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JULY 8, 2016

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VOL. 7 NO. 225

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Pacquiao undecided about his boxing career

PHL cuts growth targets

Bato: Crooked cops must quit or fight us

Changing the lives of migrant workers and OFWs

Meet the latest ‘eye candy’— ‘Baste’ Duterte

Pure Channel introduces UNLI-G, the ultimate unlimited call service for WARM ENCOUNTER Globe users Smiles, the offer of a cold drink and an invitation to visit “anytime” mark the first meeting between VP Leni Robredo and President Duterte during the change of command ceremony at Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Story on page 9.

JOAN BONDOC / PDI

Duterte names 5 top cops linked to drug trade PHILIPPINE CANADIAN INQUIRER MANILA — Firm on his stand against illegal drugs, President Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte has already named five high-

ranking police officers purportedly involved in illegal drug trade, protecting drug lords and syndicates.

The following are ordered relieved from their posts:

Changing the lives of migrant workers and OFWs

RICHMOND, B.C. — Pure Channel launches Unli-G. Pure Channel’s UnliG is a new and more affordable way to communicate with loved ones, friends, business associates who are Globe subscribers. This recent partnership with Globe strengthens the company’s position in the industry as one of the leading retail long distance service providers in the country.

Globe is a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines. It offers an extensive range of services for individuals, small to medium-sized businesses, and big corporations. Its success in the industry as a mobile service innovator has made it one of the most profitable companies in the Philippines and Asia.

Working with Globe will also strengthen Pure Channel’s position in

❱❱ PAGE 23 ❱❱ PAGE 7 Duterte names

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS:

❱❱ PAGE 10 Pure Channel

FILIPINO-CANADIAN IN FOCUS InFocus.canadianinquirer.net

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JULY 8, 2016

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FRIDAY

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

3

Belmonte refiles bill for Charter change

BY DJ YAP Philippine Daily Inquirer

friend and ally, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, when the 17th Congress opens on July 25.

On Friday, Alvarez filed House Concurrent Resolution Number 1 calling for a constitutional convention (con-con) to amend the Constitution for a shift to a federal system of government.

Belmonte, when asked if the new Speaker would be amenable to his proposal, replied: “Well, if con-con passes, it should not be just federalism, but it should include the economic provisions as well.”

OUTGOING SPEAKER of the House Feliciano Belmonte Jr. is taking another stab at lifting the longstanding constitutional limits on foreign ownership of land, natural resources, schools, media and public utilities to attract more investments.

After the failure of his Resolution of Both Houses 1 (RBH1) in the 16th Congress, Belmonte has renewed his proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution by Lost clout removing the caps on the flow of foreign As the leader of the LP in the House, investment into the Philippines.

Belmonte’s position in the emerging “In order to realize the full benefit of coalition in the House remains uncerinclusive growth, the restrictive eco- tain, as the party’s attempts to negotinomic provisions in the Philippine ate a place in the majority have not proConstitution, which hamper the flow gressed. of foreign capital investments, must be Many LP members have defected to lifted,” Belmonte said in filing Resolu- Duterte and Alvarez’ PDP-Laban Party, tion of Both Houses 2 (RBH2) last week. whose membership in the House has As in the earlier measure, RBH2 risen from three to more than 70 in rewould insert the phrase “unless other- cent weeks. wise provided by law” into parts of the On the other hand, the remaining LP Constitution that restrict foreign own- members have dwindled to 37, accordership of land, natural resources, public ing to Marikina Rep. Romero Quimbo, utilities, schools, and chair of the powermedia. ful ways and means Specifically, these committee in the pertain to sections on 16th Congress. national patrimony [...] if con-con One of the defecand economy; edupasses, it should tors from the LP, Ilcation; science and not be just oilo City Rep. Jerry technology; arts, culfederalism, but Treñas, said he was ture and sports, and it should include personally supportgeneral provisions. the economic ive of Belmonte’s The amendment provisions as well. proposal. would not directly “I will try to conallow 100 percent vince my party mates foreign ownership to support it,” he said of such resources or in a text message. assets in industries that are nationalQuimbo said he favored Belmonte’s ized or exclusive to Filipino citizens, proposal, and believed it would gain but would instead clear the way for it traction even among Duterte’s allies in through legislation. the House.

“Yes. It’s actually one of the main proFirst bill failed grams of the Duterte administration.

In the last Congress, RBH1 was passed We need to open up the economy to othon second reading but the House leader- er nationalities in the ever globalizing ship opted not to put it to a vote on third world economy,” he said. reading.

“Aside from federalism, this is the Belmonte later admitted his decision most important constitutional change was in deference to then President Be- that is needed,” Quimbo said, arguing nigno Aquino III, who opposed changes that efforts to reduce poverty would not to the Constitution, which was framed be enough without an increase in forduring the administration of his mother, eign direct investments. the late President Corazon Aquino.

The House leader also said he was not Easing poverty confident that the measure enjoyed the Belmonte said statistics showed that support of his colleagues. despite economic growth, “poverty inciThis time around, Belmonte, a vice dence remained constant for the past six chair of the erstwhile ruling Liberal years, thus the need to urgently address Party (LP), has a hugely diminished in- the issue.” fluence as he tries to push the measure “The mandate given to current leadunder a new leadership in the 297strong ers who advocated for change signifies chamber. renewed trust in the government and Belmonte is poised to relinquish the immense optimism in its ability and speakership to President Duterte’s close commitment to bring about improve-

ment in the quality of life of Filipinos,” he said.

“Growing global interest in Asia provides an opportunity for the Philippines to compete for more investments,” Belmonte said.

Alvarez was noncommittal when asked if he would support Belmonte’s proposal.

In a text message yesterday, Alvarez said he could not say whether he would make Belmonte’s bill a priority in the 17th Congress.

“We’ll see. I have not yet read the bill,” he said.

Incoming Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, president of PDPLaban, said he had no problem with Belmonte’s proposal to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution.

But he said he did not agree with Belmonte’s proposal that the amendment be done by the House and the Senate voting separately.

Pimentel said he preferred amendment through a constitutional convention, and his and the PDP-Laban’s priority amendment was for a shift to the federal system.

Under RBH2, joint ventures for the exploration, development or use of the country’s natural resources may be

made with 60 percent Filipino-owned corporations, “unless provided by law,” meaning the provision may be amended through legislation.

Other provisions

The same clause has been added to other provisions, including those on the lease of alienable land, the operation of public utilities, and ownership and management of media.

Belmonte’s bill would amend Section 2, Article XII on exploration, development, and use of natural resources; Sec. 3, Art. XII on alienable land of the public domain, including agricultural, forest or timber, mineral land and national parks; Sec. 7, Art. XII on conveyance of private land; Sec. 10, Art. XII on reserved investments; Sec. 11, Art. XII on grant of franchises, certificates, or any other forms of authorization for the operation of public utility; Sec. 4 (2), Art. XIV on ownership, control and administration of educational institutions; and Sec. 11 (1 and 2), Art. XVI on ownership and management of mass media and on the policy for engagement in the advertising industry. ■ With reports from Gil Cabacungan and Leila B. Salaverria

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Philippine News

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Villar appeals to companies to spare Manila Bay from reclamation

BY JELLY F. MUSICO Philippines News Agency MANILA — Senator Cynthia Villar appealed on Tuesday to the companies who have expressed interest in reclaiming Manila Bay to reconsider their action given the adverse effects the reclamation would bring to the communities and the livelihood of more than 300,000 fishermen in the area.

“At first glance, development in Manila Bay looks like a lucrative business venture but I appeal to companies interested in these reclamation projects to also consider the effects on the residents and fishermen depending on the bay for liveli-

hood,” Villar said.

The Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) has approved a National Reclamation Plan which proposes to reclaim 26,000 hectares of Manila Bay. Among the proposed reclamation projects are the PHP50.2-billion (660 hectares) “Future City” sought by SM Prime Holdings Inc. that will house government offices as well as commercial and residential buildings, and the 148-hectare entertainment hub “Solar City” by the Manila Gold Coast Corporation said to be twice the size of the Rizal Park in Manila.

The San Miguel Group and San Jose Builders are also proposing a PHP338.8 billion pub-

Senator Cynthia Villar.

lic-private partnership project to reclaim part of Manila Bay to build an expressway, a commercial area, a coastal sea barrier and flood control system.

Mayor Edwin Olivarez of Pa-

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CYNTHIAVILLAR.COM.PH

ranaque City is also reviving the USD 13-billion Manila Bay international airport project.

Under the plan, the proposed airport will make use of 157 hectares of the Freedom Island.

Villar, a known advocate of environmental protection, said reclamation of Manila Bay will destroy the Las Pinas-Paranaque Critical Habitat and Eco-Tourism Area (LPPCHEA), the Ramsar-listed Wetland of International Importance located South of Manila Bay. “Instead of reclaiming Manila Bay, we should all support its restoration and rehabilitation and avoid massive flooding, which experts say could go up to eight meters in Paranaque, Las Pinas and Cavite,” she added.

Villar said these adverse effects on the environment and on the safety of residents are the reasons why she filed a petition for Writ of Kalikasan on March 16, 2012 before the Supreme Court along with majority of Las Pinas residents.

Villar pointed out that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), proposed the Sangley Point in Cavite and beyond as a viable site of the airport and not Manila Bay in Paranaque.

The lady senator also cited the 2002 ruling of the Supreme Court, which struck down the Public Estates Authority (PEA)-Amari deal as unconstitutional. The ruling stated that private companies cannot own reclaimed lands.

“Attracting tourists and investors should not be proposed at the expense of the Constitutionally-guaranteed rights of citizens for a safe and secure environment to live in,” she

added.

LPPCHEA is a declared critical habitat and a protected area by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 1412 and 1412-A in 2007. It is the first critical habitat to be declared in the country. Covering around 175 hectares of wetland ecosystem, LPPCHEA consists of two islands — Freedom Island and Long Island.

In March 2013, it was also listed as a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention because of the critical role it plays in the survival of threatened and restricted-range bird species.

It is the only wetland in Metro Manila and in an urban setting.

LPPCHEA’s 35-hectare mangrove forest is the thickest and most diverse within Manila Bay. There are at present 11 mangrove species growing in the area. It is the spawning ground of fishes in Manila Bay which gives livelihood to 300,000 poor fishermen and related livelihood.

The Philippines, being one of the signatories to the Ramsar Convention, is mandated to protect the habitat.

“The reclamation of Manila Bay is dangerous as it can also be seen as a violation of Supreme Court’s continuing mandamus since 2008 directing the government to clean up Manila Bay. Reclamation, which will increase commercial activity, will pollute the water,” Villar said.

Villar also pointed out that Presidential Decree No. 705 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines prohibits the cutting of mangrove trees.

Villar clarified that she is not opposed to the construction of a new international airport but stressed that the plan must be guided by the tenet that the life of the people is paramount over any growth and development.

In fact, Villar believes a new and modern airport in Sangley Point and beyond would decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and improve its image as one of the world’s worst airports. She said the airport in Clark, Pampanga could be improved to loosen passenger traffic in NAIA. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

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Who’s for death? Solons not telling

BY CHRISTINE O. AVENDAÑO Philippine Daily Inquirer SENATORS ARE playing their cards close to their chest with regard to their stand on the reimposition of the death penalty, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said yesterday.

Lacson said he expected a heavy debate when the issue was brought up for discussion on the floor.

Lacson, along with Sen. Vicente Sotto III, had filed a separate bill on the revival of the death penalty law, which covered heinous crimes and called for the penalty of lethal injection for those convicted of these crimes. The law was re-

pealed in 2006.

But Lacson said the law was just “suspended” and their bill called for its reinstatement.

Lacson, who is part of the supermajority that will elect Aquilino Pimentel III as Senate President when the new Congress opens on July 25, is expected to be nominated chair of the committee on public order and drugs that would oversee hearings on the death penalty bills.

Interviewed on radio, Lacson said he anticipated a lengthy discussion of the issue and intended to “maximize the participation” of all sectors for and against the death penalty.

Asked whether the Senate would be able to approve the bill within three to four months as Pimentel had earlier project-

ed, Lacson said that time frame might not suffice.

He said public hearings could be held to get input from all sectors but it would be a different matter when the issue is discussed on the Senate floor.

Asked whether he believed he could get the necessary votes to approve the death penalty bill, he said the senators were not disclosing their positions on the issue, just as they were silent about whether they were for the shift to a federal form of government.

Aside from pushing for the reimposition of the death penalty, Duterte also wants his administration to seriously consider amendments to the Constitution to allow a federal form of government.

Saying he was aware Sen. Leila de Lima was against the death penalty, Lacson said he did not think she would sit on the measures or even derail them.

De Lima is likely to be nominated chair of the justice committee, the secondary committee expected to hear the death penalty bills.

Still, Lacson said, there could be remedies in the Senate rules they could resort to in order to ensure the action on the bills would not be delayed.

De Lima bill

Meanwhile, De Lima said she would file a bill that would ensure the provision of justice for victims, especially of heinous crimes, without resorting to capital punishment.

De Lima, who served as justice secretary in the Benigno S. Aquino III administration, has been very vocal about her opposition to the return of the death penalty. She said in text messages she would come up with an alternative bill and that she was in the process of “fine-tuning” it.

She said she was pushing for a bill that “ensures justice, especially to victims of heinous crimes, without resort to the extreme capital punishment which is antipoor, un-Christian and probably in contravention of the restorative philosophy under our correctional system.”

Sen. Risa Hontiveros shared the same sentiment, being part of the movement for restorative justice that abolished the death penalty in 2006.

Drilon files bill giving Duterte crisis powers

BY TARRA QUISMUNDO Philippine Daily Inquirer TAKING the first step toward solving debilitating traffic in Metro Manila and other key cities, Sen. Franklin Drilon yesterday filed a bill granting President Duterte emergency powers to build or repair infrastructure that could ease the transport crisis.

Swiftly acting on the request of the Duterte administration, Drilon filed Senate Bill No. 11 that would authorize the President to use simpler and faster methods of procurement for infrastructure and transportation projects.

This would spare the government the ofttedious public bidding process, which could take years and even spawn lawsuits.

“The emergency power being sought for President Duterte will capacitate him in addressing the horrendous traffic situation within and outside Metro Manila. [It is] already a ‘necessity’ given the magnitude of the transportation crisis that not only impedes the mobility of people, goods and services, but also threatens the livability of our cities,” Drilon said in a statement.

Effective 2 years

If passed into law, the proposed Transportation Crisis

Act of 2016 will be effective for two years.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade earlier spoke about plans to seek emergency powers from Congress to address the traffic crisis, which costs the country P2.4 billion daily, according to a 2013 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Drilon said such economic loss could balloon to P6 billion daily if the traffic crisis would remain unresolved.

“It is imperative therefore to give the President of the Philippines emergency powers to immediately address the crisis, otherwise its cost to the economy and environment, as well as to the functionality and livability of our cities will continue to hamper our overall growth and development,” read his bill’s explanatory note.

Alternative modes

The measure would enable the administration to utilize alternative modes of procuring materials, equipment and services for the “construction, repair, rehabilitation, improvement or maintenance of transportation projects” aimed at reducing traffic congestion in metropolitan areas.

Procurement methods specified in the bill were: selective bidding, under which government may invite preselected

President Rodrigo R. Duterte puts the Pershing Cap on the head of Police Director General Ronald Dela Rosa during his assumption in office as chief of the Philippine National Police REY BANIQUET / PPD / PNA

suppliers or consultants; direct contracting, where a single supplier submits its proposal which “may be accepted immediately or after some negotiations”; repeat order, or the procurement from a previous winning bidder to “replenish goods under a contract previously awarded”; shopping, or procurement off the shelf “directly from suppliers of known qualification,” and negotiated procurement, or a speedy option in times of emergencies or calamities.

“In all instances, the President shall ensure that the most advantageous price for the government is obtained and that the procedure is undertaken in a transparent manner,” read the six-page bill. www.canadianinquirer.net

No TROs

It also prohibited lower courts from issuing temporary restraining orders or injunctions against critical transport-related projects, giving such power solely to the Supreme Court.

The bill imposed the bar on court orders that could inhibit right-of-way acquisition, bids and awards for transportation projects, the implementation or operation of any transportation project identified by the President, the termination of transportation projects and “the undertaking or authorization of any other lawful activity necessary for any transportation project identified by the President.”

Drilon also proposed to cen-

tralize traffic management in the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).

His bill traced the problematic traffic management to the “poor enforcement of traffic rules” given the overlapping trafficrelated functions of several government agencies, including the MMDA, the DOT, the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board, the Land Transportation Office, and local government units.

Reorganizing agencies

The measure would grant Mr. Duterte the power to “reorganize” these agencies, to “abolish or create offices; split, group, or merge positions; transfer functions, equipment, properties, records and personnel; institute drastic cost-cutting measures, and take such other related actions necessary” in pursuit of resolving the traffic crisis.

It sought to address heavy traffic not just in the National Capital Region but also in urban hubs such as Cebu and Cagayan De Oro. The measure would be effective for two years, “unless sooner withdrawn by a resolution of Congress, without prejudice to rights and benefits that may have been vested, and culpabilities and liabilities that may have been incurred.”

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Philippine News

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

‘Hangings still to happen by 2022’

BY NIKKO DIZON Philippine Daily Inquirer EVEN IF the death penalty were restored by Congress, it would take five years before an actual hanging of convicts could take place, Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza said in a statement yesterday.

Atienza said this would be “simply due to lack of material time,” proposing instead that Congress focus on pushing for criminal justice system reforms “to dissuade would-be offenders.”

“Based on our reckoning, even assuming the Congress railroads the revival of the death penalty so that it would take effect by early 2017, the initial convicts with final verdicts would start coming in only by the first half of 2022, or toward the last six months of the President’s term,” Atienza said.

Best case

“Five years of waiting is actually a best case scenario that

does not include such factors as potential lawsuits questioning before the Supreme Court the constitutionality of judicial executions by hanging,” he added.

With this timeline, President Duterte himself would not be able to see any judicial killings carried out while he is in office.

Atienza proposed that Congress instead concentrate on improving the criminal justice system, such as by stamping out corruption in law enforcement, the prosecution service, the courts and prisons.

Seven convicts

Atienza said the seven convicts put to death through lethal injection during President Joseph Estrada’s term were executed five years after they committed their crimes.

Records showed that none of them were executed for drugrelated crimes.

The executed—Leo Echegaray, Eduardo Agbayani, Dante Piandiong, Archie Bulan, Jesus

Morallos, Pablito Andan and Alex Bartolome—were either convicted for rape or robbery with homicide.

There is widespread protest against the death penalty pri marily because of questions of the country’s judicial maturity.

The law was abolished during the term of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Anticriminality drive

President Duterte, ran and won on an anticriminality campaign.

He vowed death to criminals, especially those engaged in illegal drugs.

The President said death for criminals was not to deter crime but in “retribution.”

“Let us forget about reinstating capital punishment. The best criminologists around the world have long established that the death penalty does not serve any purpose that is not already being served by lifelong imprisonment,” Atienza said. ■

Church, labor groups give pointers on ending ‘endo’

BY JULIE M. AURELIO Philippine Daily Inquirer A NETWORK of labor and church groups has offered a 10-point proposal to the new labor secretary to end the contractualization of workers, one of President Duterte’s campaign promises.

The Church-Labor Conference (CLC) submitted its recommendations during a dialogue on Friday with new officials of the Department of Labor and Employment led by Secretary Silvestre Bello III. Contractualization or “endo” is the practice of employers keeping workers continuously under contract by renewing these before six months are up, the period required by law for a worker to be given permanent status with accompanying benefits by a company.

The CLC, part of the Technical Executive Committee of the National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council, is co-headed by Partido Manggagawa chair Renato Mag-

tubo and Manila Auxillary Bishop Broderick Pabillo. Among the CLC’s suggestions were: Holding of nationwide labor consultations in the private and public sector to thresh out employers’ schemes, generate proposals and establish means to encourage workers’ participation in stopping contractualization; Ensuring that Duterte certifies anticontractualization bills to be filed in Congress to strengthen workers’ security of tenure; Conducting a massive and sustained information and education campaign for workers and employers on present labor laws and regulations pertaining to labor contracting and regularization; Sustaining inspections of all labor contractors and service providers, as well as factories, to determine their compliance with labor laws and the filing of cases against violators; Formulating policies and guidelines to speed up resolution of cases under DOLE’s quasijudicial bodies on violations of labor laws; Resolving pending cases and

labor disputes related to contractualization; Establishing a separate mechanism composed of union representatives, the DOLE and the Civil Service Commission to assess and address rampant use of contractual or other forms of nonregular employment in the public sector; Training and deputizing labor leaders to become part of the DOLE pool of inspectors; and Institutionalizing the role of tripartite formations in the country as DOLE’s partner in fulfilling Duterte’s promise to stop contractualization.

