd floor Community Place Room, 7700 Minoru Gate. Dinner & Rally with Jojo Quimpo By Conservative Party WHEN/WHERE: 5:30 p.m. Oct. 2, at Fraser Court Seafood Restaurant, Vancouver B.C. www.canadianinquirer.net
Bo Sanchez’s Kerygma Grand Feast By Light of Jesus Family WHEN/WHERE: 6 to 9 p.m., Oct. 2, Broadway Church, 2700 E. Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Ticket price: $20 Family & Friend Caregivers Forum By Hub WHEN/WHERE: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Oct. 3, at South Vancouver Neighborhood House 6470 Victoria Dr., Vancouver, B.C. Permanent Residence and Open Work Permit Preparation By The Victoria Filipino Canadian Caregivers Association and West Coast Domestic Workers’ Association WHEN/WHERE: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 4, at the Bayanihan Community Centre, Bayanihan Community Centre, 1709 Blanshard St., Victoria, B.C. MORE INFO: Register with Erwin de Guzman 250885-8972; Aida Caliguiran 250-888-9288; Edilyn Pampo 250-891-4941; and Robelyn Penaranda 250891-8515; and Mary Jetko 250-885-9092.
OCTOBER 2, 2015
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS:
FILIPINO-CANADIAN IN FOCUS Every week, the Philippine Canadian Inquirer celebrates the unwavering Filipino spirit through a feature called “Filipino-Canadian in Focus.” The feature recognizes the achievements of Filipinos living in Canada who have shown concern for the community, success in spite of trials, and the uniquely Pinoy practice of “bayanihan.” This year, we are welcoming nominations for the next subject of “Filipino-Canadian in Focus.”
MECHANICS: - All nominees must have (a) Filipino heritage/ancestry - All nominees must be residing in Canada at the time of nomination - Nominees from all industries are welcome (e.g. medical/health, politics, community service, business, entertainment, charity institutions, etc.) - Who can nominate? Anybody.
Fill up the nomination form online by scanning the code with your smartphone or by visiting InFocus.canadianinquirer.net.
www.canadianinquirer.net
FRIDAY
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
Seen & Scenes: Vancouver
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MARGIE HOLMES' BOOK LAUNCH Dr. Margarita “Margie” Holmes, noted sex therapist, clinical psychologist and author, recently gave a series of talks at the Vancouver Public Library, Richmond Public Library, University of British Columbia and before fellow alumni of the University of the Philippines, on the subject of love and sexuality. She likewise gave updates and new insights on her bestseller, “Life, Love and Lust,” which is now on its 25th anniversary edition. Here are some highlights of her Vancouver visit.
MIGRATION STORIES
PCHC-MoM President Winnie Cheung strikes the gong to signal the transfer of participants to another table.
Pacific Canada Heritage Centre-Museum of Migration President Winnie Cheung (standing, 3rd from L) joins the Filipino table showcasing “pinakbet,” bean sprouts spring rolls and other Philippine delicacies. With her are (seated) storytellers Joel Castillo and Treenee Lopez; (standing from L) Deputy Consul General Anton Mandap, Neria Lacuna, Mary Anne Velayo, Gigi Astudillo and Me-Ann Mandap. www.canadianinquirer.net
The Pacific Canada Heritage Centre-Museum of Migration Society under its president, Winnie Cheung, recently organized a banquet of stories, where participants, including First Nations people and diverse immigrant groups, shared tales through food. The event was held Sept. 26 at the Sunset Community Centre in Vancouver, B.C. (Photos from Treenee Lopez’ FB)
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Seen and Scenes: Toronto
OCTOBER 2, 2015
HYDRO ONE The grassroots movement who advocates government ownership of electric supply in Ontario invited members of the ethnic press and the public to petition the government to keep Hydro One. In photo are Neethan, Rose Tijam, Rosario, Belinda Corpuz, Ben Corpuz, Bong Molano and James. The event was held at Dorset Community Park in Scarborough on Sept. 16 (Photos by Ariel Ramos).
APPRECIATION DINNER An Appreciation Dinner for volunteers of the Filipino Centre Toronto (FCT) was held on Sept. 27, at FCT. It was a successful event despite the closure of the Don Valley Parkway, which prevented more people from attending the gathering (Photos by Ariel Ramos).
BERNARDO BERNARDO SHOW ONTARIO FILIPINO WOMEN'S CLUB Ontario Filipino Womens Club (OFWC) celebrated their 33rd years anniversary with an induction ball on Sept. 19, at Celebration Banquet Hall. Philippine Press Club of Ontario President Rose Tijam was requested to induct the new set of officers under Rebecca Reyes, president. Also crowned were Angelica Ashley Gabayni, new OFWC queen; Sarah Jane Canlas, new princess; and Richel Biscayda as Miss Charity (Photos by Ariel Ramos).