“The practices of unscrupulous employers that directly violate or circumvent labor laws and regulations pertaining to labor contracting and regularization of employment are arguably the gravest threat to our workers’ right to security of tenure,” the group said in a statement.

The practice violates workers’ constitutional rights to freedom of association, collective bargaining, concerted action and a living wage, it added. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Peopleʻs champ and boxing icon, Senator Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao, visits his extension office at the 5th floor of the Senate building AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

Pacquiao undecided about his boxing career; ready for his new job as senator

BY JELLY F. MUSICO Philippines News Agency MANILA — Neophyte Senator Manny Pacquiao remains undecided whether to finally quit boxing that brought him to the pedestal as one of the greatest professional boxers of all time.

“I don’t know yet,” Pacquiao answered the Senate media when asked if he will quit boxing in favor of his new mandate as member of the Philippine Senate.

“My mind and body are now focused to work. I’m ready. Of course, I will be given a committee and it will make me busy,” he told the media during his surprise visit at the Senate media room late Monday afternoon.

Pacquiao was a former member of the House of Representatives where he emerged as one of the top absentees.

“I was busy then training for my fights and secondly, I was in the building (of Congress) but I cannot go to the session hall because my constituents are the whole Philippines. They are all in my office,” Pacquiao said, referring to the people asking for assistance from his office.

Pacquiao, who knocked down American Timothy Bradley to score a unanimous decision victory in their third match last April 10 in Las Vegas, said he preferred to head the Senate Committee on Games, Amusement and Sports.

“If this committee will be given to me, I will take it,” Pac-

quiao, the first boxer to win eight titles in eight different divisions, said.

Pacquiao said he has filed a bill creating a separate department for culture and sports, hoping it would provide bigger budget for cash-strapped Philippine sports.

“We are always aspiring to win gold medals but we have no budget for sports,” he said.

The Filipino boxing icon also said he is in favor of death penalty for heinous crimes, adding that capital punishment is not against the Constitution and the Bible.

“Constitutionally and biblically, it is allowed. I can explain that properly pagdating sa Bible,” Pacquiao, a known Bible preacher, said.

To prepare himself to the tough task as senator, Pacquiao said he is memorizing the Philippine Constitution.

“Before, I have no knowledge about the Bible but when I started reading it, anytime, I can preach the world of God. It’s the same thing with the Constitution. I have to read and memorize it,” Pacquiao said.

If given a chance, Pacquiao said he would like to share the words of God with his fellow senators.

“To be religious, that’s important because it is impossible for a leader to become successful in leading the nation without the guidance of the Lord. It will make individuals honest and will create fears to steal money,” he said. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

7

Charter change will open up everything — Drilon

BY JELLY F. MUSICO Philippines News Agency MANILA — Senate President Franklin Drilon said on Monday the Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) being eyed to review the 1987 Constitution can tackle not only the shift of form of government to federalism but other scope of the amendments.

“When you open the Constitution to amendments, you open up everything.

You cannot say that the term limit will not be discussed. You cannot do that,” Drilon said in a press conference.

“Because as I keep on repeating, the Constitutional Convention has plenary powers. Meaning, it can tackle and decide on anything and everything,” he added.

Drilon has filed a resolution calling for a Con-Con to review the 1987 Constitution, saying the time is appropriate to do it.

“The 1987 Constitution was crafted immediately after Martial Law. In my view, many of those provisions were in reaction to Martial Law. After 30 years, it is time that we review whether those provisions are still valid,” Drilon said.

Drilon said that Resolution of Both Houses No. 1 calls for a convention, whose members shall be elected by January of next year, to propose amendments to, or revision of, the 29-year-old Constitution.

Drilon said that in order to maintain the non-partisan nature of the process, Section 3 of RBH 1 provides that “No person who is a member of the Congress of the Republic of the Philippines at the time of the adoption of this Resolution shall be qualified as a candidate for election as Delegate to the Convention.”

He further explained that the same section also prohibits candidates in the

Drilon has filed a resolution calling for a Con-Con to review the 1987 Constitution, saying the time is appropriate to do it.

CESAR TOMAMBO / PRIB

May 2016 elections to qualify as a candidate for election as Delegate to the Convention.

Drilon, a lawyer and former Justice secretary, explained that pursuant to Article XVII, Section 3 of the Constitution, “Congress may, by a vote of two-thirds of all its members, call a constitutional convention to propose amendments to, or a revision of, the Constitution.”

“The common good would be best served if the review of, and proposals to amend or revise, the Constitution would be made through and by a constitutional convention whose delegates are to be elected by the people for such purpose,” said Drilon, who topped the 2016 senatorial elections.

“It is therefore more prudent to have the Constitution reviewed for possible amendments or revision by a constitutional convention whose delegates shall be elected on the last Monday of Janu-

ary 2017,” he added.

Drilon said each House of Congress has to vote separately on the resolution.

According to the resolution, the Delegates to the Convention will be elected on the last Monday of January 2017 in accordance with the provisions of existing elections laws, rules and regulations.

Duterte names... *Deputy Director-General Marcelo Garbo Jr., *Chief Superintendent Vicente Loot, *Chief Superintendent Bernardo Diaz, *Chief Superintendent Edgardo Tinio, and *Director Joel Pagdilao.

Garbo and Loot are retired police generals, with the latter now the incumbent mayor of Daanbatayan, Cebu.

“The truth of the moment is, itong mga ito, after so many validations, even when I was still mayor of Davao City, lumalabas na itong mga pangalang ito, talagang lumalabas,” Duterte says in his speech during the 69th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Air Force. ❰❰ 1

(The truth of the moment is, these names, after so many validations, even when I was still mayor of Davao City, these names have been mentioned.)

“It’s going to be a dirty fight. It’s going to be a bloody fight. I am not apologizing for it,” he adds. ”Anumang kaso, under the Revised Penal Code, in the fulfillment of your duties as public authority,akin ‘yan, mine and mine alone. I assume full legal responsibility. Huwag kayong matakot, basta nasa tama tayo.”

(Whatever case, under the Revised Penal Code, in the fulfillment of your duties as public authority, it’s mine, mine and mine alone. I assume full responsibility. Don’y be afraid, as long as what you do is right.) ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

They shall be elected by administrative region based on the number of legislative districts in such region, the resolution said.

The candidates for delegate to the Convention shall have the same qualifications as those required of the members of the House of Representatives.

The resolution also bans candidates to represent or allow them to be represented as being a candidate of any political party or any organization, Drilon noted.

Drilon said they have proposed that the finished Constitution as crafted by the convention should be submitted to the people for ratification in the second Monday of May 2020.

“That is in effect the limitation on the life of the convention. From September 2017 to May 2020, it should be submitted for ratification in May 2020, which means that they have to finish that work before or whatever,” Drilon said.

“I placed that so that there will be a limitation on the length of the convention. Because if you have that open-ended, it may take them five years, because the powers of the convention is plenary.

Nobody can tell you how long it should be... But we can provide as to when it should be submitted for ratification, and we control the budget,” he added. ■

Philippine News

8

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

PHL cuts growth targets

BY JOANN SANTIAGO Philippines News Agency Publisher Philippine Canadian Inquirer, Inc. Correspondents Jane Moraleda Socorro Newland Bolet Arevalo Katherine Padilla Gerna Lane Sotana Community Editor Mary Ann Mandap maryann.mandap@canadianinquirer.net Administration Head Victoria Yong Graphic Designer Shanice Garcia Photographers Angelo Siglos Vic Vargas For photo submissions, please send to editor@canadianinquirer.net Operations and Marketing Head Laarni Liwanag (604) 551-3360 laarni.liwanag@canadianinquirer.net Advertising Sales Alice Yong (778) 889-3518 alice.yong@canadianinquirer.net Nelson Wu (647) 521-5155 salestoronto@canadianinquirer.net nelson.wu@canadianinquirer.net Amelia Insigne (416) 574-5121 amelia.insigne@canadianinquirer.net Antonio Tampos (604) 460-9414 antonio.tampos@canadianinquirer.net PHILIPPINE PUBLISHING GROUP Editorial Assistant Christelle Tolisora Associate Publisher Lurisa Villanueva In cooperation with the Philippine Daily Inquirer digital edition Philippine Canadian Inquirer is located at 11951 Hammersmith Way, Suite 108 Richmond, B.C. V7A 5H9 Canada Tel. No.: +1 (888) 668-6059, +1 (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, and Greater 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

MANILA — Duterte administration economic managers cut the Philippines’ growth target for 2016 and 2017 to “conservative” levels after noting economic risks.

In a briefing Tuesday, Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno said this year’s target was cut to six to seven percent from 6.8-7.8 percent and the 2017 target to 6.5-7.5 percent from 6.6 to 7.6 percent.

The 2018 target was maintained at seven to eight percent, which was adopted as the growth target until 2020. The previous 2019 target is a range between 6.9-7.9 percent.

Diokno said growth target for this President Rodrigo Roa Duterte holds his first Cabinet meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room year, in particular, was cut to “conserva- of Malacañang. tive” levels “because half of the year is PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS DIVISION / PNA over.”

In the first quarter of 2016, the domes- um-term macroeconomic assumptions cent from five percent, eight percent tic economy posted the highest expan- and fiscal targets for this year until 2022. and 10 percent for 2016-18, respectively. sion in Asia with a 6.9 percent growth, The Committee has maintained the Economic managers also announced as measured by gross domestic product two to four percent inflation target for the targets for the succeeding years, (GDP).

2016-18, which was also adapted as the which is 10 percent for 2019-10 and 11 Economic managers and private ana- target until 2022. percent for 2021-22. lysts alike are optimistic on the second The same decision was made for the Previous 2016-18 targets for imports quarter growth of the domestic econo- peso-US dollar exchange rate assump- were at 10 percent, 12 percent and 13 my due in part to election spending. tion, which is between 45 and 48. percent, respectively, while the current The government is yet to report the “The country’s firm macroeconomic targets are at seven percent, 10 percent domestic economy’s second quarter fundamentals and strong external posi- and 11 percent. performance. tion could support the broad stability The 2019-20 imports growth is seen at “We have the next six months to work of the Peso over the medium term,” the 12 percent and the 2021-22, 13 percent. on in terms of achieving higher growth Committee said.

Diokno stressed anew the Duterte adrate. Expect the second half to grow Price of crude oil is seen at USD 35-50 ministration’s bid to implement more slower on waning election spending, per barrel this year, USD 40-55/barrel infrastructure projects, which in turn, weak agriculture and are seen to push budpoor exports,” Dioget deficit up to three kno said. percent of GDP from Socioeconomic the previous ceilplanning SecreThe economic leaders remain optimistic of the ing of two percent of tary and National growth potential of the domestic economy GDP. Economic and Dedespite global weak forecast and recent market He said the curvelopment Audevelopments in the US, EU, and the ASEAN rent administration thority (NEDA) region. is “committed to D i r e c t o r- G e n e r a l increase revenues” Ernesto Pernia, durstarting this year ing the same briefing, and deficit spending said the new governstarting next year. ment still needs to adjust, citing addi- next year, USD 45-60/barrel in 2018 and The previous revenue targets for tional growth risks.

USD 50-65/barrel from 2019-2022.

2016-18 is at Php 2.573 trillion, Php Aside from existing risks from develThese are lower than the previous 2.975 trillion and Php 3.3 trillion. opments on global economy such as the DBCC assumption for the 2016 price of The current targets are at Php 2.694 slower global growth, Brexit and reces- crude oil at USD 45-60/barrel and USD trillion, Php 3.040 trillion, and Php sion of the Japanese economy, Pernia 50-65/barrel for 2017-18.

3.390 trillion for 2016-18, respectively. said the future impact of La Nina is Exports and imports growth targets Finance Secretary Carlos Dominalso seen to negatively impact domestic for 2016-19 were also revised down- guez III, during the briefing, said the growth. wards due to the impact of domestic and increase in revenues will be backed by “The economic leaders remain op- global economic outlooks. a tax package pegged on current inflatimistic of the growth potential of the “On the domestic, it will be influenced tion rate. domestic economy despite global weak by the downward revision in the GDP “We’re looking at additional tax revforecast and recent market develop- growth assumptions. On the global mar- enues,” he said citing that the readjustments in the US, EU, and the ASEAN ket, it will be affected by the economic ment will also cover fuel products. region,” the inter-agency Develop- recovery in major economies,” the stateDominguez said they will also be rement Budget Coordination Committee ment said. viewing exemptions on the value added (DBCC) said in a statement issued after Exports growth targets were cut to tax (VAT), with a goal of broadening its the briefing on the government’s medi- three percent, six percent and eight per- tax base. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

9

When Rody meets Leni for first time

BY NIKKO DIZON Philippine Daily Inquirer FINALLY, almost two months after President Duterte and Vice President Leni Robredo were elected into office, the two officials met for the first time in a warm encounter that betrayed none of the rumored distance between them.

Duterte and Robredo met yesterday during the change of command ceremony at the AFP grandstand in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, and shook hands as soon as they saw each other.

“It was OK, very cordial. I told him if I could set a courtesy visit as soon as possible and he said, anytime,” Robredo said, adding that her staff would make arrangements for one as soon as she gets back to her office.

The Vice President had been trying to snag a meeting with Duterte since they were proclaimed winners in the May 9 election, but his staff cited “conflicting schedules” for the much-delayed meetup.

The delay had led to speculations that the President was distancing himself from Robredo in light of his earlier statement about not giving her a Cabinet post because he did not want to hurt the feelings of

the inauguration venue was too small to accommodate Robredo’s own share of guests.

But the meetup yesterday showed only warm interaction between the two, with the new Commander in Chief acknowledging the presence of his Vice President before his speech.

Duterte said he had wanted to sit beside Robredo, but that former acting AFP chief of staff Gen. Glorioso Miranda was seated between them, as protocol dictated.

No date yet

President Rodrigo R. Duterte exchange pleasantries with Vice President Leni Robredo during the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) change of command in Camp Aguinaldo, while former President Fidel Ramos looks on.

MARCELINO PASCUA / PCOO / PNA

former Sen. Bongbong Marcos, her closest rival in the tightly contested VP race.

Robredo led Marcos by a slim 200,000 margin.

Separate inaugurations

The rumor about Duterte sidelining Robredo was fanned

by the two officials’ separate inauguration on June 30, with the President taking his oath of office at Rizal Hall in Malacañang, while the Vice President took it at her new office at the Executive House in New Manila, Quezon City.

Duterte’s spokespersons said

PET resets hearing on Marcos case for next week PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY MANILA — The Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) postponed for next week the hearing on the election protest filed by former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. against Vice President Leni Robredo.

The election protest of Marcos will be included in the agenda of the Supreme Court (SC) en banc, sitting as the PET, on Tuesday, July 12, 2016.

SC Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa asked that the case be called again to have enough preparation.

It was learned that the 15 SC Justices are not complete since two of them are now on leave.

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P. Aranal Sereno is on wellness leave.

On sabbatical leave is Associate Justice Jose C. Mendoza.He opted to seek this leave for justices who are retiring soon.

Mendoza is set to retire next year.

In his petition, Marcos asked the PET to set aside Robredo’s proclamation and to declare him the duly-elected vice president.

He challenged the election results in 39,221 clustered precincts in 25 provinces and five cities in the country.

He included in his 1,000-page petition 20,000 pages of affidavits, certificates of canvass (COCs) and other supporting documents to support his claim of fraud in the last May 9 national and local elections. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

The President was later seen offering his Vice President his coconut juice drink, which she smilingly declined.

Earlier yesterday, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) issued a statement clarifying reports that had quoted the Vice President as saying that Mr. Duterte was “playing hard to get,” referring to the INQUIRER headline on June 28.

“VP Leni did not say that,” the statement said.

Robredo was quoted as saying that her office had been trying to get an appointment with the President but that they had not found a date yet. But she was not losing hope that she would finally meet with the President, the statement added.

The OVP said that Robredo was “open to go to the President, to talk with him, consult, and listen to his (policy) directions for the country.”

“The Vice President wholeheartedly supports our President,” the statement said.

Marcoses among guests

Although Robredo was not at President Duterte’s inauguration, Marcos and his sister, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, were seen among the guests.

It was the first time that the children of the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos, had set foot in Malacañang after they were chased into exile by the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution.

Duterte yesterday installed Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya as the new AFP chief of staff, who will serve until he retires from the military service when he turns 56 in December, the mandatory retirement age in the uniformed service.

Miranda returns to his position as vice chief of staff.

Former President Benigno Aquino III appointed Miranda military chief in an acting capacity after then AFP chief of staff Lt. Gen. Hernando Iriberri retired in April, and an election appointments ban was in effect. ■

10

Philippine News

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

New DOH Chief takes lead in the call for one million blood units collection

BY LEILANI S. JUNIO Philippines News Agency ILOILO CITY — Stressing the importance of blood as an essential part of the healthcare system, newly-installed Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial made meaningful here on Tuesday the goal for one million blood units collection for blood donations in the country.

Dr. Ubial personally showcased her advocacy on donating blood during the blood donation event held at the Central Philippine University (CPU) here in cooperation with the DOH Region VI officials and partners from government agencies and private entities.

The new Health Chief enjoined the donors to highlight the call for greater awareness on the need for more voluntary blood donations as a way of promoting the importance of blood donation in line the celebration of National Blood Donor’s Month.

Before leading the blood donation event, Dr. Ubial delivered a message

Newly-installed Department of Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial.

where she said that she is a native of Iloilo for it is the land of her birth.

“I was born in Iloilo, baptized in Cotabato and wed in Davao,” the secretary looked back as she cited how she felt honored to be in Iloilo City exactly on the third day of her assuming post as DOH Chief under the Duterte administration.

The new Health Chief said thet DOH

PNA

is supporting the worldwide call for this year of “sharing life by giving blood” as it is one with the belief that “blood connects us all.”

“Blood is an important component that is needed to ensure health and wellbeing of our people,” she added.

She further said that since blood cannot be manufactured even if there are various medical advances and technologies, it is important to note that “when we donate blood, we give life or extend life of others needing them.”

She said that in the past 26 years, she has been a regular blood donor, especially during times that it is very rare for women to donate blood.

She revealed that it was in Cotabato City where she started her strong blood donation advocacy.

“Donating blood should be a part of daily our routine... It should not be only during mass donation blood activities

that we donate blood,” she said as she reminded everyone that everybody has to contribute for better health outcomes wherein donating blood can help a lot in achieving a healthy nation.

She expressed hope that in the future, the “norm will be seen wherein people will prioritize donating blood prior to conduct of other activities.”

Around 20 blood units have so far been donated by the Health Chief since she started with the advocacy, including the ones she donated in the blood donation event here.

“In 2015, we collected 771,000 blood units throughout the country,” Secretary Ubial said.

She added that such quantity was 84 percent of the target of having one percent of the country population donating blood standard set by the World Health Organization (WHO) As another highlight of the event, she challenged the people of Iloilo comprising of students and other members of the society to achieve the target of donating 100 blood units everyday.

As part of the challenge, the participants, young and old alike, wearing red shirts, formed human blood drop to surpass the highest record set by Quezon City last year.An estimated 5,000 participants formed the image of human blood drop to break the record of 3,000 set by QC. There are only eight existing blood centers in the country at present.

At least 20 blood centers are ideally targeted for the entire country by the Health department whose battle cry is “health is everyone’s concern.” ■

Pure Channel... the industry as a one stop next generation facility-based communication service provider.

It currently provides one of the most affordable services in the industry today that covers over 300 destinations in the world.

Since Unli-G is offered in partnership with Globe, customers can expect the same quality of service that the leading telecom company provides its subscribers worldwide. Customers who sign up for the service starting July 4, 2016 can enjoy unlimited calls to any Globe user in the Philippines for as low as $17.95 a month.

Unli-G offers 3 different types of plans to fit various customers’ needs. Account activation may be done through the telesales agents at 1-888-980-8380, online via www. unli-g.com website or through Pure Channel agents situated across Canada. Pure Channel will also waive the $20 activation ❰❰ 1

www.canadianinquirer.net

fee for the first 1,000 subscribers.

Alan Yong, President and CEO of Pure Channel is confident that Unli-G will address communication needs of their customers. “With Unli-G, we can achieve our goal to find innovative ways to provide the best value for money service to our customers. Filipino Canadians may now enjoy unlimited calls and unlimited talk time without having to depend on WIFI service which may not always be available in many parts of the Philippines,” said Alan Yong.

Globe’s SVP for International Business Nikko Acosta supports Mr. Yong’s statement and said, “both our companies share a common vision to provide the best mobile service innovation to address fast-changing customers needs.

We choose capable partners able to work with us to service over seven hundred thousand Filipinos in Canada.” ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

11

Bato: Crooked cops must quit or fight us

BY LEILA B. SALAVERRIA Philippine Daily Inquirer THE NEW Philippine National Police chief yesterday gave police coddlers of drug lords two days to surrender or face the consequences of defying President Duterte’s merciless fight against illegal drugs.

“Surrender in 48 hours or die,” Director General Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa said in a speech during ceremonies for his assumption of office as the new PNP chief.

President Duterte led the ceremonies, ordering corrupt policemen in a speech to resign, vowing “zero tolerance” for rogue law enforcers, and promising “to die” for those who do their duty honestly.

“I will not run this country with a corrupt police,” Mr. Duterte said.

Government officials, lawmakers and diplomats attended the event, held at PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

“I will not tolerate, [I will have] zero tolerance for abuses committed by the law enforcement agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation,” the President said.

Indicating he had information about corruption at the top levels in the PNP, Mr. Duterte said there would be a “major revamp.”

He said he knew the identities of high-ranking police officials involved in corruption and illegal drugs, and urged them to leave the service immediately.

“You know that I know, we all know, so you better resign. You have no more future in the police,” Mr. Duterte said.

It was the first time that Mr. Duterte spoke about corruption in the PNP since he said after his election in May that high-ranking PNP officials in Camp Crame were coddling

drug lords.

Director General Ricardo Marquez, the PNP chief who retired on Tuesday, denied Mr. Duterte’s claim, but De la Rosa, talking tough like Mr. Duterte yesterday, warned those officials that their days were numbered.

De la Rosa, a former police chief of Davao City whom Mr. Duterte promoted over the heads of several higher-ranking officials in the PNP, warned the alleged coddlers of drug lords in the service, “This has to stop right now or I’ll stop you from enjoying your life.”

“I promise you, change is coming, including your birthday, which will be changed to Nov. 2.” Nov. 2 is All Souls’ Day. De la Rosa also gave Manila policemen involved in the illegal drugs trade 48 hours to surrender or leave the service, be “fulltime drug lords and fight us.”

Company of criminals

Mr. Duterte called on policemen to shun the company of criminals who, he said, like to have their pictures taken with mayors, police and military officials “to build a reputation of invincibility.”

“Do that, taint yourselves in the company of known criminals and [crime] syndicates [and] you will be sorry,” Mr. Duterte said.

He said he would monitor the records of policemen, warning that having been a mayor for 22 years, he knew how policemen broke the rules, like converting gasoline allocations into cash.

Young policemen should build a good track record, he said.

“I will plot your history, your personal history,” he added.

Officials transferred to other areas should stop the practice of bringing their own men with them, he said, adding that he knew the purpose of this was to raise money.

Mr. Duterte said he would not countenance the tactic of policemen facing charges of going on absence without leave to get their cases dismissed.

He said these policemen would surface only after they had bargained with the victims or when the victims were already gone then ask the courts to dismiss their cases.

Support for good cops

Mr. Duterte, however, said good policemen could count on him for support.

He said he would stake his life and his presidency to protect policemen who were doing their duty. He also promised to double their salaries and arm them well so they could fight crime more effectively.

“Do not bullshit with me. But do your duty, I will die for you.

Do your duty and if in the process you kill 1,000 [criminals], I will protect you,” he said.

“And if [lawmakers] try to impeach me, I will hurry up the process and we go out of the service together,” he added.

Policemen should not hesitate to shoot suspects who fight back when they are being arrested, Mr. Duterte said.

“If there is resistance that [puts] your life in jeopardy, then by all means shoot and shoot him dead. That is my order,” he said.

Praise from Lacson

The President’s stand drew praise from Sen. Panfilo Lacson, a former PNP chief, who cited his experience with “trumped up harassment charges.”

In a statement, Lacson lauded Mr. Duterte’s “assurance of legal protection for police personnel who kill criminals in the line of duty.”

He said the President’s stand was a morale booster for policemen who may think twice before engaging criminals “for fear of being charged.”

www.canadianinquirer.net

President Rodrigo R. Duterte formally installs Police Chief Supt. Ronald M. Dela Rosa as the 21st Chief of the Philippine National Police.

CHRISTOPHER LLOYD T. CALIWAN / PNA

“Many retired policemen, I’m sure, wish they had served under a Commander in Chief like President Duterte,” Lacson said.

Mr. Duterte has been criticized for his crime-fighting methods as the authoritarian mayor of Davao City, and he has been linked to so-called death squads that have killed more than 1,000 criminal suspects in the city.

But he insists he knows the limits of official power and he adheres to the rule of law.

At his inauguration in Malacañang on Thursday, Mr. Duterte said he knew “what is legal and what is not.”

“My adherence to due process and rule of law is uncompromising,” he said.

At the PNP change of command yesterday, the President said the fight against drugs should be relentless to prevent drug lords from gaining influence anywhere in the country.

Military must help

Mr. Duterte said even the military should be involved in the fight against drugs.

He cited former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for raising the drug problem to the level of national security.

“So the Armed Forces must pitch in,” he said.

If he does not act now, the drug problem may become so big that drug bosses will gain influence all over the country, he said.

Mr. Duterte projected that if the government does not strike hard now, the Philippines could become a narco-state in two to seven years.

Facing the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday afternoon for the change of command, Mr. Duterte asked military officials to join the hunt for drug lords.

The President railed against convicted drug lords who he said continued to operate in New Bilibid Prison.

“You are embarrassing the government,” Mr. Duterte said, referring to the imprisoned drug lords. “It’s like you’re slapping us.”

The he warned them: “Count the hours. I don’t want it to take days.”

At the turnover of command, Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya replaced acting AFP chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda.

The AFP chief of staff, Gen. Hernando Iriberri, retired in April. ■

12

Philippine News

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Banayo gets Meco post; Maza named to head NAPC

BY LEILA B. SALAVERRIA AND RONNEL W. DOMINGO Philippine Daily Inquirer ANOTHER MEMBER of the socalled Makabayan bloc—a group of left-leaning organizations critical of previous administrations—has secured a government position in the Duterte administration.

Liza Maza, former sectoral representative of the women’s party-list group Gabriela, was appointed lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), the coordinating and advisory body for the implementation of the government’s social reform agenda.

Two other appointments were bared yesterday: that of former postmaster general and Duterte political strategist Angelito Banayo, who is now managing director and resident representative of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (Meco), the Philippines’ representative office in Taiwan, and Globe Telecom’s former chief legal counsel Rodolfo Salalima, who has been named secretary of the newly created Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT).

Piñol recommends

The DICT was created to focus on the development of the Philippines’ growing information and communications technology sector, and to promote digital literacy and ICT expertise across the country.

Maza joins fellow activists Rafael Mariano, the new agrarian reform secretary; Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Labor Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod, and Leoncio Evasco, secretary to the Cabinet.

Newly installed Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol meanwhile recommended several trusted people he brought in mostly from Mindanao to head agencies affiliated to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Piñol yesterday said he got President Duterte’s go signal to make recommendations on the possible heads of several agriculture-related agencies, including the National Food Authority (NFA), the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

“They are recommendees because I have no authority to appoint, but I sought the clearance of the President and he

agreed,” Piñol said of the agencies which are under the Office of the Presidential Assistant on Food Security and Agricultural Modernization, and are not part of his portfolio.

“My recommendee for PCA administrator, a journalist and a farmer himself, is Al Mendoza,” he said. “(Mendoza) is from Quezon and Pangasinan.”

PAL exec

For NFA administrator, Piñol has recommended Domingo Duerme, formerly the Philippine Airlines’ vice president for Mindanao.

The DA chief also named C’zar M. Sulaik, currently an engineer with NIA’s Caraga regional office, as the agency’s possible new administrator.

Piñol confirmed as well that Agriculture Undersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat was staying, this time as officer in charge of administration, finance and operations—and temporarily as chief of staff.

“She has guided me around the department over the last few weeks,” Piñol said.

Also keeping his job is Undersecretary Siegfredo Serrano, who handles policy and planning.

Piñol’s new undersecretaries included Evelyn Laviña, now in charge of agribusiness and high-value crops.

Laviña’s wife

“She is from Davao City and popularly known as the wife of (Duterte’s presidential) campaign spokesperson Peter Laviña, but I did not appoint her as Usec because of that,” the agriculture secretary said.

Piñol also named as undersecretary for special concerns— which used to be Puyat’s turf— lawyer Ranibai Dilangalen who, he said, “would help connect (him) to the Bangsamoro region.”

Taking over as national director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) was undersecretary for fisheries and BFAR director, retired Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Eduardo Gongona. Helping him out are retired Adm. Joey Casillian and consultant Tom Falgui, whom Piñol described as a personal lawyer of boxer and Sen. Manny Pacquiao.

As sectoral representative, Maza championed several measures that uphold women’s rights, among them the Magna Carta of Women, the Anti-Tor-

ture Law, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, the AntiViolence against Women and Children Act, the Philippine Nursing Act, and the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.

San Beda alumnus

Banayo used to be administrator of the National Food Authority and the Philippine Tourism Authority, and led the creation of the Philippine Postal Corp.

Salalima, whowas also Globe Telecom’s senior vice president for corporate and regulatory affairs, is an alumnus of San Beda College, President Duterte’s alma mater. He counts 40 years in the telecommunications industry, including stints at Bayan Telecommunications Inc. and at Radio Communications of the Philippines Inc. Mendoza, currently a sports columnist with Business Mirror, previously wrote for The Standard and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Piñol described Laviña as “one of the main proponents of the cacao industry in Mindanao... whose family is also involved in fishponds, shrimps, palm oil, and many other (agri sectors).” ■

‘Merciful liberation’: solon files divorce bill

BY NIKKO DIZON Philippine Daily Inquirer ALBAY REP. Edcel Lagman on Thursday filed a bill to allow absolute divorce in the country, which he said is “a merciful liberation of the hapless wife from a long-dead marriage.”

Lagman, the principal author of the Reproductive Health Law, filed House Bill No. 116 on the first day of the Duterte administration.

A statement from his office

said Lagman “leads the campaign in the 17th Congress for the enactment of a law on absolute divorce.”

“Most marriages are supposed to be solemnized in heaven, the reality is many marriages plummet into hell— in irremediable breakdown, spousal abuse, marital infidelity and psychological incapacity, among others, which bedevil marriages,” Lagman said.

The grounds of absolute divorce bill also include the grounds for legal separation

and annulment of marriage.

House Bill No. 116 provides the following additional grounds for absolute divorce: When either of the spouses secures a valid foreign divorce; canonical divorce, or gender reassignment surgery, and When irreconcilable differences or conflicts exist between the married couple which are beyond redemption despite earnest and repeated efforts at reconciliation.

Lagman described the bill as a “prowoman legislation,” not-

www.canadianinquirer.net

ing the following: Traditionally, in a marriage relation, the husband is more ascendant than the wife. It is the woman who is usually brutalized and it is the man who philanders and gets away with it.

Under these foreboding and unequal circumstances, a wife needs an absolute divorce more than the husband.

In divorce proceedings, the wife as the innocent spouse, needs a court-decreed alimony and support for the child or children under her custody.

Absolute divorce is not only a women’s issue. It is a poor women’s issue. Poor women cannot afford the current exorbitant expense for legal separation or annulment of marriage.

The Philippines and the Vatican are the only two states in the world without a divorce law.

The Vatican, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, is a citystate. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

13

New peace adviser vows continuity, inclusivity in the peace process PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY

President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

REY S. BANIQUET / PPD / PNA

Duterte to issue FOI executive order soon

BY MARLON RAMOS Philippine Daily Inquirer THE NEW occupant of Malacañang wants to accomplish in his first few days in office something his predecessor failed to deliver in six years.

President Duterte will sign within the next two weeks an executive order allowing freedom of information (FOI), giving the public an opportunity to access government records, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said yesterday.

The order, however, covers only offices under the executive branch of the government since it is just a presidential memorandum, Andanar said.

Interviewed over stateowned dzRB radio, Andanar said the President’s executive order was consistent with his campaign promise that his administration would be transparent and open to the public.

“This is a commitment of the President to us,” Andanar said. “We are rushing the draft of the executive order. We will announce (its signing) within this week or next week,” he added.

Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III vowed to enact a freedom of information bill during his campaign for Malacañang in 2010, a promise he failed to keep despite having full control of Congress throughout his six-year term.

Many of his party mates in the oncedominant Liberal Party and his political allies also opposed the idea of providing the press and the public full access to documents pertaining to government projects and related matters.

Aquino’s failure to pass the FOI bill was among the black marks on his administration, which he anchored on transparency.

Andanar said President Duterte would also approve the creation of a “presidential task force against media killings” to deal with unabated violence

against journalists.

The formation of the special task force comes weeks after Mr. Duterte’s controversial remarks that seemed to justify the murders of journalists in the Philippines.

Mr. Duterte’s statement that corrupt journalists are legitimate targets of assassination drew global criticism, but instead of apologizing, he banned the press from his events.

Task force on media killings

The creation of a task force on media killings also comes a few days after a radio commentator, known for his stinging tirades against illegal drugs and gambling, barely survived an assassination attempt in Surigao City.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said Saturnino “Jan” Estanio of Radio Mindanao Network-dxRS and his 12-yearold son were wounded in the June 30 attack.

Jocelyn Ferol, RMN-dxRS program director, said Estanio claimed that personal grudge might have been behind the attack, but his commentaries on illegal drugs and gambling also might have invited it.

Andanar said he and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea were already working on a draft of the proposed executive order, which he himself was pushing as chief of the Presidential Communications Office.

A broadcast journalist before he was appointed by the President last month, Andanar said he reminded Mr. Duterte about his “promise to the media and the people” during the change of command ceremony at the Philippine National Police held at Camp Crame last week.

“We are just fine-tuning the executive order. Maybe next week we can already announce [the creation of the task force],” Andanar said.

“This is one of the things we’re doing to make our colleagues in the media at ease and stop the extrajudicial killings of members of the media,” he added. ■

tion of all signed peace agreements in conformity with the constitutional and legal reforms.

PASIG CITY — Presidential Adviser on At the same time, there must be an the Peace Process Jesus Dureza em- inclusive roadmap, which takes into acphasized to continue previous commit- count all stakeholders, particularly the ments, including the implementation of indigenous peoples. signed agreements from past adminis“These are our marching orders and trations, in pursuing peace and develop- we will work in that direction,” Dureza ment in the country. said.

“There will be a change of command The new peace adviser stressed the but let me assure everyone that there importance of development efforts relawill be no transition as they use to call tive to peace-building, as these will susit. We would like to use the word ‘conti- tain peace on the ground. nuity’,” Dureza said “Hindi lang pweduring the formal deng piece of paper turnover ceremony o peace agreements, of the Office of the it will not be sustainPresidential Adviser The message is able. Dapat may katuon the Peace Process continuity, and wang na development.

(OPAPP) to its new this is for the (It is not enough that chief on Monday.

Filipino people. we have signed peace “We build on every Enabling peace agreements, it will brick on the ground. is a work for a not be sustainable.

There is so much lifetime. It is a We must couple it that has been done continuous work. with development.),” already.” Dureza addDureza said. ed. “The message is “In other words, continuity, and this when you sign agreeis for the Filipino ments, you must alpeople. Enabling peace is a work for a ways make the people feel that there are lifetime. It is a continuous work.” dividends for peace because it is develThe ceremony was attended by former opment that will sustain all these gains.”

OPAPP Secretary Teresita “Ging” QuinDureza called on all peace stakeholdtos Deles, who was joined by previous ers to persevere on what they are doing agency officials. The incoming OPAPP so that the strides of peace will be “one executives were also present during the step forward from where these are toevent. day.”

The new peace adviser also recapped “We like to invite you to continue beparts of the inaugural speech of Presi- ing with us. There are a few changes but, dent Rodrigo Duterte that are signifi- definitely, we will continue what the cant to this administration’s peace pol- previous Presidential Adviser on the icy.

Peace Process has done because SecreIn his speech, President Duterte un- tary Ging Deles also built on the work of derscored the continued implementa- previous peace advisers,” Dureza said. ■

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FRIDAY

ANALYSIS

Fear of killing fields sparked by Duterte claims

By Amando Doronila Philippine Daily Inquirer CANBERRA—President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s plan to reinstate the death penalty has set his administration on a collision course with Vice President-elect Leni Robredo, as well as with the politically influential Catholic Church.

It has also sparked an early realignment of political forces, foreshadowing a turbulent transition.

Duterte takes office on June 30 amid growing criticism of his impulsive and authoritarian tendencies. The issue of the reinstatement of capital punishment has become the focus of public debate with just days to go before his inauguration.

Duterte has run into a storm of controversies not only over the death penalty but also over two separate inaugurations for him and for Robredo, who appears to have become a pain in the neck and who is being marginalized by him from the center of power—Malacañang. Robredo ran for the vice presidency on the ticket of the Aquino administration’s Liber-

al Party, and narrowly won over Sen. ficking, rape, murder, kidnapping for rights groups had called for an inFerdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ransom, and other grievous offenses. vestigation into whether Dutete was Duterte is wary of offering Robredo a The Catholic hierarchy has de- complicit in the killing of hundreds portfolio in his Cabinet because he is nounced Duterte’s stand on the of people in Davao City since the friends with Bongbong. matter and said that the Church’s 1980s by what they described as govRobredo has taken issue with position is not based on popularity ernment-sanctioned death squads.

Duterte on the question of the death “but on simple moral principles.” In According to the New York Times, penalty. She told reporters in Naga a statement, Fr. Lito Jopson, head of the Davao police say they have found City last week that reinstating capi- the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of no evidence that such groups exist. tal punishment was not the solution the Philippines’ Office of Communi- But investigations by Human Rights to the high crime rate. “I have been cations, said: “...We do not have the Watch, the United Nations and the very vocal about Philippines’ Comthis [and] I will mission on Human continuously voice Rights uncovered “It is going to be bloody,” he told a business group in April. “I my opposition to evidence that they will use the military and law enforcers, whom I would task for a its imposition even do exist and that pojob to do. I will simply say, ‘Kill them all and end the problem.’” though it will be lice and other govCongress that will ernment officials decide whether or had been involved not to bring it back,” in the killings. The she said. She does not believe that the right to decide who should live or victims, the investigations found, indeath penalty will be a deterrent to die.” cluded children, crime suspects, and, heinous crime, citing the experiences Despite these injunctions from the in some cases, people who had been under the Marcos and Ramos admin- Church, Duterte has stoutly defend- mistaken for someone else. istrations. ed the extrajudicial executions carWhile Duterte has denied any diAfter the execution of a number ried out by his cohorts in Davao City, rect knowledge of the alleged death of death convicts by lethal injection which he had run with a mailed fist as squads, he has long called for the in 1999-2000, the Philippines abol- its mayor for 23 years. killing of criminals as a means of ished capital punishment. Duterte The New York Times (May 12, addressing the Philippines’ severe wants its reinstatement for drug traf- 2016) reported that for years, human crime problem. In 2009, he said sus-

pected criminals were “a legitimate target of assassination.”

During the election campaign in May, says the New York Times, Duterte issued “a running barrage of murderous boasts” in which he claimed to have personally killed armed criminals while he was mayor, though no evidence has emerged to support those stories. Asked to respond to a report that he had killed 700 people, he replied, “No, its not 700, but 1,700.” He said that if elected president, he would deploy the police and military in an all-out assault on criminal gangs.

“It is going to be bloody,” he told a business group in April. “I will use the military and law enforcers, whom I would task for a job to do. I will simply say, ‘Kill them all and end the problem.’”

The claims may strike some as outlandish, but the New York Times reports that the evidence on killings during Duterte’s watch as mayor of Davao City has led to fears of “a nationwide explosion of extrajudicial killings during his presidency.” ■

PUBLIC LIVES

President Duterte’s inaugural speech

By Randy David Philippine Daily Inquirer PRESIDENT RODRIGO Roa Duterte dutifully went through the rituals of a tightly scripted inaugural ceremony last Thursday. He embraced the full text of his prepared speech with good humor, giving it a tone and a cadence that hewed closely to the established patterns of inaugural speeches.

The speech was brief and had a simple structure. But it managed to resonate all the basic themes of constitutional democracy: accountable and transparent governance, rule of law, and respect for due process. It was eloquent, if rather conservative.

Though a little stiff at the start, President Digong stayed well-poised throughout the event. Still, he could not resist signaling a desire to free himself from the straitjacket of the formal state function in which he had found himself.

Reaching the end of the prepared speech, he paused and impishly announced: “Hindi kasali ito diyan” (This is not part of the text). The audience let out a murmur of nervous laughter, no doubt anticipating a torrent of emancipated language that has been the hallmark of the former mayor’s signature monologues.

Whereupon the tough-talking leader from Mindanao, now the nation’s

16th President, turned somber, and president, I know what is legal and commitment to due process. began to speak from the heart. what is not.” “Changing the rules Two statements capture this best.