For photo submissions, please email info@canadianinquirer.net. www.canadianinquirer.net
FRIDAY
Food
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015
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Pumpkin puree a great addition to breads, cookies, cakes, but also savoury soups BY SUSAN GREER The Associated Press LONDON, ONTARIO — Pumpkin is definitely the “flavour du jour” at this time of year, although much of the coffee, tea, chips, cereal, marshmallows, gum and even beer that purport to be pumpkinflavoured haven’t been within a mile of real pumpkin. Instead, they’re made using the spices that give pumpkin pie its distinctive taste — some combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger, allspice and mace. But if you want the real thing — from scratch — “it requires some work,” says Rodney Weisner, chef at the Designer Cafe in Kentville, N.S. Though most common in desserts and other sweets, pumpkin also can be used in savoury dishes. Here are some recipes from both categories to try. PUMPKIN SOUP
This pumpkin soup has some of the same seasonings — cinnamon and nutmeg — often associated with pumpkin desserts, but the other ingredients guarantee it is a savoury dish. This soup freezes well. Chef Rodney Weisner says you can top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, but it also tastes great on its own. • 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil, for frying • 1 large yellow onion, chopped • 1 clove garlic, chopped • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped • 15 ml (1 tbsp) cinnamon • 7 ml (1 1/2 tsp) nutmeg • 15 ml (1 tbsp) dried thyme • Salt and pepper, to taste • 4 l (16 cups) water, chicken broth or vegetable broth • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped • 1 can (796 ml/28 oz) pumpkin puree or 800 ml (3 1/4 cups) homemade pumpkin puree • 30 ml (2 tbsp) potato starch • 75 ml (1/3 cup) cold water • Sour cream (optional) In a large stock pot, place oil; add onion and saute until tender. Add garlic and saute briefly, stirring often. (Garlic will burn easily if left too long.) Add sweet potato, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, salt and pepper. Saute for 5 to 10 minutes, then add water, russet potatoes and pumpkin puree. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender. Remove from heat and puree with an immersion blender, then return to heat and bring to a boil. In a bowl, mix potato starch and cold
SHUTTERSTOCK
water together and add to soup when it is boiling. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Season as needed. Ladle into soup bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Makes 6 to 8 servings. Source: Rodney Weisner, chef at the Designer Cafe, Kentville, N.S. PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE
This cheesecake has all the taste and creaminess of pumpkin pie without having to make pastry. Crust: • 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) graham wafer crumbs • 45 ml (3 tbsp) granulated sugar • 50 ml (1/4 cup) melted butter Filling: • 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) granulated sugar • 20 ml (4 tsp) cornstarch • 3 pkgs (250 g each) brick light cream cheese, softened • 3 eggs, room temperature • 50 ml (1/4 cup) packed brown sugar • 375 ml (1 1/2 cups) cooked pumpkin puree, drained • 75 ml (1/3 cup) 2 per cent plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream • 7 ml (1 1/2 tsp) vanilla • 10 ml (2 tsp) ground cinnamon • 5 ml (1 tsp) ground ginger • 2 ml (1/2 tsp) ground nutmeg • 1 ml (1/4 tsp) salt • 0.5 ml (1/8 tsp) ground cloves
• 10 ml (2 tsp) butter • 250 ml (1 cup) walnut halves • 30 ml (2 tbsp) maple syrup • 15 ml (1 tbsp) granulated sugar • 4 ml (3/4 tsp) ground cinnamon • Whipped cream, for topping Preheat oven to 180 C (350 F). Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter. Press firmly into a 23-cm (9-inch) springform pan; wrap bottom of pan with foil and set aside. Filling: Mix together sugar and cornstarch. Add to cream cheese in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat cheese, sugar and cornstarch together until very smooth. In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs and brown sugar. Stir in pumpkin, yogurt, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt and cloves. Fold in cream
Maple Walnuts: www.canadianinquirer.net
cheese mixture until well blended. Pour over prepared crust. Bake until almost set in the centre, about 1 hour. Remove to wire rack. Immediately run knife around edge of pan. Let cool completely. Cover and refrigerate (still in pan) for 4 hours or up to 24 hours. Maple Walnuts: In a large non-stick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in walnuts, maple syrup, sugar and cinnamon. Cook, stirring constantly, for 3 to 4 minutes, until nuts are well coated. Spread on parchment paper-lined baking sheet, separating pieces. When cooled, coarsely chop. Remove outer ring from springform pan and place on a serving platter. Decorate with whipped cream and chopped walnuts. Makes 12 servings ■ Source: Foodland Ontario
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OCTOBER 2, 2015
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FRIDAY