“Why am I here?” he asked. “The when the game is ongoing is wrong.” The first comes after the President past tense was, I am here because I “[T]he Republic of the Philippines argues that the fight against crimilove my country and I love the people will honor treaties and international nality, illegal drugs, and corruption of the Philippines. I am here, why? obligations.” “On the domestic front, will have to be relentless if the peoBecause I am ready to start my work my administration is committed to ple’s faith and trust in government for the nation.” One could almost implement all signed peace agree- is to be restored. “In this fight, I ask hear a collective sigh of relief rising ments in step with constitutional Congress and the Commission on from the packed ceremonial hall in- and legal reforms.”

Human Rights and all others who side Malacañang Palace. It was a perUttered by anyone else, these are similarly situated to allow us a formative break that epitomized the would be motherhood statements. level of governance that is consistension inherent in both the speech But, we find them powerful because tent to our mandate.” The second and in the Duterte presidency itself. we don’t expect them to be said by Ro- comes after he declares that he will It’s too early to be uncompromissay if this is the ing in his adherpromised metamorence to due process The speech was brief and had a simple structure. But phosis. The speech and the rule of law. it managed to resonate all the basic themes of constitutional was a cogent norAddressing the democracy: accountable and transparent governance, rule of law, mative statement other branches of and respect for due process. It was eloquent, if rather conservative. of what could pass government and, for a general poliby implication, the cy framework. But, we don’t know drigo Duterte in his very first speech mass media, he sternly tells them: to what extent it will guide actual as president. These are not the usual “You mind your work and I will mind day-to-day decision-making in the sounds that autocrats make. mine.” Let us deconstruct these two Duterte administration.

I say this not out of skepticism, but propositions. What exactly is meant Some choice sentences from the out of a strained effort to reconcile by “a level of governance that is conpresidential speech do seem to of- the high-minded principles articu- sistent [with] our mandate”? As I fer earnest reassurances of a demo- lated in the inaugural speech with the argued in a previous column (Public cratic presidency. Here are some ex- down-to-earth, idiosyncratic style Lives, 5/29/16), mandate is a conamples: “It is the people from whom of leadership that has become the tested term. How one performs the democratic governments draw Duterte trademark. Indeed, this ten- functions of government is deterstrength and this administration sion is evident in various parts of the mined not by a mandate—however is no exception.” “As a lawyer and a inaugural speech. It manifests itself one may understand this—but by former prosecutor, I know the lim- as the conflict between the exigen- the Constitution and the laws of its of the power and authority of the cies of effective governance and the the land. The President’s oath of of-

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fice articulates this in no uncertain terms: “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and conscientiously fulfill my duties as President of the Philippines, preserve and defend its Constitution, execute its laws, do justice to every man, and consecrate myself to the service of the Nation.”

And, can minding one’s own work possibly mean “Don’t look into my backyard”? Isn’t the business of agencies like the Commission on Human Rights, for example, precisely to look into the State’s backyard in order to ensure that, in the performance of its work, government does not trample on the rights of its citizens?

Indeed, I understood both statements as no more than a gracious way of saying: “Don’t stand in my way; I have a job to do.” Every autonomous institution that takes its work seriously can say this. As powerful as the presidency is in our system, it is but one of three coequal branches of government. Neither the urgency of our problems, nor the impatience of our people, nor the claim of a solid mandate, could justify setting aside the Constitution as the ultimate criterion of lawful official action.

What gives me pause, however, is the awareness that history is replete with instances when citizens used their democratic rights to put an end to democracy itself. ■

Opinion

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

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AT LARGE

PDu30 and Pinays

By Rina Jimenez-David Philippine Daily Inquirer WHILE NOT exactly heartwarming—in fact it was rather anticlimactic—the scene of President Duterte meeting Vice President Leni Robredo onstage was weirdly satisfying.

So that was all it took: an invitation to the new Veep to attend an affair also to be graced by the new Chief Executive. One wonders why the folks at Malacañang, especially those surrounding PDu30 (his rather awkward nickname these days), hadn’t thought of it earlier. Unless they shared with the President a visceral dislike of Leni, which speaks volumes about their own lack of maturity and mean-spiritedness than any possible shortcoming of the Vice President.

But let’s take whatever crumbs of magnanimity fall from the person of our fearless leader.

Whatever this accidental concession signals, even if it leads to cooperation and amity, or not, it has come too late. The snub was given and taken, and it brings into question PDu30’s priorities and personality.

Lest he forget, the President still has to put his “rape joke” behind him, on which the Commission on Human Rights ruled that he had violated the

Magna Carta of Women by offending women’s sensibilities—especially those of rape survivors—by making a crass and cruel remark during a campaign sortie. It was a remark, we must note, that was entirely unnecessary, made almost as a side comment, an attempt to elicit laughter.

His treatment of the duly-elected Vice President is not just an offense against Leni Robredo but also against the millions of Filipinos who voted for her. One wonders if this attitude is not indicative of his internalized attitude toward women in general, as he let slip when he made that offensive joke about the gang rape of the Australian missionary.

I suspect his lingering hostility to Leni is rooted in his contempt for women in general, even if he has tried to mask it by his appointment of several women to his Cabinet. So despite the détente signaled by their encounter at the Camp Aguinaldo grandstand, I’m not holding my breath for the emergence of a gender-sensitive President any time soon. *** ON July 11, we observe World Population Day, which this year centers on the theme “Investing in Teenage Girls.”

The executive director of the UN

Population Fund, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, has used the occasion to call on leaders and communities to “focus on and stand up for the human rights of the most marginalized teenage girls, particularly those who are poor, out of school, exploited, or subjected to harmful traditional practices, including child marriage.”

Here are the numbers behind the context. There are about 830 million boys and girls aged 13 to 19 among the world’s 7.3-billion population. In the Philippines, with a population of 102 million, 33 percent (almost one in three) is aged 0-14 years, while 19 percent (almost one in five) of the population is composed of boys and girls aged 15-24 years.

Given this young population, say experts, the Philippines needs to invest more in schools, while further down the line, “the rapid growth of a young adult population unable to find employment can lead to unrest.”

As I reported in Friday’s column, covering a health technology conference hosted by VisayasHealth, the Philippines faces an “epidemic” of teenage pregnancies, with Filipino adolescents engaging in sex earlier, with more frequency, and using hardly any protection against sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy.

The unplanned and mistimed pregnancies impact not just on the lives of the young mothers (and fathers, too, although only marginally, it seems) but also on those of their children, who face a future haunted by poverty, missed opportunities especially education, and even public shame. *** THAT’S why the focus of this year’s observance of World Population Day centers on teenage girls. None is more vulnerable and powerless than a girl who is pregnant out of wedlock, who has had to leave school, and because of this faces poor employment or income-generating opportunities.

Efforts must be made to search for girls in this situation and seek ways to ease their reentry into school or the job market, while looking after their health needs (including their postpartum family planning needs) and those of their young children.

Indeed, investing in the future of a teenage mother is investing in the future as well of her children and family.

But in the Philippines, the cards are stacked against these girls. In the first place, under an amendment to the Reproductive Health Law imposed by the Supreme Court, a

teenager needs to show written approval by a parent before he or she can receive family planning services from a government health center.

Secondly, the high court’s temporary restraining order on contraceptive drugs and devices threatens the imminent loss of any access to any form of contraception, even from private providers, and even by adult married couples. *** GIVEN his publicly stated support for family planning, perhaps President Digong can use his influence with the Supreme Court to act with haste on this hanging issue of the TRO against implants and the issuance of new permits to contraceptive marketers.

Almost a year has passed since the TRO was issued, and with estimates of about 11 deaths a day of women from causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, of whom a good number are adolescents, we can just imagine the death toll that could have been avoided if contraceptives had just been made available to them.

If he’s looking for ways to make it up to the women of this country, our new leader should take the initiative on this issue. Maybe we can forgive him his “rape joke” then. ■

LOOKING BACK

To take possession of the seat of power

By Ambeth R. Ocampo Philippine Daily Inquirer CHANGE HAS come indeed. In a departure from tradition, President Duterte took his oath, without the Vice President, in Malacañang instead of at the Quirino Grandstand. It has been three decades since the last president took his oath in Malacañang: Before Mr. Duterte was Ferdinand Marcos in 1986, and before them were Vice Presidents Elpidio Quirino and Carlos P. Garcia, who assumed office upon the deaths of Manuel Roxas and Ramon Magsaysay, respectively.

One of the important traditions of an inauguration calls for the newly minted president to take the formal entrance to Malacañang and ascend the grand staircase to take possession of the seat of power for the next six years. We owe this bit of history to Manuel L. Quezon, who wrote this in his autobiography, “The Good Fight” (1946): “On a beautiful morning, November 15, 1934, I left my house in Pasay by the shores of the Bay of Manila and rode with military escorts through streets decorated with American and Filipino flags, under

artistic and symbolic arches, to the Legislative building where the inaugural ceremonies were to take place.

Hundreds of thousands of people had come to Manila from far and wide to witness the elevation to the highest office in the land of the first Filipino who would occupy the seat of power, for centuries past occupied by Spaniards and Americans.”

After the inaugural in the Legislative House (presently the National Museum), Quezon narrated: “From the grandstand, I went through streets crowded with people acclaiming their first President, on to the Palace of Malacañan, the great mansion on the bank of the Pasig River which had been the seat of power of foreign rulers for many decades past. As I stepped out of the presidential car and walked over the marble floor of the entrance hall, and up the wide stairway, I remembered the legend of the mother of Rizal, the great Filipino martyr and hero, who went up those stairs on her knees to seek executive clemency from the cruel Spanish Governor-General Polavieja, that would save her son’s life.

This story had something to do with my reluctance to believe that capital punishment should ever be carried

out, as a matter of fact, during my presidency, no man ever went to the electric chair. At the last moment I always stayed the hand of the executioner.”

As Quezon ascended the steps, he was making a statement that the Lord of Malacañang was now a Filipino, not a Spanish or American governorgeneral. He recalled his first visit to Malacañang in 1901, and pointed out two rooms facing each other at the end of the large reception hall: the room on the right was then occupied by the military governor of the Philippines, Gen. Arthur MacArthur, father of Douglas “I shall return” MacArthur; the room on the left was the gilded cage where the enemy kept Emilio Aguinaldo, who was captured that year in Palanan, Isabela.

While the legend of Rizal’s mother climbing the Malacañang steps in December 1896 to seek clemency for her son is a very powerful narrative, it is not supported by documentary evidence. Santiago Mataix, Manila correspondent of the Madrid newspaper El Heraldo, sent two dispatches, one of which says: “All measures have been taken to prevent Rizal from committing suicide. The family of the Filipino doctor tried to see the

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governor to ask for his pardon. General Polavieja was unable to receive them.” The other dispatch reports the opposite: “The sisters of the condemned man, broken up with crying, waited for the Governor General at the gate of his palace, throwing themselves at his feet to ask for clemency.

“The General would have wished that the performance of inexorable duties could have allowed him to indulge at the same time both the clemency of authority and his own inmost feelings of pity.”

From this bit of news, perhaps inaccurate or even made up, was spun the legend of Rizal’s aged mother climbing the Palace steps on her knees. The correspondent for the other Madrid paper, El Imparcial, does not mention that story, but reported that the Rizal family was inciting the public in Tondo and Trozo to create a commotion that would impede the execution, and that the family’s request for Rizal’s body was denied by the government so it could not be used for demonstrations, and the clothes of the martyr could not be cut up and distributed as relics.

Rizal’s mother dictated a fourpage letter to a notary addressed to

Governor-General Polavieja that is preserved in the National Library. It pleads with Polavieja: “to deign to turn your eyes and consider the tribulations of an unhappy mother, who at the close of her life and at the advanced age of 71, will have to endure the greatest and most bitter of sorrows, which is to witness the death of her unfortunate son, the victim only of fate and of the unlucky circumstances which have surrounded him.”

Signing the letter in her own hand as “Teodora Alonso de R,” she calls on Polavieja’s “magnanimous heart” to stay the execution “for the good honor of Mother Spain and the consolation of mothers.” But her words were in vain.

It matters not that the story of Rizal’s mother on her knees on the Malacañang steps is untrue. But Quezon commuting death sentences is true. Witness to his mercy is the large table of Philippine hardwood, once in the Palace hallway, that was made in Bilibid by convicts whose lives he had spared. Unfortunately, these stories on laws tempered with mercy have no resonance on a President who seeks the return of the death penalty. ■

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FRIDAY

Canada News

Federal officials wrestling with gender neutral ID issues for more than a year

Girls squeezed out of lemonade stand over paperwork get apology

BY JORDAN PRESS The Canadian Press

BY TERRY PEDWELL The Canadian Press

worthwhile, but they should not stop us from making the immediate changes that can help people and keep people from harm.”

Calling the move part of the “great arc of history sweeping toward justice,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told Toronto news channel CP24 during that city’s gay pride parade Sunday that the government was figuring out the “best way” to introduce gender-neutral identity documents.

Trudeau spokesman Cameron Ahmed said the issue of gender-neutral identity documents is being wrapped up in the government’s new transgender rights bill introduced in May.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada counterparts.

Seven countries allow a third sex designation on their passOTTAWA — The federal Liberports — Australia, Bangladesh, als could easily drop any menGermany, India, Nepal, New tion of sex or gender from idenZealand and Pakistan. tity documents like passports Passport standards from the immediately, notwithstanding International Civil Aviation Orgaconcerns civil servants have exnization, which Canada adheres pressed about the idea privateto, allow governments to allow a ly for more than a year, a senior third sex or gender category, usuofficial with the Canadian Hually marked with an ‘X,’ officials man Rights Commission says. wrote in the documents obtained Marcella Daye, the acting

by The Canadian Press under the manager of policy at the comAccess to Information Act. mission, said having genderCitizenship and Immigration neutral identity documents like Canada said it would respond passports is the number one Tuesday to questions posed to issue transgender Canadians it on Monday. have raised in recent consultaAt the same time, changing tions with the commission. the use of sex designations in Daye said the the registry of longer the govsocial insurance ernment waits to numbers would move to gendercause issues for neutral identity Seven countries allow a third sex agencies that documents, the designation on their passports — rely on the inforlonger it exposAustralia, Bangladesh, Germany, mation as part of es transgender India, Nepal, New Zealand and their programs, Canadians and Pakistan. like Employother members ment and Social of the LGBTQ2 Development community to Canada and the potential problems or danger.

Neither Trudeau nor his of- Canada Revenue Agency that Consultations the commis- fice put a timeline on when a use the detail for gender-based sion has held with transgender decision would be made, even analysis on income distribuCanadians on this topic have though departmental officials tion, job data and even student shown concerns about travel- have looked at the issue since loan recipients. lers blocked from getting on a months before Trudeau took In May, the department flight because they don’t look office. told The Canadian Press the or match the gender listed on Documents from June 2015 sex designation data from the their passport, or becoming show officials from Citizenship registry is used primarily for the subject to harassment, said and Immigration Canada were gender-based analysis and not Daye, a senior policy adviser to looking into what they called for determining eligibility for the commission on LGBTQ2 is- “identity management” issues benefits. Federal and provincial sues. should someone from a country agencies that use the informa“Sometimes when you toss that allows a third sex designa- tion to validate identities raised out the idea that this is harm- tion on their passports apply concerns over the complete reful and we need to change this for Canadian immigration doc- moval of sex information from one thing, people go, ‘but there uments. the registry. are these other 300 things and Internationally, there is a ESDC has yet to provide an we need to change all of them “growing recognition of a third update on the policy review. and we have to do a big effort,”’ sex/gender category...for those Last month, Ontario anDaye said. who identify as intersex, inde- nounced it would become the “Those kind of systemic ex- terminate, or unspecified,” of- first province to allow for a aminations of how we use gen- ficials from ESDC wrote as part third sex designation on health der in government are really of a presentation last year with cards and on driver’s licences. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

OTTAWA — Two Ottawa girls whose lemonade stand was shut down over the weekend because they didn’t have the right permit could be back in business by the end of the week — but they still need the paperwork.

The agency responsible for policing federal lands in Ottawa apologized Monday to Eliza Andrews, 7, and Adela Andrews, 5, after a conservation officer put a stop to their efforts to raise money for summer camp.

The sisters had set up the stand on a grassy median of an Ottawa parkway that’s closed to vehicular traffic on Sundays and opened to cyclists, roller bladers and others on foot.

They had hoped to raise enough money for camp, but after selling over $50 worth of refreshments to parched pedestrians, they were told by a National

Capital Commission officer to pack up and leave because they didn’t have a permit to conduct business on NCC property.

On Monday, the NCC said the junior conservation officer acted in good faith applying federal land use rules but the situation could have been dealt with better.

“We believe the situation could have been handled differently,” the NCC said in a statement.

“Children’s lemonade stands are a time-honoured summer tradition that contributes to a lively capital and the NCC wants to encourage these activities whenever possible.”

The girls’ father Kurtis Andrews told media outlets Sunday the officer, while polite, showed him a map to indicate the property belonged to the NCC and told him that a permit was required to sell anything on it.

Andrews offered to pay for a permit on the spot but said he was not given the opportunity. ■

Atlantic premiers and federal ministers announce immigration boost THE CANADIAN PRESS ST. PETERS BAY, P.E.I. — The four Atlantic premiers and the federal government have announced a strategy to grow the region’s economy, including a three-year pilot project to boost immigration.

Under the plan, the government will admit up to 2,000 immig=rants and accompanying families in 2017, with increased numbers in the following years depending on performance.

The details were announced

at a meeting in Prince Edward Island of the premiers and some federal cabinet ministers.

Immigration Minister John McCallum says the initiative will lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.

He says governments and employers will be able to recruit and settle immigrants based on skill levels and the economic needs of the provinces.

P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan says the workforce in his province must grow in order to create sustained prosperity. ■

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FRIDAY

World News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

19

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joins thousands marching in Toronto’s Pride parade

BY NICOLE THOMPSON The Canadian Press TORONTO — Canada’s largest Pride parade marked another milestone Sunday as a sitting prime minister marched for the first time in a colourful celebration that was tempered by last month’s shooting massacre in Orlando, Fla. A river of multi-coloured floats and marchers came to a halt on Yonge Street and stood in silence along with the masses of onlookers to remember the shooting’s 49 victims, predominantly LGBTQ. Trudeau said the Florida tragedy is a reminder that “we can’t let hate go by.”

“We have to speak up anytime there is intolerance or discrimination,” he said as the 36th annual parade kicked off.

Prominent in the procession was a pair of marchers who held a large black banner that read “Orlando” and “We march for those who can’t.”

A group of several march-

ers, dressed in pastel-coloured robes, each carried signs with the name and age of an Orlando victim as they worked their way down the route.

“The good part of it is that so many people came together,” said Aydian Dowling, the parade’s international grand marshal, of this year’s parade in the wake of the horrors in Orlando.

Trudeau drew a boisterous reaction from those who lined the parade route — he has taken part in the parade before, including last summer, but this was his first as prime minister.

Members of the crowd, some decked out in rainbow gear and outlandish costumes, posed for selfies with the prime minister while others chanted his name as he passed by.

Other politicians who marched in the parade included Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, Toronto Mayor John Tory, Green Party leader Elizabeth May and Rona Ambrose, interim leader of the federal Conservatives.

Tory said the Orlando mass shootings showed that “we’ve

got things to do” to promote tolerance and inclusion for the LGBTQ community.

Before the festivities, Trudeau attended an outdoor church service in the heart of the city’s gay village where he sang along to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.” He also told local news station CP24 that the federal government is exploring the possibility of gender-neutral identification. Ontario announced last week that it would allow the use of a third gender indicator, X, for driver’s licences and health cards.

“It’s something we’re looking at federally, we’re just trying to figure out the best way to get around to doing it,” he said.

Trudeau also downplayed his appearance at the parade as no big deal, noting he’d been attending Pride parades for years.

“It shouldn’t be a big thing that a prime minister’s walking a Pride parade, and from now on it won’t,” he said.

The parade wraps up a month of Pride festivities in Toronto, which saw entertainment

RCMP say woman sexually assaulted outside bathroom at Saskatchewan fireworks THE CANADIAN PRESS FORT QU’APPELLE, SASK. — Police say a woman who was watching fireworks in Fort Qu’Appelle, Sask., was allegedly sexually assaulted on Canada Day. RCMP say the 34-year-old woman was visiting the Fort Campground to take in the fireworks when she was assaulted by a strange man outside the public bathroom.

A woman helped the alleged victim to the bathroom before she called police.

Fort Qu’Appelle RCMP got the report late on Friday night, but didn’t release the information publicly until Monday.

Cpl. Drew Wagner said the woman who helped came for-

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attends annual Pride Parade in Toronto.

STUDIOLASKA / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

heavyweights like George Takei and Lindsay Lohan participate.

The Orlando shooting resulted in tighter security at the parade. Police officers, many wearing uniforms with the Pride rainbow on them, were visible even along streets adjacent to the parade route.

Many of the officers seemed to be enjoying the experience, posing for pictures and tweeting them.

The parade briefly stalled when activists from the Black Lives Matter movement staged a sit-in on the parade route and

Alberta extends student loan repayments for those affected by Fort McMurray fire THE CANADIAN PRESS

Fort Qu'Appelle railway station.

ward Monday after they sent out a notice.

There is no description of the suspect.

“We had a very busy weekend this weekend and the investigation began July 1 and continued over the weekend,” Wagner

SRIMESH / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

said.

He said it’s best to tell the public about an alleged sexual assault sooner rather than later, adding the investigation is progressing slowly as officers wait to get more information from the victim. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

set off rainbow-coloured smoke bombs. But after talking to Pride officials, the sit-in ended peacefully and the parade continued.

The group said, among other things, it demanded and won a ban on police floats at the parade and a commitment from Pride to hire more “black trans women, black queer people, indigenous folk and others from vulnerable communities.”

Mike McCormack, head of the Toronto police union, was critical of the police float ban.

“Shame on Pride organizers,” he tweeted on Sunday night. ■

EDMONTON — The Alberta government is giving people affected by the Fort McMurray wildfire more time to pay back student loans.

Payment deferrals and a freeze on interest are being extended to March 1.

The move expands by three months a six-month grace period the government had already put in place just days into the fire.

The province says more than 700 students will benefit from the extension.

Advanced Education Minister Marlin Schmidt says the province wants to give people time to

focus on their immediate needs.

The forest fire in May forced almost 90,000 residents from the Wood Buffalo area to leave their homes and destroyed one in 10 structures in Fort McMurray.

“We recognize that rebuilding a community following a devastating event like the Fort McMurray wildfire takes an emotional and financial toll on its residents,” Schmidt said in a news release Monday.

“When people have been displaced from their homes and their jobs, the last thing they should be worried about is repaying a student loan.”

The repayment and interestfree period is for Alberta student loans only. ■

20

World News

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Educated and well off, Dhaka attackers defy usual

BY KATY DAIGLE The Associated Press NEW DELHI — The young men had been missing for months.

Their families sensed something was wrong.

It wasn’t until the horror of the weekend hostage crisis in Bangladesh’s capital unfolded that they learned their sons had become radicalized as religious extremists and launched one of the country’s deadliest attacks in recent years.

The young men, armed with knives, bombs and automatic firearms, engaged in a gun battle with police, killing two and wounding more, then seized a popular restaurant in a Dhaka neighbourhood on Friday night and held some 35 people hostage. Over the next few hours, they would kill 20 of their captives — including nine Italians, seven Japanese, an Indian teenager and three students at American universities. A witness said some victims were tortured when they could not

recite verses from the Qur’an.

“This is very painful. He killed innocent people,” said the aunt of one of the attackers, Rohan Imtiaz, whose father is a leader in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s governing Awami League party.

“We sensed that Rohan was changing and his behaviour increasingly became different,” she told the Associated Press in disbelief.

When Imtiaz went missing on Dec. 31, as his mother and father were in India for medical treatment, the family asked the police to help find him.

“My brother went to everybody: police, ministers and higher authorities after he went missing,” said Rohan’s aunt, who refused to be identified by name. “He became just crazy after his son went missing. But nobody could help us.”

As details emerged of the men who laid siege to the Holey Artisan Bakery, it became clear that the attackers did not fit the typical profile for religious radicals coming from economically deprived backgrounds and

latching onto extremist groups that promised a new future.

Most had come from privileged backgrounds, and were educated in top schools.

Some analysts said that’s what made them attractive as recruits; their backgrounds meant they would not raise suspicions.

“They do not fit the usual stereotype of the madrassa-educated youth,” said Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty, a former Indian diplomat and policy expert on Bangladesh for the Observer Research Foundation, a New Delhi think-tank . “My suspicion is that these young men were roped in by spotters or recruiters.”

He said their defiance of the usual militant profile gave credibility to claims the attackers were part of a campaign waged by extremist groups abroad.

“This is a conscious decision on their part that they will get this kind of people,” Chakravarty said. “The shock value for the radical groups of recruiting educated, affluent people is huge. The government will

www.canadianinquirer.net

never suspect them. The intelligence agencies will never suspect them. Because these boys were never under any kind of surveillance.”

Police released photographs of the bodies of five attackers killed by paramilitary forces who ended the hostage siege.

They also released names — Akash, Badhon, Bikash, Don and Ripon — which did not match those given by family members. Police said only that militants often go by many names to obscure their identities. Another suspected attacker was captured and was being interrogated.

The men, all younger than 30, belonged to the banned domestic group Jumatul Mujahedeen Bangladesh, or JMB, according to police. Asked whether they might also have had Islamic State ties, police said authorities were investigating that possibility.

“It is difficult to imagine how they were radicalized. At least four come from very wealthy backgrounds,” said Benazir

Ahmed, head of the country’s paramilitary Rapid Action Battalion, according to Indian broadcaster NDTV. Describing them as “flamboyant young men,” he said some had also been frequent visitors to the same restaurant they attacked.

The Islamic State, in claiming responsibility for the attack, had also published photos of the five smiling young men, each holding what appear to be assault rifles and posing in front of a black IS flag. The men in those photographs released by the Amaq news agency, affiliated with IS, also appear to match the police images of the dead assailants in the restaurant after the hostage crisis ended.

Another attacker identified as Khairul Islam went missing six months ago, according to Bogra district police chief Mohammed Asaduzzman.

“The family is poor, and did not report his disappearance to ❱❱ PAGE 31 Educated and

21

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

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22

World News

Rotting whale carcass sparks shark warning for Western Australia PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY

WA Parks and Wildlife Ngari Capes Marine Park coordinator Matthew Dasey told local media on Tuesday.

SYDNEY — A shark warning Whale falls provide imhas been issued in the south portant nutrients for a variof Western Australia on Tues- ety of animals in the benthic day after a 12-meter humpback food chain, from apex predawhale weighing up to 40 tons tor sharks through to bottom washed up on a popular beach. dwelling invertebrates.

Western Australian authoriHowever sharks have been ties believed the whale died a spotted along Perth’s northern few days ago and beaches — 215 washed ashore at kilometers south a popular beach of Perth — in the in the Margaret past week, raisRiver region. ing fears of furRather than [...] we have ther attacks. towing the aldecided to In June, a unimost 40-ton carremove the versity profescass out to sea to animal in sor was mauled provide food for the interests while diving one bottom dwellof public kilometer offing animals via safety. shore from Perth a process known while a surfer as “whale fall,” was fatally atWestern Austratacked just to the lian authorities south in Manwill instead redurah. move it to a local land-fill due to Researchers are making the significant threat of sharks. progress on shark deterrent “Because it is a popular surf methods after University of location, the decomposing Western Australia study found whale could attract sharks to an electrical deterrent device the area, therefore we have de- called SharkShield showed it cided to remove the animal in was effective at a radius of 1.3 the interests of public safety,” meters from its electrodes. ■

JULY 8, 2016

Thai government rules out death penalty for rapists

BY NATNICHA CHUWIRUCH The Associated Press BANGKOK — Thailand’s Justice Ministry says it has no plan to execute rapists who murder their victims, saying such a harsh penalty would provoke more rapists to kill.

The ministry’s third-ranking official, Tawatchai Thaikyo, posted the comments Monday on his Facebook page amid growing outrage over the suspected rape and murder of a 27-year-old teacher, whose alleged attacker was a convicted rapist who lived in her apartment building. The woman’s death has prompted calls for harsher penalties for rapes and capital punishment for fatal rapes.

Capital punishment is legal in Thailand for 35 different crimes, including drug offences, terrorism, national security crimes, murder and fatal rapes. But in practice, the death penalty is rarely used.

The last execution was carried out in 2009 for two drug traffickers.

“If raping equals the death penalty, it would encourage rapists to kill all victims to shut their mouths,” Tawatchai said.

“Wouldn’t it be better if we require all convicted rapists to undergo a rehabilitation program and give them support to

prevent them from committing such crimes again?”

Part of the public anger is over the prison system’s failure, in this case, to rehabilitate. The main suspect in the attack Friday is a 27-year-old factory worker who was released from prison last August after serving less than two years behind bars for raping a friend’s wife.

He initially told police that he lived a few doors down from the teacher and knew her apartment door was broken, so he sneaked in late Friday with the intention of raping her but she fought back so he killed her, local media reported. He later changed his confession to say he had no intention of raping but only wanted to rob the teacher. Another neighbour found the woman’s naked body, her throat slashed, the day after the attack.

The suspect, identified as Chatree Ruamsungnoen, was arrested Saturday and police cancelled a subsequent reenactment of the crime, which is common in Thailand when suspects confess, over concern he would be attacked by angry mobs.

The head of Thailand’s military government also commented on the case, saying he disagreed with the calls for capital punishment.

“Look at what other countries are doing globally. Human

rights laws have stopped capital punishment in many countries around the world,” Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said, adding that severe penalties alone won’t prevent rapes.

Even if the punishment were “three executions” it still might not be enough to deter criminals, he said.

“Society has to help pressure them,” Prayuth added, saying public condemnation could be a greater deterrent than the death penalty.

Rights groups say rape in Thailand goes largely unreported and unpunished, partly because police often don’t take complaints seriously.

Thai police receive about 4,000 rape complaints a year and make about 2,400 arrests, according to the Thailand Development Research Institute, a public policy research institute that gets data from the Justice Ministry.

The number of unreported rape cases is estimated at 30,000 per year, the institute says, amounting to a case every 15 minutes.

The victim’s father added his voice to the calls for capital punishment at a news conference after his daughter’s death.

“I don’t want to see laws kill a person,” the father said Monday. “But if we let such a bad guy go free, he will kill again.” ■

PH Embassy moves to new home in Ottawa THE PHILIPPINE Embassy in Ottawa has relocated its chancery and consular office to the famous Byward Market located in the heart of the Canadian capital.

Located on 30 Murray Street close to the National Gallery of Canada and several diplomatic missions, the Embassy now occupies a modern three-storey building fitted out according to its present needs and future plans.

The consular office operates on the main floor while the second floor houses the chancery.

The third floor holds the library and is reserved for official func-

tions of the Embassy as well as a future Sentro Rizal to be developed as a center for the promotion of Philippine arts, culture, and language.

“Filipinos in Canada will be proud of their new Embassy facilities. Driven by our desire to serve our growing community better, the Embassy looks forward to welcoming consular applicants and visitors to its new premises,” Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia stated.

The Philippine Embassy can be reached at the following address, phone numbers and social media:

FRIDAY

Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines 30 Murray Street, Ottawa Ontario, K1N 5M4, Canada Telephone: +1 613.233.1121 (Switchboard) Fax: +1 613.233.4165 Email: embassyofphilippines@ rogers.com attache@philembassy.ca (consular queries) Website: www.philembassy.ca Facebook: Philippine Embassy Ottawa Twitter: PhilippinesinCanada @PHembassyOttawa www.canadianinquirer.net

The Philippine Embassy’s new home on 30 Murray Street in Ottawa.

Community News

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

23

Changing the lives of migrant workers and OFWs

BY MIGRANTE CANADA AND BAYAN CANADA WITH AN overwhelming voice, millions of Filipino voters — including 407,000 overseas Filipinos — have dramatically brought the Filipino nation to still another turning point in our history. The people have chosen lawyer and politician Rodrigo Duterte to lead them away from the crimes, ills, deceit, feebleness and decrepit morality of the past Benigno Aquino regime. The desired change they cry for is certainly obvious: a solution to the basic problems of the country that have plagued the basic masses — widespread unemployment, chronically low wages, contractualization, landlessness, the lack of basic social services, corruption, the rampant violations of human rights and of national sovereignty. The resulting poverty in the Philippines today marks even the capital region of Manila and its districts, where an average family lives on a measly P22. to P37. a day ($0.60 to $1.01 in Canadian currency). Such extreme poverty is staggering and ironic in a resource-rich country, where the world’s wealthiest corporations have been allowed to establish huge agribusiness projects and to extract gas, gold and other minerals with little concern for the rights and welfare of local communities. The plunder that goes on has clear links to poverty, which past governments have shamelessly maintained and supported.

Of course the people want to spit out and trash these problems quickly, and clear the

ground for change. However, the problems have become fixed in a system that has been developed over the decades, and has increasingly worked against the people’s interests.

Like cancer, the system has also invaded foreign shores, to follow and beseige those Filipino migrant workers who have gone out of the country to seek personal solutions, and have been made pawns in a state-enforced labour export policy. Migrants arrive with great hope, only to find that the cancerous situation for the Filipino nation, wherever it exists, is unrelenting, and they must always struggle to survive. The old cancerous system from the past century, against which people rose in revolution, has worsened through corruption and the greed of landlords and the business elite, and flourished through the neoliberal policies adapted by successive governments, and moreover, today, it has been integrated with a global system set by the selfserving corporate agenda of world trade and business. This present system of advanced cancer continually abuses the whole Philippine economy, its sovereignty, and its people — wherever they are.

There are now 12-15 million Filipino migrant workers abroad, and their numbers are increased by more workers leaving the country at the rate of 6,000 a day — which is clear proof that joblessness and unemployment levels remain high despite state declarations to the contrary. As evidence of the Aquino government’s dependence on migrant workers, by the end of 2015, Bangko Sentral

recorded that workers had sent a total remittance of $39 billion US. And yet, according to Migrante International’s documentation, many persons in this labour force, an estimated 1/4 of the total labour force of the country, have had to suffer, and still suffer, from injustices such as: imprisonment (92 on death row); being stranded in war-torn areas; illegal recruitment and human trafficking; increased state exaction; a dismal safety and service program; misused OWWA funds. Over and above all of that, they have to bear the tremendous social cost of their lengthy separation from their families, as they bow to the demands of immigration laws.

The solution will not be easy to accomplish, but the people’s organizations can offer their recommendations and proposals to the new government, and many have already done so. Migrante Canada and Bayan Canada, trusting that the Duterte government will hold steadfast to its announced political will to serve the people, backs the

pro-people agenda already presented by Migrante International to government. We also welcome the government’s idea of setting up a Department for OFWs, provided that it is integrated to an over-all program that addresses joblessness in the Philippines and which moves towards making migrant work an option rather than a forced necessity.

To realize and actualize change in the lives of migrant workers, we believe that the Duterte government can, within its six years of office, work towards creating the foundations for a decent life for all Filipino workers by bringing about the following, which Migrante International has pinpointed in its proposal: - 10 million sustainable jobs in the Philippines within six years; - A stop to contractualization of labour in the country; - A genuine agrarian reform program; - Free basic social services such as education, health care and housing;

PCG-Calgary accepts passport applications

The consulate added that it only has one machine and requests applicants for their understanding in case backlogs occur.

- A genuine reintegration program for retiring OFWs and a universal pension system; - A planned economy to ensure the trickle-down of OFW remittances to national industrialization and land reform; - An efficient mass transport system. better internet and IT utilities that OFWs can come home to; - Fast, efficient and more accessible venues for OFWs in distress, both in the Philippines and abroad; - Competent and OFWfriendly embassy and department officials; - Rights-based bilateral labour and immigration agreements with labour-receiving countries; - Justice and indemnification for all victims of illegal recruitment and trafficking; - An end to all schemes and government policies that treat OFWs as mere milking cows; We are at a historic turning point, and the future of the nation is in the balance. As we, in the organizations of Migrante and Bayan Canada look forward to the changes that the new Philippine government will make in a direction that serves the interests and welfare of migrant workers, we firmly believe that the opening of avenues of coordination between the people’s organizations and government authorities will facilitate much-needed change.

If we are to serve the people, we must heed the people.

Hear the people’s cry! Let the people’s voice be heard.

— Migrante Canada and Bayan Canada’s Statement on the Proclamation of President Duterte

CONSULAR NEWS ROUND-UP ‘Canada Post strike affects mailing services’ –PCG Vancouver

The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Vancouver recently announced that mailing of new passports, civil registry/notarial/consularized NBI forms and other processed documents will be put on hold until the issue on the Canada Post strike has been resolved. “This is to avoid the possible loss of passports and other documents arising from the disruption of service at Canada Post,” accord-

ing to a PCG statement.

“Applicants who urgently need their passports and documents may come to the Consulate to claim them by presenting their official receipts. Applicants may also use alternative courier services (e.g. Fedex, Purolator, UPS, etc.) for the mailing of their passports and documents.

For more information, applicants may send an email to the PCG Vancouver at vancouverpcg@telus.net,” the statement continued.

The newly-opened Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary recently announced it now accepts passport applications (new and renewal).

“Passport applicants are requested to email their names and contact details to calgarypcg@gmail.com in order to be listed for accommodation. The consulate will then reply with an available slot,” it said in a press release. www.canadianinquirer.net

Toronto Consulate lists requirements for renewal of green passports

The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Toronto announced that starting July 1, all application for passport renewal of holders of green or MRP (machine readable passport; passport number starting with

“XX”) will be required to submit the following: 1. Actual Passport (Green booklet or MRP); 2. PSA - Authenticated Birth Certificate (PSA-formerly NSO) 3. At least one valid identification document, and 4. Other supporting documents as may be required by the processor. (i.e. PSA-MC if married and using married surname, etc.)

PCG asks for the usual cooperation from the public. ■

24

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Entertainment

Meet the latest ‘eye candy’— Rachelle Ann Go ‘Baste’ Duterte receives award for Les Mis performance

BY CATHY CAÑARES YAMSUAN Philippine Daily Inquirer

“KA ‘HOT’ gid!”

A female fan’s social media comment about presidential son Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s flaming hotness needs no translation.

Commonly described by those who watched him during the campaign as “the adventurous type” among President Rodrigo Duterte’s children, he surfs, he sings, and he does not hesitate to eat a meal on the sidewalk.

YouTube has a video of Baste (occupation: “businessman”) chewing gum while addressing his father’s supporters. He lifts up his shirt to scratch himself in public without a care in the world. The Internet has photos of him, his enigmatic smile accessorized by a lip ring and goatee, showing off his abs while holding a surfboard.

One father of a teenage girl said Baste is the type that would make him nervous should this unmarried father of two suddenly show up at their doorstep to court his daughter.

Manila-based unbelievers had their first taste of his magnetic appeal right after his father was sworn in as the country’s 16th chief executive.

INQUIRER’s Malacañang reporter Marlon Ramos said Baste and his siblings, Davao Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, learned that civilians were at Gate 5 of the presidential

BY JANE MORALEDA Philippine Canadian Inquirer

President-elect Rodrigo Roa Duterte takes his Oath of Office as the 16th President with his children. Baste is third from right.

STUDIOLASKA / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

compound hoping to catch a glimpse of the new President after the ceremony.

“Even the [Presidential Security Group] was caught off-guard when they decided to walk to Gate 5 to thank the people,” Ramos said.

Sara and Paolo immediately went on public official mode and gamely posed with civilians for selfies. But it was Baste’s entrance moments later that caused the crowd to lose control.

Ramos has posted a video that captured the frenzy. Screams of guwapo could be heard on audio.

“There were people taking selfies with [Paolo] who suddenly left him when they saw Baste,” Ramos recalled. Amid the screaming, the INQUIRER reporter tried to ask Baste what the adulation felt like.

Baste did not give a straight answer but mumbled something about just being there to thank the supporters. Ramos,

like many observers, thinks the sudden fame has not yet sunk in.

The reporter also pointed out that the President’s younger son, 28, still looked surprised when he was mobbed at the Palace gate.

Perhaps Baste’s magnetic appeal lies in his lack of self-consciousness. He is definitely macho but unabashedly shows his tender, spontaneous side when he cuddles Yair, his son with onetime FHM model Kate Necesario. (Baste has a daughter, who is older, with another woman.)

Many note that Baste’s older siblings are more sociable since public service has gotten them used to the limelight.

“People say Baste is more private and has very few friends.

If he does not feel comfortable yet with the public attention, at least he is not letting it appear obvious. He’s gracious about it,” said a source who observed him during the campaign. ■

MANILA — Filipina singeractress Rachelle Ann Go has been given the “Best Performance of a Song” award by British theater website West End Frame for her rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream” in the classical musical Les Misérables.

The 29-year-old international theatre actress, who played Fantine in the musical, emerged atop, garnering 32 percent of over 15,000 votes. Following her was Matt Corner with 11 percent for his performance of “‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in Jersey Boys.

The other runner-ups were Oliver Savile for “Dancing Through Life” in Wicked, Emma Williams for “If Mountains Were Easy To Climb” in Mrs Henderson Presents, and Matt Henry for “Hold Me In Your Heart” in Kinky Boots, among others.

Overwhelmed with the new accolade, Go thanked all those who voted for her as well as the whole cast and staff of Les Misérables. It was in June 2015 when she first portrayed the role of Fantine in.

“Wow! Thank you, West End Frame! I’d like to thank all of those who voted for me. It’s an honor to be performing and appreciated here in beautiful London’s West End. I owe this great award to you, guys!” Go said in her interview with West End Frame.

“And to the whole Les Miserables company, thank you for being so amazing and for all the support and encouragement!

What a dream come true to be part of this phenomenal longrunning show. I am so blessed!

Cheers!,” she added.

She also took to Twitter to thank her supporters.

Last year, British theatre actor John Dagleish received the “Best Performance of a Song” award for his rendition of “Waterloo Sunset” in Sunny Afternoon. Previous winners of the award also included Tam Mutu (2014) for “Stars” in Les Misérables, Sofia Escobar (2013) for “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” in the Phantom of the Opera, and Rachel Tucker (2012) for “Defying Gravity” in Wicked.

West End Frame has been considered as United Kingdom’s leading independent theater website. It started organizing the annual awards in 2012. ■

Angel Locsin on Luis, Jessy: I’ll be happy for them PHILIPPINE CANADIAN INQUIRER “HINDI AKO magpapaka-plastic. Lahat ng babae may prosesong ginagawa. Smile lang (I won’t pretend. All women undergo a process. I’ll just smile),” Locsin said during the press

conference of a product she endorses.

“Ang dami kong natututunan.

Parang ibang level ng maturity.

Lahat naman tayo kapag dumadaan sa medyo mahirap na phase sa buhay, iba ‘ýung maturity and it makes us stronger,” she added.

(I’ve been learning a lot. It’s

like having a different level of maturity. All of us, when we undergo a difficult phase in our lives, [we develop] a different kind of maturity and it makes us stronger.)

With her former boyfriend now being linked to fellow Kapamilya star Jessy Mendiola, what does the 31-year-old acwww.canadianinquirer.net

tress has to say?

“Kung sila hindi nagsasalita o hindi umaamin, ako pa ba magko-comment? Basta kung ano happiness nila, iyon pa rin naman ako. I’ll be happy para sa kanila,” she said.

(If they are neither addressing the rumors nor confirming them, should I be

the one to make a comment?

Whatever their happiness is, that’s mine as well. I’ll be happy for them.)

Just like the iconic superheroine Darna, whom Locsin portrayed years back, she quipped that she didn’t need to have a ‘lovelife’ after all. ■

Entertainment

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

25

Bill Cosby returning to court for latest bid to toss charges

BY MARYCLAIRE DALE The Associated Press PHILADELPHIA — Bill Cosby’s lawyers will take another run at getting his criminal sexassault case thrown out when the comedian returns to court this week.

Cosby’s lawyers will renew arguments that the accuser should be forced to testify, and face cross-examination, before his case is held for trial.

The law on that point remains in flux in Pennsylvania.

A state appeals court ruled last year that victims do not have to testify at preliminary hearings, to spare them from repeated court appearances. Police can instead read their statements.

But the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has agreed to review the issue. Cosby, whose case was earlier held for trial, wants accuser Andrea Constand to testify at a new hearing

in case the law is reversed.

Prosecutors complain that the defence mostly wants to test her credibility, which is not a factor at preliminary hearings.

Veteran trial lawyers say the defence hopes to lock in her testimony, with an eye toward inconsistencies, and assess her demeanour on the stand. At the same time, they said, there’s a danger in pressing the witness too far in a sex-assault case.

“There’s sometimes a benefit to having them testify more than once, but what you don’t want to do is create even more sympathy for these victims than already appears to be the case because of the nature of the crime,” said Benjamin Brafman, the New York criminal lawyer who successfully defended Dominique StraussKahn, the former International Monetary Fund chief, on sexassault charges. Brafman is not involved in the Cosby case.

Police read long excerpts from Constand’s initial police statements at Cosby’s May 24 preliminary hearing, when a judge upheld the felony sexassault charges. Cosby is essentially appealing that decision at Thursday’s hearing, which he is required to attend.

Cosby, now 78, is accused of drugging and molesting Constand at his home near Philadelphia in 2004. She went to police in 2005, but no charges were filed.

Prosecutors reopened the complaint last year after unsealed court filings showed Cosby admitting he got quaaludes in the 1970s to use to seduce women. Dozens of women had also come forward to say Cosby had drugged and assaulted them.

The Constand case is the only one to lead to criminal charges, although Cosby is embroiled in defamation lawsuits with other accusers in Massachusetts,

LAMARR MCDANIEL / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Pennsylvania and California.

Cosby became a friend and mentor after meeting Constand, then about 30, through her job with the women’s basketball team at Temple University, where he was a trustee and avid booster. He maintains they engaged in several petting sessions but called them consensual. Cosby said he gave her three Benadryl tablets the night in question before engaging in sex acts with her on his couch and then leaving her there to sleep when he went to bed.

Constand told police she was in and out of consciousness and unable to move after taking the unidentified blue pills. She said she awoke in discomfort with her clothes askew.

She left Temple months later to return home to Toronto, where she now works as a massage therapist.

The AP generally does not identify people who say they have been sexually assaulted unless they agree to have their names published, as Constand has done. ■

Shawn Mendes on his Canadian themed tattoo, being obsessed with John Mayer

BY LAUREN KRUGEL The Canadian Press TORONTO — Pop star Shawn Mendes is growing up right before our very eyes.

Shortly before he graduated from high school last week the 17-year-old singer swung by a Toronto tattoo shop to get his arm inked for the first time.

It was a milestone for the teenage musician who rose to fame with his chart-topping 2014 album “Handwritten,” and hit songs like “Stitches” and “Life of the Party.”

Mendes will embark on a world tour this summer, with stops in Vancouver (July 27) and Toronto (Aug. 21).

He talked to The Canadian Press about the story behind his new tattoo and how John Mayer inspired his second album.

Check out the Instagram account of his tattoo artist to get a peek at Mendes’ ink: https:// www.instagram.com/liviatsang/

Your fans have been excited tattoo illustrates that) I’m al- do damage in a good way. about seeing your tattoo on In- ways connected to my parents stagram. From afar it looks and my sister. There’s quite a You’ve mentioned that John like an acoustic guitar, but on bit of meaning in it. It’s been a Mayer inspired the sound of this closer inspection the details re- year now thinking about it. Last album, particularly his 2007 alveal an image reflected in water. year I came up with the idea. bum “Continuum.” What do you The body of the guitar is a forlike most about his music? est while the neck of the guitar Your new single “Treat You BetMendes: His lyricism is just builds into the Toronto skyline, ter” arrived last month, so the unreal, dude. The words me and complete with the the songwriters CN Tower. Why say are: “What did you pick that would John design?

Mayer say?”

Mendes: The I want to write a song that gives me (Mayer’s) “Conthought behind the same feeling (John Mayer song) tinuum” is the althe tattoo is ‘Gravity’ gives me. bum me and my from the city to best friends lishome — where ten to in car rides I’m working (in or whenever Toronto) to home (in Pickering, new album must be nearly ready. we’re hanging out. It’s that wellOnt.).

What’s the latest? rounded album that I know me Mendes: The album is pretty and my friends can put on and Between the images of Toronto much finished now. The new no one’s ever going to be angry and Pickering there’s what looks single “Treat You Better” is great, about it. (It) always makes me like a sound wave. What’s that but that’s just a little taste of so nostalgic and feel good when about? where all the new music is going. I’m home. I wanted to (make) an Mendes: It’s actually a cus- That one is the poppiest song. album like that (which) kind of tom sound wave of my parents (The album) is going to be more a created friendships and bonds and my sister saying “I love soulful vibe — a lot more electric between people. John Mayer did you.” They recorded it. So (the guitar-based. I think it’s going to that really well. www.canadianinquirer.net

When did you discover this adoration for Mayer?

Mendes: For the past three years I’ve been obsessed with John Mayer music-wise. One of the first times we wrote (for the album) I was like, “I want to write a song that gives me the same feeling (his song) ‘Gravity’ gives me.” But I’m still a pop singer-songwriter at the end of the day so you’ll hear the pop melodies in there for sure.

He’s certainly one of those artists that, especially early in his career, captured that nostalgia for high school and young love.

Mendes: I think that’s really important because your teenage years are where everything starts to fall into place and you have all these “A-ha!” moments.

I just wanted to put across all the inspiration and all the eyeopening experiences that I’m having in the best way. ■ This interview has been edited and condensed.

26

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Lifestyle

Canadian teens plan on changing the world, equipped with passion and smartphones

BY NICOLE THOMPSON The Canadian Press TORONTO — When Bruce Gao was in high school, he visited an orphanage in China where he saw children huddled together in beds to share body heat.

It was monsoon season, and it was cold. There was heating in the building, but the solar panels meant to provide electricity weren’t installed to their full capacity.

Gao, who is now 22, wondered what he could do about that.

He researched how solar panels should be positioned to soak up the most energy, which he said was “a little daunting” for a high schooler.

And then, he spoke publicly about his plans to create an app — “I was a big computer programmer,” he said nonchalantly of his time in high school — while at the nationwide Shad program for “exceptional high school students.”

Gao said that experience solidified his decision to actually make the smartphone app, SimplySolar, with a high school classmate. The app is now used in more than 130 countries.

It works using a combination of GPS and the built-in compass in smartphones. Users place their phones on top of the solar panels, and the app shows them when the panels are facing the most effective direction.

Pointing solar panels in the right direction can make them up to 40 per cent more effective, Gao said.

Gao's (inset) SimplySolar app works using a combination of GPS and the built-in compass in smartphones. Users place their phones on top of the solar panels, and the app shows them when the panels are facing the most effective direction.

INSET: LINKEDIN

Now Gao is in his second year So through the program, stu- on a lack of physical activity in of medical school at the Uni- dents travel to universities — Canadian kids’ lives. The proversity of Calgary. He said that 12 are participating across the posal that won was a machine what he liked about coding and country — where they listen to that could be installed in pubcreating apps was the ability lectures from prominent uni- lic parks to dispense sporting to help people, and he gets the versity professors and business equipment, like a combination same thing out of medicine. leaders. between a library and a vending The Shad promachine. gram, which Gao This year’s said convinced theme has yet to him to build the be announced, app, is now in its I think it’s important to share that but the program 37th year. The knowledge in an efficient way, where has already start2016 program it doesn’t just help a couple people, ed. One of the begins Monday, it helps thousands. students particiand more than pating is 16-year700 high school old Debbie Dada students will of Toronto. participate.

Dada said she “One of the things we believe They also work in groups to plans on going into medical is that you can’t really leave come up with a business pro- research when she’s older. She it to chance, that the best and posal that creates a new prod- said that right now, she’s esbrightest minds are going to de- uct or service to solve a social pecially interested in how to velop to their capabilities,” said problem. In the autumn, a win- decrease the infant mortality Teddy Katz, a spokesperson for ning proposal will be selected. rates in developing countries.

Shad.

Last year, students focused She got the idea when she was

www.canadianinquirer.net

on a field trip for anthropology class, she said. Her teacher mentioned the infant mortality rate in the central African country of Chad. (The latest data puts the rate at about 89 deaths per 1,000 babies born, compared to about 4.5 per 1,000 in Canada.)

“I was just blown away,” Dada said.

Thinking about — and researching — what she could do, she decided that education about sanitary births was key.

“I think it’s important to share that knowledge in an efficient way, where it doesn’t just help a couple people, it helps thousands,” she said.

And she’s also done work at home. She started a program called “Find Your Path,” which brings motivational speakers to schools to help give kids the confidence to aspire for big things.

She said she got her drive from her family — her paternal grandfather didn’t go to school, she said. But her father has a PhD. Growing up in an environment where she felt like she could accomplish a lot really helped her, she said. And she hopes her experience this summer will help her, too. She’ll be spending the month of July in Thunder Bay, Ont., with the Shad program.

She said she’s looking forward to learning from people who have already built successful careers in science and technology fields, and also to working with peers who have similar interests. ■

Lifestyle

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

27

Alphabet soup: LGBTQ acronym an ever growing shortcut for diverse community

BY CASSANDRA SZKLARSKI The Canadian Press TORONTO — For some, it’s best not to refer to the LGBTQ community at all. The acronym, that is.

Longtime activist David Rayside prefers the term “sexual diversity” in his academic writings. It’s one way he avoids the complications of what he calls the “infinitely expanding alphabet.”

“You’re inevitably caught up with the fact that sexuality has many colours, many forms, many ambiguities, so it becomes a challenge,” says Rayside, an associate and former director of the University of Toronto’s Mark S. Bonham Centre for sexual diversity studies.

“It’s too unwieldy so I just stay away from it.”

One of the most common incarnations of the acronym is LGBTQ, referring to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities. In addressing the recent Orlando massacre, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau notably went with LGBTQ2, to include First Nations’ two-spirited communities.

But more variations abound, with some acronyms swelling into the double digits to acknowledge an ever-growing number of groups seeking visibility.

For many years, the organizers of Canada’s biggest pride parade — Pride Toronto — went with LGBTTIQQ2SA: “a broad

array of identities such as, but not limited to, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, two-spirited, and allies.”

This year, organizers appear to have eschewed the acronym in promotional materials, which instead tout “the history, courage, diversity and future of Toronto’s Pride community.”

There are more groups to consider, with some people identifying as genderqueer, agender, cross-dressing, neutrois, asexual, pansexual, polyamorous, and kinky, notes a lengthy footnote on Queer Ontario’s think tank web page.

(Elsewhere it uses the simpler “LGBTQ*,” with the asterisk pulling readers to the footnote.)

Still more might argue for specific reference to community members of colour, and those with disabilities and/or living in poverty.

“The fact that it tends to be ever growing is a reflection of the diversity of the gender and sexually diverse communities,” says Queer Ontario founder Nick Mule, also an associate professor of social work at York University.

“As a society we’re becoming more and more sensitized to people’s differences. And a lot of people just have a sense that they need to be recognized, they need to be named, they need to be identified. In some ways, it represents a political response to the kind of heteronormative, or hetero-sexist world that we live in.”

But acknowledgment isn’t always enough.

Although bisexuality has been entrenched in the acronym for decades, Rayside argues it “is still the most neglected, I would say politically, of all of those identity markers.”

The transgender community, meanwhile, has seen a dramatic gain in public awareness but many basic rights — “basic kind of survival issues,” notes Rayside — remain out of reach.

“Trans populations are so minoritized, their members are so small, I think they were quite smart to try to hook onto the LGB movement and gain the sympathy and gain the support and then move forward with LGBT so that we can fight for all of those rights,” adds Mule.

Albert McLeod of the organization Two-Spirited People of Manitoba was pleased to hear Trudeau mention the aboriginal community, noting that the term “two-spirit” has been around since the early ‘90s but remains lesser seen.

“It’s kind of hit-and-miss and it kind of goes up and down over time,” McLeod says of making inroads into the acronym, which can appear as “T,” “2,” or “2S.” “Being two-spirit is more a political statement about indigenaity, valuing your indigenous (roots) if you’re involved in anti-colonialism or cultural reclamation. And that’s unique from the broader LGBT community.”

And because it refers to a belief that one person can carry

both male and female spirits, it challenges notions of binary gender, “which I think really is a part of colonization,” McLeod says from Winnipeg.

Mule’s provincial advocacy group uses the term “queer” to encompass an array of groups, many of them challenging the idea that people are either exclusively male or female.

But using an umbrella term risks overlooking the specificities of the groups it’s meant to highlight, notes Mule.

And those differences can be stark.

Gays and lesbians were at the forefront of the burgeoning liberation movement, but the early days of their union were fractious at best, says Mule.

Besides facing different hurdles, sexism was rampant.

Many women found gay men as misogynist as straight males.

Racial divisions, meanwhile, can loom just as much as in broader society, making it difficult for two-spirited people to feel comfortable at some events, says McLeod.

Among this highly politicized group, it seems there will al-

ways be debate over identity, alliances and direction.

“Sometimes people just assume that the gender/sexually diverse communities are monolithic and we think alike and that we’re all open and accepting,” says Mule.

“But the truth of the matter is within communities there is struggle.

There is a level of adjustment and education and acceptance, even within the communities.”

Then there are those who’d rather not bother with labels at all. Mule points to queer theory, a field of academic critical thought that eschews the debate altogether.

“It tries to do away with all identities, including the term queer, challenging society to question itself as to why is it important for you to know who’s male, who’s female, who’s gay who’s straight, who’s bi, who’s trans,” he says.

“The theoretical view is that sexuality and gender is fluid and we should not be boxing ourselves into one label or another.... Not all of us agree with that because it’s a challenge to ❱❱ PAGE 33 Alphabet soup

Some lesser known groups that may be included in LGBT acronym TORONTO — In the community it’s meant to represent, it’s known as the ever-expanding alphabet — the LGBT acronym.

These days the evolving term is likely to include far more than just four letters to represent lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

Add in emerging communities for transsexual, intersex, queer, questioning, two-spirit, allies and asexual people and you have an alphabet soup that’s near indecipherable, even for those for whom it’s meant.

Here’s a look at some of the lesser-known groups that sometimes make their way into the nickname: “I” FOR INTERSEX: The Intersex Society of North America uses this general term to describe a person born with a reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t fit typical definitions of female or male. Someone might be born appearing to be female on the outside, but having mostly male-typical anatomy on the inside. Or they

may be born with some cells boasting XX chromosomes and some of them XY. “Q” FOR QUEER: Some people prefer this umbrella term in referring to the entire community because it doesn’t specify gender or sexuality. It can be used as a political term as well, to signify a particular point of view, but it’s not for everyone. Originally meaning “strange,” it was commonly used in a pejorative manner but has more recently been

www.canadianinquirer.net

reclaimed by some people.

“Q” FOR QUESTIONING: Much like it sounds, this marker can be used by someone in the process of discovering their own sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression.

“T” OR “2S” FOR TWOSPIRIT: An umbrella term used by some First Nations people to describe their sexual, gender and/or spiritual identity. Because it embraces the notion that people can have

both female and male spirits it challenges the conventional view that people are either exclusively male or female.

“A” FOR ALLIES: The media watchdog Glaad defines a straight ally as someone who is supportive of an LGBT person, or someone who personally advocates for equality. They’re considered some of the most powerful voices in the movement for helping others understand the importance of fairness and acceptance.

28

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Business

Canada Post says latest offer to CUPW ‘final’; calls union demands ‘not affordable’ THE CANADIAN PRESS OTTAWA — Canada Post says the latest offer it made to the Canadian Union of Postal Workers in the ongoing labour dispute is to be considered final.

In a statement issued on Monday, Canada Post says it still hopes to negotiate a deal with the union representing postal workers, but adds that the June 25 offers “represent a fair and reasonable framework for settlements.”

The Crown corporation says the CUPW’s demands are “not affordable” and would add $1

billion in costs over the contract term.

The union, meanwhile, is accusing Canada Post of preparing to lock workers out, and creating uncertainty by warning the public to avoid the post office.

CUPW says it has been showing up at the bargaining table with proposals to make the post office even more profitable and improve services for businesses and the public.

Neither Canada Post nor CUPW has served a 72-hour notice of intent to strike or lock out, but either can do so at any time.

Changes to employee pen-

sion plans have been a key sticking point in negotiations, but Canada Post said the offers contain no changes to the pension for all employees currently in the plan.

Canada Post said in the event of a full work disruption, it will not operate — mail and parcels will not be delivered, and no new items will be accepted.

The Canada Revenue Agency has deemed Old Age Security, Canada Pension Plan, Working Income Tax Benefit and the Canada Child Benefit cheques “essential” — even during a labour disruption.

Spokesman Jon Hamilton said Canada Post has a memo-

REG NATARAJAN / FLICKR

randum of agreement with the union “where the federal socioeconomic cheques will be delivered.”

“In the event of a work disruption we would arrange ... delivery one day of the month,” he said Monday. ■

PH still fastest growing Toronto Stock Exchange regains postmarket for motorcycles Brexit losses, Canadian dollar up

BY AMY R. REMO Philippine Daily Inquirer THE PHILIPPINES remained the fastest growing market for motorcycles and scooters in the first five months of the year, bucking the laggard sales seen in four other countries in the region.

Data from the Asean Automotive Federation (AAF) showed that sales of motorcycles and scooters in the country had surged by 40 percent to 444,062 units in the first five months of year.

Singapore followed with an 11.8-percent increase to 3,345 units.

Sales in Malaysia inched up by 0.3 percent to 171,261 units, those in Indonesia and Thailand declined by 3.8 percent and 0.6 percent, respectively.

Cumulatively, the five Asean countries saw total motorcycle and scooter sales inch up by 0.5 percent to 3.9 million units in the first five months, AAF data

showed.

In terms of production, the Philippines also registered the fastest growth of 26.9 percent to 402,456 units, compared to three other Asean member economies.

Production of motorcycles and scooters, however, remained biggest in Indonesia, where 1.88 million units were produced in the first five months of the year, followed

by Thailand, with 730,218 units. Malaysia produced 170,916 units in the same period.

AAF data also showed that the Philippines recorded the third fastest growth in terms of motor vehicle sales at 25.4 percent to 134,488 units from January to May this year.

Only two other countries in the region recorded increases in motor vehicle sales in the same period: Singapore, which recorded a 76.8 percent increase to 45,601 units and Vietnam, with a 36.6 percent growth to 101,771 units. ■

BY ALEKSANDRA SAGAN The Canadian Press TORONTO — The Toronto Stock Exchange emerged from its long weekend slumber in an upbeat mood Monday, rising by nearly 1.4 per cent as it more than recouped the losses it incurred following Britain’s vote last month to leave the European Union.

The S&P/TSX composite index was up 194.33 points at 14,258.87 after being closed Friday for Canada Day. It had previously lost nearly 450 points, dropping more than three per cent, over the two days following Britain’s referendum results before climbing back.

The TSX is on “a continued push higher as markets are becoming more comfortable with the Brexit announcement,” said Kash Pashootan, senior vicepresident and portfolio manager at First Avenue Advisory in Ottawa, a Raymond James company. www.canadianinquirer.net

At the end of last week, American stock markets experienced a similar surge, he said.

In the United States, the stock markets were closed Monday for Independence Day. But they ended last week up three per cent, which came close to regaining the ground they lost following the so-called Brexit vote.

That type of market reaction has happened in the past following other big events such as the Sept. 11 attacks, he said.

“We view these as buying opportunities if you have cash on the sidelines,” Pashootan said, though he added that despite the rebound, the markets aren’t out of the woods yet when it comes to Brexit.

“It’s simply too early for the markets to start to price in a doomsday scenario.”

Pashootan said more clarity will come in two or three years when details of the union’s divorce are established.

The Canadian dollar was at 77.78 cents US, up 0.36 of a cent from Thursday’s close of 77.42

cents US. The loonie’s strength is tied to higher oil prices and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s more dovish tone recently on the prospect of raising interest rates, Pashootan said.

Around 4 p.m. ET, the August crude contract was at US$48.76 per barrel, down 23 cents from Friday’s close.

Despite the decline, Pashootan said he thinks oil prices already bottomed out several months ago when it was trading in the US$26 range in February.

“Certainly that’s good news for the TSX,” he said of the index, which is heavily weighted in oil.

Elsewhere in commodities, August natural gas was down 7.9 cents US at US$2.908 per mmBTU, the August gold contract was at US$1,353.50 an ounce, up US$14.50, and September copper contracts were nearly unchanged at US$2.22 a pound. ■ With files from the Associated Press

29

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

Undefeated Pinoy fighter spars with Cuban champ in US

BY LOLITO T. DELOS REYES Philippines News Agency DAVAO CITY — Promising undefeated Filipino fighter Harmonito “Hammer” dela Torre of General Santos City is now the sparring mate of reigning world super bantamweight champion Guillermo “The Jackal” Rigondeaux of Cuba, who is preparing to defend one of his three titles on July 16.

Rigondeaux will be defending his WBA Super World super bantamweight crown against James Dickens at the Ice Arena Wales, Cardiff, Wales.

“Dela Torre did good according to Coach Osmiri “Moro” Fernandez,” said his manager Jim Claude “JC” Manangquil, chief executive officer of the Sanman Promotions.

“It’s a good learning experience for him to spar against this type of top-caliber fighter,” said Manangquil.

Rigondeaux is also undefeated with 16 straight wins and 10 knockouts. He will again spar with Dela Torre (18 wins, 12 KOs) on Wednesday at the Moro’s Gym in Miami.

Rigondeaux won the WBO World super bantamweight title in a unification bout by beat-

Harmonito “Hammer” dela Torre.

Sports

Romero readies Sports department bill

BY JASMINE W. PAYO Philippine Daily Inquirer

ing Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire via a unanimous decision last April 13, 2013 in New York.

Rigondeaux then defended both two titles by a UD against Joseph Agbeko on Dec. 7, 2013 in New Jersey, USA. In his next title-defenses, Rigondeaux knocked out Thailand’s Sod Kokietgym only in the first round on July 19, 2014 in Macao. Rigondeaux continued his winning ways by retiring Japanese challenger Hisashi Amagasa in the 11th round on Dec. 31, 2014 in Osaka, Japan to retain his two titles.

In his last fight, Rigondeaux defeated Filipino Drian “Gintong Kamao” Francisco by a UD in their battle for the vacant WBC International Silver super bantamweight title last Nov. 21, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dela Torre, on the other hand, previously scored a majority decision win against Puerto Rican Guillermo Sanchez last May 27 at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino in Niagara Falls, New York during his debut in the USA. Dela Torre is expected to learn something from his sparring sessions with Rigondeaux in preparation for his next fight in the USA. ■

PNA

A STREAMLINED national sports program may be set in place as party-list Rep. Mikee Romero takes the first step to create his proposed Department of Sports.

Romero of 1Pacman partylist is set to file House Bill No. 287, which pushes for the creation of a sports department to focus on grassroots development and give direction to the

national program.

“Ever since Mansueto Velasco won a silver medal in boxing during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the Philippines has not won a single medal in the succeeding editions,” Romero said in a press statement. “Philippine sports seems to have stagnated.”

Romero said the Philippine Sports Commission has failed to address the needs of the athletes and coaches, resulting in poor performances in international competitions.

Even in regional tournaments like the biennial Southeast Asian Games, Romero said our national athletes have been left behind.

The Philippines finished sixth in the 2007 Thailand, 2009 Laos and 2013 Burma (Myanmar) SEA Games and even dropped to seventh in the 2011 Palembang edition.

Romero said a sports department can address various issues, including the constant lack of financial support for the athletes and coaches. ■

Raonic comes back from 2 sets down to beat Goffin, advance to Wimbledon quarters THE CANADIAN PRESS LONDON — Milos Raonic rallied for the biggest comeback of his career, but first he had to stop playing “feel-good” tennis.

The sixth-seeded Canadian advanced to the quarter-finals at Wimbledon on Monday, coming back from two sets down to beat Belgian David Goffin 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

Raonic recovered confidently after struggling early in the match and won after trailing by two sets for the first time in his career.

“I allowed him to play too much on his terms,” Raonic said of his bad start. “I was getting the balls in and playing the points and playing maybe better-looking tennis at the beginning, and I gave up on that and said ‘I’ve got to play this on my terms.’

“Maybe I made a few more unforced errors, but I was hitting through the court more and not allowing him to play the way he wanted to.”

Raonic went ahead in the match for the first time when picked up a key break in the fifth game of the fifth set to go up 3-2. He held serve the rest of the way and put the 11th-seeded Belgian away on his first match-point opportunity.

Goffin had trouble returning www.canadianinquirer.net

Raonic’s serve, and the Canadian clinched the match with a confident forehand.

Once again, Raonic’s dangerous serve was on display in the match that took three hours two minutes to complete. He fired 22 aces, giving him 101 through four rounds at the All England Club.

Still, Raonic expected to get more from his serve and was surprised to find Goffin using his speed to make unexpected returns.

“He moves well, he’s got quick feet,” Raonic said. “I thought, because he doesn’t have a long reach, I could get around him a bit more, but he was leaning the right way most of the time.

“I definitely expected a few more free points.”

It wasn’t a pretty win. Raonic finished with 44 unforced errors, though he said some of those occurred when he changed his approach mid-match.

“It’s ‘feel-good’ tennis. You’re out there, you’re hitting a lot of balls, you’re getting in these long rallies, you’re feeling the ball ... and that’s the last thing I want,” he said “Not just for myself but for the other guy.

“It’s about taking the game away from the other guy. Even if I miss 10 balls in a row, as long as it’s not on my serve.”

Raonic, from Thornhill, Ont., will next face 28th seed Sam Querrey of the United States, who downed France’s Nicolas Mahut 6-4, 7-6 (5), 6-4 Monday to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final. Querrey’s run includes a third-round upset of top-seed Novak Djokovic.

“Today was not an easy match by any means for him, especially coming back after that huge upset,” Raonic said. “He stepped up today against a difficult opponent on grass.”

Raonic and Querrey have met three times, with the American holding a 2-1 edge. Querrey also advanced past Raonic in a walkover at the 2013 Miami Masters.

Raonic made the semifinals at Wimbedon in 2014 before losing to Roger Federer. The winner of the match between Raonic and Querrey will face either third-seed Federer on ninth-seed Marin Cilic in the 2016 semifinals.

In men’s doubles third-round action, Toronto’s Adil Shamasdin teamed with Britain’s Jonathan Marray to defeat Marcel Granollers of Spain and Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 3-6, 14-12.

Eighth seeds Vasek Pospisil of Vancouver and American Jack Sock won their secondround match 6-4, 6-4 over Australians Lleyton Hewitt and Jordan Thompson. ■

30

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Technology

NASA’s Juno spacecraft getting close to Jupiter PHILIPPINES NEWS AGENCY LOS ANGELES — After a journey of more than five years, US space agency NASA’s Juno spaceship is set to reach its final destination Jupiter and begin its orbit around the largest planet in our solar system.

According to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the probe will fire its main engine, beginning a 35-minute burn at 8:18 p.m. PDT (0318 GMT) on the evening of July 4 to be captured by Jupiter’s gravity and go into the desired orbit.

“We are ready,” Scott Bolton, principal investigator of Juno from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. “The engineers and mission controllers are performing at an Olympic level getting Juno successfully into orbit,” he said in a

statement on Saturday.

After the main engine burn, Juno will be in orbit around Jupiter. The spacecraft will spin down from 5 to 2 RPM, turn back toward the sun, and ultimately transmit telemetry via its high-gain antenna.

On Sunday, the solar-powered spacecraft crossed the orbit of Callisto, the outermost Galilean moon. The orbits of Ganymede, Europa and Io will be crossed on Monday. These four largest moons of Jupiter are named the Galilean moons because they were discovered

by Galileo Galilei in 1609.

Assuming all goes smoothly, the USD1.1 billion mission will provide a lot of answers to questions about Jupiter and help reveal a lot about the other planets in our solar system, including Earth.

Although it’s well-known that the gas giant is made up primar-

NASA / JPL

ily of hydrogen and helium gas, the planet’s core remains mysterious.

“As Juno barrels down on Jupiter, the scientists are busy looking at the amazing approach science the spacecraft has already returned to Earth. Jupiter is spectacular from afar and will be absolutely breathtaking from close up,” Bolton said.

During its mission of exploration, Juno will circle Jupiter 37 times, soaring low over the planet’s cloud tops, as close as about 4,100 kilometers.

During these close passes, Juno’s instruments will be collecting data and probe beneath the obscuring cloud cover of Jupiter and study its auroras to learn more about the planet’s

origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere.

But before Juno can collect the data Lunine and other scientists are looking forward to, the space probe has to get into orbit. Even if everything goes well, orbiting near Jupiter is hazardous.

The planet is surrounded by powerful radiation that can fry any spacecraft that comes too near. It’s spinning around so fast. Its gravity is like a giant sling shot, slinging rocks, dust, electrons, whole comets. Anything that gets close to it becomes its weapon.

“No spacecraft has ever flown this close to Jupiter. And the first time we go in, that’s the most dangerous. We call it Jupiter Orbit Insertion,” NASA said in a video.

“So the real trick is. We’re going to go in close, get the data and get out.” ■

Yahoo CEO paints bright picture with potential sale looming

BY MICHAEL LIEDTKE The Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO — Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer tried to hit all the upbeat notes during an annual shareholders meeting as the company considers selling its slumping internet operations.

The 45-minute gathering Thursday was a routine affair that provided no insight into whether Yahoo’s board is leaning toward a sale after four months of wrangling, or will entrust the beleaguered Mayer to engineer a long-promised turnaround.

Mayer told the small turnout of shareholders that Yahoo “is making great progress on our process” without specifying when a decision might be made.

Most analysts expect Yahoo to make a choice this summer.

If Yahoo sells, Mayer will probably lose her job after four years as CEO and walk away with a $55 million severance package.

Activist shareholder Starboard Value had threatened to lead a mutiny aimed at ousting Mayer until Yahoo agreed two months ago to give the fund four seats on its 11-member board.

Mayer, 41, defended her ef-

forts to broaden Yahoo’s audience and sell more advertising by focusing more on mobile apps and adding hundreds of other features to its array of digital services during her nearly four-year tenure.

“We are proud of our achievements overall in our products,” she said.

Most of those products are now on the auction block. Various media outlets have reported that Yahoo has received offers exceeding $3 billion for a portfolio of digital services that includes the company’s email, news, sports and finance sections.

www.canadianinquirer.net

The bidders include Verizon Communications, a group led

by Quicken Loans founder Dan Gilbert, and various private equity firms that specialize in buying struggling companies at discount prices.

Yahoo has steadfastly refused to provide any updates on its deliberations since its board hired investment bankers and other advisers to round up prospective buyers four months ago. Mayer told shareholders Thursday that she has been encouraged by the level of interest in Yahoo’s internet business, though most analysts initially thought the com-

pany would fetch more than the $4.4 billion that Verizon paid for AOL last year.

The company restricted attendance to Thursday’s meeting in Santa Clara, California, to shareholders and their appointed representatives, forcing The Associated Press and other media to watch the proceedings on a webcast. Yahoo also recently began soliciting bidders for a package of about 4,000 technology patents, representing most of its intellectual property.

Yahoo’s auction stems from ❱❱ PAGE 35 Yahoo CEO

Technology

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

31

More resources needed to PH among most attacked fight online child exploitation: by mobile malware internal federal memo

BY JOCELYN R. UY Philippine Daily Inquirer

BY JIM BRONSKILL The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Canadian police lack the resources to keep pace with the burgeoning threat to children from online sexual predators, federal officials have warned the public safety minister.

An internal briefing note to Ralph Goodale says digital child pornography poses increasing challenges for criminal justice agencies.

The problem is fuelled by the growth of technology allowing online anonymity, new legal hurdles for police and easier travel to places where children can be abused and photographed, the note says.

The Canadian Press obtained a copy of the February memo Cybertip.ca, a national tipline under the Access to Informa- to report suspected online sextion Act. ual abuse of children, has also It says although data is lim- seen a rise in reporting — inited, some believe online child cluding increases with respect sexual exploitation has reached to the severity of the acts and “a level of epidemic propor- images of very young children, tions” that if left largely unad- the memo adds. dressed will have devastating It outlines the many initiaconsequences for generations tives to target offenders, noting of children in Canada and Canada has shown leadership abroad. in devising a national strategy, “It is therefore essential that enacting criminal laws and supthe government work with porting global efforts. partners and stakeholders to The RCMP is one of the very gain a thorough understand- few Canadian police agencies ing of all the challenges and identify what is needed to tackle this significant We are committed to keeping threat.”

Canadians safe while respecting The memo rights and freedoms. cites the case of British Columbia teenager Amanda Todd, who committed suicide after dedicating resources to develbeing sexually extorted online. op solutions and sustain unThe investigation led police to dercover operations targeting a man in the Netherlands ac- technologically sophisticated cused of using more than 90 offenders, the memo notes. screen names to target over 75 “Current resources, however, victims. cannot keep pace with the Criminal justice statistics changing scope of the issue.” show incidents of child porPornographers are using dignography and sexual violence ital techniques to shield their against children increased in identities and communications 2014 over the previous year de- as they distribute illicit images spite an overall drop in the rate around the globe. of violent crime.

In addition, the Supreme

Court of Canada has ruled that police need judicial authorization to obtain subscriber data linked to online activities.

Civil libertarians applauded the Supreme Court ruling amid public concern about authorities gaining access to customer information with little evident scrutiny or oversight.

Even so, the memo says the new restriction is “causing investigative delays and, in some instances, results in cases being abandoned because thresholds for judicial orders cannot be met.”

The government is constantly updating its policies and their tools because of ever-changing technologies, said Scott Bardsley, a spokesman for Goodale.

“Public Safety, the RCMP, academics and others continue to study these complicated questions,” he said. “We are committed to keeping Canadians safe while respecting their rights and freedoms.”

In addition, the government is conducting a broad review to assess whether the RCMP has sufficient resources to carry out its mandate, he noted.

“We look forward to the findings of that review.” ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

THE PHILIPPINES was found to be the 7th most attacked country in terms of mobile malware, out of the 213 countries and territories studied by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab. Based on the latest data from Kaspersky Security Network, 16 percent or almost two in every 10 Kaspersky Lab security solutions users in the Philippines had faced a mobile threat in the first quarter. This was a huge jump from the 10 percent recorded in the third quarter of 2015.

“With 119 million Filipino mobile phone subscribers, it is not surprising that the Philippines is now among the top 10 most attacked countries with mobile malware among 213 nations included in Kaspersky Security Network (KSN). The main goal of cybercriminals is to earn, and with millions of active smartphone users in the country, the Philippines is like an overflowing pot of gold,” warned Anthony Chua, territory channel manager for the

Philippines and Singapore at Kaspersky Lab Southeast Asia.

“We are publishing these numbers to encourage awareness and not to cast fear. It is high time for Filipino mobile users to think about security.

Protect your mobile devices not because of dread for the cybercriminals’ stealthy attacks. Do it for yourself, to secure your data, your privacy and your money. Because once your devices are infected, you will be the biggest losers and the online criminals the highest gainers,” Anthony added.

Topping Kaspersky’s list of most attacked countries was China at 38.2 percent, followed

by Bangladesh, wherein 28 percent of the company’s solutions users had faced mobile threats in the first quarter of the year; Uzbekistan (21 percent); Algeria (17.6 percent); Nigeria (17.4 percent); India (17 percent); Indonesia (15.6 percent); Ukraine (15 percent); and Malaysia (14 percent). The safest countries, meanwhile, were identified to be Taiwan (2.9 percent), Australia (2.7 percent) and Japan (0.9 percent). ■

Educated and... police,” Asaduzzman said.

But while Islam’s background seemed to fit the stereotype, his upbringing suggested otherwise. Islam was educated, having studied in a madrassa before enrolling in a public university in Dhaka.

The family identified Islam as one of the attackers after seeing a photograph of his body on Facebook, he said. Authorities have detained his parents, sister and brother-in-law for questioning.

At least some of the attackers had also known each other for years.

Imtiaz had studied at the same English-language school as Meer Sameeh Mobashwer, whose family said he went missing on Feb. 29.

Mobashwer’s father, a businessman, and mother, an economics teacher, had planned to send their son to join his brother studying in Canada. ❰❰ 20

“I understood that my son had changed, something was wrong with him,” his father, Meer Hayat Kabir, told the AP. “I was worried and tried to make him understand. But suddenly he went missing. I felt like the whole world crumbled around me.”

Police, contacted by Mobashwer’s family for help, were unable to track him down.

“They told me maybe your son has gone somewhere with friends. He will come back. But he never came,” Kabir said. He only found his son once police invited him to identify the body of one of the weekend attackers.

“We had lot of dreams,” his father said. “I cannot believe my son was inside that restaurant, he was part of that. But that’s the reality now.”

“My everything is over.” ■ Associated Press writer Nirmala George contributed to this report.

32

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Travel

London Calling? Canadians eye U.K. vacations after Brexit vote weakens pound

BY DAN HEALING The Canadian Press CALGARY — Travel companies say more Canadians are looking at vacations in the United Kingdom because of the dropping British pound in the wake of the country’s decision to leave the European Union.

Melisse Hinkle of Cheapflights.ca says the travel website experienced a 50 per cent spike in searches for flights from Canada to the U.K. on the weekend after the June 23 vote and interest has been strong since.

“Savvy travellers have realized that, while the long-term impact of the Brexit means big changes for travel to and within Europe, there is an immediate opportunity for more affordable travel,” she said in an email.

Hinkle attributed the spike in interest to the drop in the pound’s value against the loonie, making everything from London flights to West End theatre tickets cheaper for Ca-

nadians.

Cheapflights.ca said in a blog post that average airfares on flights to London from Canada in August were already cheaper by about 11 per cent compared with last August. That’s consistent with a recent report from Montreal-based tour operator Transat AT, which said added service to London by Air Canada and WestJet Airlines had

forced it to lower its prices to sell seats.

The blog warned that Britain may be more crowded this summer, pointing out that searches for flights from the U.S. to the U.K. doubled in the days after the vote while those from China jumped 61 per cent and searches from EU countries went up more than 30 per cent. It said U.K. citizens are

also more likely to vacation close to home.

The British pound rapidly fell to three-decade lows after the referendum, though it has since regained some ground.

Senior economist Royce Mendes of CIBC says he expects the pound to drop to C$1.70 over the next three months due to political uncertainty and predicted interest rate cuts

from the Bank of England before reversing course and rising near the end of the year.

Before the Brexit vote, CIBC had forecast the pound’s value would rise to C$2.02 by Sept.

30.

“We’re looking at Q3 (the third quarter) to be the strongest point and after that the Canadian dollar will start to depreciate against sterling,” he said.

Spokeswoman Allison Wallace of Flight Centre Travel Group agreed that interest in U.K. is up but said bookings aren’t likely to follow.

“This is largely due to the fact that we’re already into high season for travelling to Europe so availability is low, keeping prices high,” she said in an email. “If we see an effect, it will be much more significant going into next summer.”

WestJet’s new flights to London’s Gatwick Airport began in May and have been very popular, said spokeswoman Lauren Stewart. She said it’s too early to say whether demand for the flights has increased. ■

DOT to seek DENR aid in cleaning up Boracay

BY LEILANI S. JUNIO Philippines News Agency

PHOTOBAC / SHUTTERSTOCK.COMV

MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is seeking increased cooperation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in cleaning up the crowded Boracay island in Aklan during off-peak season.

“I will have to coordinate with the different agencies concerned such as the DENR to keep the island sustainable,” DOT Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo told reporters in an interview.

Boracay, though one of the top beaches and tourist destinations in the Philippines, is www.canadianinquirer.net

being threatened by party-going tourists who also happen to be litterbugs.

A DENR study conducted in 2015 showed that unregulated underwater activities such as diving and snorkeling have slowly been damaging the island’s world-famous coral reefs.

Teo said that she is reviewing the possibility of encouraging hotel and resort owners to establish ‘green teams’ in charge of maintaining sustainability.

Sustainable tourism is defined by UNESCO as “tourism that respects both local people and the travellers, cultural heritage and the environment.”

The United States-based

travel and hospitality sustainability consultancy Greenview CEO and founder Eric Ricaurte said in an earlier interview that a green team can be made up of someone from housekeeping, food and beverage, management and other departments to discuss what needs to be improved in terms of sustainability.

He further said that a green team can easily identify quick operational changes that need to be done which won’t give hotels additional costs.

Current trends in sustainability include the efficient use of energy, water, light; waste management and other green programs, community efforts and charitable giving. ■

Travel

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

33

Tiny East Coast island offers amazing up close visit with Atlantic Puffin

BY KEVIN BISSETT The Canadian Press

of the vessel “Day’s Catch.” He and mate Durlan Ingersoll will be your guides for the next 5 1/2 hours, starting with the 90-minute trip from Grand Manan to MACHIAS SEAL ISLAND, N.B. — The Machias Seal Island. They will escort face of 10-year-old Taya Robillard you ashore and ensure you understand beams with excitement when asked to the strict regulations in place to protect describe the thousands of colourful At- the birds. lantic puffins that populate the barren “It’s a privilege to land here and that landscape of Machias Seal Island — lo- privilege can be revoked by the Canadicated in disputed waters off the coasts of an Wildlife Service,” Ingersoll said.

New Brunswick and Maine.

“Most people respect the rules and “They were all very cute and they were have a better respect for them when everywhere,” she said with glee. they’re done.”

There are more than 5,500 breeding Aside from puffins, the island is also a pairs of the comical birds on the tiny is- breeding ground for razorbills, common land, accessible by only one tour opera- murres, Arctic terns, common terns and tor in New Brunswick and one in Maine. more.

Taya, her sister Josie, 7, and parWilcox is allowed to take 15 people ents Eric and Holly Robillard of Cape ashore, per day, six days a week.

Cod, Mass., had just “This is my 32nd emerged from woodyear,” Wilcox said, en blinds constructadding that he never ed to allow tourists to tires of visiting the get a close-up look at island. the various breeds of Just being so “It’s very unique birds that inhabit the close to nature when you think that sanctuary. is unreal. It was you can sail for 15 “To see so many totally awesome. miles and all of a sudpuffins right here, den you come across two or three feet 30,000 birds on an isaway. It’s so cool. land about a kilomeThey’re so beautiful,” tre long and 300 mesaid Eric. tres wide. I’ve heard He and his wife are both marine biolo- it referred to as the ‘Little Galapagos,”’ gists who believe it’s important for their he said. children to visit such places.

Once on the island, you’re led in small “It’s more than I ever expected,” Hol- groups to wooden blinds near the shore. ly said. “It was really amazing to see so These box-like huts have flat roofs and many puffins and other birds in the small openings to see out and use your same spot.” camera or video camera without disGetting to the island is a bit of a chal- rupting the birds. lenge. First, you need to take a 90-minThe puffins, with their black backs, ute ferry ride from Black’s Harbour, white bellies and orange webbed feet, N.B., to Grand Manan Island. There are waddle upright much like a penguin. a number of hotels, bed-and-breakfasts “They have this great, brightly coand campgrounds for lodging on Grand loured bill, a bit like a parrot’s beak, that Manan. is very spectacular,” said Tony Diamond, Early the next morning, you’ll drive a recently retired research professor in to Seal Cove to meet Peter Wilcox, who wildlife ecology at the University of New runs Sea Watch Tours and is the captain Brunswick.

THOMAS O'NEIL / THOMASONEIL.COM

He said the puffins get all their food at sea, and only land on remote islands to breed.

The puffins come right up to the blinds and often land with a “thud” on the roof, and as they walk around it sounds like a group of children wearing swim flippers.

You have about an hour inside the blinds to take pictures and observe the variety of birds. You can hear the waves crashing onshore, the flapping of wings, and a sound the birds make that is much like the groaning of a heavy door with hinges in need of being oiled.

“Just being so close to nature is unreal. It was totally awesome,” said Linda Adams of Southampton, N.S. Betty Brown of Riverview, N.B., said she isn’t an avid bird enthusiast, but fell in love with the puffins.

“They’re the cutest little birds you can ever imagine,” she said. Brown said her main reason for making the trip was be-

Alphabet soup... the way we think and the way we operate in society.”

It’s not much of a leap for RuPaul Charles — better known as the drag supermodel RuPaul — who mused on the idea before heading to Toronto for this weekend’s pride festivities.

“Descriptions really are for other people to help them understand you — and to help them put you in a box,” says Charles by phone from Los Angeles.

“I personally don’t need a description.

❰❰ 27

I just am. It does help other people understand it. I’ve always been someone who says you can call me whatever you want — you can call me ‘he,’ you can call me ‘she,’ you can call me ‘Regis and Kathie Lee.’ I’ll answer to anything because what the truth is is it’s the intention behind the words that make the difference.

“If you’re coming from a place of love, I can feel that.” ■ With files from David Friend. www.canadianinquirer.net

cause she had read that the island is in disputed waters.

Both Canada and the United States lay claim to an area known locally as the “grey zone,” which includes lucrative stocks of fish and lobster.

Wilcox, Ingersoll and Diamond all maintain the island is Canadian. They point to the Canadian flags flying on the island and the fact Canada operates and staffs the lighthouse there.

Luckily the puffins are oblivious to the dispute, and visitors are quick to simply agree it is a very special place.

If You Go...

Sea Watch Tours operates its boat departing Grand Manan Island between late June and mid-August.

The cost is $115, or $56 for children 12 and under.

For more information, visit www.seawatchtours.com and www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca. ■

Events

34

JULY 8, 2016

CANADA

Agahan: First Stampede All Filipino Breakfast WHEN/WHERE: 7 to 10 a.m., July 10 at Pacific Hut Parking Lot, 3231 17 Ave. SE, Calgary, AB MORE INFO: Enjoy free traditional Pinoy breakfast, live music and Pinoy hospitality

YUKON

EVENTS

To have your events featured on PCI, please email events@canadianinquirer.net

New WelcomePack Canada Distribution Centre

By WelcomePack Canada Inc. WHEN/WHERE: 1 to 5 p.m., Mon, Tues, Thu & Fri at the Filipino Centre Bldg., 597 Parliament St., Suite 103, Toronto, On. MORE INFO: Call (416) 928-9355

NUNAVUT

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Tagalog Class

By Filipino Center Toronto WHEN/WHERE: 10 to 11 a.m., every Saturday, Filipino Centre Toronto, Toronto

BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA

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 778322-2839 or email: tfw.divorce@gmail.com Skills Now: Project-based Training for Immigrants in Retail and Administration

By ISS of BC WHEN/WHERE: Call or email at 604-684-2581 (ext 2193 Nanki) skillsnow@issbc.org MORE INFO: Receive a certificate or skills training in retail or administration; job search workshops; and strong employment opportunities.

Mentoring Programme for Immigrant High School Students: Breakfast & Baon 101

By Mentorship & Leadership for Youth Programme WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 12 nn at Corpus Christi College (near UBC) 5935 Iona Dr. Vancouver BC. Free pick up and drop off service.

MORE INFO: Meet young professionals plus learn to cook. Call/text Anna de Quito 604-763-2210.

Free Counselling Support Group

By Mosaic WHEN/WHERE: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., every last Monday of the month, at Mosaic Burnaby Centre for Immigrants, 5902 Kingsway, Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Call Darae (604)254-9626 Seniors Club Knitting Circle

By Mosaic

View all events by scanning this QR code or visiting

http://bit.ly/ PCI-Events

Homework/Tutorial Class

By FCT WHEN/WHERE: 11a.m. to 12 nn, every Saturday, Filipino Centre Toronto, 597 Parliament St., Suite 103, Toronto, ON MORE INFO: For registrations, call 416928-9355. The office, at 597 Parliament St., Suite 103, Toronto, is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1 to 6 p.m.

NEWFOUNDLAND

MANITOBA

SASKATCHEWAN

FRIDAY

ONTARIO

QUEBEC

WHEN/WHERE: 1–3 p.m., Tuesdays at Mosaic Burnaby Centre for Immigrants, 5902 Kingsway, Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Call (604)438-8214 Enchanted Evenings Concert Series

By Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden WHEN/WHERE: 7 p.m., Thursdays, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden, 578 Carrall St., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Closed on Mondays, admission by donation Jeprox na Pango: Mike Hanopol & Heber Bartolome

By R’s Bar WHEN/WHERE: 6 p.m., July 9, R’s Bar, Turf Hotel, 12411 King George Blvd. Surrey, B.C. MORE INFO: Entrance fee - $20 At Lunch in Chinatown

By PCHC- Museum of Migration WHEN/WHERE: noon to 1:30 p.m., July 10, at Floata Seafood Restaurant, 180 Keefer St., Vancouver, b.C. MORE INFO: $25 Free VSO Symphony at the Park

By Torsten Lenk WHEN/WHERE: 7 to 10 p.m., July 10, Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, B.C. 17th Church Anniversary & Thanksgiving Service

By Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ WHEN/WHERE: 2 p.m., July 10, at Pacific Gateway Hotel, 3500 Cessna Drive, Richmond, B.C. MORE INFO: Free admission Summer Sunset Series

By City of Richmond www.canadianinquirer.net

NOVA SCOTIA

WHEN/WHERE: Every Sunday starting July 10 to Aug. 28, at the Olympic Riverside Plaza All Night – Beach Volleyball 5:00 p.m. – Food Truck opens 5:15 p.m. – FREE YYoga Class 6:00 p.m. – LIVE Music Dusk – Open Air Movie (July 10, 24, August 7 and 21) MORE INFO: Visit http://richmond.ca/sunsetseries University of the Philippines Alumni Association Annual Summer Picnic

By UPAABC WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 16, at Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park @ Fraser River Dr. & Byrne Rd. Fiji Festival

By Bula! Fiji Association of BC Jai Fiji Television & Carter GM (BBy) WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., July 23, at Swangard Stadium cor of Kingsway & Boundary Burnaby, B.C. MORE INFO: Call Vincent Prakash at 604-434-3920 Tim Pavino: An Evening at the Theatre

By Pavisonworldwide.com WHEN/WHERE: 7:30 p.m., July 30, at The Theatre at Meydenbauer MORE INFO: With special guest: Joey Albert Open House & BBQ

By Multicultural Helping House Society WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 6 at MHHS Office: 4802 Fraser Street corner of 32nd Ave. & Fraser St., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Call 604.879.3277

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

35

Food

Put a Brazilian twist on succotash with black beans

BY SARA MOULTON The Associated Press THIS WEEK’S recipe puts a Brazilian twist on an American staple, succotash.

It should be just the ticket in August, when millions of us watch the Olympics being played in Rio de Janeiro.

The classic version of succotash is a combination of fresh corn and lima beans (or some other shell bean), sometimes embellished with tomatoes or peppers.

At least as old as the arrival of the Europeans in America, the dish takes its name from a Narragansett term meaning “broken corn kernels.” (The Narragansett people are a Native American tribe centred in Rhode Island.) To this day succotash often appears on menus throughout New England on Thanksgiving.

This Brazilian version of succotash holds fast to the corn, but swaps out the lima beans for black beans, a staple of Brazilian cuisine. So are okra, coconut milk and cilantro, which I’ve also added.

Although okra boasts a unique and appealing taste, its texture — depending on how it is prepared — can be off-putting. Sliced and cooked, okra gives up a gelatinous liquid. That’s not a problem in Louisiana, where locals depend on okra’s gluiness to thicken their gumbo.

Likewise, okra dipped in buttermilk and fried in cornmeal is considered a delicacy throughout the South.

I wanted to do what I could to minimize the veggie’s gooiness. I knew if I cooked the okra pod whole, the liquid would stay inside the pod. But it didn’t seem right to feature whole pods of okra in a succotash dish; I needed to work with sliced okra.

I discovered that acid would work to tamp down the goo. I teamed tomatoes, a great source of acid, with fresh lime juice, a popular Brazilian ingredient, which did a pretty good job of tamping down the okra liquid. However, if you’re still leery of okra or can’t find it, just leave it out. Likewise, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, replace it with fresh basil or parsley.

BRAZILIAN STYLE SUCCOTASH

Start to finish: 50 minutes (30 minutes active) 3 slices bacon • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion • 2 teaspoons minced garlic • 1 small serrano, minced • 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved, or quartered if large • 1/2 pound fresh okra, trimmed and sliced 1/3rd-inch thick

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice • Salt • 2 cups fresh corn kernels • One 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk • 1/2 cup cilantro, leaves and tender stems, chopped • 1/3rd cup chopped toasted peanuts In a large skillet cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain; when it is cool, crumble and set aside.

Add the onion to the fat in the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the onion is golden, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and the serrano; cook, stirring for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally until they are softened. Add the okra, 1/2 cup water and lime juice along with a hefty pinch of salt; bring to a boil

Yahoo CEO... the company’s inability to boost its revenue during the past eight years even though advertisers have been steadily increasing the amount of money on digital marketing. Its revenue has fallen from $5.1 billion in 2008 to $4.1 billion last year, with another decline of as much as 17 per cent to $3.4 billion projected for this year. Most of Yahoo’s current market value of $35 billion is locked up in stakes that it holds into China’s e-commerce leader, Alibaba Group, and Yahoo Japan.

In a tacit acknowledgement that her previous turnaround plans had gone awry, ❰❰ 30

Mayer pivoted at the beginning of the year and started to close Yahoo’s least profitable services, including a video operation and digital magazines hatched during her reign.

Mayer is also laying off 15 per cent of Yahoo’s workforce to whittle the payroll to 9,000 employees and trying to pull off a spin-off that would put the internet operations into a separate company. Yahoo Inc. would then become a holding company for Alibaba Group, and Yahoo Japan.

Yahoo’s stock ended Thursday up 70 cents, or almost 2 per cent, at $37.56. It is up almost 13 per cent in 2016. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

and simmer, stirring occasionally 2 minutes. Add the corn and simmer, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Add the black beans and coconut milk and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through. Add the cilantro and salt to taste. Serve each portion sprinkled with the crumbled bacon and peanuts.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutrition information per serving: 247 calories; 77 calories from fat; 9 g fat (2 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 2 mg cholesterol; 162 mg sodium; 31 g carbohydrate; 8 g fiber; 6 g sugar; 9 g protein. ■ Sara Moulton is host of public television’s “Sara’s Weeknight Meals.” She was executive chef at Gourmet magazine for nearly 25 years and spent a decade hosting several Food Network shows, including “Cooking Live.” Her latest cookbook is “Home Cooking 101.”

36

JULY 8, 2016

www.canadianinquirer.net

FRIDAY

FRIDAY JULY 8, 2016

Seen & Scenes: Vancouver

37

Canadians shared their national pride by marking the nation’s 149th birthday with celebrations from coast to coast. Here are a few scenes from Canada Day 2016 (Photos from Premier Christy Clark, Angelo Siglos, Freddie Bagunu’s FB posts).

www.canadianinquirer.net

38

Seen and Scenes

JULY 8, 2016

FRIDAY

Canada Day celebrations in Yukon, Halifax, Okanagan, and New Brunswick showcase the country’s cultural mosaic as different ethnic groups come together to mark the nation’s 149th birthday (Photos from FB pages of Elizabeth Domondon, Mike Buensuceso, Okanagan Filipino Canadians and the Filipino Community of New Brunswick).

For photo submissions, please email info@canadianinquirer.net. www.canadianinquirer.net

JULY 8, 2016

39

CANADA

F ill Unused Capacity C ash Savings B ill More Hours E xtra Income If you want new customers, more sales and are looking for ways to save cash, call First Canadian Barter Exchange.

604.759.3223 / info@barterfirst.com

WANTED: ELDERLY CAREGIVER Education: At least Secondary Education graduate.

Must have at least 1 to less than 2 yrs of experience.

Duties: Monitor the elderly on the needs of medication, Food preparation. Companionship,perform minor Household cleaning.

Full Time. Pays $14/hr., 40Hrs/wk.(Mon.To Fri) EMPLOYERS: Drexler Harry of 88 Wells St. TORONTO ON. drexlerharry@yahoo.ca (416-532-8016) Loriedella Addun of 4222 Bathurst St. TORONTO ON. A.loriedelle@yahoo.ca (647-995-1058) Aruna Lambotharan of 89 Red Ash Dr.MARKHAM ON. Arlam298@yahoo.ca (647-449-3547) Ric Abenoja of 205-44 Valley Woods Rd. TORONTO ON. raabenoja@yahoo.com Adriana De Luca.51 Dybal St.Woodbridge ON. (647-996-2273)

WANTED: NANNY (LIVE OUT) Education: At least Secondary Education graduate.

Must have at least 1 to less than 2 yrs of experience.

Duties: Take care of child/children.Feeding, meal &snack Preparation,indoor/outdoor companionship,Light housekeeping, reading,playing and organize games.

Education: At least Secondary Education graduate.

Full Time. Pays $11.25/hr., 40Hrs/wk.(Mon.To Fri) EMPLOYERS: Marla Francos#707-900 Mt. Pleassant Rd. Toronto ON. marlafrancoz@yahoo.ca Fe De Guzman #514 Speedvale East Guelph ON. Fedeguzman791@yahoo.ca (1-519-760-4639) Mazar/Zahida.#33 Benson Ave. Richmondhill ON. imazaher74@yahoo.ca (647-920-2089) Ann Ha.Richmond Hill ON. phuha817@yahoo.ca (647-400-7862) Marina.#25 Diploma Dr.Brampton ON. mp694647@gmail.com (905-913-0624) Rodel.#206-141 Erskine Ave Toronto ON. rodelfernandez148@yahoo.ca (647-779-7292) Dinah G.#88 Ridgevale Dr.Toronto ON. dinahgrossman@yahoo.ca (416-781-8553) Racquel Miranda.#3 First Red Deer Alberta. mracquel67@yahoo.ca (1-403-245-4747) Liza Sotto#51 Hawkview Blvd.Woodbridge ON. lizavillanueva173@yahoo.ca (905-553-0681) Shahid Sattar Burlington. Shahidsattar007@gmail.com (905-220-5963) Davina #86 Northdale Rd.Willowdale ON. Davinalopez996@yahoo.com (416-879-7441) Alexia #31 Northbrook Rd.TORONTO ON. boualexia@yahoo.com (416-644-4270) Dhona#1102-25 By Mills Blvd. Scarborough ON. dhonarizaursua@yahoo.ca (647-937-2884) Aman 5304 Roanoke Crt Mississauga, ON. aman_sangha@hotmail.com (416-458-2375) Enrique Reyes 72 Ryder Cres Ajax ON. rechelreyes416@yahoo.ca (416-953-8558) Libya Gameng .172 Vauhhall Dr. Toronto ON. Libyagameng@yahoo.com (416-985-0616) Joanna Raoet124-42 Pinery Trl. Scarborough ON. joannaraoet@yahoo.com (416-779-7110) Maila Abenoja.9 Acores Ave.Toronto ON. mailaabenoja@yahoo.com (647-965-3235) Purvaiz/Sonia At 88 Attridge Dr. Aurora ON. visaprocesscanada@yahoo.com (647-996-2273)

Hiring - Bakers, Bakers' helpers and Packers.

Apply to:

1615, MacDonald Ave, Burnaby (E.1stAve), BC

Toronto Enquiries: salestoronto@canadianinquirer.net Philippine Enquiries: salesphilippines@canadianinquirer.net

www.canadianinquirer.net

Tel: (1) 647-521-5155

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JULY 8, 2016

www.canadianinquirer.net

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